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 Look:

Two interactive sculptures called “The Portals,” linking Dublin and New York City via live video, were temporarily shut down due to inappropriate behavior displayed by some participants.

From flashing boobs, to snorting cocaine, and even showing clips of the 9/11 attacks - citizens took to the screen and showed why we can’t have nice things!

CANNABIS

New York’s cannabis director has been replaced as Governor Hochul announces an overhaul of the troubled office overseeing the state’s marijuana policies.

A group of cannabis growers has filed a lawsuit against the state, claiming that the Constitution allows them to sell cannabis without a license.

Key approval has been granted, paving the way for Ohio’s adult-use cannabis market to open in June.

German lawmakers are set to review changes to driving laws concerning cannabis use this Thursday.

US NEWS

The Biden administration has announced an increase in tariffs on Chinese products, expanding on measures first introduced by former President Donald Trump in 2018. The most significant increase is on electric vehicle imports, with tariffs quadrupling from 25% to 100%. This move escalates the ongoing economic measures against goods manufactured in China, the world’s second-largest economy.

Michael Cohen, the former personal lawyer to ex-President Donald Trump, is being cross-examined by the defense in a trial concerning hush money payments.

The National Transportation Safety Board’s preliminary report on the March 26 collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge indicates that the cargo vessel Dali experienced multiple power failures before the crash. Electrical breakers on the vessel tripped, causing the propeller to shut down prior to the impact. Notably, the vessel lost power four times within the 12 hours leading up to the crash.

WORLD NEWS

In northern France, a manhunt is ongoing for armed assailants responsible for an ambush on a prison van, resulting in the death of two prison officers and the wounding of three others. This attack facilitated the escape of a 30-year-old inmate and drug dealer, nicknamed “The Fly.” This violent incident is notable as it marks the first killing of on-duty prison workers in France since 1992.

Researchers have discovered a new planet with an exceptionally low density, likened to that of cotton candy. This “super fluffy” planet presents a unique addition to the known types of celestial bodies in space.

Climate analysis finds 2023 was the warmest summer in the Northern Hemisphere over the past 2,000 years; tree ring analysis was used to supplement instrumental evidence, which dates back to 1850

SPORTS

Caitlin Clark had a challenging WNBA debut with the Indiana Fever, scoring 20 points but committing 10 turnovers in a 92-71 loss against the Connecticut Sun.

The NBA Combine in Chicago saw all top prospects participate, showcasing their skills in drills and athletic tests. Notable performances included Bronny James excelling in shooting drills and Devin Carter dominating athletic tests. The event provided critical insights into the players’ abilities ahead of the NBA draft.

Tom Brady regretted his Netflix roast’s impact on his children and ex-wife, Gisele Bündchen, who criticized the disrespectful portrayal of her family. Brady apologized for jokes suggesting infidelity involving Bündchen and Joaquim Valente during the roast, acknowledging the distress it caused his loved ones.

POP CULTURE

The 77th Cannes Film Festival began yesterday, featuring a competition lineup of 22 films contending for the prestigious Palme d’Or. Greta Gerwig, the first American woman director to lead the competition jury, will preside over the selection and awarding of the festival’s top prize at the event’s conclusion.

George Clooney to debut on Broadway in spring 2025 in stage adaptation of "Good Night, and Good Luck".

Red Lobster, the largest U.S. seafood chain famous for its seafood and cheesy biscuits, is preparing to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy as early as next week following the sudden closure of dozens of its restaurants.

Bumble issued an apology for advertisements that mocked celibacy, acknowledging that their attempt at edgy humor to attract young users instead led to significant backlash.

BUSINESS

Google reveals Project Astra, an AI-powered app that can answer queries based on an object in the camera's field of vision:

US stock markets close higher (S&P 500 +0.5%, Dow +0.3%, Nasdaq +0.8%) despite news of higher-than-expected wholesale prices in April, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell comments indicating interest rates to remain steady

The US Justice Department has accused Boeing of breaching a 2021 settlement that had allowed the company to avoid criminal prosecution for its role in the deadly crashes involving its 737 Max aircraft in 2018 and 2019. This allegation was made in a recent court filing.

Walmart has announced plans to lay off hundreds of corporate employees and will require the majority of its remote workforce to return to the office for most days.

Quote of the Day:

“Have patience. All things are difficult before they become easy.”

-Saadi

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