NYT ‘Connections’ October 27: Clues and Answers for Game #504

Meth pipe-wielding raccoon found in Ohio car During a traffic stop in central Ohio, police discovered a pet raccoon named "Chewy" holding a glass methamphetamine pipe in its mouth while sitting in the driver's seat. The officer, Austin Branham, found additional illegal substances, including methamphetamine and crack cocaine, after searching the vehicle, which belonged to 55-year-old Victoria Vidal, who was arrested on drug-related charges. The raccoon was unharmed, and officers confirmed that Vidal possessed the...

WeightWatchers Files for Chapter 11 BankruptcyWeightWatchers has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection to eliminate $1.15 billion in debt and pivot towards telehealth services, with support from nearly 75% of its debt holders. The company, which recently ventured into prescription weight-loss drugs through its acquisition of Sequence, reported a 10% revenue decline in Q1 but a 57% increase in clinical subscription revenue. Interim CEO Tara Comonte emphasized the commitment to holistic health solutions as shares...

Woman killed by alligator while canoeing on lake in central FloridaAn alligator attacked and killed a woman on Lake Kissimmee in central Florida while she was canoeing with her husband. The attack occurred near the mouth of Tiger Creek, leading to the woman's fall into the water, after which her husband attempted to fight off the alligator in vain. Authorities have stated that serious alligator injuries are rare in Florida, and they remind the public...

Kavan Markwood, a baseball fan who sustained serious injuries from a 20-foot fall at PNC Park, is making progress in his recovery and has taken his first steps, as reported by his girlfriend's mother, Jennifer Phillips. Despite facing significant challenges, including a broken neck and back, his family remains hopeful and grateful for the public's support during this difficult time. The incident, which occurred during a Pirates-Cubs game, has prompted an outpouring of community goodwill...

The Federal Reserve is expected to maintain interest rates between 4.25% and 4.5% amid pressure from President Trump for lower borrowing costs and uncertainty surrounding his tariffs. Despite strong job growth and a recent GDP decline of 0.3%, Powell emphasizes a cautious approach while evaluating the economic impact of tariffs. The Fed's decision follows Trump's tariffs and a subsequent market fluctuation, highlighting ongoing risks of stagflation and recession as trade negotiations continue. Full Article

Sixteen individuals were arrested and three million fentanyl-laced pills were seized in the largest fentanyl bust in DEA history, according to federal prosecutors. Attorney General Pam Bondi highlighted the operation as a significant victory against drug trafficking, noting the arrest of Sinaloa cartel leader Heriberto Salazar Amaya. The bust also yielded over 400 kilograms of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin, alongside $5 million in cash and firearms, amid the ongoing fight against the opioid crisis...