jjhendrickson00ecf0e1e4 –

SCI/TECH: Understanding the benefits, risks of marijuana

by JJ Hendrickson and Sophia Tarabola-

Marijuana use is becoming more widespread, especially among younger Americans. A 2024 study found that usage in the United States has increased by 65.2% over the past 10 years. With many members of Generation Z opting for marijuana over alcohol, that figure may continue to rise.

With more people using the drug, it is important to understand both its benefits and risks. Marijuana has several potential positives, including reducing anxiety, stimulating the appetite of chemotherapy patients, and helping treat seizures. However, there are downsides as well, such as an increase in people developing cannabis use disorder and more marijuana-related traffic accidents.

ARTS/CULTURE: Hidden tunnel linked to Underground Railroad

by JJ Hendrickson & Justin Patrick–

A hidden tunnel was found beneath a dresser in New York City’s Merchant House Museum, which is the only 19th-century home in the city that is preserved intact, both inside and out. The tunnel, which is about 2 feet wide and 2 feet long, could only be revealed by pulling the bottom drawer completely out of the dresser.

The concealed room likely served as a safe house for slaves trying to escape by way of the underground railroad, especially during the early and mid-1800s. White abolitionists were rare in New York at the time the building was constructed in 1832, but it is believed the original owner, Joseph Brewster, was one of the few willing to help slaves find safe refuge.

SPORTS: NFL Draft Preview

by JJ Hendrickson & Thomas Callahan–

With the Seattle Seahawks defeating the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX, the official draft order for the first round is now set. This year, the NFL Draft will be held from April 23-25, in Pittsburgh, Pa. Every draft day brings a feeling of hope for each of the 32 NFL franchises, as any one of them may select the league’s next superstar. The Las Vegas Raiders will be making the first selection of the draft, with the Jets, Cardinals, Titans, and Giants rounding out the top 5.

Fernando Mendoza leads the group of prospective NFL players, as this Heisman and National Championship-winning QB is expected to go first overall. When looking at the prospect rankings, it becomes rather apparent that the vast majority of positional needs could be filled in this draft. There’s talent all over the field, with elite edge rushers, tackles, and even a safety projected to go in the top 10. With all the talent on the board and the combine still yet to come, we won’t know who ends up where until draft day.