Wednesday briefing: Half Moon Bay shooting updates; Mike Pence documents; Scott Rolen; Panic! at the Disco; and more
2 years ago
Pence #Pence
(Jordan Robertson for The Washington Post) 1
We learned more about Monday’s shootings in California.
What happened? A 66-year-old man killed seven people at two mushroom farms in the Half Moon Bay area, authorities said. He was arrested shortly after the shootings.
The latest: An official yesterday described the attack as “workplace violence.”
The bigger picture: There have been 39 mass shootings — where four or more, not including the shooter, are injured or killed — in the U.S. this year, according to one database.
2
The U.S. and Germany are set to send tanks to Ukraine.
This has been controversial: Ukraine has wanted Germany’s tanks in particular (here’s why), but the country had dragged its feet before today’s announcement.
Why it matters: Russian forces are expected to begin another wave of attacks this spring, and these tanks could make a big difference on the battlefield.
What else to know: Several of Ukraine’s top officials were forced out yesterday over allegations of corruption.
3
Classified documents were discovered at Mike Pence’s Indiana home.
What to know: A lawyer for the former vice president found “a small number” of files during a search last week, according to letters sent to the National Archives.
Why it matters: This discovery comes as President Biden has faced criticism over classified documents found at his Delaware home and a personal office.
4
A new plan will push to give renters more protections.
How? Federal agencies will gather data on unfair housing practices, and the White House has drafted a “Blueprint for a Renters Bill of Rights,” it announced this morning.
Why it’s needed: Average rental prices have increased rapidly in recent years.
Will it work? The plan relies on state and local governments to join in. Agencies in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin have already agreed to cap rent increases for subsidized housing.
5
Seven-time all-star Scott Rolen made the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Who is he? An elite third baseman who won a World Series with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2006. He was elected to the Hall of Fame on a writers’ ballot yesterday.
He’s joining Fred McGriff, a first baseman voted in last month. The Class of 2023 will be inducted on July 23.
6
The band Panic! at the Disco is breaking up after 19 years.
Why? Lead singer Brendon Urie posted on Instagram yesterday that he and his wife are expecting a baby and that he plans to focus on his family.
What to know: The pop rock band began in 2004 and became wildly popular with angsty teens. You may recognize the songs “I Write Sins Not Tragedies” and “Death of a Bachelor.”
7
Ants can apparently sniff out cancer.
What to know: The tiny insects have such a sharp sense of smell that researchers are training them to detect human cancer cells, according to a study published this week.
Why this matters: The way we diagnose cancer now is often expensive and invasive. This study opens the door for quicker, easier options in the future.
And now … thinking about buying a house? Navigating social security? Check out Michelle Singletary’s money milestones for every age for smart advice.
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