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Nightlife in Antarctica, The Axis of Resistance, & more!

Good Morning- In the United States, 39% of people hold gym memberships, while only 21% of gym members go attend almost daily. Odds are this probably applies to some of you reading this, stop slacking

Global Insights

Nightlife in Antarctica

Antarctica, often associated with icy landscapes and scientific research, hides a surprising secret: a unique nightlife scene. While lacking a permanent population, the continent experiences a fluctuating number of inhabitants due to research stations. This population varies from around 1,000 in winter to approximately 5,000 in the summer, primarily consisting of researchers, students, and tourists.

Each research station contributes to the vibrant scene with its own form of entertainment, catering to the diverse cultures of its transient residents. Notably, McMurdo Station emerges as the go-to destination for nightlife in Antarctica, featuring three unconventional but lively venues: Erebus Club, the Coffee Shop, and Gallagher’s Pub. While these may not fit the conventional nightclub image, they provide a hip and happening atmosphere where one can unwind, listen to music, enjoy local brewery beer, and mingle with fellow residents.

For those seeking a more intimate setting, the Scott Base Pub at the New Zealand research facility offers a smaller yet equally inviting option. However, what truly sets Antarctica apart is its unique nature, fostering a friendly atmosphere and camaraderie among its inhabitants. This distinctive environment ensures that any activity, whether in a designated venue or not, is bound to be both fun and interesting.

So, if you ever find yourself on the icy continent, know that beyond its scientific allure, Antarctica offers a lively and unexpected social scene, proving that even in the most extreme environments, there's always room for a good time.

The Axis of resistance

The term "axis of resistance" describes Iran's network of allies in the Middle East, including Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen. It emerged after Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution, aiming to spread its influence in the region. Coordinated by Iran's Quds Force, part of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, these allies share goals like resisting Western influence and confronting Israel. While not all members share Iran's religious views, they align with their overall objectives.

The Quds Force has trained and supported militias, influencing conflicts in the Middle East. Over time, it expanded its reach, supporting groups like the Houthis in Yemen and militias in Syria. Since the 2020 assassination of Qassem Suleimani, powerful members like Hezbollah have gained more autonomy.

Financially, Iran has invested significantly in supporting these militias, with an estimated yearly expenditure of $700 million before the 2019 sanctions imposed by the United States. The "axis of resistance" has become more powerful, posing a clear threat, evident in recent attacks on American troops in Syria and Iraq who have reportedly been attacked 55 times since Hamas initiated the conflict with Israel.

This network's dynamics affect regional conflicts, and Iran's involvement has complex geopolitical implications. The term gained attention after George W. Bush's 2002 "axis of evil" reference, with Arab and Iranian media adopting it to describe the growing network of anti-American & Israeli militias in the region.

Trending

United States Government shutdown avoided

To prevent a government shutdown until after the holidays, Congress approved a short-term funding package. The bill passed with an 87-11 vote in the Senate after gaining bipartisan support in the House. Now, it awaits President Joe Biden's signature. This temporary solution delays a showdown over the federal budget until the new year. The House and Senate, with their varying views on funding levels, will need to address these differences in future discussions. The focus is on finding common ground for budgetary matters.

Updated approval rating of President Putin

In October 2023, 8 out of 10 Russians approved of President Vladimir Putin's actions, showing a 5% increase from September 2022. The rating dipped when a partial mobilization was announced but rose after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. During the COVID-19 lockdown in spring 2020, the figure declined.

Vatican places a ban on Catholics becoming Freemasons

The Vatican has confirmed a stance prohibiting Catholics from joining the Freemasons, a centuries-old secretive society. The Catholic Church has historically viewed the Freemasons with suspicion and hostility. The Freemasons are estimated to have a global membership of up to six million.

History & Culture - The Real Dracula

In 1897, Bram Stoker's Dracula set off a vampire frenzy in literature and film. The central character, Count Dracula, wasn't just a product of spooky tales but also drew inspiration from a real historical figure, Vlad Tepes, a 15th-century Romanian prince famously known as Vlad the Impaler. Born in Transylvania, Vlad adopted the moniker Dracula upon joining a secret group of Christian knights called the Order of the Dragon.

As the ruler of Walachia, Vlad gained infamy for his brutal tactics, particularly his preference for impalement—driving wooden stakes through the bodies of his victims. During his 1462 campaign against the Ottomans, it's said he impaled as many as 20,000 individuals along the Danube's banks. Although captured by Hungarian forces, Vlad managed to reclaim his throne in 1476 but met his end in battle that same year.

Chilling accounts suggest Vlad's grim dining habits, claiming he would feast amid impaled bodies and even dip his bread into their blood. These grisly details, combined with his adopted name (Dracula) and his Transylvanian origins, strongly suggest that Vlad the Impaler played a significant role in inspiring Stoker's iconic vampire.

Fast Facts

• Bananas are berries, but Strawberries are not

• Istanbul, Turkey, is the only city in the world that spans two continents—Europe and Asia

• In 1932, Australia declared war on Emus

• The concept of a newsletter dates back to 1538 in England

• Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is approximately the size of San Francisco

Whatever you are, be a good one

-Abraham Lincoln