LeBron James, Prime Day, Olympics, Hallmark Channel
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As we find ourselves navigating a world that seems filled with more and more doom and gloom each day, it’s more important than ever to find moments of joy and celebration. That's why I’m thrilled to wish you a very Merry Christmas in July! This monthlong celebration is a much-needed reminder to find cheer and warmth in unexpected places. So, take this opportunity to spread a little extra holiday spirit, connect with loved ones and enjoy the simple pleasures that bring us happiness. Whether you’re decking the halls with beach-themed ornaments (don’t judge me) or simply taking a moment to reflect, I hope this celebration brings a smile to your face and a spark of joy to your heart.
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The New York Times has run 192 stories about Biden’s debate performance and only 6 about Project 2025
“The New York Times has run 192 stories about Biden’s debate performance and only 6 about Project 2025, according to media watch groups, since (the debate),” Jay Kuo wrote in a recent Substack post.
If elected as president, convicted felon Donald Trump plans to implement the so-called “Project 2025” — a massive plan to overthrow the government as we know it.
The more than 900-page document details plans for dismantling federal departments and agencies, including the Department of Education; firing thousands of federal employees; expanding the power of the president; and so much more.
The conservative-fueled blueprint was written by the conservative Heritage Foundation, in which the group’s president said the country was in the midst of a “second American Revolution, which will remain bloodless.” Kevin D. Roberts made those comments on “The War Room,” which is a “Real America’s Voice” network podcast hosted by Trump adviser Stephen K. Bannon. But, Bannon missed this edition of the show because he had reported to prison a day earlier to serve a sentence for contempt of Congress.
National news outlets have been incredibly slow to cover Project 2025. But coverage (finally!!) has been picking up in recent days — albeit, slowly.
Trump claims he has “no idea” who’s behind Project 2025. But, Trump is lying as the architects of this plan include Trump allies, former Trump appointees and former Trump cabinet secretaries.
In fact, MSNBC says the list includes “Trump’s former chief of staff, Trump’s white house deputy chief of staff, multiple Trump senior advisors, Trump’s deputy secretary of Homeland Security, the director of Policy Planning for Trump’s Department of State” and adds that “the list goes on and on.”
Olivia Troye, former Vice President Mike Pence’s advisor, said the notion that Trump claims he doesn’t know who’s behind Project 2025 is “just ludicrous.”
It might be worth your time to educate yourself on how damaging Project 2025 is as the site — or at least the document — likely will be removed as it has gained more attention.
“Trump does not want people to know about the entire vanguard of extremist weirdos around him—and what their plans are when he governs,” MSNBC’s Chris Hayes said, referring to voters finding out about the Republican agenda that is Project 2025.
What is in Trump’s Project 2025? Here are just a few items.
Project 2025 would place the entire federal bureaucracy — including independent agencies such as the Department of Justice — under direct presidential control.
The document refers to the FBI as a “bloated, arrogant, increasingly lawless organization.”
Project 2025 would cut all federal protections for LGBTQ people.
It would force Christianity into society.
Project 2025 would drastically change federal agencies, including eliminating the Department of Education and firing thousands of federal employees.
Carbon-reduction goals would be canceled and replaced by efforts to increase energy production and call on the president to “stop the war on oil and natural gas.”
Porn sites would be banned and telecommunications companies that don’t follow the order would be forced to close.
Project 2025 would eliminate a long list of terms from all laws and federal regulations, including “sexual orientation”; “diversity, equity and inclusion”; “gender equality”'; "abortion"; and “reproductive rights.”
Get ready for Amazon Prime Day
Amazon's Prime Day is coming!
The two-day sales event is set for July 16 and 17 and is an annual event exclusive to Amazon Prime members, offering significant discounts on a wide range of products.
Initially launched in 2015 to commemorate Amazon's 20th anniversary, it has since evolved into a major shopping event — with some comparing it to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. (Maybe a Christmas in July sale, eh?)
Amazon Prime Day is characterized by its time-limited “Lightning Deals” and “Deal of the Day” offers, which, of course, create a sense of urgency for shoppers. These deals are often accompanied by deep discounts on popular items — including Amazon devices like Echo speakers and Kindle e-readers.
The event is designed to boost Amazon’s mid-year sales and attract new Prime subscribers.
Not to be outdone, Target began offering its version of limited-time deals and other offers — known as Circle Week. That event is planned for July 7-13.
Looking to get clicks and revenue, many news sites will promote Amazon and Target offers which can help shoppers cut through the clutter of items for sale.
Quickly
Retail
Saks Fifth Avenue parent company to acquire Neiman Marcus Group with help of Amazon: Yes, that headline is correct. Hudson's Bay Company, considered North America’s oldest company (May 2, 1670), will acquire the Neiman Marcus Group (which includes Bergdorf Goodman). HBC’s namesake Canadian store Hudson's Bay will remain a separate entity as Saks Global will oversee the Saks Fifth Avenue, Saks Off 5th, Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman brands. Amazon was among the investment partners listed. (RetailDive)
Ikea majority owner building Manhattan skyscraper: Ingka Group, the largest franchiser of Ikea stores, plans to build a 1 million-square-foot office and retail tower minutes from Grand Central Station and Bryant Park. The building’s corner entrance at 570 Fifth Avenue will serve as the entrance for a two-level Ikea store. The project is expected to be New York City’s first skyscraper construction project since the start of COVID-19. (NY YIMBY, RetailDive)
By the way, I’ve not seen any published reports about Macy’s Herald Square tower project since December 2023 in which the project seemed in question.
Across Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania still has no budget: Pennsylvania has once again missed its own June 30 state budget deadline. Pennsylvania has the only divided state legislature in the nation with a GOP-controlled Senate and a Democratic-controlled House. Despite that, Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman, R-Indiana, said elected officials are *checks notes* “committed to the notion that divided government shouldn’t be dysfunctional government.” (WITF)
Republicans are blocking a sexual abuse amendment on November’s ballot: There’s a good chance a constitutional amendment that would give survivors of childhood sexual abuse a chance to sue their abusers won’t be on the state’s November ballot. That’s because Republican lawmakers think the abuse amendment should be included alongside GOP priorities (like an expanded voter ID requirement). (Spotlight PA)
Olympics (18 days away)
Entertainment
And, finally…
It is far too early for this, Michaels. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to get back to watching Christmas in July movies on Hallmark Channel.
