Feature
Kidnapping prank gone wrong
BY: Chris Rule, 02/25/2025
What would you do for clout?
When it comes to drawing that line, many decide to keep things legal.
Sadly, that line seemed to be drawn a lot farther from legal when it came totwo teens in Kyle, Texas.
On January 29th 19-year-old Kaine Villareal and 18-year-old Lane Burch pulled a “kidnapping prank” causing both of them to be charged with terroristic threats.
Due to the incident many blame TikTok and other social media apps like it.
But does it really deserve to be blamed for the incident?
The “Prank”
It was a Wednesday after school where the two teens approached two elementary students, being only the ages 7 and 9.
When approached they asked the two students if they “wanted to be kidnapped”.
After being asked such question, it scared both of the children who then quickly contacted their parents to let them know about the two suspected kidnappers.
After hearing about the possible attempt to kidnap their kids the parents quickly contacted the Kyle Police Department causing the arresting of the two teens.
When asked why they did it both responded saying that they were trying to do a TikTok prank that the duo had seen.
They blame TikTok but refuse to take accountability for their own actions.
When looking for the video trend the two teens talk about, we come across one tiktoker who after pretending to kidnap her friend was arrested.
Natalie Reynolds did a prank last year in December where she pretended to kidnap her friend in a white van with the words free candy written on it.
After leaving the scene she was chased down by 15 police cars and 3helicopters until she was arrested with police saying she was suspected of kidnapping a child.
After the incident was resolved she was later released.
Now, yes, both actions were done in a response to wanting clout, but these individuals have complete control over what they do and should know what they can or can't do.
And for them to think this is the only way to get clout on social media is also wrong since it's been shown many times that you can get clout by just being a good person.
Comments on the event
After the event the school the kids come from, Negley High School responded by sending a letter to all the parents telling them about the incident and reminding them to teach their kids about stranger danger.
“We are glad that the students are OK and we are proud of them fordoing the right thing by immediately reporting this to their parents” it reads.
“Please remember to reinforce teaching your children about stranger danger”
The police department of Kyle, Texas then posted on Facebook on the event saying “Two males were arrested after approaching children and asking if they wanted to be kidnapped. At approximately 3:20 p.m. on Wednesday, January 29, a 7-year-oldand a 9-year-old were walking home from Negley Elementary when the suspects followed and approached the children.
The children immediately contacted their parents, who notified the Kyle Police Department.
Upon arrival, the suspects told officers that they were repeating asocial media prank.
Officers subsequently arrested Kaine Villarreal, 19, and Lane Burch,18, both of Kyle, on charges of terroristic threat.
Hays Consolidated Independent School District officials have been notified of the incident.”
As seen in these posts from both the school and police department, neither of them blames TikTok with only the individuals who committed the crime blame TikTok.
Who’s to Blame?
Many people especially with recent events have been blaming social media for events such as this.
But the thing that can control us in the end and make us do these actions isus ourselves.
No person can make you do something other than yourself.
These teens understood the crime they were committing and the possible punishment that would come to them.
Even if they had no idea about the possible punishment, they still have nobody else to blame but themselves.It has been seen throughout the years that TikTok has done many good things for people.
Whether it's helping small businesses, lets us see the world from another perspective, and even giving justice to some.
And that goes for everyone else including Natalie Reynolds who has done similar events like these 2 teens.
If we refuse to take responsibility for our actions, we will never able to learn from our mistakes.
indian governer offers $1 millioin to decipher ancient script
By: Crystal Griffiths, 2/9/2025
For a century, the Indus Valley Script has sat untouched in the modern world, an ancient testament to one of the earliest civilizations discovered.
Its mysterious markings are a popular topic among archaeologists as they’ve never been able to crack its complex imagery but shockingly simplistic characters.
Recently, the mystery surrounding the ancient texts caught the attention of the public after a $1 million prize was announced to the first to decipher it.
5,500 years ago, Harappans, who lived in the Indus Valley, occupied northwestern India and Pakistan.
The ancient society quickly became known as one of the earliest urban civilizations as its inhabitants lived in built-up cities and engaged in trade, though its sudden disappearance has left many questions, including what it left behind.
Unearthed in the 1920s, archaeologists found unfamiliar symbols and depictions of animals etched into stone slabs and tablets.
Today, a database keeping track of each has around 4,000 different inscriptions recorded, with the longest string of characters on a single artifact being 68.
With still no promising leads on what it could say, Indian state governor, M.K. Stalin, has offered a $1 million reward to anyone who can accurately crack it.
Researchers have already begun to pursue the challenge.Nisha Yadav at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, comments, “We still don’t know whether the signs are complete words, or part of words, or part of sentences.
”Others have found striking similarities to other languages, such as researchers K Rajan and Asko Parpola who published a study analyzing the parallels to south Indian graffiti.
Their work suggests that there might be a cultural and therefore linguistic link between the two.
Separate research implies that it could be related to Sumerian, a Mesopotamian language dating back to 6,000 years ago in present-day Iraq.
Significantly lesser-known languages have also been mentioned by researchers, such as Proto-Elamite, spoken 5,000 years ago in modern-day Iran.
Both include carved depictions of people or objects, though Sumerian relies mostly on short lines and paddle-like figures and Proto-Elamite leans more on imagery.Along with these suggestions, though, there also remains a possibility that the Indus script was simply made up.
The excitement over the language resembles several instances just over the past two years.
In 2024, a $750,000 prize was announced to anyone that could decipher scrolls from a fallen Pompeii library.
These had been buried under ash and rubble, therefore preserved for the time being, but attempting to uncurl them only led to their disintegration.But in late 2023, a trio of students won $700,000 after using AI to decipher ancient Greek texts.
About 5% of it has been successfully translated, but this progress gives hope to researchers of the current task who have also turned to AI.Professionals and the public alike have high hopes for what the Indus text could hold with just as much time and energy spent.
Leading Indologist, Asko Parpola, tells BBC, "The Indus script is perhaps the most important system of writing that is undeciphered.”
Local Incident highlights need for mental health awareness
By; Alisson Soltero, Jan 28 2025
Teenagers and young adults make up the majority of the millions of victims of suicide. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among those aged 15–29 years old, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The WHO works on strategies, resources, and tools to help governments in responding to the health needs of teenagers.
Stating that failing to address adolescent mental health conditions can extend to adulthood. This leads to impairment of both physical and mental health, which limits the opportunities to lead fulfilling lives as adults.
An example of the negative impact of the lack of resources is the incident that occurred on December 27, when Brentwood officers were called to City Park Way between Liberty High School and the City of Brentwood Building.
Upon their arrival, they discovered an adult woman that had lost her life to suicide, causing others to recognize the significant emotional toll this tragedy can take on the community.
The incident opened the eyes of many, including the Brentwood Police Department, emphasizing the importance of mental health resources being available to the public. "Please remember: You are not alone," the police department stated on their Facebook page.
"If you or your loved ones are experiencing a mental health crisis, we are just a phone call away."
According to the WHO, one in seven 10-19-year-olds experience a mental disorder.
These disorders include depression, anxiety, and varying behavioral disorders.
It is important to demonstrate that there are resources and helping hands in the community.
The world’s health and impact is powerful, so using that power to raise awareness for our mental health is essential when targeting students.
Strengthening the voice of online sources, friends, family members, staff, and counselors will provide aid to people that are hiding and secretly hurting.
Mental health is a crucial element of our overall well-being, impacting how we think, feel, and interact with the world.
It is important to educate the public about symptoms and treatment options, ultimately promoting a supportive environment for those struggling with mental health issues.
Our Community's Favorite SpIrit Days
By: Iso Lopezz
Spirit Days are special themed days that usually lead up to a big event. Dances
celebrate major moments in your school years. What do YOU think is the most popular
Spirit Day and dance at our school? Read on to find out!
Throughout January, our journalist team collected opinions on your favorite spirit
days and dances celebrated on campus.
They’ve been compiled into a list of the top five Spirit Days and the top three dances.
Without further ado, here are the top five Spirit Days chosen by our community!
● Pajama Day - This popular Spirit Day is commonly described as the most
relaxing! “Pajama day is a day where I can wear whatever I wake up in and not
be judged,” one student shared.
● Whiteout/Blackout - Usually takes place on the day of the Glow Rally or leading
up to it!
● Color - This one was right behind Whiteout/Blackout in the rankings; it's when
you have to wear a certain color!
● Crazy Hair - Despite not being the most popular, people are the most creative on
this Spirit Day!
● Decades - A rare and yet fun Spirit Day!
Photo taken just before the Homecoming Dance
Here are the top three dances voted on by our community!
● Homecoming - “Homecoming is something everyone can participate [in] and we
have very fun activities to go with it,” said an anonymous speaker. It’s meant to
represent everyone having a home at Freedom!
● Prom - The one everyone works toward!
● Winter Ball - Most people regard this dance as the middle ground between the
above two! A lot of effort is put into this one, and anyone can participate like
Hoco!
AI FOSters INDUSTRY innovation
By: Noble lusagala
From the customer service agent in your live chat to the self-driving car taking you to work, AI is not the technology of the future; it's the technology of the present, and it's changing how people operate.
AI is so prevalent within society in various forms of customer service, from transportation to hospitality, that efficiency and productivity are touted at every turn.
But with such technological advancements come safety concerns for future employment and ethics. Is society prepared to utilize AI for practical purposes without letting it get out of hand?
This article will explore how AI supports industries, the risks involved, and ethical implications.
AI is revolutionizing customer interaction. For instance, how do individuals interact with Amazon and Netflix?
Through AI; both companies offer their customers boosted experiences and recommended purchases or viewing options based on previous interaction, virtually leaving everyone more pleased.
Moreover, AI integrates into customer service initiatives, from chatbots which decrease labor costs to people having to wait less time for answers.
But with AI making such integrations possible, it makes it challenging for hiring options and customer privacy. From job loss to increased surveillance.
One of the more negative aspects of the growth of AI is increasing unemployment and pervasive surveillance. According to McKinsey's data found in the World Economic Forum's report, 22% to 30% of jobs are at risk for automation as soon as 2030, with manufacturing and warehousing at even more risk.
In addition, the greater use of AI to surveil and exploit human behavior—from targeted advertising to facial recognition by governments and businesses seeking to exploit citizens—is concerning.
Thus, an unethical, unregulated future with AI does not bode well.
Ultimately, politics and regulation must preside over AI potential. The most wide-reaching consequence from Dr. Kate Crawford of the AI Now Institute is that without ethics and regulation, AI will always be biased and used unethically.
She believes that regulations open potential but also support the greater good for ethical responsibility.
The Best of All Worlds AI has the ability to change our interpersonal and intrapersonal interactions for the better in the workplace and beyond, with opportunities not thought possible.
However, with opportunities come unemployment, privacy concerns, and ethical issues.
Thus, politicians, big tech, and society need to unite for the best pros and cons resolution.
The Journey to Mars: NASA's Bold Plan for Sample Return
Giovanni Vera, January 28, 2025
Imagine that you are holding a piece of another planet in your hands, you may not know this, but this dream is closer to reality than ever each and everyday. For over two decades NASA has been coming closer to their monumental goal of bringing back samples from Mars through its Mars Sample Return Program.
But this project has come across many significant delays and skyrocketing costs of equipment they would use for this program, showing an assessment of their original plan.
This new development could make the timeline shorter and reduce the financial burdens for these expensive programs, offering both challenges and exciting opportunities for future space exploration to find out more about our planets.
NASA has gone over their plan on retrieving a sample from Mars and they focus on simplifying the mission’s technical complexities, slashing costs, and exploring innovative landing strategies that could allow Martian soil to arrive on Earth as soon as 2035.
NASA's decision to overhaul the Mars Sample Return mission aims to cut costs and streamline operations.
Originally projected to cost up to $11 billion and potentially delay the mission until 2040, NASA has been working on a more cost-effective solution.
Agency officials have now outlined a plan that cuts down on the technical complexity of the mission allowing them for faster implementation.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson stated that the cost and timeline had become "simply unacceptable," pushing for drastic changes The new plan estimates costs between $5.8 billion and $7.7 billion, with a timeline aiming for a sample return by 2035.
Along with cost-cutting measures, NASA is also exploring new strategies for landing and retrieving the samples from Mars' surface.
NASA is exploring two possible landing methods to retrieve Martian samples: a sky crane and collaboration with private companies.
One option involves revisiting a technique used successfully with the Curiosity of the rovers. They want to use a sky crane system that uses rockets to slowly descend when they arrive on mars.
That would be followed by a delicate lowering to the Martian surface. Then the second approach involves collaborating with private space companies to develop a new lander that would help but this would require a lot more money and resources in using private space companies. Both methods would rely on a smaller rocket to launch the samples off Mars each visit. NASA plans to choose a final option between the 2 by 2026.
While NASA's new plans may reduce costs and streamline the mission, the stakes they are taking are high as they continue to face challenges going over their ability to execute on time and within budget.
NASA’s Mars mission faces increasing competition from other international players like in particular China. As the U.S. space agency faces delays and more rising costs of equipment and services, other nations like China are also making rapid advancements to this program.
Last year, China successfully returned samples from the far side of the moon and is now planning its own Mars sample-return mission with a return date of 2031.
While NASA’s Mars mission focuses on answering fundamental questions about the planet’s geological history, origins and potential for past life. China’s efforts have sparked comparisons and raised questions about the ongoing "space race."
They have going on right now. Despite these pressures, NASA's have gone over this mission and it still remains a critical piece of future for space exploration in showing scientific discovery over competitive rivalry.
NASA’s overhaul of the Mars Sample Return Program addresses both financial and technical challenges by simplifying the mission and exploring new landing options.
The goal of bringing Martian samples to Earth by 2035 remains a key focus in their goal of the program, and with these potential benefits for understanding the planet’s past and preparing for human exploration.
While the revised plan is a significant step forward for them it is the true test that will show whether NASA can maintain its timeline and budget.
The world will be watching as the agency moves closer to answering some of humanity’s biggest questions about Mars and its place in the solar system.
Bay Area Raises Bridge Tolls and public transit
Bret Warner, January 19, 2025
Bay Area Raises Bridge Tolls and Public TransitBret Warner, Staff WriterJanuary 19th, 2024
In the Beginning of January, MTC, Metropolitan Transportation Commission issued to permanently raise the toll in The Bay Area. All 7 State owned Bridges in the Bay will now be charging $8 instead of the normal $7 like usual.
The Commision has made this decision because of the upkeep of these bridges.
To keep these bridges painted, refinishing, and had inspections for possible cracks, leaks, or any other possible dangers for the thousands of people who drive them every day to work and back.
Not only has the toll been raised but will, most likely, according to the East Bay Times, be increasing by 5o cents each year.
Our state Senator, Dave Cortese says he is seeking a state audit to MTC finances. He once served as a chair for MTC, so he does have good sense and is familiar with the agency.
“You’re asking the entire Bay Area to trust you with billions of dollars, you have to be able to show that your house is in order.” says Cortese
The toll for Muni and Bart has also been raised by 25 cents and will continue to rise throughout the years.
By 2030, the price for bridge tolls could be a whopping $10.50 for each time crossing.
The first dollar of the 8 in the toll is from the maintaining of the bridges.
3 Dollars to seismic retrofitting and over the years a toll hike of 4 dollars.
One big issue that has made the tolls increase and expect to be continuing to increase is the terrible accounting at MTC.
Each toll has no expiration which means they can charge an infinite amount, but the projects that they use the money for are finite and have a set price.
At a certain point they must make revenue off of these tolls, but we do not know how much is not being used because of the accounting.
They pool all the money together which makes it hard to determine income and expenditures.
This is an overlooked problem and that is why it is necessary for a state audit.
The audit should help accounting the money for when a project is needed on a bridge or when there is revenue.
Hopefully, this will all lead to a steady toll that is reasonable for the projects and upkeep of our Bay Area bridges.
We need to be able to have safe bridges for all without a huge hole in the wallets of everyone in the Bay Area.
This Picture is the Vallejo Bridge and is from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission This is a huge problem for our generation, with many high schoolers growing up and soon moving out to college or getting their own place, it means that we travel to work, school, or back home.
For many, the toll increase will mean they need to either avoid them by going around or being very careful with their money to be able to afford it in this day and age.
Over the years, people that have been making the same money are tending to spend less on groceries and gas, not because of the price but because they are trying to use less of it to pay for other expenses such as mortgage, rent or bills, insurance, etc.
As a teenager soon going to be bombarded with adult responsibilities such as these it is scary to think about the price raises in tolls, Bart, gas, or any other mode of Trasport.
Moving is essential to our everyday lives.
The Antioch and Vallejo bridge are the main way to get out of Oakley, Brentwood, or Antioch and are essential to many.
I personally use them to visit family in Rio Vista, just across the Antioch Bridge, and to go on many vacations, usually crossing the Vallejo bridge to get North bound.
I am also going to college like many people in our great school.
Going to Sacramento State is a popular choice to many and coming home from break or vacation will need a toll from the Antioch Bridge.
This Picture is the Antioch Bridge and is also from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission.
The toll raise will soon be an everyday normality but do not forget that MTC can do something about this problem.
Hopefully, our Senator will bring the audit to fix our tolls here in the bay area and restore a fair amount before it gets out of hand.