
Faizan Zaki, a bright 13-year-old from Texas, showcased his impressive spelling skills by correctly spelling the French word “éclaircissement,” which means enlightenment, ultimately winning the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee in the United States.
In a thrilling competition, Zaki triumphed over eight other finalists, defeating last year’s champion, Sarvadnya Kadam, to secure the coveted title and a prize of $52,500. This victory was particularly sweet for Zaki, considering he had faced Kadam in 2024, where he lost due to a tiebreaker in a rapid-elimination round.
In the aftermath of the spelling bee, the news cycle brims with a variety of significant events. A historic visit by the King to Ottawa unfolded alongside the inauguration of the Canadian Parliament. Meanwhile, Hawaii is grappling with the eruption of one of its most active volcanoes, and severe thunderstorms pose a tornado risk across states, tragically leading to fatalities and destruction, as exemplified by the tornado’s devastating impact on Amerah and James Taylor’s new home.
In other headlines, a deadly collision occurred involving a tall Mexican Navy training sailboat and New York City’s Brooklyn Bridge, while flames engulfed Nottoway House, a structure dating back to 1859. On a legal note, text messages in court have captured attention, leading to a divided opinion among US Supreme Court justices.
Amidst these events, cultural and political discussions continue, with notable figures participating in protests and testimonies shedding light on pressing issues.
Source: www.bbc.com