A picture of Pope Francis is displayed inside the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Monday, April 21, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

What to know about the death of Pope Francis

By AP
Published Apr 21, 2025

Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at the age of 88. Here are the key things to know about the death of the Argentine pontiff, history’s first from Latin America, who presided over the Catholic Church for more than 12 years.

What to know about the death of Pope Francis

By AP
Published Apr 21, 2025

What we’re reading: Senate passes spending bill to avert government shutdown, deadly dust storms cause crashes in Texas and more

By Bailey Bates, Staff Writer

Published Mar 15, 2025

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., speaks to reporters after a divided Senate passed an emergency spending package to send military aid to Ukraine and Israel, replenish U.S. weapons systems, and provide food, water and other humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024. The measure has an uncertain future in the House where it is opposed by Republicans in the face of pressure from former President Donald Trump. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Senate approves funding bill to prevent government shutdown

The Senate has passed a Republican-led spending bill, avoiding a partial government shutdown just before the midnight deadline. According to CBS News, the measure received bipartisan support, but many Democrats expressed frustration, feeling pressured to vote for the bill to keep the government running.

The Senate approved the bill in a 54-46 vote, with one Republican voting against it and two Democrats in favor. Earlier in the day, 10 Democrats supported moving the measure forward in a key procedural vote. The bill now awaits President Trump’s signature.

Its passage ensures continued funding for federal agencies, preventing disruptions to public services. However, the debate highlights ongoing partisan tensions over budget negotiations, as lawmakers struggle to reach long-term agreements.

Blinding dust storms cause fatal crashes in Texas panhandle, reduce visibility in North Texas

Severe dust storms swept through the Texas Panhandle on Friday, leading to dangerous driving conditions and at least one fatal crash. According to NBC DFW, wind gusts over 70 mph stirred up thick dust clouds, drastically reducing visibility across the region.

In Randall County, near Amarillo, a deadly crash occurred as blowing dust made it nearly impossible for drivers to see. The Texas Department of Transportation reported several highway closures in the Panhandle due to near-zero visibility. The dust storms also reached North Texas, causing hazy skies and visibility issues. Emergency responders continue to clear roadways and assist those impacted, while officials warn that strong winds could persist through the weekend.

FBI Warns Public About Fake Weight Loss Drugs

This photo combo provided by the FDA shows an authentic Ozempic needle, left and a counterfeit needle, right. The World Health Organization and drugmaker Eli Lilly and Co. are warning people to be wary of fake versions of popular weight-loss and diabetes medicines. (FDA via AP) (AP)

According to ABC News, the FBI has issued a public safety warning regarding counterfeit compounded weight loss drugs falsely claiming to include semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, two popular weight loss prescriptions.

Rather than semaglutide, these false medications have been found to contain unknown substances, high levels of impurities, or unsafe and unapproved drugs. Taking these medications could result in serious health complications.

As demand for weight loss drugs grows, the FBI urges consumers to buy only from licensed medical providers and verified pharmacies. Experts advise avoiding compounded versions and checking for FDA approval before using any medication.

U.S Justice Department Investigates Columbia University

Protesters rally in support of detained Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil outside Columbia University in New York on Friday, March 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Jason DeCrow) (AP)

The U.S. Justice Department is investigating Columbia University for allegedly concealing undocumented immigrants involved in pro-Palestinian protests, according to AP News.

Federal agents searched two university residences Thursday night but made no arrests. The Trump administration has also revoked student visas and canceled $400 million in federal funding, citing Columbia’s handling of protests criticizing Israel’s military actions in Gaza.

Interim university president Katrina Armstrong released a statement to the school community reaffirming Columbia’s commitment to the law while calling the situation “immensely stressful” for the community.