Instructions:  Conduct research about a recent current event using credible sources. Then, compile what you’ve learned to write your own hard or soft news article. Minimum: 250 words. Feel free to do outside research to support your claims.  Remember to: be objective, include a lead that answers the...

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Public is Allowed In River Seine After Century Long Closure
On Saturday, July 6, 2025, the river Seine in Paris that had previously been closed by the government due to pollution ,for over a century was recently opened for the public to swim in. People living nearby the river swarmed over to the shores waiting to jump in. Heavy pollution and the fear of boat traffic in the previous years had made the government close down the site. Now though, officials say that there will be much more precaution and safety measures taken to assure the safety of the bathers.
During the time of the Seine’s closure in 1983, there were different kinds of problems in the waters of the Seine. Many of the problems were caused by bacteria along with sewage problems resulting in dirty water that leaked and contaminated the Seine’s river waters. When several triathlon athletes became sick after competing in dirty water during the 2024 Olympics though, the Olympic committee invested around £1.2bn into purifying the Seine’s waters. The amount of money they spent didn’t go to waste. For the next few years, the government built huge underground tanks to store dirty water and upgrading wastewater treatment plants. With the Seine now in its acceptable state, it is now open for the public to swim in.
Although the river Seine had opened again, it still came with huge changes that the government says will assure the safety of the public and keep the river clean and sanitary. These changes include lifeguards that would make sure the designated rules were followed. Scientists also checked the purity of the water daily. In addition to that, as CBS News states “Every swimmer wore a bright yellow lifebuoy tied around their waist, part of strict safety measures enforced by a dozen lifeguards in high-visibility vests.” Officials strongly believe that with these new changes, the waters of the River Seine will be much cleaner and safer for the public to swim in.
However, the opening of the River Seine brings more than just fun and play, it’s also France’s opportunity to once again host an Olympics, bringing pride and joy to the people living there. The opening also represents the amount of effort and commitment that the government is willing to put in to give their people the best possible lives. It also benefits the animals and environment there including fish, mussels, and jellyfish. In addition to that, it also shows that the century-long wait was worth it.
The Seine, which will be staying open unless it rains, has already attracted many visitors. The government has set up three areas near the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and in Eastern Paris. All of the sites are equipped with showers, changing rooms, towels and all the other necessities, completing the opening of the River Seine.

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