Embedded Files
Shocking Death of Actor Gene Hackman and Wife Betsy Arakawa Leave Investigators Baffled
Discovery of both bodies and a dog adds to the mystery
By: Alison Palmieri
Shocking news reached the nation when Academy Award winner Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their New Mexico home on February 26th. They were initially discovered by neighbourhood security. Whilst they were pronounced dead on the scene, officials believed they had been dead for some time before. It was believed that Arakawa died first, and then Hackman died a week after.
The reason for their death was initially a mystery. Police office began to investigate data from Betsy’s phone to help understand the couple’s activity in the weeks leading up to their death. The Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office stated they confirmed that Arakawa made multiple calls to a health clinic on 12 February for medical treatment, which she was unable to receive. Additionally, she reached out to Cloudberry Health, a personalized medical practice in the area. She nor her husband previously had received any treatment from the practice. According to Dr. Josiah Child, "She called and described some congestion but didn't mention any respiratory distress, shortness of breath, or chest pain." However, she never showed up to the appointment she scheduled.
After being seen by a medical examiner, it was determined that Betsy passed away from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. This syndrome is a rare rodent-borne respiratory disease, transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their waste.
Following further investigation, authorities determined that Hackman died on February 18th, and his cause of death was ruled as severe heart disease. A contributing factor to his death, however, was his advanced Alzheimers. It is believed that his Alzheimers may have kept him from realising his wife was dead. If he did realize the death of his wife, he may have been unable to process the grief, leaving him confused and disoriented.
On April 27th, the investigation for Gene Hackman's death concluded when they released his autopsy. This final report confirmed that Hackman died due to heart disease and Alzheimer's.
Seasonal Growth Spurts: Researchers Discover That Children Grow More in Spring
Seasonal Growth Spurts: Researchers Discover That Children Grow More in Spring
By: Rachel Sajan
For centuries, parents have noticed that their children’s clothes seem to fit differently depending on the time of year. While this may have once seemed like a coincidence, scientific research has revealed that children actually grow at different rates throughout the year, with the fastest growth occurring in the spring. Through extensive studies measuring children's height changes over time, researchers have discovered a clear pattern: growth spurts tend to peak between April and June. This phenomenon is believed to be influenced by various factors, including increased daylight, hormonal changes, and seasonal variations in physical activity and nutrition.
One of the earliest and most influential studies on seasonal growth was conducted by Dr. James M. Tanner, a British pediatrician known for his research on human development. By tracking children’s growth over long periods, Tanner and his team discovered that growth did not happen at a steady, consistent rate throughout the year. Instead, children tend to grow the most during the spring months. This research, later supported by other scientists, provided the first concrete evidence that growth spurts were linked to seasonal changes rather than occurring randomly.
A major factor in this seasonal growth pattern is the role of human growth hormone (HGH), which is produced by the pituitary gland and is essential for growth and development. Scientists have found that HGH levels fluctuate throughout the year, with the highest levels appearing in the spring. Some researchers believe this is due to the increasing amount of daylight in the springtime, which affects the body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm. Because light exposure influences hormone production, the longer days of spring may stimulate the body to produce more HGH, leading to faster growth.
Beyond hormonal changes, environmental factors such as temperature, physical activity, and diet also contribute to seasonal growth patterns. Warmer weather in the spring encourages children to spend more time outdoors, increasing their levels of physical activity. Exercise is known to promote bone strength and stimulate the release of growth-related hormones, potentially enhancing the effects of the seasonal HGH surge. Additionally, as winter ends, fresh fruits and vegetables become more available, providing children with key nutrients such as vitamin D and calcium, which are essential for bone development.
Further studies have reinforced these findings. In the 1990s, researchers in the United States conducted a large-scale study tracking the height of children over several years. Their data showed a consistent pattern of faster growth in the spring months, confirming earlier research. They also noted that younger children tended to experience the most dramatic seasonal growth spurt.
Accidental Bomb Drop Rattles South Korea
By: Haram Lee
In a shocking incident that has rattled the nation, an accidental bombing during a military training exercise near Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province in South Korea resulted in significant casualties and widespread panic. As of March 6, 2025, early reports can confirm that the unexpected explosion injured 43 and caused serious damage to 7, as emergency services rushed to secure the scene of the 163 badly damaged buildings and houses and provide urgent medical care.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of utter chaos. “It all happened in an instant—a deafening explosion followed by a thick plume of smoke, and then chaos,” recounted one nearby resident, visibly shaken by the ordeal. Military authorities have confirmed that the incident occurred during a routine exercise, with preliminary investigations pointing to a possible technical malfunction or procedural oversight as the cause. “We are deeply saddened by today’s incident and are fully committed to a transparent investigation. Our priority is ensuring such a tragedy never repeats,” said General Kim, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense.
Two KF-16 fighter jets entered incorrect coordinates and released eight mark 82 bombs on a civilian-populated area. This exercise was preparing for the coming of the annual 11-day non-stop Freedom Shield Joint exercise between the 10th and 20th of March. Compensation is said to be available for the victims in the accident, provided by the South Korean Air Force.
Following this incident, all live fire exercises were suspended temporarily while the South Korean Air Force attempted to further investigate. Local government officials have joined in the call for immediate action. Mayor Lee stated, “Our community is in shock. We will work closely with military authorities to support the victims and ensure our citizens’ safety.” Emergency teams swiftly responded to the incident, with local hospitals reporting a surge in admissions.
It was later revealed that this occurred due to a printer error, disturbing the Air Force’s three-step verification system and confusing the coordinates of target location. Two senior air force officers, a colonel and a lieutenant colonel were dismissed as they were involved for breaching their legal duties and poorly performing safety details. The Ministry of National Defense also charged two pilots with occupational negligence for dropping the bombs at the incorrect location and identifying the wrong target.
Residents are urged to stay informed as new details emerge and community support systems are put in place. Public forums and press conferences are scheduled for the coming days, aiming to provide transparency and assurance to a community still reeling from the impact of this tragic event.
Canada VS United States: Canada Reacts To Trump’s Tariffs
By: Sophia Vollono
Shortly after his inauguration, President Donald Trump announced that he would be imposing a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada, as well as a 10% tariff on goods from China. Taking effect on March 4th, 2025, these tariffs are meant to increase the taxes on goods imported from these countries so that American consumers will be less likely to purchase them. This will in turn, will lead to a decrease in goods imported into the U.S. from Canada, China and Mexico. President Trump believes that decreasing imports from these countries will help solve the drug crisis that the U.S. is currently experiencing, as the import of goods allows for the smuggling of drugs into the U.S. border. Trump also hopes that these tariffs will decrease the number of illegal immigrants coming into the United States. Both the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau of Canada and Mexican President, Claudia Shienbaum have stated that the implementation of these tariffs is unjustified and unnecessary. Canada in particular is extremely unhappy with the implementation of these tariffs as less than one percent of drugs are smuggled into the U.S. through the Canadian border. These tariffs will also have a negative effect on businesses throughout Canada, as their products will most likely be in a lesser demand. Not only will Canadian businesses suffer, but businesses and consumers throughout the United States will too, due to an increase in the prices of many resources and goods being received from Mexico, China, and Canada.
With the continued implementation of tariffs and the suspicion of economic turmoil, the newly elected Canadian Prime minister has bashed President Trump’s decision to implement tariffs. Saying that it was “a very dumb thing to do” and that Canada intends to pursue a “relentless fight” against these tariffs.
In response to the tariffs, Canada has also placed a 30 billion dollar tariff on goods imported from the U.S., in the hopes that President Trump will remove the tariffs being implemented on their country. As the United States continues placing tariffs on Canadian goods, the Canadian government has continued to place counter-tariffs into effect. Meaning that for every tariffed Canadian good, the Canadian government will also place a tariff on the same American good. Many Canadian politicians have called these tariffs, “reckless,” and believe that they will lead to “recession, job losses, and economic disaster,” for North America. Although Trump placed a lower, 10 percent tariff on energy products from Canada, consumers within the U.S. are still expected to experience an increase in the prices of oil, natural gas, electricity, and other energy based resources.
As both Canada and the United States are each other’s primary trading partners, these tariffs are expected to have a profound impact on the economies of both countries and their influence within the international trading world. So far, the stock market in the U.S. has started to decline with successful stocks like S&P 500 and Nasdaq experiencing significant decreases in value. There has also been a decrease in exports from the U.S. as well as a decrease in employment. Overtime, the United States’ GDP (Gross domestic product) is expected to decrease, with the prices of many goods expected to increase including the prices of foreign cars, sugar, fruits and vegetables, liquor, oils, and many other goods, with the outcome expected to be detrimental to the United States’ consumers, businesses, and therefore, the economy.
The Democratic Republic of Congo Begins Creating the Largest Forest Reserve
By: Michaela Dest
The Democratic Republic of the Congos recent creation of a massive forest reserve, encompassing an area larger than the United Kingdom, represents a significant step towards global conservation efforts. This initiative, part of the larger “Trillion Trees” initiative, aims to restore and protect forests worldwide. The DRC’s commitment is crucial, as its rainforest's historical immense biodiversity and plays a vital role in regulating the global climate.
The DRC’s rainforest is a biodiversity hot spot, home to countless plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. Protecting this reserve is essential for preserving this unique biodiversity. Furthermore, the rainforest acts as a massive carbon sink, absorbing significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Its preservation is therefore vital in mitigating the effects of climate change.
The success of the reserve also hinges on the active involvement and support of local communities. Their traditional knowledge and practices are invaluable in conservation efforts. Sustainable development projects that provide alternative livelihoods to those dependent on unsustainable practices. This might include promoting ecotourism, sustainable agriculture, and other economic opportunities that do not compromise the integrity of the rain forest ecosystem. Fair compensation and benefit-sharing mechanisms are crucial to ensure the equitable participation and empowerment of local populations.
The sheer scale of the conservation effort necessitates substantial funding and international collaboration. Organizations like the World Bank, the UN, and various NGOs are likely to play crucial roles in providing financial and technical assistance. This support will be vital for implementing effective monitoring systems, combating illegal activities, and fostering sustainable development initiatives within and around the reserve. Transparency and accountability in the disbursement and use of these funds will be critical to ensuring the project's success.
Despite the positive step of creating the reserve, significant challenges remain. Illegal logging, mining, and poaching continue to threaten the rainforest's integrity. The DRC government faces the daunting task of enforcing regulations and protecting this vast area from exploitation. International collaboration and support are crucial to ensure the long-term sustainability and success of the ambitious conservation project.
The DRCs creation of the world's largest tropical forest reserve marks a significant milestone in global conservation. While challenges remain, the initiative offers hope for preserving biodiversity and mitigating climate change. Continued international support and effective governance within the DRC are essential for the long-term success of this vital conservation effort. The future of this immense rainforest and its incredible biodiversity hinges on the ability to overcome these challenges.
Connecticut Child Missing Since 1999 Found Living In Mexico
By: Alison Palmieri
23 month old Andrea Michelle Reyes was kidnapped from her New Haven home more than 25 years ago. The toddler was abducted in October of 1999 by her mother and was just recently found living in Mexico. The mother, who took Reyes, did not have legal custody of the girl.
Andrea’s father, as well as the New Haven police department, suspected Tenorio of the abduction immediately following the incident. Her father went to Mexico many times in hopes of finding his daughter, but with no success. A felony arrest warrant was put out by police and the FBI for the mother, Tenorio. After endless searching to no avail, investigation was paused.
However, in 2023, New Haven Detective Kaelyn Nivakoff began to reinvestigate the kidnapping. Nivakoff focuses on missing persons, working for the Special Victims unit. The process of finding Andrea was time consuming and extremely detailed. Nivakoff used interviews, search warrants, and social media to locate Andrea in Mexico, as well as identify her mother.
She was able to determine that Andrea was living with her mother in Puebla, Mexico. This is a city of over 1 million people, southeast of Mexico City.
Using DNA testing, Nivakoff was able to confirm the relationship between Andrea and her father. She was also able to make contact with the girl, now 27 years old, living in Mexico.
“This case reflects the hard work of our officers and detectives," New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson states in a press release. "While cases may have investigative leads exhausted at the time, no cold case is ever truly closed. We remain committed to resolving every cold case and this is a perfect example of that effort.”
The fathers identity has not been released, and he chose to remain anonymous in all press coverage.
While the arrest warrant for Andrea’s mother is still ongoing, it is only valid within the United States. Andrea has not yet given a public statement.
The World Mourns the Loss of Pope Francis
Benevolent leader known for kindness, humility, and acceptance
By: Tessa Grillo and Kayla Cherian
The world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21st at the age of 88. More than just the leader of the Catholic Church, he was a global symbol of humility, compassion, and moral courage. His death leaves a deep ache in the hearts of millions who saw him not only as a pope, but a truly great man.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Pope Francis broke barriers the moment he was elected in 2013. He was the first Jesuit pope, the first from Latin America, and the first to take the name “Francis,” a tribute to St. Francis of Assisi and his devotion to the poor. From the beginning, he set a new tone for the papacy. He began rejecting luxury, riding in a modest car, and choosing to live in a simple guest house rather than the grand papal apartments.
His actions spoke louder than sermons. He opened the Vatican to the homeless, built shelters, showers, and clinics for the needy, and regularly met with refugees, prisoners, and those society often overlooked. His message was clear: the Church must serve the vulnerable.
One of his most historic achievements came in 2015, when he published the groundbreaking book, Laudato Si’, which called on world leaders and citizens alike to take moral responsibility for the planet. It was a bold stance on climate change and environmental destruction, marking the first time a pope places ecological justice at the heart of Catholic teaching.
Francis also worked tirelessly to build bridges between faiths, nations, and within a church often divided by tradition and reform. His openness to LGBTQ+ Catholics, his outreach to divorced couples, and his appointment of women to leadership positions were all steps towards a more inclusive faith. This, of course, did not come without criticism from many.
However, despite all the controversy, Pope Francis remained steady, guided by empathy and an unwavering belief in human dignity. His calls for peace, his emphasis on mercy over judgement, and his deep concern for the suffering of others showed a leader who carried the weight of the world not with pride, but with love.
This is more than the passing of a religious leader. It is the loss of a voice that spoke gently but powerfully for kindness in a world that too often forgets it. Pope Francis reminded us what it means to serve others, to embrace differences, and to lead with grace.
Look to the article below for more information on Pope Leo XIV!
Catholic Church Welcomes Pope Robert Francis Prevost: Leo
The US celebrates its first American Pope following a quick decisive Conclave process
By: Russell Collins and Tessa Grillo
The Conclave, or election, for the new Pope, took place on May 7th, 2025 and was a two-day contemplation. There were 120 cardinals (people chosen by the Pope to hold the title for life), out of a total of 138 that are running. These Cardinals were all over the world from Italy, the Philippines, the Netherlands and many more countries.
Robert Francis Prevost was named as the 267th pope on Thursday, May 8th, making him the leader of the world's 1.4 billion Roman Catholics. Prevost is the first pope from the United States and chose the name Leo XIV. The newly appointed pope spoke on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, delivering remarks about how the world should seek peace and remember those who have suffered.
Robert Francis Prevost was born in Chicago on September 14, 1955. Prevost attended Villanova University, and during his time as a student he worked for the Philadelphia Archdiocese as a groundskeeper at the Saint Denis Cemetery in Havertown. In 1977, he graduated from Villanova University earning a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. Prevost spent much of his life outside of the United States. At age 27 in 1982, he received a doctorate in canon law at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome. Prevost also spent two decades in Peru where he became a bishop and a naturalized citizen. Prevost led his international religious order, holding one of the most influential Vatican posts. The posts run the office that select and manage bishops globally. Prevost’s legacy is left by his commitment to the poor and migrants through his position on the order of St. Augustin.
In order to choose the next successor, a conclave must begin. A conclave is essentially a closed-door gathering of Cardinals to elect a new pope. The Cardinals are considered to be the “the princes of the church,” and are the second highest rank below the pope in the Roman Catholic Church. Collectively the Cardinals are known as the College of Cardinals. Currently there are 252 Cardinals, however only those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote, so only 135 are age-eligible. The length of a conclave has varied across centuries. The longest conclave in the 20th century had 14 ballots, lasting five days, bringing in Pope Pius XI in 1922. The conclave of Pope Gregory X in 1271 lasted two years, nine months, and two days.
The period between the death of a pope and the selection of a new one is known as the latin term “sede vacante,” meaning “the seat is vacant.” During this transition process, the College of Cardinals have general oversight of the church. That being said, they cannot make any major decisions. The Cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel when they meet for the conclave, and they are not allowed to leave the conclave except in rare circumstances. The purpose is to create isolation in order to prevent the electoral process from prolonging. The Cardinals cast repeated votes until there is a two-thirds majority. After every vote, the allot papers are burned in a stove along with an additive that produces a color. This smoke is then released through a chimney that can be observed from St. Peter’s Square. If a vote ends without a two-thirds majority the smoke is black. The smoke is white only when a decision is reached. When this occurs, the dean of college asks the chosen successor if he will accept the job. If he says yes, the dean asks for the name he wants to be called as pope. The new pope dresses in a white cassock. After greeting the Cardinals, he proceeds to a balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica where a senior cardinal declares in Latin, “Habemus papam,” or “We have a pope.”
Pope Leo XIV's first address emphasized unity, compassion, and care for the vulnerable, signaling a papacy focused on social justice and pastoral outreach. His choice of the name "Leo" is seen as a nod to Pope Leo XIII, known for his commitment to the dignity of workers and the poor. As he begins his leadership, Catholics around the world look to Pope Leo XIV with hope for a renewed and inclusive direction for the Church.
Page updated
Report abuse