July 31, 2023 - Monday

[WORLD] Multiple drones launched from Ukraine targeted Moscow, damaging buildings and briefly shutting down an airport.

Russia's Ministry of Defense reported that three Ukrainian drones were intercepted in an attack over Moscow. One drone was shot down on the outskirts of the city, while the other two were electronically suppressed and crashed into an office complex, causing damage to government buildings. The attack briefly shut down Vnukovo airport and injured a security guard. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy commented that the war is gradually returning to Russia's territory. The incident occurred as former President Donald Trump called for a temporary halt in US military support for Ukraine.

No sources available.

[NATION] The Trump leadership PAC, Save America, has spent over $40 million on legal fees this year, more than double the amount spent in 2022.

Trump's PAC, funded mainly by small-dollar donations from his supporters, is expected to report to the Federal Election Commission that it spent $40.2 million on legal costs in the first half of 2023. Additionally, Trump's team is creating a legal defense fund, called the Patriot Legal Defense Fund, to help cover the bills of current and former aides involved in investigations. These expenses come as Trump faces a superseding indictment related to alleged improper retention of classified documents and obstruction charges.

No sources available.

[BUSINESS] The Credit Card Competition Act, which aims to increase competition for credit card processing networks, is causing a divide between retailers and payment processors.

Retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, are supporting the bill, arguing that high credit card processing costs are driving up prices for consumers. However, major payment processors like Visa and Mastercard oppose the bill, stating that it could impact credit card rewards programs and fraud protection. The bipartisan bill is currently gaining support in Congress, with indications that a vote could happen by the end of the year.

No sources available.

[TECHNOLOGY] The Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5 are Samsung's new foldable phones, expected to achieve strong sales.

Samsung introduced its new foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5, at its Unpacked event in Seoul. The company expects to sell 50% more units this year and believes the Galaxy Z Flip 5 will be the top seller. The Galaxy Z Fold 5 is a minor upgrade from its predecessor, making the older Galaxy Z Fold 4 a better option with potential deals and discounts. Samsung's VP and Head of Customer Experience, Patrick Chomet, focuses on product design, features, and partnerships to enhance the user experience.

No sources available.

[SPORTS] Aaron Rodgers criticizes Sean Payton for his comments about Nathaniel Hackett, urging him to keep his coaches' names out of his mouth.

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers defended offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett in response to comments made by Sean Payton, head coach of the Denver Broncos. Rodgers criticized Payton's insecurity and called his remarks out of line. Payton had previously apologized for his critical comments about Hackett, who is now the Jets' offensive coordinator. Rodgers, a longtime supporter of Hackett, spoke out in a sit-down interview, expressing his disappointment with Payton's behavior.

No sources available.

[SCIENCE] A double feature of supermoons is happening in August, with a pair of supermoons culminating in a rare blue moon.

This week, stargazers will have the opportunity to witness two "supermoons" in the night sky. The first is the "Sturgeon Moon," which will be the second full moon of summer in the northern hemisphere and will appear slightly bigger and brighter due to its closer proximity to Earth. The second supermoon, known as a "Blue Moon," will occur later in the month and will be the second full moon to occur in August. Both of these supermoons will offer a unique viewing experience for astronomy enthusiasts.

No sources available.

[HEALTH] COVID hospitalizations in the U.S. are increasing, with a 10% rise and the sharpest increase since December 2022, according to CDC data.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations in the U.S., with a 10% increase and the sharpest rise since December 2022. This comes as COVID-related emergency room visits are also on the rise. The data is indicating a potential "late summer wave" of the virus. Experts are monitoring the situation closely, although it is too early to determine if this increase will result in a larger outbreak. Despite the rise, the majority of Americans have some level of protection against the virus, either through vaccination or previous infection.

No sources available.

[ENTERTAINMENT] A viral video shows rapper Cardi B throwing her microphone at a fan who threw a drink at her during a concert in Las Vegas.

During a performance at Drai's Beach Club in Las Vegas, Cardi B was splashed with a drink by an audience member. In response, she immediately threw her microphone into the crowd before security guards rushed to the stage. This incident is part of a pattern of fans throwing objects at artists during concerts. Cardi B joins a list of musicians who have experienced disruptive fan behavior, including Harry Styles, Bebe Rexha, and Kelsea Ballerini. The audience had mixed reactions to Cardi B's response, with some supporting her and others condemning her for a violent reaction.

No sources available.