Rolling out the news you want

Welcome to the BLUNT Newsletter, your direct access to pop culture that is short and to the point.

Quick Hit:

America Celebrates 248th Independence Day!

The US marks 248 years since the Declaration of Independence, celebrating advancements in public health, technology, and infrastructure. From 13 colonies to 50 states, progress continues amid ongoing challenges.

CANNABIS

New research explores cannabidiol (CBD) as a treatment for acne and acne scars, providing novel insights into the molecular pathways affecting these skin conditions.

German marijuana clubs can now officially launch under the country’s legalization law, although states have varying rules.

Sen. Murphy endorses the SAFER Banking Act but remains uncertain about pardoning past marijuana convictions.

US NEWS

Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D, TX-37) becomes the first Democratic lawmaker to call on President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race.

Former President Donald Trump’s hush money sentencing has been postponed to September 18.

Rudy Giuliani, former New York mayor and ex-attorney for former President Donald Trump, has been disbarred in New York due to his statements regarding the 2020 election.

The U.S. government has provided Moderna with $176 million to develop a bird flu vaccine for humans. This funding follows the H5N1 virus infecting three people in the U.S. in May.

WORLD NEWS

Hurricane Beryl, initially reaching Category 5, is set to hit Jamaica as a Category 3 storm. It impacted the eastern Caribbean, causing power outages and seven fatalities.

The FDA approved Eli Lilly’s donanemab, branded Kisunla, for early or mild Alzheimer’s. Clinical trials showed a 35% reduction in cognitive decline, despite risks like brain swelling and bleeding.

At least 116 people, mostly women and children, were killed in a crowd surge during a Hindu religious event in Uttar Pradesh, India. Officials are investigating the cause amid high temperatures.

SPORTS

The US men’s national soccer team failed to advance out of the group stage at Copa América, losing 1-0 to Uruguay.

Sixteen former college basketball players are suing the NCAA over the use of their likenesses in March Madness promotions.

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese headline Team WNBA All-Star squad, set to face the U.S. women’s national team on July 20.

Lakers introduce rookies Bronny James and Dalton Knecht, emphasizing earned spots. Bronny acknowledges pressure, will wear No. 9 for Juice WRLD.

POP CULTURE

Jamie Foxx reveals he had a “bad headache” before his 2023 hospitalization, choosing to keep specific details private.

The “Beetlejuice” sequel will premiere at the 81st Venice Film Festival on August 28. Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder return, with Jenna Ortega joining the cast.

Will Smith debuted his new song "You Can Make It" at the BET Awards, highlighting perseverance and faith with a powerful performance.

BUSINESS

US stock markets closed higher (S&P 500 +0.6%, Dow +0.4%, Nasdaq +0.8%) as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated the US is on a “disinflationary” path.

Tesla shares rose 10% after Q2 electric vehicle deliveries, despite slowing year-over-year, surpassed analyst expectations.

US job openings increased to 8.1 million in May, with layoffs also rising, indicating a slowing but resilient labor market.

Six Flags and Cedar Fair have merged in an estimated $8 billion deal, becoming North America’s largest amusement park operator.

Quote of the Day:

“That’s the promise of tomorrow — that in the face of impossible odds, people who love their country can change it.”

— Barack Obama

That's all for now! We hope you enjoyed this edition of the BLUNT Newsletter. Have a fantastic rest of your day!