China Expels Three WSJ Journalists

China canceled the visas of three WSJ journalists for what it said was a racist headline on an opinion piece about the coronavirus earlier this month. The article is titled “China is the Real Sick Man of Asia” - you can read the whole thing here (no $ needed).

UBI on CNN

After ending his presidential campaign last week, Andrew Yang announced he is joining CNN as a political commentator. Widely known for his Universal Basic Income (UBI) idea, Yang appeared on the network in his new role for last night’s debate show.

UK Immigration Policy Post-Brexit

The UK government unveiled plans to restrict the number of visas given to low-skilled workers following their split from the European Union made official last month. The Home Office said EU and non-EU citizens would be treated equally once the UK-EU free movement agreement expires at the end of 2020.

Remember The Alamo

National theater chain Alamo Drafthouse has officially launched its Season Pass subscription service following a year of beta testing. Available in all 41 theaters across the country, the program allows users to see one movie a day for a monthly fee ranging from $14.99 to $29.99 (based on location).

Funding Fathers

Founders Fund - an investment firm co-founded by controversial figure Peter Thiel - has closed $3 billion worth of new capital split across two separate funds. The funds are reportedly seeking returns of at least 3x and 5x on deals in excess of $100 million, and will not invest if they don’t believe the return can be met.

Gotta Watch ‘Em All

According to the latest public filings, large cable and satellite companies lost about 5.5 million traditional pay-TV customers in 2019, an 8% decline. Some streaming platforms offering live TV also took a hit (PS Vue, AT&T Now), while others showed strong growth numbers (Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV).

Fair-Feather Friends

When going through a tough time, everyone can use a friend by their side who can empathize with the struggles they are facing.

Thanks to New York wildlife rehabilitation nonprofit, The Mia Foundation, a rescued pigeon unable to fly was able to form an inseparable bond with a Chihuahua puppy that can’t walk.

Rock Your Body

After turning 25, Liz Rock decided it was time for a change. At 350 pounds, the Boston woman had long felt limited by her weight, and the recent passing of her grandma spurred Liz to focus on her health.

Four years later, the 29-year-old has dropped a whopping 150 pounds, discovered a passion for running, and recently completed her fourth full marathon in honor of her late grandma.

Blood Brothers

After giving blood, donors usually aren’t aware of who receives their blood, only that it goes to someone in desperate need.

Five-year-old Nathan Johnson, who requires monthly transfusions, recently met with 14 people who have been supplying his blood, handing out a Valentine’s Day card and a heartfelt hug to each of the people that continuously save his life.