Floods, indictments, and Ridley Scott’s blunt Hollywood review. Your one-stop daily update.
🇺🇸🗞️ News

- John Bolton Indicted: Former National Security Adviser John Bolton indicted on 18 counts under the Espionage Act for allegedly mishandling classified information. He pled not guilty this morning during his first court appearance and was released on his own recognizance with conditions, including surrendering his passport. Reuters

- Trump Moves to Open ANWR: The Trump administration is preparing to reopen the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) in Alaska for oil and gas drilling, reversing protections that have been in place for more than four decades. This move includes reinstating seven leases canceled under President Biden and potentially conducting lease sales as early as this year. Politico

- Zelensky Seeks U.S. Support: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the White House seeking U.S. support, specifically Tomahawk missiles, to counter Russia’s continued aggression. However, President Trump’s focus appeared more aligned with his upcoming summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest, raising concerns that Zelensky might not receive the military aid he requested. Reuters
- U.S. Strikes Near Venezuela: The U.S. acknowledges multiple strikes on vessels near Venezuela, claiming involvement in drug trafficking. These strikes have caused dozens of deaths. Reuters

Petty Officer 1st Class Shannon /USCG
- Alaska Flooding: Coastal villages in Alaska face severe flooding after Typhoon Halong, prompting airlifts and mass evacuations. Weather.gov
- Overdose Crisis Returns: Alaska sees rising overdose deaths, especially related to fentanyl, stretching treatment and harm-reduction resources. Quillette

- U.S. Government Shutdown: The shutdown continues into its 17th day after Senate funding legislation failed again. CBS News
🏅 Sports
- Sumo Wrestling in London: A Grand Sumo Tournament is taking place at the Royal Albert Hall, marking the first official sumo tournament held outside Japan in 34 years. More than 40 of Japan’s elite maku-uchi rikishi (wrestlers) are competing in a five-day tournament. 日本相撲協会公式サイト

- Norris leads U.S. Grand Prix practice: McLaren’s Lando Norris topped Friday’s sole practice session for the U.S. Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas, with Oscar Piastri in third.

- Stephen A. Smith Moves to TV: ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith will co-host Good Morning America, expanding his national TV presence. San Francisco Chronicle
🌤 Weather

- Alaska Storms: Typhoon Halong’s aftermath brings flooding to Alaska’s western coastal communities. Airlifts are underway for stranded residents. ABC News
- Brief Break: Western Alaska sees a temporary reprieve, though wet and windy conditions continue along the coast. ABC News
- First Freeze Approaching: Interior and northern Alaska may experience their first official freeze of the season this weekend, late by historical standards. ABC News
🎬 Entertainment & Culture

- Ridley Scott Critiques Modern Movies: Director Ridley Scott says today’s films are “drowning in mediocrity” while praising classics like Black Hawk Down. Upcoming projects include The Dog Stars starring Jacob Elordi, a new Alien movie, and Blade Runner 2099. Reuters

- Euphoria Season 3 Expands: The HBO hit series adds actors including Natasha Lyonne, Eli Roth, and Trisha Paytas. Reuters

- Ace Frehley Dies: The founding KISS guitarist passed away at age 74. The founding KISS guitarist passed away at age 74. Known as the “Spaceman” for his iconic stage persona and signature guitar work, Frehley influenced generations of rock musicians and left an indelible mark on the legacy of classic rock.

- Streaming Updates: Netflix’s October lineup includes Steve (starring Cillian Murphy) and The Perfect Neighbour, a tense bodycam-based documentary. Steve follows a reclusive genius whose past inventions come back to haunt him, blending psychological tension with a slow-burn mystery that critics are already calling “Murphy’s most haunting role yet.” Netflix.com
- Keith Urban Cancels Concert: The country star canceled his Greenville show due to laryngitis and is on vocal rest. Fans are being offered full refunds for all ticket purchases.