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- Real Estate Update, OpenAI's Crossroads, Thanksgiving Travel Surge, Graying Hair Science, Exclusive 2023 Deals!
Real Estate Update, OpenAI's Crossroads, Thanksgiving Travel Surge, Graying Hair Science, Exclusive 2023 Deals!
Journey Joy
November 21, 2023
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Welcome to the latest edition of the Journey and Joy Newsletter! We're excited to have you with us on this journey of discovery.
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According to the National Association of REALTORS®, existing-home sales went down by 4.1% in October, with a total of 3.79 million homes sold. This is a big drop of 14.6% compared to last year. However, the price of existing homes went up by 3.4% to $391,800. There are currently 1.15 million unsold homes, which is a 1.8% increase from before. This is enough to last for 3.6 months at the current sales rate. The Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, says that the decrease in sales is because there aren't enough homes available and mortgage rates are high. Despite this, sellers are benefiting from higher prices. Yun thinks that there might be more homes available after winter, which could lead to more sales.
The Israeli cabinet will vote on a possible deal with Hamas to free hostages and have a ceasefire for several days. If approved, the deal could be announced on Tuesday. The agreement includes releasing three Palestinian prisoners for each Israeli hostage released by Hamas. In the first part of the deal, 50 Israeli women and children held in Gaza would be released, along with around 150 Palestinian prisoners. This would happen during a four-day ceasefire. Also, Israel would allow about 300 aid trucks per day to enter Gaza from Egypt. The second part of the deal might involve releasing more people by Hamas in exchange for a longer ceasefire. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is hopeful about progress in the negotiations, and the United States has played a big role in helping with the talks. In the October 7 Hamas attack, over 240 people, including Americans, were kidnapped, and Qatar has been mediating.
OpenAI is facing a critical juncture as discussions about its future unfold, marked by the recent ousting of CEO Sam Altman and subsequent developments. Altman's potential move to Microsoft was initially announced, but sources now indicate that he and co-founder Greg Brockman are willing to return to OpenAI if the board members who fired them step aside. The situation is characterized by intense negotiations and growing pressure from OpenAI's workforce, many of whom have signaled their intent to leave for Microsoft if Altman and Brockman are not reinstated. The lack of clarity on the reasons for Altman's dismissal adds to the complexity of the situation, with employees expressing confusion over vague explanations. The outcome of these deliberations will have far-reaching implications, affecting not only the immediate leadership of OpenAI but also the dynamics between the company and Microsoft, potential IP issues, and the broader landscape of AI development. The uncertainty surrounding OpenAI's future is closely watched by millions of developers, startup founders, and industry stakeholders.
President Joe Biden Marks 81st Birthday Amid Concerns Over Age. As the oldest U.S. president, Biden faces re-election worries fueled by polls suggesting Americans question his fitness for office. Despite humorous responses to age concerns, the debate intensifies. White House plans a birthday celebration with family on Nantucket. If re-elected, Biden would be 86 by the end of a potential second term, sparking discussions on presidential age limits. Polls indicate public unease, emphasizing concerns over mental sharpness. The Biden administration counters, urging assessment based on accomplishments, not age.
In a historic auction in Fontainebleau, France, Napoleon Bonaparte's iconic black felt bicorn hat has sold for an astonishing $2.1 million, setting a new record for the highest price ever paid for one of the emperor's hats. The auction, hosted by French auction house Osenat, attracted two in-person bidders and one via phone, with a French collector claiming the coveted headpiece. Originally estimated to fetch between €600,000 and €800,000, the hat's final price underscores the enduring mystique surrounding Napoleon and his artifacts. Only around 20 of Napoleon's 120 two-cornered military dress hats are known to exist today, adding to the rarity and allure of this extraordinary piece of history.
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Thanksgiving Travel Surge Despite Storm Warnings
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Millions are anticipated to travel during the Thanksgiving break, facing potential disruptions due to a storm system moving from the southern Plains to the Northeast on Tuesday and Wednesday, bringing thunderstorms, sleet, and snow. The Transportation Security Administration predicts record numbers at airports, screening 2.6 million passengers on Tuesday and 2.7 million on Wednesday, with Sunday expecting the largest crowds. AAA forecasts 55.4 million Americans traveling over 50 miles from home, causing road congestion, particularly on Wednesday. Despite inflation concerns, airfares have decreased by 14% from last year, and gasoline prices are down 45 cents per gallon. U.S. airlines are increasing staff and flights for Thanksgiving, hoping to avoid a repeat of last year's disruptions.
Ever wondered why our hair turns gray as we age? The answer lies in the gradual decline of pigment cells within hair follicles. Melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color, diminishes over time, leading to the growth of gray or white hair. Genetics significantly influence when this process begins; if premature graying runs in your family, you might experience it earlier. Stress, smoking, nutritional deficiencies, medical conditions, and exposure to pollutants can accelerate graying. While there's no scientifically proven way to reverse gray hair permanently, understanding these factors can shed light on the natural and complex process of aging.
As the holiday season approaches, are you ready to jet off on a thrilling adventure or plan an unforgettable getaway? We've gathered the top Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Travel Tuesday deals for 2023 to make your travel dreams a reality. Explore enticing offers on flights, accommodations, and more from renowned travel brands.
Flight Deals:
Spirit Airlines: Dive into Spirit's Black And Yellow Friday promotion for early access to low fares, free Spirit points, and incredible offers on cruises, MGM Resorts, rental cars, and more. Save up to 40% on travel with 12,000+ Free Spirit points.
Frontier Airlines: Grab the GoWild! Pass for unlimited flights at just $499, allowing you to travel between May 1, 2024, and April 30, 2025.
Accommodations and Booking Deals: 3. Booking.com: Enjoy discounts starting at 30% on places to stay and up to 25% off attractions, making your travel experience even more delightful.
Expedia: Unlock 30% or more off select hotels with the One Key membership. Book by November 29, 2023, and embark on your journey by the end of 2024.
Priceline: Avail yourself of exclusive savings with 30% off or more at over 10,000 properties globally. Discover additional perks for popular destinations like Mexico, Las Vegas, the Caribbean, and top ski resorts.
6. Virgin Hotels: Book your stay by December 31, 2023, and save 30%. On Travel Tuesday (November 28), Virgin Hotels will donate 5% of revenue from direct bookings to Feeding America and Feeding Britain.
Marriott Bonvoy: Join the Cyber Week sale from November 21-28 to receive 20% off bookings for stays between November 26, 2023, and January 15, 2024, across 6,500 participating hotels worldwide.
Red Roof Inn: Save 20% on stays between November 30, 2023, and February 29, 2024, with Red Roof Inn. Plus, pets stay free!
Resort Escapes: 9. Sandals + Beaches: Explore the Caribbean with up to a $750 air credit and a $250 resort credit on seven or more nights at select properties. Use code 'GOB2023' until December 21, 2023.
Villatel Orlando Resort: Get a 20% discount on stays booked between November 24-26 for a minimum of 5 nights.
11. Colima 71: Enjoy 34% off all stays booked between November 24-27 for travel from December 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, with exclusive amenities.
NoMo SoHo: NYC’s NoMo SoHo offers 30% off all room types for stays through December 31, 2024, when booked by December 1, 2023.
The Meritage Resort and Spa: Experience Napa Valley with 30% off all best available rate online rates and a $30 daily resort credit. Use code 'PROCYB' until November 30, 2023.
Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa: Dive into Cabo San Lucas with 30% off the best available rate, a $50 daily resort credit, 10% off food and drink, and 20% off spa treatments. Book between November 24-27, 2023.
These exclusive deals are your passport to an unforgettable journey. Act fast, as some offers expire soon!
Safe travels
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