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

The FDA issued a warning against Diamond Shruumz chocolate bars containing hemp-derived CBD and delta-8 after eight illnesses and six hospitalizations. Symptoms included seizures and confusion. The bars are sold nationwide. The FDA advises parents to keep them away from children and retailers to stop selling them.

New York Senators are urging an investigation into the state’s Marijuana Social Equity Fund following an exposé revealing “predatory deals.” Concerns include unfair practices and exploitation within the fund, intended to support disadvantaged cannabis business applicants.

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott let a cannabis regulation bill pass without his signature. The law bans psychoactive hemp products, enhances safety measures, gives municipalities cultivation control, reduces dispensary fees, and expands medical use qualifications. Despite concerns, Scott supports its overall benefits.

US NEWS

Nearly 30 riders were rescued after being stuck upside down on a ride at a Portland amusement park.

The US Supreme Court struck down a Trump-era federal ban on bump stocks, a gun accessory that modifies semi-automatic weapons to fire at rates similar to automatic weapons. The accessory enables semi-automatic firearms to fire 400 to 800 rounds per minute, compared to automatic weapons’ 700 to 950 rounds per minute.

A powerful heat dome is just one of several extreme weather hazards forecasted for next week, potentially causing widespread impacts.

Southern Baptists narrowly reject formal ban on churches with women pastors.

WORLD NEWS

Kate Middleton attended the Trooping the Colour parade, her first public appearance since announcing her cancer diagnosis. She joined the traditional ceremony, demonstrating her dedication to royal duties despite her health challenges.

Major Ukraine peace summit to begin in Switzerland without Russia or China.

King Charles III hosted the inaugural King’s Foundation awards at St. James’s Palace, honoring contributors to community and sustainability projects. Attendees included David Beckham and Sienna Miller. The event highlighted the foundation’s ongoing impact on education and environmental initiatives.

SPORTS

Bill Belichick, the 72-year-old former Patriots coach, is dating 24-year-old ex-cheerleader Jordon Hudson, according to TMZ. This relationship follows his split from longtime girlfriend Linda Holliday in September 2023 after over a decade together.

Luka Doncic answered critics with a dominant performance in Game 4, keeping the Mavericks’ playoff hopes alive. His stellar play ensured the Mavs remain in contention.

Charles Barkley has announced that he will retire from television after the 2024-25 season, ending his illustrious career as a sports analyst.

MLB has suspended umpire Pat Hoberg for violating the league’s gambling rules, enforcing strict measures to maintain the integrity of the sport.

POP CULTURE

Taylor Swift says ‘most wonderful’ Eras Tour will end in December.

HBO has renewed “House of the Dragon” for a third season ahead of its second season premiere on Sunday. The “Game of Thrones” prequel, based on George R.R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood,” continues to attract viewers, with Season 1’s finale drawing 9.3 million.

Kevin Spacey admits to being ‘too handsy’ in the past.

New “Bridgerton” episodes debut, featuring romance and scandal as Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton declare love and get engaged. Penelope’s secret life as Lady Whistledown threatens their happiness. Despite tension, they will enjoy a honeymoon period. Seasons 1-2 and spinoff “Queen Charlotte” are streaming.

BUSINESS

A judge has rejected the bankruptcy plan for Alex Jones’ Infowars but permitted the liquidation of his personal assets. This decision impacts Jones’ financial strategies amidst ongoing legal challenges.

Wells Fargo terminated twelve employees accused of faking keyboard strokes to appear productive. The bank cited this as a violation of company policies and a breach of trust.

Former President Donald Trump disappointed top CEOs at the Business Roundtable’s quarterly meeting with unfocused remarks and scant policy details. Attendees, initially supportive, left less impressed despite Trump’s campaign claims of a warm reception.

Quote of the Day:

"The man who has no imagination has no wings."

-Muhammad Ali

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