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

Nine U.S. senators urge the VA to develop a medical marijuana care standard for veterans and allow doctors to recommend cannabis, aligning with proposed drug rescheduling.

The DOJ is seeking public comments on its proposal to reschedule marijuana to Schedule III by July 22, focusing on economic impacts and implications for state laws.

Five years after starting its social equity program, only half of Illinois’ eligible marijuana retailers are operational. Many face losing conditional licenses soon due to unmet deadlines.

US NEWS

Faulty CrowdStrike update caused a global tech outage, affecting airlines, emergency services, healthcare, and businesses. Thousands of flights were disrupted, and notable impacts included Times Square billboards and Disneyland hotel locks.

Biden plans to resume campaigning next week, frustrated with Obama and Pelosi. Advisors are discussing timing for an announcement if he exits the race.

Since October 2023, the Curiosity rover has been exploring a sulfate-rich region on Mars. In May, it accidentally crushed a small rock in the Gediz Vallis channel, an ancient riverbed. The cracked rock revealed never-before-seen crystals made of pure sulfur.

House Democrat Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas, who announced pancreatic cancer diagnosis last month, dies at 74.

WORLD NEWS

Evan Gershkovich sentenced to 16 years in Russian prison for espionage. The Wall Street Journal journalist, deemed wrongfully detained by the US, faced a non-public trial considered politically motivated. A prisoner exchange is possible.

Cease-fire deal to free hostages in Gaza close, Biden officials say. Unlikely before Netanyahu addresses Congress next week.

Tens of thousands of students in Bangladesh demand an end to quotas reserving 30% of government jobs for war veterans’ relatives. Clashes with police left at least 100 dead and over 1,000 injured, amid a nationwide internet shutdown due to the unrest.

The International Court of Justice ruled Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem illegal, directing their immediate withdrawal. The ruling is binding but unenforceable. Separately, a drone attack by Yemen-based Houthi rebels struck Tel Aviv, killing one and wounding ten.

Nguyen Phu Trong, Vietnam’s ruling Communist Party general secretary, died Friday from old age and illness. Serving 13 years, he shaped the nation’s economic and geopolitical strategy. President To Lam will temporarily assume Trong’s duties.

SPORTS

Team USA sends 314 women and 278 men to the Paris Olympics. Highlights include 66 Olympic champions, 75% college athletes, and notable Olympians like Katie Ledecky and Simone Biles.

Allisha Gray became the first WNBA player to win both the 3-point and skills competitions in a single event. She achieved this historic feat during the WNBA All-Star Weekend, showcasing her versatility and skill across different aspects of the game.

Si Woo Kim achieved a historic hole-in-one on the 17th hole at the Royal Troon Open, the first ever at this iconic course.

POP CULTURE

MrBeast’s ocean cleanup initiative removes 34 million pounds of trash.

Stegosaurus fossil fetches $45 million at Sotheby’s auction, with auctioneer Phyllis Kao captivating the online audience.

“The Bear” received 23 Emmy nominations, a comedy category record. Fans question: Is “The Bear” really a comedy?

BUSINESS

The U.S. market shows signs of a slowdown, with projected GDP growth of 0.7% for 2024 and consumer spending expected to decelerate.

A software update from CrowdStrike caused a global tech outage, disrupting airports and Social Security offices. The incident highlights the risks of tech consolidation and the need for diversified cybersecurity measures.

American Airlines’ 28,000 flight attendants reached a tentative labor agreement addressing pay, work rules, and retroactive compensation. Pending union approval, the deal promises billions in added compensation and avoids a strike.

Quote of the Day:

“Whatever women do, they must do twice as well as men to be thought half as good. Luckily, this is not difficult.”

- Charlotte Whitton

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