Inflation deflates, for now

Is inflation finally deflated ?

The Department of Commerce announced Wednesday that the Consumer Price Index rose 0.2 percent in June, the lowest level since March 2021. Overall, it’s up 3 percent from one year ago.

According to CNBC, the “core” CPI increased by 0.2  percent and 4.8 percent (excluding the cost of food and energy). Food prices are up only modestly, and used cars and airline travel declined.

Wages for workers are up 1.2 percent compared to a year ago. The results can be interpreted as reflecting the success of the Federal Reserve’s policy of raising interest rates to try to control rising prices.

Harris ties for tie-breaking mark

Vice President Kamala Harris tied the record for most tie-breaking votes cast in the U.S. Senate on Wednesday.

Under the U.S. Constitution, the vice president presides over the Senate and votes in case of a tie. Her 31st such vote tied her with John C. Calhoun, who served as veep from 1825 to 1832.

Democrats hold a narrow majority in the Senate, but two were absent Wednesday because of illness.

Sports: Second half starts Friday

With the All-Star break done, the Angels and Dodgers each begin second half play on Friday.

The Angels (45-46) will start with a tough opponent, hosting the Houston Astros (50-41). Shohei Ohtani (7-4) will get the start for the Halos

The Blue Crew (51-38) will be on the road visiting the New York Mets (42-48) with Julio Urias (6-5) making the start.

Weather: Partly cloudy, then sunny

Partly cloudy conditions will continue in our West Orange County area through Saturday, followed by some sun for  several days after. The forecast for Thursday is for a daytime high of 86 with an overnight low of 64. Friday and Saturday will be 85 (65-66).

Sunday will bring “mostly sunny” skies and a high of 86 (67), and then “sunny” will be the skies Monday through Wednesday with highs of 88.