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This is my third time honoring what I see as the year's most important scientific and technological advances. In 2022, my theme was the principle of "twin ideas," when similar inventions emerge around the same time. Just as Alexander Graham Bell and Elisha Gray both arguably conceived of the modern telephone in 1876 (and, by some accounts, on the same day!), the U.S. saw a cluster of achievements in generative AI, cancer treatment, and vaccinology. In 2023, my theme was the long road of progress. My top breakthrough was Casgevy, a gene-editing therapy for patients with sickle-cell anemia. The therapy built on decades of research on CRISPR, an immune defense system borrowed from the world of bacteria. View: 2024 in photos: Wrapping up the year This year, my theme is the subtler power of incremental improvement, which has also been a motif of technological progress. Although nothing invented in 2024 rivals the gosh-wow debut of ChatGPT or the discovery of GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic, this year witnessed several advancements across medicine, space technology, and AI that extend our knowledge in consequential ways. An Ingenious Defense Against HIV Around the world, 40 million people live with HIV, and an estimated 630,000 people die of AIDS-related illness every year. The disease has no cure. But whereas patients in rich developed countries have access to medicine that keeps the virus at bay, many people in poor countries, where the disease is more widespread, do not. This year, scientists at the pharmaceutical company Gilead announced that a new injectable drug seems to provide exceptional protection from HIV for six months. In one clinical trial of South African and Ugandan girls and young women, the shot, which is called lenacapavir, reduced HIV infections by 100 percent in the intervention group. Another trial of people across several continents reported an efficacy rate of 96 percent. Clinical-trial results don't get much more successful than that. This... Derek ThompsonFive exclusive 2024 arts interviews and investigations by Herald Premium Lifestyle senior writer Kim Knight. From the mission to save Colin McCahon’s legacy to the female artists finally getting recognition on gallery walls and auction floors, along with a historic treasure caught up in the closure of Chateau Tongariro, this is some of the year’s must-read visual arts reportage. Saving Colin McCahon: Up to $1.5m needed to fix failing database and find lost paintings The Colin McCahon digital archive was created before Facebook, Instagram or even Google. It contains records for more than 1800 artworks, but the original technology is obsolete. No new material can be added and, before very recent remedial work, the database was at risk of complete collapse. Peter Carr and Finn McCahon-Jones are the eldest surviving grandsons of the country’s most famous contemporary artist and key members of Colin McCahon Trust which, in November, launched a $1m-plus fundraising project aimed at preserving a cultural legacy – and rediscovering “missing” paintings.

Polls close in Ghana's general election in the shadow of the worst economic crisis in a generationShare Tweet Share Share Email The idea of crowdsourcing has expanded into several areas of life, from funding creative projects to helping individuals cover unexpected expenses. One of the most significant uses of crowdsourcing today is in healthcare financing. With rising medical costs and the increasing need for specialized care, many people are turning to the community for help. This is where “Crowdsourced Healthcare Financing” comes into play. Community-funded medical support leverages the collective power of individuals to help others pay for medical bills, treatment , and recovery costs. Understanding Crowdsourced Healthcare Financing Crowdsourced healthcare financing refers to a system in which people raise money from the public, typically through online platforms, to cover medical expenses. It’s an alternative method to traditional healthcare funding, which often depends on insurance or personal savings. Crowdsourcing allows individuals to tap into their networks, including friends, family, and even strangers, who can contribute financially to their medical needs. In its simplest form, crowdsourcing is a way to gather small amounts of money from a large group of people. This practice has been around for years but has gained significant momentum with the rise of digital platforms. Platforms like GoFundMe, Kickstarter, and GiveSendGo have made it easier for people to reach potential donors from all over the world. The Role of Online Platforms in Crowdsourced Healthcare Financing The internet has revolutionized the way we seek financial support. Through crowdsourcing websites, people can create personal fundraising pages where they share their stories, medical needs, and fundraising goals. These platforms offer a simple and efficient way to connect with individuals who are willing to help. By telling their stories, patients and their families can gain emotional support as well as financial assistance. Online platforms also make it easy for people to donate. With just a few clicks, donors can contribute to a cause they feel passionate about. These platforms usually offer a variety of payment methods , including credit cards, bank transfers, and even cryptocurrency, making donations accessible for almost anyone. Why Crowdsourced Healthcare Financing is on the Rise There are several factors contributing to the rise of crowdsourced healthcare financing. One of the most significant reasons is the increasing cost of healthcare. As healthcare expenses continue to rise, many individuals find themselves without adequate insurance coverage or the financial means to pay for medical treatments. Crowdsourcing offers a solution to this problem, allowing people to access funds when they need them most. Another reason for the popularity of crowdsourced healthcare financing is the personal connection that donors can feel with the cause. People often choose to donate to medical causes because they can relate to the emotional aspects of the situation. Whether it’s a personal story of illness, a community member’s health battle, or a heart-wrenching tragedy, crowdsourcing allows donors to support causes that matter to them on a deeper level. The Benefits of Crowdsourced Healthcare Financing Accessibility One of the key advantages of crowdsourced healthcare financing is its accessibility. Unlike traditional healthcare financing methods, such as loans or insurance, crowdsourcing allows individuals to reach a wide audience of potential donors. This can be particularly beneficial for those who do not have access to traditional funding options or whose insurance doesn’t cover all their medical expenses. Speed In emergencies, time is often of the essence. Crowdsourcing allows people to raise money quickly, sometimes within days or even hours. This quick access to funds can be crucial in situations where medical care cannot wait. Emotional Support Beyond the financial assistance, crowdsourcing provides emotional support for patients and their families. By sharing their story, individuals can connect with others who have had similar experiences, offering a sense of community and hope. Donors also feel a sense of fulfillment by helping others in need, fostering a stronger sense of solidarity. Transparency and Trust Crowdsourced platforms usually offer transparency, showing how the funds are being used. This helps build trust between the person raising money and the donors. Patients can provide updates on their health and treatment, which keeps donors engaged and ensures that the funds are being allocated appropriately. Challenges of Crowdsourced Healthcare Financing While crowdsourcing offers several benefits, it’s not without its challenges. Some of the most common challenges include: Limited Funding Potential Although crowdsourcing can help raise significant funds, there is no guarantee of success. People often need to have a large social media following or an existing network of supporters to raise enough money. For those who don’t have a strong online presence or extensive networks, crowdsourcing may not always be a viable solution. Potential for Exploitation With the ease of creating a fundraising page, there is also the potential for fraud. Some individuals may exploit crowdsourcing platforms for personal gain, even if they don’t have legitimate medical needs. This can make it harder for donors to identify genuine causes from fraudulent ones. Platforms have measures in place to prevent fraud, but it remains a concern for some donors. Emotional Burden on Fundraisers While the emotional support from donors can be uplifting, the process of sharing one’s personal medical journey can also be emotionally exhausting. Fundraisers must constantly update their supporters and keep their pages active to maintain engagement. This can take a toll on individuals who are already dealing with the stress of illness. How to Launch a Successful Crowdsourced Healthcare Campaign To run a successful crowdsourced healthcare campaign, there are several key steps to follow: Be Transparent and Honest Transparency is crucial for building trust. Be clear about the medical situation, what the funds will be used for, and how much is needed. Honesty helps establish credibility, which is essential for attracting donors. Share Your Story People are more likely to donate when they feel emotionally connected to the cause. Share your personal story, including the challenges you’re facing, the impact of your illness, and how the funds will make a difference. Including photos or videos can make your campaign more engaging. Utilize Social Media Social media is an incredibly powerful tool for reaching a wide audience. Share your fundraising page across your social media accounts to increase visibility. Encourage friends and family to share your campaign as well to help spread the word. Provide Regular Updates Keep your donors informed about your progress. Provide regular updates on your health, treatment, and how the funds are being used. This helps build trust and keeps people invested in your journey. The Future of Crowdsourced Healthcare Financing As the cost of healthcare continues to rise, crowdsourced healthcare financing is expected to become even more prevalent. With advancements in technology and the increasing use of digital platforms, raising money for medical needs will likely become even more accessible. While it may not replace traditional healthcare systems, crowdsourcing will play a key role in supporting individuals who find themselves in need of financial assistance. As more people discover the power of community-funded medical support, crowdsourced healthcare financing may continue to grow, offering hope to those who need it most. Conclusion Crowdsourced healthcare financing is an innovative and effective way to address the rising costs of medical treatment. By leveraging the power of the community, individuals can access much-needed funds to cover their medical expenses. Although there are challenges, such as the potential for fraud and the emotional burden on fundraisers, the benefits of accessibility , speed, and emotional support make crowdsourcing a viable option for many. As healthcare costs continue to rise, crowdsourcing may become an essential part of the healthcare landscape, offering a lifeline to those in need. Related Items: Healthcare Financing , Medical Support , Online Platforms in Crowdsourced Share Tweet Share Share Email Comments

Syria’s embassy in Lebanon suspends services as Lebanon hands over former Syrian army officers

HNB General Insurance (HNBGI) has demonstrated its excellence by securing three prestigious awards at the National Sales Awards 2024, organised by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM). Reflecting HNBGI’s exceptional sales achievements during the 2023–24 period, the company’s Channel Development Manager Danidu T. Galappaththi, clinched the coveted Silver award under the National Sales Manager category. Danidu’s multifaceted contributions have been instrumental in driving HNBGI’s sales success. His leadership encompassed managing a dynamic sales team to achieve enhanced performance, leveraging innovative technologies, and adopting strategies such as product diversification and bundling to penetrate new market segments. In the Territory Manager category, HNBGI Malabe Branch Manager Pulasthi Bandara was honoured with a Gold award for his strategic planning capabilities, financial acumen, and strong communication skills which were pivotal in achieving sales targets and implementing best practices. In the same category, HNBGI Cluster Manager – Colombo South Ranga Deshan won a Merit award for his outstanding efforts in overseeing branch performance. His expertise in branch-level strategy, target achievement, and team development were critical to HNBGI’s consistent growth. HNBGI CEO Sithumina Jayasundara said: “The steady sales growth we have achieved over the last few years is a testament to the dedication and exceptional performance of our sales force. At HNBGI, we ensure their hard work is recognised and celebrated internally but seeing them honoured on a national stage is incredibly rewarding. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our award winners for their outstanding contributions to the company.” These accolades underscore HNBGI’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement within its sales force. The recognition at SLIM National Sales Awards 2024 solidifies HNBGI’s position as a leader in the industry, driven by a passionate and high-performing team.Monday, December 30, 2024 Abu Dhabi is set to usher in the New Year with an unprecedented celebration at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba, featuring the world’s largest fireworks display and a spectacular drone show. The festivities aim to break multiple Guinness World Records, solidifying the emirate’s reputation for hosting grand events. Sheikh Zayed Festival’s Grand New Year’s Eve Celebration The Sheikh Zayed Festival, running from November 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025, will be the focal point of Abu Dhabi’s New Year’s Eve celebrations. On December 31, the festival will present a 46-minute continuous fireworks display, illuminating the Al Wathba sky with vibrant colors and intricate formations. This ambitious spectacle is designed to surpass previous records in terms of size, duration, and complexity. Complementing the fireworks, a state-of-the-art drone show will feature thousands of drones creating synchronized aerial formations, adding a modern technological marvel to the traditional pyrotechnics. This combination aims to set new benchmarks in entertainment and innovation. Additional Attractions at the Sheikh Zayed Festival Beyond the New Year’s Eve spectacle, the Sheikh Zayed Festival offers a rich array of cultural and entertainment activities, including: Heritage Village: An immersive experience into Emirati culture and traditions. Kids Area and Stage Activities: Educational and entertaining programs for children. Chinese Street: A thematic area showcasing Chinese and Asian products and cuisine. Fireworks and Drone Shows: Regular displays throughout the festival period. Citywide New Year’s Eve Festivities In addition to the Sheikh Zayed Festival, Abu Dhabi will host several other events to welcome 2025: Abu Dhabi Corniche: A fireworks display viewable from locations such as Corniche Beach and Lulu Island. Yas Island: Renowned for its vibrant celebrations, Yas Island will feature fireworks displays, best viewed from spots like Yas Bay Waterfront and Yas Marina. Hudayriyat Island: Marsana will host a breathtaking fireworks display, symbolizing unity and the festive spirit of the UAE. Exclusive New Year’s Eve Events For those seeking a more intimate celebration, several venues offer exclusive experiences: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental: An enchanting evening featuring a performance by renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli, accompanied by gourmet dining and a midnight fireworks display. Al Hanah Bar at Shangri-La Hotel: A sophisticated gathering with premium beverages, canapés, and views of the fireworks over Khor Al Maqta Creek. Café Milano: An Italian-themed New Year’s Eve dinner with live music and a five-course menu, offering views of the fireworks over the Arabian Gulf. Safety and Accessibility Authorities have implemented comprehensive measures to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all attendees. Public transportation will be enhanced to accommodate increased demand, and designated viewing areas will be established to manage crowds effectively. Conclusion Abu Dhabi’s plans to welcome 2025 with record-breaking fireworks and drone displays reflect the emirate’s commitment to delivering world-class entertainment experiences. Whether attending the grand spectacle at the Sheikh Zayed Festival or one of the city’s exclusive events, residents and visitors are poised to enjoy a memorable start to the New Year.President Zardari vows to uphold Bhutto family’s legacy of public service

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Shoppers have been left bemused after spotting Easter eggs on supermarket shelves before New Year’s Eve. With Easter Sunday falling on April 20 next year, customers shared their confusion on social media after finding chocolate eggs and hot cross buns already for sale in shops including Morrisons, Tesco and Asda. One user, @Jingle1991, shared an image of Malteser Bunnies in Sainsbury’s on Christmas Eve and pointed out: “Jesus hasn’t even been born yet.” Meanwhile, Gary Evans from Margate shared a shot of Creme Eggs on display in Morrisons in Margate on Boxing Day. “I just think its crazy that everything is so superficial and meaninglessly commercial... (there’s) something quite frantic about it,” the 66-year-old told the PA news agency. Joseph Robinson found Easter confectionary including Cadbury Mini Eggs, and themed Kit-Kat and Kinder Surprise products at his local Morrisons in Stoke-on-Trent on Friday evening. “It’s funny, as they’ve not even managed to shift the Christmas chocolates off the shelves yet and they’re already stocking for Easter,” the 35-year-old admin support worker told PA. “I wish that Supermarkets weren’t so blatantly consumerist-driven and would actually allow customers and staff a time to decompress during the Christmas period.” Asked if he was tempted to make a purchase, Mr Robinson added: “As a vegan it holds no appeal to me!” Mike Chalmers, a devout Christian from Chippenham, Wiltshire, was slightly less critical after spotting a display entitled: “Celebrate this Easter with Cadbury.” “Christmas and Easter are the two centrepoints of the Christian good news story so it’s no bad thing to see the connections,” the 44-year-old said. “It’s about more than shapes of chocolate though!” Marketing consultant Andrew Wallis admitted he was surprised to see Easter eggs in the Co-op in Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire, but added it also illustrates “forward-thinking” from big businesses. “It made me reflect on how big brands are always thinking ahead and planning early,” the 54-year-old from the Isle of Man, who provides marketing advice to the fitness industry, told PA. “My message to retailers would be: while planning ahead is important, it’s also essential to be mindful of consumer sentiment. “Some might feel it’s too early for seasonal products like this but others might see it as a sign of forward-thinking. “Striking the right balance is key to keeping customers happy.”

COLOGNE, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 5 December 2024 – VYTAL Global GmbH, the Germany-based digital reuse platform, is thrilled to announce the founding of its U.S.-based subsidiary, VYTAL US Inc. This strategic expansion marks a major step forward in Vytal’s mission to create a global tech platform that enables reuse in all food service settings, from large-scale festivals, sports and entertainment venues to campuses, corporate offices and quick-service restaurants. VYTAL US has acquired certain assets of TURN, a U.S.-based reuse company, and is assuming services for a selected group of TURN’s former clients, primarily operators of large festivals and venues, including some of TURN’s operations in Australia and New Zealand. Additionally, key members of the TURN team will join VYTAL US, ensuring a seamless transition and continuity of service for those clients. This move allows Vytal to enhance its existing expertise with TURN’s proven consumer engagement strategies while bringing its advanced tracking technology and market-leading operational efficiency to the U.S. market. A Strategic Leap Forward “From the start, Vytal’s ambition is to solve the single-use packaging waste crisis on a global scale,” says Dr. Tim Breker, Co-Founder & Managing Director of VYTAL Global GmbH. “Europe, particularly Germany, has long been a leader in reuse. We believe we have a clear competitive advantage to build the most advanced reuse solutions for our clients. By expanding into the U.S., we’re leveraging our sophisticated tech platform, as well as years of operational experience, to deliver high-value reuse solutions. Scaling reuse in Europe is mostly about efficiency and convenience. In the U.S. reuse has a major third growth driver: consumer engagement. Mastering this triad in the most exciting consumer market of the world will further cement Vytal’s leadership of the global reuse movement.” A globally relevant reuse champion Following a record-breaking 2024 serving over 160 events and over 7,000 clients across 17 countries – including high-profile clients like key sites during the Olympics 2024 and several EURO 2024 fan zones across three major cities – VYTAL is well-positioned to replicate this success in the U.S. Leveraging Innovative Technology to Scale Reuse At the heart of Vytal’s success is its cutting-edge technology, which covers the full value chain from logistics and tracking to POS integration and consumer engagement. These innovations make reuse easier, more efficient, and economically beneficial for operators, consumers and brands. The acquired expertise in digital consumer rewards and engagement complements Vytal’s existing technology platform, creating an even stronger value proposition for operators looking to incentivize reuse and enhance customer satisfaction. Vytal’s ability to deliver these innovations at scale promises to unlock immense potential in the U.S. market. Setting a New Standard in Washing Systems Understanding the importance of modern, efficient washing infrastructure, Vytal is investing in a washing facility in Atlanta, Georgia that aims to be the most advanced washing system in the U.S. This state-of-the-art facility will not only optimize the cleaning and handling of reusable packaging but also set a new industry benchmark for operational efficiency, hygiene, and sustainability. Welcoming New Talent Across the Atlantic Vytal is especially excited to welcome some experienced members of the former TURN team. Their deep knowledge of the U.S. market and expertise in tech-enabled reuse will be invaluable in delivering outstanding service to existing and future customers of VYTAL US, significantly growing the U.S. reuse business. Accelerating growth in 2025 With access to new markets, pioneering technologies, and top talent, Vytal is ready to lead the worldwide reuse movement into 2025. Through its data-driven approach, Vytal maximizes economic benefits for all stakeholders, creating a world where reuse becomes the new normal. Hashtag: #VYTALGlobal #VYTALUSInc The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. VYTAL Global is revolutionizing the packaging industry by eliminating single-use packaging through advanced reusable solutions. Utilizing cutting-edge software and data analytics, VYTAL delivers cost-effective, sustainable packaging options that benefit businesses and the environment. Internationally recognized by the Harvard Business Review for its pioneering data model, Vytal is at the forefront of the global transition to a circular economy. With a network of over 7,000 partners across 22 countries, the company is leading the charge in reducing disposable packaging waste. Vytal established a dedicated subsidiary to expand its impact to bring reusable solutions to the events and entertainment industry. This initiative reflects Vytal’s commitment to sustainability by addressing the unique demands of large-scale events and venues. United under a shared vision, VYTAL Global is transforming packaging systems worldwide, offering innovative, eco-friendly alternatives to create a more sustainable future. VYTAL US Inc., the wholly owned U.S. subsidiary of VYTAL Global, delivers advanced reuse solutions for large-scale events, sports venues, corporate campuses, and quick-service restaurants in the U.S. As of Q2 2025, VYTAL US will operate the country’s most advanced washing facility in Atlanta, Georgia, ensuring top-tier hygiene, efficiency, and sustainability. By partnering with the most progressive companies from the Food & Beverage Industry, VYTAL US aims to make reuse the new normal for campuses and venues in the U.S., creating solutions that benefit businesses, consumers, and the environment.In December 1999, the world prepared for the impending global meltdown known as Y2K. It all stemmed from a seemingly small software glitch: Many older computer programs had coded dates using only two numbers for the year. At midnight on Dec. 31, a misinterpretation of "00" in the year 2000 might cause widespread errors leading to mass panic. The Clinton administration said that preparing the U.S. for Y2K was probably "the single largest technology management challenge in history." The bug threatened a cascade of potential disruptions — blackouts, medical equipment failures, banks shutting down, travel screeching to a halt — if the systems and software that helped keep society functioning no longer knew what year it was. These fears gave rise to another anxiety-inducing acronym: TEOTWAWKI — "the end of the world as we know it." Thankfully, the so-called "year 2000 problem" didn't live up to the hype. NPR covered Y2K preparations for several years leading up to the new millennium. Here's a snapshot of how people coped, as told to NPR Network reporters. Infrastructure systems braced for the worst Computer specialist and grassroots organizer Paloma O'Riley compared the scale and urgency of Y2K prep to telling somebody to change out a rivet on the Golden Gate Bridge. Changing out just one rivet is simple, but "if you suddenly tell this person he now has to change out all the rivets on the bridge and he has only 24 hours to do it in — that's a problem," O'Riley told reporter Jason Beaubien in 1998. So, why wasn't U.S. infrastructure ready in the first place? Stephanie Moore, then a senior analyst with Giga Information Group, told NPR it stemmed from a data-efficiency measure in the expensive early days of computers: formatting years using two digits instead of four, with most computers interpreting "00" as the year 1900. "Now, when we roll over to the year 2000, computers — instead of thinking it's 2001 — are going to think it's 1901," Moore said, adding Y2K would have been avoidable "had we used four-digit year dates all along." The date switchover rattled a swath of vital tech, including Wall Street trading systems, power plants and tools used in air traffic control. The Federal Aviation Administration put its systems through stress tests and mock scenarios as 2000 drew closer. "Twenty-three million lines of code in the air traffic control system did seem a little more daunting, I will say, than I had probably anticipated," FAA Administrator Jane Garvey told NPR in 1998. Ultimately there were no systemwide aviation breakdowns, but airlines were put on a Y2K alert. The crunch to safeguard these systems was a reminder that the technology underpinning people's daily lives was interdependent and constantly evolving. "People forget that the infrastructure for the Industrial Revolution took between 300 and 500 years to put in place," University of Washington engineering professor Mark Haselkorn said at the time. "And we're about 50 years into putting the infrastructure in place for the Information Age. So, it's not surprising we've got some problems." People prepared to "bug out" A mobile home; a year's supply of dehydrated food; a propane generator — those were just some of the precautionary purchases California computer programmer Scott Olmstead made in advance of 2000. (He also said he was shopping for a handgun.) If Y2K sparked a food shortage, or an electric grid failure, or even a crime spike, Olmstead told NPR he would be ready: "Whatever it is, if we want to 'bug out,' as the programmers say, we can do it. We've got a place to go." He added that he might take his money out of the bank and convert it into gold, silver and cash. While concerned citizens pondered a panic-proof wealth strategy, Brian Roby, vice president of First National Bank of Olathe, Kan., told NPR his institution would be ready to welcome customers on New Year's Day rather than take the holiday off. "We thought about it and we said, 'Hey, if we're ready, we're ready. Let's prove it. Let's be the first to be open,' " Roby said. "And we're just going to open up like it's any other normal Saturday." Some financial analysts remained skeptical Y2K would come and go with minimal disruption. But by November 1999 the Federal Reserve said it was confident the U.S. economy would weather the big switch. "Federal banking agencies have been visited and inspected. Every bank in the United States, which includes probably 9,000 to 10,000 institutions, over 99% received a satisfactory rating," Fed Board Governor Edward Kelley said at the time. Neighbors banded together Dozens of communities across the U.S. formed Y2K preparedness groups to stave off unnecessary panic. Kathy Garcia, an organizer with the Y2K Community Project in Boulder, Colo., said fears of a societal meltdown offered an opportunity to take stock. "How do we help each other out — not when a disaster hits, but beforehand?" Garcia told NPR's Margot Adler in 1999. Her project set up shop in a Boulder mall storefront, offering Y2K educational videos and exhibits on food storage. Local resident Richard Dash stopped by, urging people to consider their neighbors — not just themselves. "Do you want to be the only house with lights, and the only house with the smell of food coming from it? Do you want to really turn yourself into a bunker?" he said. Dash added he hoped nothing would come of Y2K besides a renewed feeling he could count on his community in an emergency, and it could count on him, too. Instead of conserving their extra food, he said, people could come together and share it. "We'll all have a picnic," he said. "We'll give extra food to FoodShare, and nobody's going to be hungry for a while. And that'll be just terrific." Squashing the Y2K bug In the end, the worst fears lay in anticipation. Besides a few minor setbacks like an internet slowdown and reports of malfunctioning clocks, the aggressive planning and recalibration paid off. Humanity passed into the year 2000 without pandemonium. "I'm pleasantly surprised," John Koskinen, chair of the President's Council on Year 2000 Conversion, told NPR's Weekend Edition on Jan. 1, 2000. "We expected that we would see more difficulties early on, particularly around the world." People like Jack Pentes of Charlotte, N.C., were left to figure out what to do with their emergency stockpiles. Pentes had filled 50 large soda bottles with tap water. "I used a half a dozen in the washing machine," he told NPR. "I can't bear to just pour it out and throw it away. There are too many people in the world that can't get any decent water." Food writer Michael Stern meanwhile offered a chili recipe for people with leftover canned food — namely, Spam. "One of its charms is that it doesn't decompose," Stern said. "No matter how long you cook it, it will always retain its identity as Spam." Others couldn't quite shake the instinct to plan ahead. Alfred Lubrano, an essayist for The Philadelphia Inquirer , wrote a letter included in a time capsule to be opened for "Y3K" — the year 3000. Lubrano's letter, which he read on NPR, ended with a question for whoever might find it in the next millennium. "We're human, same as you — flawed like you, decent like you," Lubrano wrote. "We have not yet figured out this world, this life. Have you?" Original reporting by NPR's Jason Beaubien, Ira Flatow, Steve Inskeep, Mary Ann Akers, Jack Speer, Larry Abramson, Margot Adler and Bob Edwards. Copyright 2024 NPRSan Francisco, Dec 28: Mourning the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, US President Joe Biden has called him “a true statesman” and credited his strategic vision and political courage for the unprecedented level of bilateral cooperation. Singh, who was India’s prime minister for 10 years from 2004 to 2014 died in New Delhi on Thursday night. He was 92. “The unprecedented level of cooperation between the United States and India today would not have been possible without the Prime Minister’s strategic vision and political courage,” Biden said in a statement as he and the First Lady, Jill Biden, joined the people of India in grieving the loss of the former prime minister. “From forging the US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement to helping launch the first Quad between Indo-Pacific partners, he charted path-breaking progress that will continue to strengthen our nations—and the world—for generations to come. He was a true statesman. A dedicated public servant. And above all, he was a kind and humble person,” Biden said. The outgoing US President said he had the chance to meet Prime Minister Singh as Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in 2008 and as Vice President during his Official State Visit to the United States in 2009. “He also graciously hosted me in New Delhi in 2013. As we discussed then, the US-India relationship is among the most consequential in the world. And together, as partners and friends, our nations can unlock a future of dignity and unlimited potential for all of our people,” Biden said. “During this difficult time, we recommit to this vision to which Prime Minister Singh dedicated his life. And Jill and I send our deepest condolences to former First Lady Gursharan Kaur, their three children, and all the people of India,” Biden said.