Rolling out the news you want

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

CANNABIS

Federal agency reaffirms marijuana use can disqualify applicants, emphasizing federal law overrides state legalization in government hiring decisions.

Kentucky Governor suggests recreational marijuana possible if medical program proves effective, well-regulated, and ensures public safety protections.

Pennsylvania representative anticipates spring vote on marijuana legalization, faces uncertainty over proposed state-run cannabis sales model.

Study finds no link between recreational cannabis outlets and increased self-harm injuries, challenging concerns about public health impacts.

US NEWS

Congress passes stopgap bill, avoiding government shutdown, funding through March with disaster aid and agriculture assistance; Biden to sign.

Indiana man Richard Allen sentenced to 130 years for 2017 Delphi murders of teens Abby Williams and Libby German, plans appeal.

Biden weighs commuting sentences of 40 men on federal death row, signaling potential shift in capital punishment policy.

WORLD NEWS

Researchers discover 27 new species in Peru’s Amazon, including a swimming mouse and blob-headed fish, with more expected.

Malaysia resumes search for Flight MH370, missing since 2014, offering $70M reward for wreckage in suspected Indian Ocean crash area.

German Christmas market car-ramming suspect identified as Saudi exile and outspoken anti-Islam activist; incident kills at least five.

SPORTS

Notre Dame wins historic first home CFP game, defeating Indiana 27-17 with stellar defense and a record-breaking touchdown run.

Falcons expected to release Kirk Cousins before $10M bonus due March, following benching and draft conflict with rookie Penix Jr.

Senate approves RFK land lease bill, boosting Commanders’ chances for new stadium in D.C.; hurdles remain for final agreement.

LeBron James becomes NBA’s all-time minutes leader, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, reflecting on milestone in Instagram post honoring Wilt Chamberlain.

POP CULTURE

Tom Cruise receives Navy’s Distinguished Public Service Award, honoring his film work’s inspiration for service and Navy pilot recruitment.

Conan O’Brien mourns parents who died days apart, honoring their profound bond, shared Irish Catholic roots, and tireless dedication to excellence.

Owen Wilson electrifies Rolling Loud stage with Travis Scott, hyping crowd in fiery cameo tied to upcoming festival-themed film.

BUSINESS

Dow and S&P 500 post best gains since postelection rally, capping a challenging week for stocks with a strong finish.

Party City closing all stores after financial struggles post-2023 bankruptcy, ending nearly 40 years of operation, CEO announces wind-down.

PB sues Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo over $870M Zelle fraud, alleging inadequate consumer protections and insufficient response measures.

Starbucks workers strike in Los Angeles, Chicago, Seattle over wages, conditions, and staffing; union warns of possible expansions.

Quote of the Day:

“Christmas is a season not only of rejoicing, but of reflection.”

- Winston Churchill

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