By Seth Nguyen
Edited by Elissa D. Hecker
Below, for your browsing convenience, the categories are divided into: Entertainment, Arts, Sports, Technology/Media, and General News.
Entertainment
Attorneys General Seek Triple Damages Against Live Nation For Concertgoers
Attorneys General from 26 states are seeking treble damages against Live Nation and Ticketmaster for alleged monopolistic practices in the live concert industry. The updated lawsuit, now including claims under federal anti-monopoly law, accuses the companies of inflating ticket prices and harming competition. Live Nation controls a major share of concert promotions and venues. The Justice Department supports the case, citing continued anticompetitive behavior since the 2010 merger approval.
The Major Record Labels Want the U.S. Supreme Court to Intervene in the Cox Case
Major record companies want the Supreme Court to clarify the scope of "vicarious copyright infringement" in their case against Cox Communications. They argue that Cox should be liable for profiting from users' piracy, while Cox contends that liability requires direct profit from the infringement. The outcome could impact the damages awarded and set a precedent for handling copyright infringement.
Michael Jackson $600 Million Catalog Sale to Sony Music Receives Official Court Approval
A California appellate court upheld the approval of a $600 million sale of Michael Jackson’s music catalog to Sony Music. Katherine Jackson, Michael's mother, had challenged the deal, claiming that it violated his will by transferring the estate’s assets before probate concluded. The court ruled that the estate executors had the authority to broker the deal, as it was consistent with Jackson's will and did not diminish the estate's value or impair future asset transfers to the trust.
Vance Defends Unsubstantiated Claims About Immigration and Crime
JD Vance, the Republican vice-presidential nominee, defended his claims linking immigration to higher crime and ethnic conflict by citing the film "Gangs of New York." Historians and criminologists reject this view, arguing that immigrants are less likely to commit crimes than U.S.-born citizens. Vance’s stance reflects traditional nativist arguments without empirical support.
Arts
‘A Lot of Us Are Gone’: How the Push to Diversify Publishing Fell Short
Lisa Lucas’s recent departure from Penguin Random House, along with other Black editors, has sparked concerns about the publishing industry's commitment to diversity. Hired in 2020 as a symbol of change, Lucas's leaving raises questions about whether publishers are genuinely dedicated to long-term racial inclusion. Despite diversity initiatives, the industry’s progress in diversifying its workforce and books is now under scrutiny.
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/21/books/publishing-diversity-lisa-lucas.html?searchResultPosition=1
Sports
Inside the National Women’s Soccer League and the Players’ Union’s New CBA
The NWSL and its players' union finalized a new CBA after 10 months of negotiations. The deal, effective July 30, 2024, and running through 2030, includes major changes, such as abolishing drafts, implementing unrestricted free agency, and tying salary caps to revenue. It also provides increased player benefits and protections, such as guaranteed contracts, expanded parental leave, and a housing stipend option. This agreement aims to align the league with global standards and improve player conditions.
Media/Technology
Kim Dotcom Loses 12-year Fight to Halt Deportation From New Zealand to Face U.S. Copyright Infringement Case
Kim Dotcom, founder of Megaupload, lost his 12-year legal battle against extradition from New Zealand to the U.S., where he faces charges of copyright infringement, money laundering, and racketeering. New Zealand’s Justice Minister decided that he should be extradited, though a date hasn’t yet been set. Dotcom hinted at further legal action. The case dates back to 2012, when Dotcom was arrested after the FBI shut down Megaupload for enabling widespread piracy.
Brands Love Influencers (Until Politics Get Involved)
Marketing firms are using AI to evaluate whether influencers will discuss politics, helping brands avoid controversial content. Tools from Captiv8 and Viral Nation grade influencers based on their content and media mentions to ensure brand safety.
Trump Promotes A.I. Images to Falsely Suggest That Taylor Swift Endorsed Him
Donald Trump shared AI-generated images falsely claiming that Taylor Swift endorsed him, reigniting his grudge against her. The post sparked backlash and mockery, but Swift's team did not comment. The incident highlights Trump's fixation on her political influence.
U.S. Investigating Americans Who Worked With Russian State Television
The FBI has raided the homes of Scott Ritter and Dimitri K. Simes as part of an investigation into American ties with Russian state media. The probe targets potential violations of sanctions and lobbying laws amid concerns about Russian election interference. No charges have been filed, but more actions are expected.
Google Joins $250 Million Deal to Support Newsrooms in California
Google and California lawmakers announced a $250 million deal to support newsrooms and prevent a bill requiring tech companies to pay for ad placements alongside news. The agreement includes funding from Google and the state, but faces criticism for its limited scope and lack of transparency.
Free Booze, a Lake Cruise and Selfies Galore: How Democrats Courted Influencers at the D.N.C.
At the Democratic National Convention, influencers received VIP treatment with exclusive access and luxury events to promote positive coverage. This strategy aimed to engage younger voters, but raised concerns about mixing journalism with advocacy.
Russia Opens New Cases Against Journalists Who Covered Ukrainian Incursion
Russia has charged CNN's Nick Paton Walsh and two Ukrainian reporters with illegally entering the country while covering Ukrainian incursions into Kursk. This increases the number of reporters facing such charges to five. Russia's move appears intended to intimidate journalists reporting on its border issues.
They Spouted Hate Online. Then They Were Arrested.
In Britain, people involved in anti-immigrant riots are facing prosecution for inciting violence through online posts. Cases include threats against a mosque and calls to burn a refugee hotel. The controversy highlights debates over the balance between free speech and preventing hate speech online.
Thai Politician Is Under Fire After Slapping a Journalist on Camera
Former Thai deputy prime minister Prawit Wongsuwan faces backlash after video shows him hitting a female reporter, sparking calls for an ethics inquiry. The incident, viewed as an act of intimidation, highlights concerns about violence against women and press freedom in Thailand.
General News
What Drives Kamala Harris: The Art of the Possible
Kamala Harris accepted the nomination at the Democratic National Convention. She emphasizes practical, incremental changes rather than sweeping reforms. Her approach focuses on achieving tangible results on issues like economic fairness and gender equity, differing from more radical or visionary styles in the party.
The Speech Biden Never Wanted to Give
At the Democratic National Convention, President Biden was honored with chants of "Thank you, Joe!" for removing himself from re-election. The event highlighted his bittersweet exit, with Biden giving a farewell speech, while acknowledging the end of his time in the spotlight, and transitioning the focus to Kamala Harris as his successor.
Judge Blocks Federal Trade Commission’s Noncompete Rule
A federal judge blocked the FTC's planned ban on noncompete agreements, ruling that the agency lacked authority to enforce it. The decision makes a previous injunction permanent. The FTC, aiming to boost worker mobility and earnings, is considering an appeal.
Supreme Court Allows Arizona to Enforce, for Now, Law Tightening New Voter Registrations
The Supreme Court has allowed Arizona to require proof of citizenship for new voter registrations, but blocked a provision that would have barred already-registered voters from voting by mail or for president without proving citizenship. The ruling was divided, impacting only new voters.
Prosecutors Leave Decision on Delaying Trump’s Sentencing Up to Judge
Manhattan prosecutors left the decision to delay Trump's September 18th sentencing on 34 felony counts to the judge. Trump’s lawyers requested the delay until after the 2024 election to avoid influencing voters. The judge will decide whether to grant the request.
Letitia James Fights to Preserve Former President Trump’s Penalty of Over $450 Million
New York Attorney General Letitia James is urging an appellate court to uphold a $450 million fraud judgment against Donald Trump, arguing that it is essential for market integrity. Trump’s appeal claims that the judgment is excessive and his actions were standard business practices.
New Covid Shots Were Approved. But Who Will Get Them?
Many older Americans, including those in nursing homes, are now receiving updated Covid boosters. Despite new FDA-approved vaccines, uptake in general is low due to resource shortages, confusion over vaccination schedules, and reduced funding for public health campaigns. As Covid hospitalizations increase, these challenges persist.
Bible Teaching in Every Classroom? In Oklahoma, Few Signs It’s Happening.
Oklahoma's superintendent mandated Bible instruction in public schools, but many districts have not complied or changed curriculums. The directive has led to legal disputes and controversy, with concerns about its constitutionality and practical implementation.
George Santos Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud and Identity Theft
Former Congressman George Santos pleaded guilty to fraud and identity theft, agreeing to pay nearly $375,000 in restitution. Once a rising Republican star, his career collapsed after numerous lies and financial crimes were exposed. Santos faces a minimum of two years in prison, with sentencing set for February 2024.
U.S. Accuses Software Maker RealPage of Enabling Collusion on Rents
The Justice Department is suing RealPage, claiming that its software aids landlords in price-fixing rents. The lawsuit alleges the software enables collusion to increase rents beyond market rates. RealPage denies the charges, arguing that its software is legal and high rents are due to housing shortages.
He Regulated Medical Devices. His Wife Represented Their Makers.
Dr. Jeffrey E. Shuren, who led the FDA’s device division, faced scrutiny for not always following ethics rules designed to avoid conflicts of interest due to his wife’s work at a law firm representing device companies. Despite ethics agreements, his involvement in cases related to his wife’s firm, like Theranos and Allergan, raised concerns. The FDA found some lapses in his recusal but stated there was no evidence of bias affecting decisions. His tenure saw increased device-related injuries and recalls, leading to calls for better oversight.
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