September 20, 2023 - Wednesday

[WORLD] Azerbaijan has launched a military operation against Armenian forces in the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region, resulting in casualties and widespread condemnation.

Azerbaijan has initiated a military campaign in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh, leading to the deaths of at least 32 people and injuring 200 others. The area has been the cause of conflicts between Azerbaijan and Armenia, with tensions escalating in recent months. The Azerbaijani government described the operation as "anti-terrorist," while Armenian authorities reported heavy bombardment and civilian casualties. Russian peacekeepers have been deployed to the region, but concerns have been raised about their ability to protect Armenia. The Karabakh authorities have requested immediate talks with Azerbaijan to stop the violence.

No sources available.

[NATION] The Republican Party's infighting is pushing the US towards a government shutdown, causing dysfunction and chaos within the party.

The ongoing infighting within the Republican Party is causing dysfunction in Congress and increasing the likelihood of a government shutdown. The conflict between far-right hardliners and moderates, along with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's struggle to maintain control, is hindering the party's ability to pass a budget and fund the government. This could result in furloughs for federal workers, unpaid troops, and damage to the economy. A vote on a stopgap spending bill was pulled from the schedule, highlighting the divisions and conservative backlash within the party.

No sources available.

[BUSINESS] Instacart shares surge 43% on Nasdaq debut, but end the day up over 12%, marking a successful IPO for the online grocery delivery business.

Instacart's stock began trading at $42 per share on the Nasdaq, exceeding the initial IPO price of $30 per share. The price rose by more than 40% initially before settling and closing the day with a 12% increase. Despite the significant decrease from its previous valuation of $39 billion, the IPO raised $660 million for Instacart. Founder Apoorva Mehta, who stepped down as CEO in July 2021, made the decision to exit the board after the company went public.

No sources available.

[TECHNOLOGY] iOS 17 brings new features to the Shortcuts app, improved AirDrop functionality, and enhanced content safety protocols.

iOS 17 introduces new features to the Shortcuts app, allowing users to create automations using native iOS features and third-party app integrations. It also improves AirDrop functionality, including the ability to continue data transfers over the internet if the sender goes out of range. Additionally, Apple has implemented content safety protocols for AirDrop to prevent the unauthorized sharing of explicit material. These updates aim to enhance user experience and provide a safer environment for sharing content.

No sources available.

[SPORTS] Browns RB Nick Chubb is out for the season with a significant knee injury, leaving the team in need of a replacement.

Cleveland Browns running back Nick Chubb suffered a significant knee injury during a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers and will be out for the season. The injury is devastating for the team, as Chubb has been a key player on offense. The Browns will now need to find a replacement for Chubb, with options including free agents and potential trades. Losing Chubb is a major blow to the team's running game, and they will need to quickly find a suitable replacement.

No sources available.

[SCIENCE] NASA's Parker Solar Probe survived a powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun and captured rare footage of the event.

NASA's Parker Solar Probe, equipped with a sturdy heat shield, flew through and survived an intense coronal mass ejection (CME) from the sun. The CME, one of the most powerful ever recorded, occurred in September 2022. The probe's footage, released by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, shows the CME engulfing the spacecraft and vacuuming up space dust. The Parker Solar Probe is studying the behavior of the sun and its data will provide valuable insights into space weather and its potential effects on Earth.

No sources available.

[HEALTH] Doctors recommend the newly updated COVID-19 vaccine as some people are more susceptible to the virus. The vaccine reduces the severity of the disease.

Doctors advise getting the newly updated COVID-19 vaccine as some individuals are more vulnerable to the virus. The predominant virus strain, a descendant of omicron, affects people differently, and previous COVID-19 infection or vaccination does not guarantee immunity. The new vaccine targets a newer version of the omicron variant. It is important to note that COVID-19 vaccines are now available for individuals aged 6 months and older, with insurance or through programs for uninsured individuals. The online vaccine-finder tool can help locate vaccination sites.

No sources available.

[ENTERTAINMENT] Vanna White has extended her contract as co-host of "Wheel of Fortune" until at least 2026, while Pat Sajak prepares to depart in 2024.

Long-time co-host of "Wheel of Fortune," Vanna White, has signed a two-year contract extension to continue on the show until the 2025-26 season. This comes as Pat Sajak announced his retirement from the show in June after hosting since 1981. The popular game show will be taken over by Ryan Seacrest in fall 2024, while White will remain as co-host. The financial terms of White's new contract have not been disclosed.

No sources available.