August 28, 2023 - Monday

[WORLD] Protests erupt in Libya after Israel confirms meeting between foreign ministers, prompting the suspension of Libyan Foreign Minister Najla Mangoush.

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and Libyan Foreign Minister Najla Mangoush held a meeting to discuss possible cooperation, including in humanitarian issues, agriculture, water management, and preserving Jewish heritage in Libya. The meeting was facilitated by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. However, the announcement of the meeting sparked protests in Libya, a country that has historically been a staunch foe of Israel and a champion of the Palestinian struggle. The Libyan government has suspended Mangoush and referred her for investigation, expressing its complete rejection of normalization with Israel. Libya's foreign policy is complicated by its internal divisions and ongoing conflict.

No sources available.

[NATION] Tropical Storm Idalia is expected to strengthen into a hurricane and make landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida this week.

A hurricane watch has been issued for portions of Florida's Gulf Coast as Tropical Storm Idalia is forecasted to become a hurricane and make landfall near the Big Bend of Florida on Wednesday morning. The storm is currently located near Cozumel, Mexico and is expected to slowly move through the Yucatan Channel, bringing tropical storm conditions to parts of Mexico and Cuba. Idalia could rapidly intensify as it moves through the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Hurricane hunters are collecting data on the storm as it intensifies.

No sources available.

[BUSINESS] Zillow predicts that U.S. home prices will increase by 6.5% by July 2024 due to limited inventory pushing prices higher.

Zillow's latest forecast predicts a 6.5% increase in U.S. home prices between July 2023 and July 2024, up from their previous estimate of 6.3%. The rebound in prices is attributed to a shortage of homes for sale, which has led to increased competition among buyers. Zillow's forecast model suggests that 120 of the largest housing markets in the country will see even greater price increases of 7.0% or higher. However, not all firms agree with Zillow's bullish outlook, as some predict a slight decline in prices by the end of 2024.

No sources available.

[TECHNOLOGY] Apple's next-generation iPad Pro will debut alongside a redesigned Magic Keyboard accessory, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that the upcoming iPad Pro will introduce fundamental changes and be the first major update since 2018. The new model, codenamed "J71," will come with a redesigned Magic Keyboard accessory that aims to make it more like a laptop. Apple's iPad Pro lineup is set to receive an overhaul with the inclusion of OLED displays, which is expected to reinvigorate consumer interest and clarify the product lineup.

No sources available.

[SPORTS] The Jets concluded the preseason with a win over the Giants. Aaron Rodgers impressed, while Michael Carter struggled.

The New York Jets concluded their preseason with a 32-24 victory against the New York Giants. Aaron Rodgers showcased his skills and leadership, while Michael Carter struggled. As the Jets trim their roster down to 53 players, they prepare for their season opener against the Buffalo Bills on September 11. Although the preseason game had a relaxed atmosphere, with friendly interactions between players and coaches from both teams, injuries and individual performances were the main talking points. Now, the Jets look forward to the upcoming regular season.

No sources available.

[SCIENCE] SpaceX Crew-7 Dragon capsule successfully docks at the International Space Station, carrying a multinational crew for a six-month mission.

The SpaceX Crew-7 Dragon capsule arrived at the International Space Station after a 30-hour journey, docking at a space-facing port on the outpost's Harmony module. The crew consists of astronauts from NASA, the European Space Agency, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, and Roscosmos. This mission marks the most diverse SpaceX crew to date and will embark on a six-month mission in space.

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[HEALTH] As COVID cases rise, a new variant called BA.2.86 is spreading globally. Hospitalizations are up 12.1% in the past week.

As COVID cases continue to increase in the D.C. region and globally, a new variant called BA.2.86 is attracting attention from experts. The CDC has reported a 12.1% increase in hospitalizations in the past week. Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious diseases expert, has discussed the rise in cases and potential implications for the fall. In the United States, multiple mutations of the omicron variant, including EG.5 and FL 1.5.1, have become dominant strains. These variants are descendants of XBB and are spreading faster than other strains. With COVID surging again, some businesses and individuals are taking precautionary measures.

No sources available.

[ENTERTAINMENT] Game show host and animal rights activist Bob Barker has passed away at the age of 99.

Bob Barker, the iconic game show host of "The Price Is Right" and "Truth or Consequences," has died at the age of 99. Barker, also known for his advocacy of animal rights, passed away at his home in Los Angeles. Throughout his career, he used his platform to raise awareness about animal cruelty and worked towards improving the welfare of abused and exploited animals. Barker retired in 2007 after more than 50 years of entertaining audiences. He will be remembered as a trailblazer in the industry and a dedicated activist.

No sources available.