October 14, 2023 - Saturday

[WORLD] A Reuters journalist was killed and several others injured in southern Lebanon when their reporting area was struck by Israeli shelling.

A Reuters videographer was killed and six other journalists were wounded in southern Lebanon when their reporting area was struck by Israeli shelling. The journalists were wearing body armor clearly labeled as press when the incident occurred. The Israeli military has not responded to requests for comment. The incident took place near the border where the Israeli military and Lebanese militia Hezbollah have been involved in clashes. Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati and a Hezbollah lawmaker blamed Israel for the incident.

No sources available.

[NATION] US college campuses have become battlegrounds for protests between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian groups amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

Protests and demonstrations on US college campuses have escalated due to the Israel-Hamas conflict, with students on both sides expressing their support. University officials have implemented safety measures, such as blocking public access, to prevent potential clashes. Student groups expressing solidarity with Palestinians have faced backlash and criticism, causing fear and unease among Jewish students. Reports of harassment and assaults against both pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian students have further escalated tensions.

No sources available.

[BUSINESS] The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B will increase by $9.80 per month in 2024.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced that the standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B will rise by $9.80 per month in 2024. This represents a 6% increase from the current premium. The annual deductible for Part B will also increase from $226 to $240 in 2024. The premium increase is in line with earlier estimates by the Medicare Trustees and is attributed to increases in healthcare spending. Some experts had anticipated a higher increase due to the approval of a costly new Alzheimer's drug. The increase comes after a decrease in Part B premiums in 2023.

No sources available.

[TECHNOLOGY] The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray, with all-wheel drive and hybrid power, is a significant leap forward for America's sports car.

The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray is a groundbreaking sports car, combining all-wheel drive and hybrid power. It represents a major advancement for the Corvette, making it one of the best sports cars in the world. The E-Ray's hybrid system combines a classic small-block V8 engine with an electric motor for enhanced performance. Unlike other hybrid supercars, the E-Ray cannot be plugged in, but it offers remarkable speed and all-weather traction. With its impressive design, technology, and value, the E-Ray solidifies the Corvette's position as a top contender in the sports car market.

No sources available.

[SPORTS] Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper avoids serious arm/elbow injury after colliding with Atlanta Braves' Matt Olson in NLDS Game 4.

Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper escaped a major arm/elbow injury after colliding with the Atlanta Braves' Matt Olson during Game 4 of the National League Division Series. The Phillies went on to win the series and advance to the NLCS. Meanwhile, Nick Castellanos played a crucial role in the Phillies' victory, hitting two home runs and receiving cheers and acknowledgment from fans.

No sources available.

[SCIENCE] On Saturday, a rare "ring of fire" annular solar eclipse will be visible in the U.S., and NASA will livestream the event.

Millions of Americans will have the opportunity to witness a rare annular solar eclipse on Saturday, where the moon will pass between the sun and Earth, creating a "ring of fire" effect. NASA will be livestreaming the event, featuring conversations with scientists and telescope views from across the country. The eclipse will be visible in multiple states in the U.S., and it is recommended to use eclipse glasses or viewers when observing the event. This will be the last annular eclipse in this part of the world until 2046.

No sources available.

[HEALTH] New RSV immunizations face insurance coverage challenges and high costs, potentially hindering protection for infants this winter.

Pharmaceutical companies Pfizer and Sanofi have developed vaccines that protect infants from complications of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a virus that can be dangerous for newborns. However, the rollout of these immunizations in the U.S. is facing hurdles due to insurance coverage issues and the high cost of the vaccines. Healthcare providers are struggling to confirm insurance coverage for the vaccines, while uncertainty lingers regarding reimbursement for administering them. These challenges pose a threat to the timely protection of babies this winter and may hinder the successful launches of Pfizer's Abrysvo and Sanofi's Beyfortus.

No sources available.

[ENTERTAINMENT] Taylor Swift's "Eras Tour" has a near-record opening day of $39 million, with a projected 3-day total of $92-105 million at the box office.

Taylor Swift's concert film "Eras Tour" has had a successful opening day, earning $39 million, the second biggest October opening behind "The Joker". The 3-day projected total stands at $92-105 million. This makes it the second highest domestic start in October and the best debut for a concert film in the US and Canada. The film has also received an A+ CinemaScore, placing it among iconic movies like "Spider-Man: No Way Home" and "Titanic". Rotten Tomatoes audience score is at 99%.

No sources available.