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Recent NAEP results show U.S. students' scores in reading, math, and science have declined to historic lows in 2024, with high school seniors performing worse than ever. The scores reflect pandemic disruptions and ongoing educational challenges, with significant declines among the lowest-performing students. Experts call for urgent reforms.
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Two men in Magna, Utah, were arrested after authorities found a lit, malfunctioning incendiary device under a media vehicle. The suspects, aged 58 and 31, were linked to the device and additional hoax weapons, with charges including threats of terrorism. The incident follows heightened security concerns after recent political violence.
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Nicholas Rossi, 38, convicted of two rapes in Utah, faked his death in 2020, then fled to the UK. Recognized in Scotland in 2021, he was extradited to the US in 2024. He faces at least five years in prison, with a second sentence scheduled for November.
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Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative figure and founder of Turning Point USA, was shot dead during a college visit in Utah. The incident has prompted memorials nationwide and raised questions about the suspect's motives, with authorities citing possible leftist ideology and dark internet influences. The story unfolds amid ongoing political debates.
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Legendary actor and filmmaker Robert Redford died at his Utah home on September 16, 2025, at age 89. Known for iconic roles in films like 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' and 'The Sting,' he also founded the Sundance Institute and was a passionate environmental advocate. His career spanned acting, directing, and promoting independent film. This update covers his legacy and recent projects as of September 24, 2025.
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Last night, three large drones forced Copenhagen airport to close for four hours, raising concerns about security in NATO countries amid recent Russian drone incursions and cyberattacks. The incident highlights vulnerabilities in airspace defense and the potential for escalation involving Russia or other actors.
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Adnan Hussain, independent MP for Blackburn, posted a photo of his newborn daughter, which was met with racist and sexist online abuse. He responded by condemning the hate, highlighting rising racial tensions and online hostility in the UK, and reaffirming his commitment to fighting racism.
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Russell Nelson, the long-serving president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died at age 101. His death follows a well-established leadership hierarchy, with Dallin H. Oaks expected to succeed him after Nelson's funeral scheduled for October 7. The church's leadership structure ensures a smooth transition despite Nelson's passing during a major conference.
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Moisture from Tropical Storm Priscilla has caused flood warnings across southwestern US states, especially Arizona, with expected heavy rainfall and flash flooding risks. The storm's remnants are bringing significant rain, with some areas facing potential record totals, amid recent deadly floods in the region.
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Despite the US government shutdown, several national parks remain accessible, with reduced services and increased illegal activity. Yosemite, Sequoia, and others are open but operate with limited staff, raising safety and preservation concerns. Visitors are advised to plan carefully.
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Ashlee Buzzard was detained in California on false imprisonment charges unrelated to her missing daughter Melodee. The girl has been missing since October after a multi-state road trip with her mother. Authorities continue to search for Melodee, last seen in security footage with her mother in California.
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Recent measles outbreaks in the US and Canada, linked to ongoing transmission since early 2025, have caused both countries to lose their WHO elimination status. The outbreaks are driven by low vaccination rates and community resistance, with authorities warning that the virus may continue spreading into 2026.
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Calvin Duncan, ex-inmate and legal advocate, was elected as clerk of the parish criminal court in New Orleans. After serving 28 years in prison and winning exoneration, he aims to modernize court record systems and ensure fair treatment, defeating incumbent Darren Lombard in a runoff. The election highlights his lifelong fight for justice.
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BYU basketball player Dallin Davis was suspended after suffering minor injuries in a DUI-related car crash in Utah. Davis, who was involved in the incident two days before a game against UConn, is under investigation for violating the school's honor code and team policies.
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A U.S. judge criticized law enforcement's use of ChatGPT for report writing, citing inaccuracies and privacy concerns. Footage shows officers instructing AI to generate narratives from minimal input, raising questions about accuracy, professionalism, and data security amid limited policies.
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Ralph Menzies, convicted of murder in 1986, was scheduled for execution by firing squad but died naturally before the process could proceed. The Utah Supreme Court paused his execution due to his worsening dementia, with a new competency hearing planned for December. Menzies was convicted of abducting and killing Maurine Hunsaker.
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U.S. sports organizations are actively advocating for hosting more international events, including upcoming Olympics and World Cups. While the U.S. has secured major events through 2034, concerns remain about venue readiness and visa access, especially with ongoing construction delays in Italy for the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.