The week before exams has not only proven to be stressful on students at the Mill, but it came with its own share of unfortunate events in the news as well. While students began to prepare for the rocky road of exam week, which takes place tomorrow until the beginning of the holiday break on Friday, the U.S. made preparations to combat the uprising in violence riddling the nation. It also commemorated a landmark anniversary one of the greatest tragedies to ever hit the nation: the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

NY Corrections Officer Fatally Shot in Brooklyn (12/5)

The streets are overwhelming and the noise is intimidating. Crime seemed to drop in the city of Brooklyn, New York. However, crime still exists and the city’s population is increasing, there is no way to avoid violence in the big city.

On Sunday night, New York corrections officer, Anastasia Bryan, 25-years-old, was shot and killed in the Brooklyn Flatlands at 9:15 p.m.. Authorities describe the tragic loss as a “horrific murder” because the young corrections officer was fatally shot and wounded in her head and body. The bullet holes left in her by the unknown assailant came through the driver’s side of the window. Those who were close to Bryan hope to find closure for this injustice.

Health Risks with African-American Beauty Products (12/6)

The foundation of makeup is linked to potential health risks. African American women could be under the danger of using cancer-causing products. Small studies have shown the “products such as deodorants, bar soaps, makeup, hair products, sunscreens and moisturizers” could be the leading cause of skin cancer.

There is no approval process for the ingredients in cosmetics before they go into market. Since, the products are unsafe, manufacturers now have to ensure the safety of cosmetics. Although most of the ingredients are unknown, people’s bodies absorb chemicals at low-levels over a long-period of time which proves to be a major health risk. These studies are raising awareness for consumers and encourage them to make a switch to different cosmetic products to prevent further risks.

Pearl Harbor Anniversary (11/7)

Today marks the 75th anniversary of the attack on the Pearl Harbor navy base. The surprise attack by the Japanese military forced the US military into the Second World War. Numerous military personnel and survivors of the attack gathered together to honor those lost. One of the last known survivors of the USS Arizona, 94-year-old Donald Stratton, attended the ceremonies.

The USS Halsey sailed, along with an escort of F-22 Raptors in missing-man formation as a tribute to those who were lost. During the tribute, Stratton was called up to salute the crew of the Halsey. Unfortunately, it is believed that this will be one of the few major gatherings of survivors left due to most of them being at least 90, and some over 100.

John Glenn passes away (12/8)   

The first American to orbit the earth, John Glenn has passed away at the age of 95. The Ohio native had a record of great service to country. He served in World War Two, flying 59 combat missions. He then flew missions in The Korean War, which led to his passion for discovery. He soon enlisted in the Navy’s Test Pilot School, testing new aircraft, and his own limits. In 1962, Glenn completed his first trip to space, spending almost five hours in orbit. After his landing, he went into politics, becoming a senator for the state of Ohio. After his time in office, Glenn became the oldest person to go to space at the age of 77.

National Mall off-limits for Inauguration Protests (11/9)

Those planning on protesting next year’s inauguration may have to re-plan. The National Park Service issued the proper paperwork to secure The Mall for inauguration festivities. According to a spokesman for the inauguration agency, the National Park Service submitted the paperwork a year in advance. The Women’s March on Washington, one of the most known planned protests, will have to find an alternate route for its march. National Park Service stated that it is working to find suitable replacements for protests that will be affected.