Monday Scoop: R.I.P. Bush
The big story…
Former President George H.W. Bush Has Died
The 41st President of the U.S. George H.W. Bush died on Friday at the age of 94. Bush’s state funeral will begin on Wednesday and end at Bush’s presidential library in College Station, Texas. Remembered for his efforts to bring international peace, Bush’s passing has sparked reminiscences of his time in the Oval Office — including his unusually friendly relationship with the press, his passionate disdain for broccoli, and his humbling note to incoming President Bill Clinton (below) — all bringing a rare moment of unity in the nation’s capital.
In global news…
Qatar to Leave OPEC
Qatar announced that the country will be leaving OPEC in January 2019 — the first Gulf country to do so — to focus on natural gas production.
In Paris…
‘Yellow Vest’ Protests Continue, Becoming More Violent
The “yellow vest” protests in France became more destructive as about 36,000 people across the country participated in protests on Saturday. Almost 400 people were arrested and will be facing immediate trial, some beginning today. There were 133 injuries as a result of the protest, 23 of which were police officers. French President Emmanuel Macron held an emergency security meeting on Sunday and is asking the prime minister to meet with representatives of the “yellow vests,” who are protesting rising gas prices and living costs in the country. The protests left a trail of destruction in Paris, including significant damage to the Arc de Triomphe.
In Alaska…
Earthquake in Alaska Threatens Tsunami
A 7.0-magnitude earthquake hit just outside Anchorage, Alaska early on Friday, triggering a short-lived tsunami warning for the state. Luckily, there were no deaths or serious injuries, but the region has suffered significant destruction as 230 smaller earthquakes continued to hit over the weekend.
In #MeToo…
Neil deGrasse Tyson Accused of Sexual Assault
Astrophysicist and author Neil deGrasse Tyson has been accused by several women of sexual misconduct including assault and rape, all claims that Tyson denies. CNN reports, “Last month, three women told Patheos, a religion and spirituality website, that Tyson harassed them and made inappropriate sexual advances as early as 1984 and in recent years.” For each claim, Tyson offered a different version or disputed the allegation against him. Fox Entertainment and National Geographic, the networks airing his show, announced they would be conducting an investigation into the allegations.
At the G20 Summit:
- Trump has agreed to a 90-day truce and negotiation period before implementing tariffs on Chinese imports.
- A new trade deal between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico replaces NAFTA.
- China has agreed to label fentanyl, a major contributor to the U.S. opioid crisis, as a controlled substance.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman shared a weirdly enthusiastic handshake. (Or was it a high five?)
In national news…
James Comey to Testify in Russia Investigation
Former F.B.I. Director James B. Comey has agreed to testify about the investigation of Hillary Clinton’s email server and Russian collusion. The catch? A transcript of his testimony must be made public within 24 hours.
In the arts…
Artists Receive Kennedy Center Honors
On Sunday, the Kennedy Center Honors paid tribute to several artists including Cher, Reba McEntire, and some of the “Hamilton” cast.
In sports…
Who’s Heading to the College Playoffs
Here were this weekend’s winners:
Trending today…
The Fellowship of the Ring
The NYPD recovered an engagement ring after security footage showed a newly engaged couple dropping it over a sidewalk grate in Times Square. But never fear — the ring is now reunited with its rightful owner!
WANTED for dropping his fiancée’s ring in @TimesSquareNYC!
She said Yes – but he was so excited that he dropped the ring in a grate. Our @NYPDSpecialops officers rescued it & would like to return it to the happy couple. Help us find them? 💍 call 800-577-TIPS @NYPDTIPS @NYPDMTN pic.twitter.com/tPWg8OE0MQ— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 1, 2018
Last but not least…
Viewpoint: Pondering the Fake Gangster Rapper
Appearance and personality have always been key factors in musician’s success. Read more in Daysia Naima Cornish’s report for CMN.
Today’s Morning Scoop was made possible Natalia Kolenko, and the CMN Staff. In more romantic news, Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra tied the knot over the weekend. Our invite must’ve gotten lost in the mail.
