Winter does not officially arrive until December 21st, though the bitter cold may have you feeling otherwise. With Winter Weather Advisories from New Jersey to Massachusetts and throughout much of New York today, it seems like we’re getting an early jump on things. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the 2020 season will be filled with so many ups and downs on the thermometer, it will remind us of a “Polar Coaster.”
Hopefully this week’s jolt of positive energy can warm things up for you.
Why so crude? Crude oil prices rose slightly last week but decreased on Monday, trading around $57 a barrel. Prices inched lower despite positive trade news out of China, where state media reported that Liu He, Chinese Vice Premier, had discussed a partial deal with U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin over the weekend. A monthly report from the International Energy Agency likely played a role in the market skepticism, as it estimated that non-OPEC supply would grow to 2.3 million barrels per day (bpd) next year compared with 1.8 million bpd in 2019. U.S. crude stockpiles also grew by 2.2 million barrels last week, exceeding forecasts of a 1.65 million barrel rise. The Baker Hughes oil rig count fell last week, going from 684 to 674 and indicating decreased domestic production.
Let The Wild Ride Begin! After rising to a high at $2.905 per MMBtu on the December NYMEX natural gas futures contract on November 5, the price pulled back below the $2.60 level at the end of last week. The $2.905 peak was the highest price level for the energy commodity since late May. – Seeking Alpha
Scoot, Scoot! Electric scooters have become one of the most convenient forms of last-mile transportation in cities. Small, quick, and easy to fold away, they’ve complemented e-bikes as one of the fastest-growing forms of urban transportation. And with Black Friday deals starting earlier every year, now is already a great time to snag a new electric scooter for a deep discount. – Electrek
Nostalgia! Motorola Is Bringing Back The Flip Phone With An All-Display Razr Device
Motorola is bringing the flip phone back, baby: On Wednesday, Verizon announced the debut of a new Razr phone with a 6.2-inch foldable display that flips to half size – Gizmodo
Bread of Life! It takes a village, just to make sure everyone has a hot meal. Our very own Tracy Kobos puts on an apron every other Sunday and leads the cooking at Bread of Life soup kitchen in Rome, NY. The spirited organization delivers over 100 meals to the elderly and people in need, as well as serving weekly walk-ins.
“The center was in danger of closing down due to lack of volunteers and funding. I stepped up to donate my time because I’m passionate about people and believe wholeheartedly in supporting others.” – Tracy
If you or your company are involved in helping your community, please let us know by emailing us here. After all, Marathon Cares.