Monday, August 19th 2024
Your Daily Americano
Sunday, August 18th, 2024
World Events and Politics — Blinken Arrives in the Middle East
The New York Times
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Israel to advocate for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Shortly after his arrival, Hamas issued a statement claiming that a new proposal to end the conflict was too aligned with Israel's stance. On Sunday, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza resulted in the deaths of at least 21 individuals, as reported by local health authorities.
Medical professionals across India organized a 24-hour strike to protest the rape and murder of a female trainee doctor in Kolkata. The Indian Medical Association, which represents doctors, announced that all non-essential services were suspended on Saturday. In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the association demanded increased measures to ensure the safety of medical workers from violence.
Technology and Science — The Impact of the IRA Is Becoming Visible
Some Ford models are no longer eligible for the EV credits.
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is driving a significant transformation in the American energy sector by allocating billions toward domestic manufacturing and clean technology initiatives. Key funding mechanisms include grants for electric vehicle battery production and substantial tax credits that have already benefited companies like First Solar, which expects to receive $700 million. Individuals are also capitalizing on these credits, with three million households claiming about $8 billion for solar panels and energy-efficient home upgrades, far exceeding initial estimates. The U.S. Department of Energy is playing a crucial role by providing loans for innovative projects, including $2 billion for battery recycling. Since the IRA's passage, businesses have committed $110 billion to various energy projects, prompting a similar response from Europe with its Net-Zero Industry Act. As the IRA evolves, its future may hinge on the outcome of the upcoming presidential election, which could significantly impact the trajectory of U.S. climate policy.
Business, Economics and Finance — Starbucks’s Problematic App
Starbucks
Starbucks is struggling with operational inefficiencies, particularly its cumbersome mobile ordering system, which has led to long wait times and customer frustration. Incoming CEO Brian Niccol faces the challenge of addressing these issues, as former CEO Howard Schultz called the app the company's “biggest Achilles heel.” With mobile orders accounting for a significant portion of sales, streamlining operations and enhancing service speed are crucial for restoring Starbucks' reputation as a welcoming community hub.
Health and Wellness — Liminal Space
CNBC
Liminal spaces in psychology represent transitional phases where individuals find themselves caught between their past identities and future selves, often characterized by uncertainty and change. These spaces can manifest physically, such as in airports or train stations, or psychologically during significant life transitions like career shifts or personal growth. While they can foster creativity, resilience, and self-awareness, they also bring about stress and confusion as individuals confront uncomfortable truths and unresolved issues. Experts suggest managing these transitions by embracing uncertainty, journaling to clarify thoughts, surrounding oneself with supportive people, and setting achievable goals.
Cooking and Dining — Skillet Pork Chops with Peas, Carrots & Pearl Onions
Eating Well
This incredibly quick one-dish dinner is packed with classic flavors and is sure to be a hit with everyone, making it a great addition to your regular weeknight dinner lineup. We recommend using bone-in pork chops for the best flavor, but boneless pork chops can be used as a suitable alternative. To enhance the meal further, consider serving it with rice or mashed potatoes.
Total time: 20 min
For the full recipe: https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/275486/skillet-pork-chops-with-peas-carrots-pearl-onions/
Recommendation — Halo
“Halo” by Beyoncé is a poignant ballad that draws a parallel between her lover and a celestial guardian, symbolized by a halo. The song eloquently captures the transformative power of love, breaking down emotional barriers and illuminating her life. “Everywhere I’m looking now I’m surrounded by your embrace; Baby I can see your halo; You know you’re my savin’ grace…”
To listen to the song:
To Do in Toronto — Aloette
“Aloette — which opened in 2017 at the corner of Queen Street and Spadina Avenue — is the Michelin recommended neighborhood bistro as imagined by the Food Food Group. It’s where our taste for haute cuisine meets craving for cheeseburgers and lemon meringue pie.” Aloette has a brunch menu, and a lunch and dinner menu.
To visit Aloette’s menu and book reservations: https://aloetterestaurant.com/menus-gallery/
Menu highlights: Aloette Fried Chicken, Lemon Merigue Pie, Triple Cooked Fries, and Aloette Burger.
Aloette’s Lemon Meringue Pie
Aloette is a 7-min bike ride from the University of Toronto.
Quote of the Day — Hume on Life
“But the life of man is no greater importance to the universe than that of an oyster.” David Hume.
David Hume
David Hume (1711-1776) was a Scottish philosopher, historian, economist, and essayist known for his influential system of philosophical empiricism and skepticism. He argued that human knowledge arises solely from experience and that reason is subordinate to passions in governing human behavior. Hume’s works, such as “A Treatise of Human Nature” and “An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding,” remain foundational in the study of philosophy.
We welcome your feedbacks and suggestions. As always, enjoy your Americano.