By Ace NunezJust last month in the city of As-Suwayda in southwestern Syria, protests broke out against president of Syria, Bashar al-Assad. The protests, mostly led by the religious minority, the Druze, have been spreading across southern Syria, calling for the removal of al-Assad. The main cause of the protests have been the economic suffering experienced by many Syrians. Even though the civil war that has plagued the country has slowed down in recent times, the economy is still struggling. Just one U.S dollar is equal to 13,001.6 Syrian Pounds. The protestors claim President al-Assad is at fault for the economic hardship, along with many other issues they have with him and his regime, such as a lack of human rights given to the people, and most especially to minority groups like the Druze. Protestors have begun chanting “bread, freedom and dignity” to demonstrate their demands. As the protests rapidly spread across the country, local authorities have begun cracking down, with some reports of shots being fired at the protestors. Some commentators believe these protests and demonstrations are the beginning of a second revolution against the Syrian government, mirroring the Arab Spring uprisings and beginning of the civil war in 2011.
These events are relatively unique, as the southwestern region had usually always been supportive of the al-Assad regime, however these protests show that Assad’s grip on the nation is continuing to slip away from him. As of now, no statement has been made by Assad, and his party, the Ba’ath Party, has closed its headquarters for the time being.
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By Aaron ManingoAt 11:11 PM a 6.8 Magnitude Earthquake struck the North African country of Morocco leaving 2,901 people dead with many still unaccounted for. Morocco has had its fair share of earthquakes in the past, however none of the earthquakes were as deadly as this with the second deadliest being in 1960. When the quake killed roughly more than 12,000 people. According to the US Geological Survey it’s uncommon for an earthquake of that size to appear in the region.
By Emanuel TiradoThe Maui wildfires have a significant impact on both people and wildlife. The fires destroyed homes, displacing families and causing emotional distress. “At least 114 people have died in the western Maui wildfires and more than 1,000 people remain missing. With nearly 3,000 homes and businesses destroyed or damaged, losses are estimated to be $6 billion, state officials said”('Too much to bear'). They also pose a threat to the safety and well-being of firefighters and other emergency responders. There have been no deaths, but many firefighters are in the hospital recovering from severe injuries because of these fires In terms of wildlife, the fires can destroy habitats and disrupt ecosystems. Animals may lose their homes and struggle to find food and shelter. It's heartbreaking to see the impact on our furry and feathered friends. There have been 1,300 missing pet reports and almost 200 rescued or deceased animals since the fires began. The “Maui Humane Society” has been helping rescue animals exponentially even though they were already at capacity before the fires started. The rescuers have even made a Facebook page to help and reunite the families with their family pets. Raising awareness about these effects can help us take steps to prevent wildfires and protect both people and wildlife. Let's spread the word and support efforts to prevent and mitigate the devastating impact of wildfires. You can help by spreading awareness on social media and helping reconnect the people of Maui. You can donate to rescuers and help them get more prepared by sending food, money, clothing, etc., and help them recover. By Mya StarksStarbucks, Chick-fil-A, and Dunkin’ Donuts have all come up with a fall lineup for their menus. On August 24, Starbucks added 4 new items to their menu, starting with an Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso, an Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte, and a Baked Apple Crossiant. This fall, they are also continuing with their fan favorite drinks the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato, Pumpkin Spice Latte or as many love to call it “a PSL.” They are continuing to sell their Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin, Owl Cake Pop, and Pumpkin & Pepita Loaf. In grocery stores nationwide, Starbucks has launched a new pumpkin spice-flavored ground, packaged, and ready-to-drink product, which is great for those who like to make and enjoy their Starbucks at home, work, or conveniently make it and bring it wherever. They are also bringing back their all time favorite Iced Espresso Pumpkin Spice Latte and Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino Chilled Coffee Drink. It is definitely recommended for others to stop by Starbucks and give these tasty drinks a try. The Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso, which has a sharp taste of apple pie and an aroma of fresh espresso is highly recommended, but, if you’re more of a pumpkin person, try the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte with an extra 2 pumps of pumpkin in the latte for that sweet and nutty pumpkin taste. The best day to try any fall drink you’d like is every Thursday from now until September 28, when all the fall drinks are buy one, get one free! Dunkin Donuts began their fall lineup as of August 16th with their Pumpkin Spice Signature Latte, Nutty Pumpkin Coffee, Pumpkin Cake Donut and Munchkins Donut Hole Treats, and Pumpkin Muffin. This fall, Dunkin is reintroducing their Maple Sugar Snackin’ Bacon and their Maple Sugar Bacon Breakfast Sandwich. With the fact that Dunkin and Starbucks have similar menus, they are bound to create competition, especially when it comes to an all time favorite for everyone, the pumpkin spice latte. As for who does it best, we have yet to find out for ourselves. Be sure to check out these drinks this fall and find it for yourself. Now, for those who aren’t coffee people, Chick-fil-A is also introducing 2 new fall items, starting August 28, just for you, which are the Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken Sandwich and the Caramel Crumble Milkshake. By Sean Nishihira Recently, cases of illness and worse, death, have been rising in the U.S., particularly in California. It isn’t just the heat that’s responsible; drug use and homelessness are major contributors to the issue, according to health experts.
About 1,670 deaths were caused across the States by the heat in 2022. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), the death rate was 5 deaths per million residents. In at least 2 decades, this is the highest rate of deaths caused by heat. The heat is not the only problem, however. Methamphetamine, a stimulant drug, can cause bodily temperatures to rise to critical levels. According to data from the CDC, about 140 death certificates mentioned illnesses from heat and overdoses of drugs, in the state of California. This, combined with overuse, and homelessness, can be lethal. Homelessness cases have also been on the rise in recent years, including hot states in the West like California. Unsheltered homeless people are very vulnerable to the heat. They make up about 13% of those hospitalized from heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. According to the Director of “Tracking California,” Paul English, the heat waves are starting to begin sooner than usual, and last longer as well. He said, “This just means no break for the human body to recuperate.” He also said “The problem is we’re reaching the human limit of adapting to temperature.” By Kyle Shisbey Millions of Americans have a special place in their hearts for Memorial Day, which is honored on the final Monday of May each year. It is a day of great significance as a day of recollection and reflection, beyond marking the unofficial start of summer. This article examines the historical background of Memorial Day, its development, and the ongoing significance of remembering those who gave their lives in defense of our valued freedoms.
The origins of Memorial Day can be found in the aftermath of the American Civil War, one of the bloodiest wars in the history of the country. Numerous towns and cities all around the United States struggled with the staggering death toll after the war's conclusion in 1865 and looked for methods to honor the fallen warriors. On May 30, 1868, General John A. Logan proclaimed a national day of remembrance known as "Decoration Day," marking the beginning of what would ultimately become Memorial Day. The intention was to place flowers on the graves of fallen troops as a solemn expression of thanks and respect. Memorial Day, which now commemorates all American service members who have died in all wars, evolved from Decoration Day over time. Memorial Day was established as a federal holiday by the US Congress in 1971, and it is observed on the final Monday in May. This created a long weekend for families and communities to gather in commemoration. The bravery and sacrifice shown by the men and women who selflessly defended the United States throughout its history are deeply remembered on Memorial Day. These brave people, who represent all military branches, have endured unfathomable sacrifices and challenges in order to defend the freedom, justice, and democratic ideals that are the cornerstones of our country. Memorial Day provides us with the chance to thank them for their sacrifices and let them know that we will never forget them. Reflection and thought on the true cost of war are also encouraged on Memorial Day. It challenges us to think about the long-term effects of military conflicts on both the combatants and their families. It is a day to recognize the deep loss and suffering endured by those left behind and to show our appreciation and support. Memorial Day serves as a reminder of the unflinching dedication and unyielding spirit of those who have given their lives in service to their country. This day encourages us to reflect on these courageous people who have defended the ideals and principles upon which the United States was formed and to show our gratitude to them. We ensure that their legacy endures by remembering and reflecting on them, which motivates us to value the freedoms we have and to work toward a more tranquil and just society. May future generations always remember the sacrifice made by our dead heroes and observe Memorial Day in a solemn and meaningful manner. By Manny Villa
On May 19th at around 7:30 pm in Deptford, New Jersey, police were asked to respond to an uncooperative man at the mall who was refusing to leave. According to police the man known as Michael Carberry, was asked multiple times to leave the mall. Soon after, Carberry assumed a fighting stance. The officer attempted to arrest him but Carberry put him in a chokehold effectively rendering the officer unable to do anything. Robert Fitzpatrick, an English teacher at Penns Grove High School saw the incident escalating. He then decided to do something about it. So, like Batman saving Gotham city, instead of pulling out his phone and recording, Fitzpatrick used his background in Jiu Jitsu to help the officer regain control of the situation and arrest Carberry. Police are calling Fitzpatrick a hero as things could've gone south quickly if it weren't for him. Police say Carberry is facing numerous charges, including attempted homicide of a police officer and aggravated assault. By Jack Moncure Trucks these days have gotten crazy compared to trucks of years past. Trucks at one point were simply a utility vehicle, mainly purposed for work and meant to be on the job. Trucks today have adopted a whole new spirit. Trucks have become available to the everyday user. Trucks nowadays get better mileage and have more comfortable interiors. They aren’t the heavy-duty brutes they used to be. Today’s trucks are packed with the latest technology, and they aren’t just designed to be understated work horses. They make a statement. You see manufactures making off-road brawlers like the Raptor, TRX, TRD Pro and more. Truck manufacturers are loading trucks up with all the technology learned from off-road racing. Right now manufacturers like Ford, Dodge, Toyota, and Chevy are competing to make the best off-road capable trucks. They are putting new suspension systems derived from racing, increased horsepower with turbos and superchargers, and so many more features designed to make the driving experience more thrilling. This kind of competition is what breeds greatness, and competitions are pushing manufacturers to build trucks better and better. We are seeing auto manufactures take off-road trucks seriously and give us what we want. Overall, I think the truck market is great right now. It makes me happy to see OEM’s taking off-roading seriously. More and more people are getting into off-roading, and it’s good that new capable trucks are becoming more accessible. Not to mention how cool it is that they are even making these things. Trucks have changed over the years drastically, arguably for the better. These trucks of today are doing things no one ever thought trucks could do.
By Manny Villa On May 5, 2023, a 6.5 magnitude earthquake hit Ishikawa, Japan. There was one fatality and multiple injuries. Buildings were also damaged. The Shika nuclear power plant, which happens to be in the area, fortunately has not been negatively impacted. There have been a reported 50 aftershocks in the area. Transportation services such as railway services were temporarily shut down for safety reasons.
Japan experiences earthquakes like this because of its geographic location. Japan sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” which is infamous for extreme seismic activity. Normally earthquakes occur when two tectonic plates collide. However, in Japan’s case, multiple plates collide causing extreme earthquakes. One of the worst cases seen was in 2011 a 9.0 magnitude earthquake beneath the sea near Fukushima that caused a devastating tsunami. The tsunami left about 18,500 people dead or missing, catastrophically damaged a nuclear power plant, and destroyed millions of dollars in property. By Victoria Valenzuela In numbers, over 50,000 people die each day from Fentanyl poisoning. For those who do not know, Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid. In other words, its original use was for medical pain relievers. However, over time it's created such a huge threat in our society today. Not only is it stripping the lives of so many people, but it's also killing people who are not even aware they are taking it or ingesting it. For reference, it’s 50% stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. It’s so important to be educated on the dangers of this drug because teenagers, adults, even children are losing their lives day by day. That can be your cousin, your sibling, your classmate–or even you. How you can be exposed: Although this is a pill, you can be affected by skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion. It can cause extreme happiness, drowsiness, nausea, confusion, constipation, sedation, tolerance, addiction, respiratory depression and arrest, unconsciousness, coma, and death. Something important to remember is that counterfeit drugs are often the most common drug that could be laced with Fentanyl. As scary as it may seem, it gets worse. Kids are being manipulated and tricked into taking things laced with Fentanyl and even taking the actual pill itself. People are calling it “the rainbow drug.” These drugs are being brightly colored to appeal more to the eyes of young children making it look very similar to Smarties. This in itself has caused over 5,000 deaths in young children and is increasing rapidly. Recognizing the danger of Fentanyl will save one life at a time. By spreading the word and educating others about the fatal flaws of this drug, you can make a difference. You just never know. Stay safe and stay proactive in educating yourself. You might just save your own life too.
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