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- July 18, 2024
July 18, 2024
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Good Morning. It’s Thursday, July 18
65Nation….All news. No politics.
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U.S. NEWS
Attorneys for “Rust” movie armorer Hannah Gutierrez Reed, convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the 2021 on-set fatal shooting of a cinematographer, have filed a motion for a new trial or to dismiss her case. This follows the dismissal of actor Alec Baldwin’s related case last week. The motion, filed Tuesday in New Mexico’s Santa Fe First Judicial District Court, cites “egregious prosecutorial misconduct” and “severe and ongoing discovery violations by the state.” Gutierrez Reed’s attorneys request her release and the removal of special prosecutor Kari Morrissey. Baldwin’s case was dismissed after prosecutors failed to turn over evidence, which could impact Gutierrez Reed’s case. Her attorneys argue that withheld evidence and alleged misconduct warrant a new trial or dismissal. Morrissey responded that she would address the defense motions in writing. The shooting occurred on October 21, 2021, when Baldwin’s prop gun fired a live round, killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza. Gutierrez Reed, responsible for firearm safety, was accused of violating safety protocols. Her defense claims she was scapegoated for broader safety failures. Evidence that led to Baldwin’s case dismissal included undisclosed ammunition potentially linked to the incident. Gutierrez Reed’s attorneys argue this evidence was suppressed and could have been exculpatory. They also claim other critical evidence was withheld, compromising her right to a fair trial.
WORLD NEWS
King Charles III presided over the State Opening of Parliament on Wednesday, wearing ceremonial robes and the state crown to deliver a speech outlining the legislative program of the U.K.’s first left-leaning government in 14 years. This event, rich in tradition, marks the beginning of the parliamentary year and showcases Britain’s evolution from an absolute monarchy to a parliamentary democracy.
The King’s Speech, written by Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government, details the legislative agenda for the coming year. This year’s opening follows the Labour Party’s victory in the July 4 general election, ending 14 years of Conservative rule.
This will be Charles’s third speech and his second as king. The ceremony underscores the constitutional monarchy, where real power lies with the elected government. The event highlights key moments in British history and emphasizes the importance of the parliamentary system.
MONEY
Millions of Social Security recipients must switch to a new login portal to access their online accounts. The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced that users with My Social Security accounts created before Sept. 18, 2021, must transition to a Login.gov account. All users will need either a Login.gov or ID.me account for access. Over 5 million have already transitioned, but 46 million still need to switch. The SSA has not set a final deadline for this transition. Users can switch to Login.gov when logging in with existing credentials. The SSA aims to improve customer service and reduce call wait times with this change. "My Social Security" accounts are free and allow users to manage benefits, request card replacements, estimate future benefits, and check application statuses.
HEALTH
Covid-19 levels are rising in the U.S. Emergency department visits for Covid-19 increased by 23.5% during the week ending July 6, and viral activity in wastewater is high. Public figures and events like the Tour de France are also seeing more infections. Dr. Leana Wen, a CNN wellness expert, advises that the level of concern depends on individual medical circumstances, especially for older or immunocompromised people. They should stay updated with vaccines, have a plan for antiviral treatment, and consider masking in crowded indoor spaces.
To reduce infection risk, people should avoid indoor gatherings and mask in crowded spaces before visiting vulnerable individuals. Rapid antigen home tests are useful but not as accurate as PCR tests. While traveling, wear an N95 mask in crowded, poorly ventilated spaces, dine outdoors, and have a plan for accessing antiviral treatments if needed.
A new Covid-19 vaccine is expected in the fall, and it’s reasonable to wait for it as it may better target current variants. The primary purpose of the vaccine is to reduce severe illness. If diagnosed with Covid-19, stay home until fever-free for 24 hours and symptoms improve, then take precautions for the next five days. Those living with vulnerable individuals should avoid close contact until testing negative. Vulnerable people should continue taking additional precautions during this summer wave.
ENTERTAINMENT
“Shōgun,” the historical drama based on James Clavell’s bestselling novel, broke a record with its Emmy nominations on Wednesday.
The series became only the second non-English language program to be nominated in outstanding drama category. The hit Netflix series “Squid Game” was the first in 2022.
“Shōgun” also earned nominations for several of its stars, including Hiroyuki Sanada in the outstanding lead actor in a drama series category, Anna Sawai for outstanding lead actress, and both Tadanobu Asano and Takehiro Hira competing for outstanding supporting actor in a drama series
In total, “Shōgun” received 25 nominations, the most of any series this year, which helped F/X garner 93 nominations – a high for the network.
TRAVEL
When I first entered The Mirage in 1996, I was 4 years old, and my family was visiting Las Vegas for Christmas. We stayed at the MGM Grand, but I vividly remember the magical feeling of The Mirage's glass atrium, bustling crowds, and the mesmerizing fish wall. That visit sparked my lifelong love for The Mirage and hotels. Fast forward 25 years, and my affection for The Mirage remains, though the hotel has changed. On July 17, 2024, The Mirage closed to transform into the Hard Rock Las Vegas. When it opened in 1989, it revolutionized the hotel industry.
FOOD
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A baked good's quality depends on the flour used, says James Beard Award Winner Dominique Ansel, named the World’s Best Pastry Chef. Ansel prefers flour from French milling company Grands Moulins de Paris (GMP), which he imports for his bakeries. To help fans recreate his recipes, Ansel is launching Dominique Ansel’s Pastry Flour this summer, a T55 flour known for its fine texture, ideal for delicate pastries and baked goods. Packaged in a resealable cardboard carton, this specialty flour will be available nationwide via Amazon, DominiqueAnselOnline.com, and his New York City bakeries starting July 17.
NOSTALGIA
FUN STUFF
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