- Published on
08-15-2023
- Authors
- Name
- AI Writer
- @danwakeem
Retail sales rise in July, boosted by online and department store spending
Retail sales in July increased by 0.7% from June, exceeding expectations and following a gain of 0.3% the previous month. The rise was attributed to strong spending during Amazon Prime Day and a solid increase in online sales. Department stores, clothing and accessories stores, sporting goods stores, and hobby stores reported gains, while furniture, electronics, and motor vehicle and parts dealers experienced declines. The report reflects the economy's resilience despite challenging economic conditions and higher interest rates. Inflation in July edged up after 12 months of declines, with core inflation remaining low. Big retailer earnings and the end of a student loan moratorium later this year may affect spending habits in the latter half of the year. Home Depot reported better-than-expected second-quarter results but maintained its sales decline forecast for the year. Lowe's began offering holiday merchandise earlier than last year due to increased online searches for holiday items.
Lawsuit Alleges Pollution and Violations at Shell Plant in Deer Park
A lawsuit filed by the Texas attorney general's office alleges air and water contamination and violations of state laws at the Shell plant in Deer Park, following a fire on May 5. Heavy black smoke contaminated the environment and millions of gallons of water used to extinguish the flames were unlawfully discharged, making its way into the Houston Ship Channel.
China braces for flooding in Songliao Basin
Crews are preparing to defend homes and farmland in the Songliao Basin as the area experiences heavy rains and flooding. Reservoirs have been drained and overflow areas are ready. China has already seen significant flooding this summer, with several casualties and damage caused by landslides and flash floods. The flooding is partly attributed to two typhoons that hit Japan and the Korean Peninsula.
Biden promotes economic legislation in Wisconsin
President Biden visits Wisconsin to highlight the effects of the Inflation Reduction Act, a major economic legislation. He plans to tour a clean energy manufacturer and discuss provisions of the law that support domestic manufacturing and clean energy. Critics express concerns about potential inflation. Vice President Kamala Harris and other officials will also promote the legislation across the country.
Kansas newspaper raided by police following complaint from local business owner
A police raid was conducted on a small-town Kansas newspaper and the home of its co-owner based on a complaint from a local business owner and critic of the newspaper. The raid involved the seizure of computer equipment and cellphones. The newspaper's attorney has accused the police of violating multiple constitutional amendments and has demanded relief for the damages caused. The incident has attracted attention from national media groups, who have offered support to the newspaper. The police department claims that the raid was justified based on probable cause of identity theft and unlawful acts concerning computers. The newspaper publisher remains determined to continue aggressive coverage in the county.
Catholic priest Gerald Ridsdale given additional prison sentence for child abuse
Gerald Ridsdale, a former Catholic priest, has been sentenced to an additional year in prison for indecently assaulting a 13-year-old boy in 1987. This is Ridsdale's 193rd conviction for child abuse. He has been in prison since 1994 and will likely die in custody. Ridsdale's frequent relocations were found to be evidence of the church covering up his crimes. Cardinal George Pell, who knew about Ridsdale's abuse, denied any previous knowledge of the allegations.
Hundreds of thousands of borrowers to receive student loan forgiveness notices
Starting Monday, more than 800,000 borrowers will be notified of relief for their student loans. The relief is targeted at those enrolled in income-driven repayment plans. The Department of Education estimates that over 200,000 borrowers have already had their debt wiped. Around 614,000 people are expected to have their entire student loan debts canceled. The Biden administration is taking steps to correct past administrative failures and is moving forward with the plan to discharge debt. The total debt relief announced so far amounts to $116.6 billion for more than 3.4 million borrowers.
Spain reaches Women's World Cup final with thrilling win over Sweden
Spain defeated Sweden in a thrilling match to advance to the final of the Women's World Cup. Salma Paralluelo and Nahikari Garcia Carmona scored the goals for Spain, while Rebecka Blomqvist scored the equalizer for Sweden. Spain will face either Australia or England in the final. This is Spain's first appearance in the final of the Women's World Cup. Sweden, on the other hand, has lost in four of the five semifinals it has played.
#StopCopCity referendum campaign in Atlanta collects enough signatures to move forward
The #StopCopCity protesters have gathered over 80,000 signatures to get a referendum on the November ballot, aiming to repeal the lease with the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center. While critics see the center as promoting police militarization and damaging the environment, city officials argue it will improve policing. The referendum effort was inspired by a similar successful campaign in Camden County, and it is supported by the Atlanta Police Foundation.
Montana youths win climate case, court declares state's fossil fuel-promoting laws unconstitutional
A group of young people from Montana successfully argued that the state failed to protect their right to a clean environment by continuing to use fossil fuels. The court ruled that a provision preventing consideration of climate impacts in the state's energy projects is unconstitutional. The judge's order highlighted the scientific evidence on global warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions and the adverse impacts of climate change on young people's well-being. The decision is based on the Montana Constitution, and similar challenges are underway in other states. Montana officials will now be required to consider greenhouse gas emissions when making decisions on energy permitting.