BRILLIANT

Sudanese prisoner freed: Meriam Ibrahim had been sentenced to death by hanging for the “crime” of marrying a non-Muslim. Thankfully she has been freed from custody, and she is currently detained at the airport while U.S. officials negotiate with Sudan to allow her to leave the country.

World Cup fever is inescapable: Despite a disappointing draw against Portugal, U.S. soccer fans have reason for excitement. The USMNT controls its own destiny and can move on to the next round with a win or tie against mighty Germany on Thursday.

BLAH

Hot, dry June weather: We’re in a drought, even by Sonoran Desert standards. The summer rainy season better get here, the monsooner the better.

BOGUS

ISIS militants on social media: The violent radical group taking over parts of Iraq and Syria has been posting gory photos on Twitter to intimidate foes — as well as “cute” photos of kittens posing with machine guns to win friends. We’re not sold. These militant lolcats are not as adorable as they think.