Outside the Times
(World)
(World)
On February 22, 2026, the Mexican drug cartel leader formally known as "El Mencho” was shot and wounded during an Mexican military operation in Tappala, Jalisco. The infamous drug cartel leader died while being transported to Mexico City. Soon after hearing that the leader died, there was an uproar in violence in Mexico and in different states in Mexico. The results of El Menchoś’ death were vengeful and showed great scenes of retaliation from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Cars were being set on fire and airports were being shut down by the cartels. The Cartel made the Jalisco capital Guadalajara, a ghost town and had set times when to go on lockdowns. Also several Mexican states canceled schools across the state and cities. Many foreign governments warned Mexico's citizens to stay inside as violence happens. Mexico is trying to control the areas and make sure to keep their citizens safe. People in Mexico are hoping that the violence will die down so they can live peacefully again.
Every year, spring officially starts on the spring equinox which occurs on March 20 or March 21. Spring represents a fresh start and starting over.
Spring also represents the coming of summer in the next few months. It starts to get warmer outside, the leaves start to reappear back on the trees, plants start to grow, and it seems as if everything around us starts to come back to life after the harsh, cold weather.
The warmer days begin to melt the snow, but it can snow as late as May, especially in Ohio. The spring months bring rain, more daylight, and longer days.
Animals also start to wake from hibernation, and many animals are born during this time of year. Spring is a great time to go outside, garden, sit out, have picnics, and it's also a very good time for bike rides, going to the park and more.
Spring sports also start back up, such as outdoor track, baseball, softball, tennis and more. Right now is a great time to be outside!
Social media is a major part of teenage life—but new research suggests it may come with serious downsides.
A recent study found that teens who spend more than three hours a day on social media are significantly more likely to experience anxiety and depression. One major factor is sleep disruption, as many teens stay up late scrolling, affecting both mental health and focus in school.
At the same time, social media isn’t entirely negative. Some experts point out that it can help teens build communities and stay connected, especially for those who feel isolated.
Still, the overall impact depends on how it’s used. Algorithms often promote unrealistic lifestyles and constant comparison, which can affect self-esteem. Researchers warn that these platforms are designed to keep users engaged, sometimes at the cost of well-being.
The debate is now reaching governments, with some countries considering restrictions for younger users. However, critics argue that bans alone won’t solve the issue.
As social media continues to evolve, one thing is clear: it’s not just entertainment—it’s shaping how teens think, feel, and experience the world, often in ways that go unnoticed.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is quickly becoming part of every day school life—but not everyone agrees it’s a good thing.
Recent studies show that a majority of teens are now using AI tools for schoolwork, with more than half using them for research or assignments. Some students use AI to summarize readings, generate ideas, or even help write essays. For many, it makes school faster and easier.
However, concerns are growing. Reports suggest that nearly 6 in 10 teens believe AI is being used for cheating, at least occasionally. Experts worry that relying too much on AI could weaken critical thinking and learning skills over time.
There’s also a gap between students and parents. While about 64% of teens say they use AI, fewer parents realize how often it’s actually happening. This raises questions about supervision and responsibility.
Some researchers warn that AI in classrooms could “undermine children’s foundational development” if used improperly.
As AI continues to grow, schools face a difficult challenge: how to embrace new technology without letting it replace real learning. The future of education may depend on finding that balance.
During certain severe storms, the sky can take on an eerie green color—something that looks almost unnatural, like a scene from a movie. While it may seem strange or even supernatural, there is actually a scientific explanation behind this unusual sight.
This phenomenon is most often reported in regions like Great Plains, where powerful thunderstorms are more common. The green color typically appears before or during intense storms, sometimes even before tornadoes.
Scientists explain that the color comes from the way light interacts with storm clouds. Thunderstorms with a large amount of water droplets and ice can scatter sunlight in a unique way. When sunlight passes through these dense clouds—especially later in the day when the sun is lower—it can filter out other colors and leave behind a greenish hue.
Although the green sky itself doesn’t directly cause tornadoes, it’s often associated with severe weather, including heavy rain, hail, and strong winds. Because of this, many people see it as a warning sign.
Even with a scientific explanation, the sight of a green sky remains unsettling. It’s a reminder that nature can still surprise us with strange and unexpected phenomena—turning something as familiar as the sky into something completely unusual.