Thursday News Tattle
US NEWS
First Crewed Flight of Boeing Starliner: NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are piloting Boeing’s Starliner on its first crewed mission to the International Space Station. This mission marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between NASA and Boeing.
Wildfires in California Force Evacuations: Wildfires in Northern California have led to widespread evacuations and significant damage. Firefighters are battling multiple blazes amid high temperatures and dry conditions, with several homes and structures already lost.
Major Train Derailment in Montana: A freight train derailment in Montana has caused significant environmental concerns as hazardous materials spilled into a nearby river. Emergency services are working to contain the spill and mitigate the impact on local communities.
Protests in New York Over Police Actions: Large protests have erupted in New York City following the release of body camera footage showing police officers using excessive force during an arrest. The incident has sparked renewed calls for police reform and accountability.
Record Heat Wave Hits Southern States: A severe heat wave is affecting southern states, with temperatures reaching record highs. Authorities are advising residents to take precautions as heat-related illnesses become a growing concern.
GLOBAL NEWS AND WORLD EVENTS
Eurozone Enters Technical Recession: The Eurozone experienced a technical recession in the first quarter of 2024, with GDP contracting by 0.1% for two consecutive quarters. Factors contributing to this decline include reduced household spending and public expenditure.
OECD Updates Global Growth Forecasts: The OECD slightly increased its global growth forecast for 2023 to 2.7%, up from 2.6%, citing the impact of monetary policy tightening. For 2024, the forecast remains at 2.9%. India’s GDP is expected to grow by 6% this year.
High Excess Death Rates Persist in the West: A study highlights that excess death rates in Western countries remain high three years after the COVID-19 pandemic began. Researchers express serious concerns about the ongoing health impacts despite widespread vaccination efforts.
Turkey's New Finance Minister and Economic Policies: Turkey's newly appointed finance minister is pursuing policies aimed at intentional devaluation of the Turkish lira, which has reached a record low against the US dollar. This strategy aims to address the country's economic challenges and stabilize its financial system.
Record Low Inflation in Brazil: Brazil's inflation rate fell to 3.94% in May, the lowest level in over two years. This decrease marks a significant achievement in the country's efforts to stabilize its economy and control price increases.
World Economic Forum Highlights Global Risks: The World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report 2024 identifies misinformation and climate-related threats as the top risks facing the world. Experts anticipate a multipolar or fragmented global order over the next decade, with significant instability expected.
New RNA Virus Discovered in Human Neurons: Researchers have identified a new RNA virus, Apocryptovirus odysseus, linked to severe inflammation in Toxoplasma gondii-infected humans. This discovery underscores the need for heightened vigilance in monitoring emerging infectious diseases.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
SEC Proposes New Cybersecurity Disclosure Rules: The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has proposed new rules requiring publicly traded companies to disclose cybersecurity incidents within four business days. The proposal aims to enhance transparency and protect investors from cyber threats.
Apple Announces Record Revenue: Apple Inc. reported record revenue of $125 billion for Q2 2024, driven by strong sales of iPhones and services. CEO Tim Cook highlighted robust demand across all product lines and significant growth in emerging markets.
Biden Administration Finalizes EV Tax Credit Rules: The Biden administration finalized rules for electric vehicle (EV) tax credits, emphasizing domestic sourcing of critical minerals. Automakers have been given a two-year extension to comply, aiming to reduce reliance on Chinese materials and strengthen U.S. supply chains.
IRS Releases 2024 'Dirty Dozen' Tax Scams: The IRS released its annual list of the top 12 tax scams, warning taxpayers about fraudulent schemes ranging from phishing emails to fake charities. The agency stressed the importance of safeguarding personal information during tax season.
Accountants Express Concerns Over Economic Instability: A survey revealed that accountants are concerned about economic instability, inflation, and the national debt. Many professionals believe these issues hinder their ability to offer services and grow their businesses effectively.
Tesla Expands Battery Production in the U.S.: Tesla announced plans to expand its battery production facilities in Texas and Nevada. The expansion is part of Tesla's strategy to increase EV production and reduce dependence on foreign battery materials, aligning with federal incentives for domestic manufacturing.
Amazon to Acquire Healthcare Startup: Amazon is set to acquire healthcare startup HealthNow for $3.2 billion, marking a significant move into the healthcare sector. The acquisition aims to integrate HealthNow's telehealth services with Amazon's existing healthcare initiatives, enhancing its offerings in the rapidly growing market.
POLITICS
Supreme Court Ruling on Electoral Maps: The U.S. Supreme Court has issued a controversial 6-3 decision allowing racial discrimination in the drawing of electoral maps. This decision reversed a lower court ruling that found South Carolina's congressional map discriminated against Black voters, potentially undermining multiracial democracy efforts in the U.S.
House Passes Debt Ceiling Bill: The House of Representatives has passed a bill to raise the debt ceiling, avoiding a potential default on U.S. debt. The bill includes spending cuts and policy changes aimed at reducing the federal deficit, reflecting significant bipartisan negotiation.
President Biden's Clean Energy Push: President Biden has reiterated his commitment to clean energy legislation, drawing parallels to the Affordable Care Act. Biden's administration is focusing on sustainable energy initiatives to combat climate change and create jobs.
Senate Bipartisan Border Bill: The Senate is considering a bipartisan bill aimed at addressing issues at the U.S.-Mexico border. The proposed legislation includes measures for enhanced border security and immigration reform, reflecting ongoing debates about immigration policy.
Supreme Court and Affirmative Action: The Supreme Court is reviewing cases that could significantly impact affirmative action policies in higher education. These decisions could alter admission practices at universities, with potential nationwide implications for diversity and inclusion.
Federal Budget Discussions: Ongoing discussions about the federal budget are highlighting differences between Republicans and Democrats on spending priorities. Key areas of debate include defense spending, social programs, and infrastructure investments.
SPORTS
PGA Tour and LIV Golf Announce Merger: The PGA Tour and Saudi-backed LIV Golf have announced a historic merger, ending a contentious rivalry. The deal allows previously suspended or defected players to return to the PGA Tour for the 2024 season. PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan will stay on as the head of the newly combined entity, with Yasir Al-Rumayyan from the Public Investment Fund joining the board.
NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Mavericks: The Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks are set to compete in the 2024 NBA Finals. The Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum, are aiming for a record 18th championship. The series begins tonight in Boston, marking the start of what promises to be an intense matchup.
Houston Astros Pitchers Undergo Surgery: Houston Astros pitchers José Urquidy and Cristian Javier will miss the remainder of the season due to elbow surgeries. This significant blow to the Astros' pitching rotation comes as the team competes for a playoff spot.
Angel Reese Ejected in WNBA Game: Chicago Sky star Angel Reese received the first ejection of her WNBA career after a verbal exchange with a referee during a game against the New York Liberty. Reese's teammate, Lonzo Ball, offered to cover her fine, showcasing team solidarity amidst the controversy.
NFL Minicamps Kick Off: NFL teams have begun their mandatory minicamps, with notable movements including the Kansas City Chiefs re-signing wide receiver Mecole Hardman on a one-year contract. These camps are crucial for teams to evaluate their rosters and prepare for the upcoming season.
ENTERTAINMENT
Doodle for Google Winner Celebrates Sisters: This year's Doodle for Google contest winner, Rebecca Wu, drew her sisters for the theme "I am grateful for...". She expressed how her sisters have inspired and supported her, leading to her winning a $30,000 college scholarship and $50,000 worth of technology for her school.
Al Roker Shares Photos from Daughter Courtney's Wedding: Today co-host Al Roker shared photos from his daughter Courtney's wedding to Wesley Laga. The ceremony took place at New Jersey's Ashford Estate, with Roker's family in attendance, celebrating the joyous occasion.
Chanel West Coast Shows Off Baby Bump at MTV Movie & TV Awards: Chanel West Coast, known for Ridiculousness, announced her pregnancy at the MTV Movie & TV Awards. She is expecting her first child with her boyfriend Dom Fenison and expressed her excitement for the new journey in her life.
Anjelica Huston and Oliver Jackson-Cohen to Headline BBC's Next Agatha Christie Mystery: The BBC has announced that Anjelica Huston and Oliver Jackson-Cohen will star in its next Agatha Christie book adaptation, adding to the excitement of fans of the classic mystery genre.
Adam Levine and Kelsea Ballerini Set as Season 27 Coaches of The Voice: NBC confirmed that Adam Levine and Kelsea Ballerini will be coaches for the Spring 2025 season of The Voice, bringing their star power and expertise to the popular singing competition.
Director Pablo Berger Discusses Robot Dreams: Pablo Berger, director of Robot Dreams, discussed how he hopes the audience completes his film adaptation of the graphic novel with their own interpretations, aiming to create a unique viewing experience.
