The Herald - December 2015

Volume 52 | Issue 2 Arapahoe High School | 2201 East Dry Creek Road | Centennial, Colorado 80122 | arapahoeherald@gmail.com | ArapahoeXtra.com

contents

Dear reader, You are worth fighting for.

And though I might not be able to explain to you the ways in which you can and have impacted this world, know that you have made a difference...

article continued on page 16

CULTURE Holiday Recipes

4–5

by Abigail Guadnola & Paige Paulsen

New Year’s Traditions

by Paige Paulsen

Stomping on ‘Frozen’

by Becca Schwisow

IN-DEPTH: Mental Health 15

INFO 28

Mental Health Stigmas 18

Winter Driving Tips

by Amber Malom

21

6

Validating Sadness

9

Mental Health Resources

by Mason Steiner

24

compiled by Mackenzie Callahan

by Hayden Peirce

Senior Avery Griggs 10

Skiier Colin Suszynski

by Amanda Brenner & Mason Steiner

by Alissa Brown

25

PEOPLE SRO James Mason 11

30

Finding Solace in Nature

SPORTS Boys Basketball

by Xavier Maier & Sybrand Braakman

OPINIONS Stress of the Holidays

Unique Coffee Shops 14

by Maddie Egerton

by Erica Martinez & Madison Wacaser

True Spirit of Christmas

by Quinn Trask

26

by Alissa Brown

30

31

by Keegan Fulwider

Winter Sports Previews

26-27

by Lindsey Archipley & Reid Conant

ON THE COVER Photo illustration by Lindsey Archipley

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THE HERALD

DECEMBER 2015

From the editor

in reality, how can we actually follow through?

Those who want to end it are not the ones causing it, and those who are causing it do not want to end it.

Of course, we can do our part by always treating others with compassion, but at the end of the day, if someone wants to cause harm to others they are Daily Shootings Becoming New Norm, going to do so. Stricter gun laws and tighter security, Cause Desensitization, Frustration while they may help, will not end it entirely. This is have been hesitant to write about Dec. the most frustrating aspect of it all for me.

13, 2013 since the day it happened, I feel helpless. There is never a time because I have always been the “I don’t in my life when I feel completely safe, nor want to think about it, I don’t want to talk is there a time when I am not concerned about it,” type of person, and that was about the safety of my loved ones at their my way of coping. I still feel somewhat jobs or schools. There are people out there bothered when the shooting is mentioned who believe they are allowed to play God in class, so I kind of feel like a hypocrite for and change the lives of others for the writing anything about it in the first place; worse, and I have no way of knowing who however, with the passing of the two-year these people are and if I am going to cross anniversary and the countless incidents paths with them at the wrong place and of senseless violence that have happened time. since 12/13/13, I feel I should speak The growth in the number of mass up. Nonetheless, if you are tired of such shootings across the nation seems to be subjects being continuously brought up, I exponential. There have been over 260 will not be offended if you choose not to instances of gun-related incidents in schools read on. since Columbine, nearly 58% of which have To be honest, I am fed up. I am so occurred after 2009. It is such a common frustrated that shootings, violence and occurrence that incidents without any tragedies seem to have become trends. I’m casualties rarely make it above the local angry that when I get a news update on my news. It seems like an odd picture that phone that starts with, “Shooting suspect when firearms are brought into schools in…” all I do is swipe it off the screen with a with the intent to harm, it is considered shrug because in my mind it has become “small news.” “just another one.”

I wish I had a solution to this tragic I (and I know I’m not alone) seem to be pattern in the United States. Americans completely desensitized to such tragedies, will always gather in public places, and because I know that if I let it get to me, I sometimes one of them will bring in a won’t be able to get through a day without weapon to such a place. Although it’s true, being torn apart by yet another shooting.

I have a hard time accepting it. Am I just This doesn’t seem right. Shouldn’t I feel supposed to lay down and wait for more more grief when such acts of terror occur? of my peers, or even me, to have their life Shouldn’t I say something more than, “Oh unexpectedly cut short? that’s sad,” when a tragic headline pops I refuse to believe there is not a up on my phone? In truth, I just don’t know stronger form of resistance – a way for what to say anymore. Whenever such an members of society to put their foot down event occurs, I see the same type of posts and say, No. We will not tolerate this any on Facebook: “We need to put an end to longer. I just haven’t figured it out yet. this violence!” “How tragic! I pray something Sincerely, like this never happens again!” And then it happens again a week later.

The problem is, we always talk about the necessity of ending this violence, but Lindsey Archipley

I

EDITORS & STAFF Editor-in-Chief Lindsey Archipley Managing Editors Mason Steiner Erica Martinez COPY EDITOR Paige Paulsen WEB & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Mackenzie Callahan DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Alissa Brown ADVERTISING MANAGER Abigail Guadnola REPORTERS Kiennes Adams Sybrand Braakman Amanda Brenner Reid Conant Maddie Egerton Keegan Fulwider Kayle Hughes Chiara Kovar Xavier Maier Amber Malom Hayden Peirce Becca Schwisow Quinn Trask Madison Wacaser

ADVISER Greg Anderson

Member of CSMA, CSPA, NSPA, JEA and Quill and Scroll.

The Herald is a student publication and operates as an open forum.

If you have any comments, questions, concerns or guest content you would like to share with The Herald, write a letter to the editor. Letters to the editor can be emailed to arapahoeherald@gmail.com or submitted to room E8.

DECEMBER 2015

ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM

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culture We wish you a

by Abigail Guadnola

Merry Christmas Ingredients:

- Generic brownie mix - Carton of strawberries - Generic Frosting - Tooth Picks

Instructions:

Strawberry Santa Brownies Ingredients:

- 2 cups (8 ounces) of shredded Swiss Cheese - 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened - 3 tablespoons of milk - 2 tablespoons dry sherry (or milk) - 1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper - 1 cup finely chopped almonds - 3/4 cup slivered almonds - 3/4 cup sliced almonds - 1/2 cup whole almonds

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DECEMBER 2015

1. Bake brownies according to directions on box 2. Cool and cut into squares 3. Frost the tops of the brownies 4. Cut stems off of strawberries 5. Place flat side down on top of frosted brownie 6. Frost the tip of a toothpick 7. Insert into the strawberry with the frosted tip on top

Instructions:

Swiss Cheese Pinecones

1. Beat cheese, butter, milk, sherry and red pepper with an electric mixer until smooth 2. Stir in chopped almonds 3. Divide mixture into three equal portions and mold into a pinecone shape (tapered oval) 4. Insert slivered or whole almonds 5. Refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours or until firm 6. Garnish with rosemary (optional) and serve with crackers

culture and a

Happy New Year Ingredients: - Bacon - Cream Cheese - Jalepe単o

Instructions:

1. Halve the jalepe単os 2. Remove the veins and seeds 3. Stuff the pepper with cream cheese 4. Wrap each jalepe単o in bacon 5. Grill or bake in oven at 350 degrees until cooked

Jalepe単o Poppers Ingredients:

- Bacon - Parmesan Cheese - Crackers (Water crackers are preferred)

Instructions:

1. Cut bacon slices in half 2. Take about a table spoon of parmesan cheese and place it on a cracker 3. Wrap the cheese and cracker with one half slice of bacon 4. Bake at 250 degrees for two hours

Bacon Parmesan Wraps Photos by Abigail Guadnola DECEMBER 2015 ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM

5

culture

Wind Down the Holiday Season with a Luau

by Paige Paulsen

A

s warm and fuzzy as the holiday season may be, feeling under the weather is a common side effect during the winter months where long nights and icy streets seem to signal the next ice age. I will admit that I love the cold weather and cheer at the first major snowfall, but festive lights and hot chocolate cannot compete with the inevitable dreariness of weeks without blue skies and sunlight.

I am no champion when it comes to overcoming the winter blues. While some people install light therapy lamps, others can afford to travel to coastal resorts and temperatures nearing the eighties. My family’s budget does not allow for longdistance vacations so those of us living in Colorado have resorted to bringing the tropics to our own little corner of the world by hosting a luau.

This event has only just been introduced to our seasonal traditions as of last year, but it is one that we hope to continue on an annual basis. Our version of a luau, which we organize to replace our usual New Year’s celebrations, is by no means authentic, but

6

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DECEMBER 2015

it offers a break from the traditional holiday party while simultaneously providing a reminder of the joys of summer.

In essence, it is a gathering of family and friends with no true theme other than celebrating what we miss from the warmer days of the year. We spend the afternoon before the luau stocking up on groceries such as pineapples, grass skirts and a rotisserie duck, head and all.

Once evening rolls around, what ensues are hours of chatter and limbo contests.

Paper palm trees line the walls and tiki torches flare on the porch, illuminating the snow like a bonfire at the beach. We drink, we eat and by the end of it we all go home feeling a little more hopeful that we can survive the winter doldrums as we count down the days until spring.

While this method of celebrating the spirit of the holidays is untraditional, nothing I have ever done with my family has felt so genuine or intimate. Rather than worry about the usual fuss over the Times Square ball drop or banging pots and pans as the clock strikes midnight, we have found our own way to welcome the new year.

Illustration by Paige Paulsen

New Year New You? en

uls e Pa g i a

by P

N

ew Year’s Eve offers a unique chance for people to look back at the time come and gone while also looking forward to the year ahead. Whether they anticipate the moment when the first firecracker ignites or stand on the porch gripping pots and pans in both hands, the transition from one year to the next comes down to a celebration of a metaphorical clean slate.

The fact is, the past can not be entirely left behind, but it never hurts to indulge in optimistic fantasies for the year to come. In the days leading up to the first of January,

Photo by Paige Paulsen

many Americans will be scribbling lists of hopeful resolutions meant to ring in the fresh start of a new year. Unfortunately, for many this will also be a time to generate unrealistic goals and exaggerated expectations of just how much, or how little, the new year can mean towards improving one’s habits or lifestyle choices.

Consider the impact you hope to produce over time and build up to it rather than going at it full force. Burning out after a few weeks can be avoided by making a plan for how you hope to fulfill your

resolutions. In the long term, even a single positive change of routine can benefit both you and the people around you.

If you are among those setting goals for the new year, keep in mind that it is important to pace yourself and be flexible.

Success and satisfaction do not arise simply from making a list of ways your life could be improved. So whether or not New Year’s Eve is a time you spend sketching out a plan for the year ahead, it is still a great opportunity to take a look at your life and make changes for the better.

culture

by Chiara Kovar

An Ode to Ugly Sweaters Ugly sweaters -- such a harsh title for a sweater.

Who doesn’t want to wear an ugly, scratchy, itchy, smelly sweater?

I want to have one for every day of the week.

They are great conversation starters and can attract anyone… (but maybe the wrong anyone?).

Whether you wear a green sweater with tinsel hung all over it or whether you decide to go a little more festive and strap lights all over your body, they are great.

Sometimes an ugly sweater has deeper meaning.

Take my dad’s for example, he has one ugly sweater that he pulls out just in time for the holidays.

A red and white one with snowflakes.

He claims it isn’t ugly, (but it really kind of is).

Illustration by Chiara Kovar

Ugly sweaters -- who doesn’t love them?

They are itchy and they smell sometimes.

Ugly sweaters are awesome, but ugly.

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匀䄀䘀䔀 ⴀ 倀刀伀䘀䔀匀匀䤀伀一䄀䰀 ⴀ 伀一䔀 伀一 伀一䔀 䄀吀吀䔀一吀䤀伀一 ⴀ 䄀䘀䘀伀刀䐀䄀䈀䰀䔀 ⴀ 倀䄀夀䴀䔀一吀 倀䰀䄀一匀 䄀嘀䄀䤀䰀䄀䈀䰀䔀 8

THE HERALD

DECEMBER 2015

culture

Can We Just Let It Go?

by Becca Schwisow

T

here comes a time in every Disney movie’s life where it needs to be placed back in its case, and buried deep in the shelf with the other movies. Unfortunately, that has not yet happened for Disney’s “Frozen,” even though it has been nearly two years since its release.

Sure, some people may enjoy listening to “Let It Go” on repeat for days, but for others the time has come: we need to let it go (pun intended).

It is a mystery as to what has made “Frozen” so special that it has stuck around for two years, being just as popular as it was when it first premiered. Whatever it is, it is time. Let it go, America. Let it go.

At one point, I too was a fan of the “Frozen” Phenomenon. That soon ended about a month after I had watched the movie. It was already beginning to be too much. The songs, people repeating “I’m Olaf and I like warm hugs” everywhere I went, and basically every other aspect to the movie.

Almost every little girl loves Elsa and Anna. However, I do not really see the appeal. They are the same as any other Disney princess with unrealistic body features and exaggerated problems.

Sure, the “sisterly love” angle is cute, and while it was a fresh idea, they barely had screen time together.

A lot of the shared time was them fighting. Very cute.

Out of every aspect of the movie, the songs are the worst. They are

catchy and that is what makes them horrible: getting them stuck in your head for hours and never being able to escape them. I never want to hear “Let It Go” ever again. I am done.

Then there is the goofy snowman everyone knows and loves, Olaf. He is cute, sassy, and the perfect sidekick in a Disney movie. The time to revolt against this disgusting, brainwashing, demon is now. Really, America, get over it.

Whenever a Disney movie comes out, it’s a given that it will attract little boys and girls. Especially if you throw in some princesses and villains. What stands out is how long “Frozen” has remained popular since it came out.

Little kids everywhere are still singing and dancing to their favorite songs with their favorite characters. While they might see Elsa and Anna as the best princesses, we need to at least try to move on from this phenomenon.

According to Disney, there is not a limit to the amount of clothes Elsa and Anna can be stuck on. It is up for debate whether this is our fault, as the consumer, or if it is just Disney’s marketing campaign for one of their most popular movies. Either way, it has been long enough. Pack up the shirts Disney. We do not want or need that.

It is not that “Frozen” is the worst movie Disney has made. The money reigned in can show that. Two years is a long time for a movie to be buzzing and promoted. I think it is time to move past the “Frozen” era and await the next big film Disney will release, as long as it’s not “Frozen 2.”

Photos by Maddie Egerton

DECEMBER 2015 ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM

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people

More than Just Talk Avery Griggs’ passion lies in improving the world, from protesting to volunteering

by Charles X. Maier & Sybrand Braakman

T

here are few teenagers who can live up to the opinions they preach. Not many actually act on their beliefs or try to make a difference because of them. Senior Avery Griggs has managed to transcend above that norm.

She personifies her beliefs through her involvement in addressing various hot-topic human rights issues. Some of these issues include gay marriage and forms of animal abuse in regards to both

“

and they no longer want to go to the circus,” Griggs said.

“They’ll go to their parents and tell them that they don’t want to go and that is the most beneficial thing.”

Although the kids’ support is nice, protesting in general can be very painstaking and often takes years for people to take notice.

Griggs is also involved with animal rights beyond direct protests. She is passionate about adhering

It’s interesting with the kids and how you talk to them and they no longer want to go to the circus. They will go to their parents and tell them that they do not want to go and that is the most beneficial thing.”

–Avery Griggs, 12 consumption and circuses.

She participates in many protests and is quite emphatic and passionate when talking about her beliefs.

She spoke about how circus animals are pressured to perform with harmful tactics; for example, elephants are not naturally able to stand on balls or climb stairs without these tactics.

Although there are not many instantaneous effects of these protests, they pay off over time.

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DECEMBER 2015

to a strict vegetarian diet for health benefits as well as the animals’ well being. She explained how vegetarianism has positively impacted her life by giving her something to stand up for.

She feels being a vegetarian is not a big commitment, but rather a smaller change that makes a difference in the long run.

It gives her something to be passionate about in her life, in addition to the passion she feels toward supporting good causes through protest and benefitting the world.

Senior Avery Griggs protests the selling and buying of animal fur.

Griggs actively protests and stands up for her beliefs.

Photo courtesy of Avery Griggs.

She improves the lives of other humans in addition to her dedication towards the health of animals. Griggs volunteers at the children’s hospital, partially inspired by her past injuries.

“I spend a lot of time in the hospital and I really wanted to give back,” she said. “A lot of the time I have spent at Children’s

hasn’t been the most positive of times in my life, so volunteering there has really given me a new perspective.”

Griggs is a part of the minority of teens that act upon issues rather than just talking about them. She dedicates time towards making the world a better place for animals, herself and other people.

people

Introducing Deputy Mason

New to the Warrior staff, Deputy James Mason is taking on many extra responsibilities. Photo by Amanda Brenner

Q. A. Q. A.

When did you start working at Arapahoe?

Oct. 19, just a little over a month ago.

How long have you worked as a Student Resource Officer? Where else have you worked?

This is my first student resource officer job, but before this I worked as a police officer in Douglas County at the jail and on parole, as well as in Arapahoe County on parole

Q. A.

What does working as an SRO consist of?

Well, this job is much slower than my previous law enforcement jobs. My day to day is pretty laid back, a lot of walking around and talking to students, or watching the P.E. classes. Besides checking in every morning to see what is going on, I just get a feel for what the day is like every morning and go off of that.

Q. A.

What is your favorite part of working at Arapahoe?

Q. A.

What is a piece of advice you would give to Arapahoe students?

My main concern for students is the problems on social media with cyber bullying. So my main piece of advice is to not get too caught up in social media.

Don’t believe everything you read, and have relationships in person. It’s fun to have social media to catch up with friends and family you don’t normally see, but don’t let it over take your whole life.

Q. A.

Why did you decide to become a police officer?

When I was two years old I had a good experience with law enforcement, and then all the way to high school I knew that law enforcement was something I wanted to do. In high school the Student Resource Officer I had was super inspiring to me. You could just tell he wanted to be there and that he enjoyed his job. When he left the school my junior year and we got a new officer it just wasn’t the same. I thought becoming a Student Resource Officer seemed like a cool job. I want to make that same impact my first Student Resource Officer had on me.

My favorite part of working at Arapahoe is the interaction I get to have with students. On parole it was non-stop, I always had somewhere to be so I didn’t get to have as many conversations. I love getting to have conversations every day and getting to answer questions.

DECEMBER 2015 ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM

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It’s the Most Wonderful

by Becca Schwisow & Abigail Guadnola

Pentatonix Last October, the a cappella group Pentatonix released their holiday album, “That’s Christmas to Me.” Most of the songs are covers of traditional Christmas songs, such as “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” but it also has an original song, “That’s Christmas to Me.” The album went platinum, and was the fourth best selling album in 2014. A deluxe version of the album was released with bonus songs, such as “Joy to the World” and “The First Noel.”

Photo from itunes.apple.com

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Released in 1996, the album “Christmas Eve and Other Stories” contains 19 songs orchestrally done offering the perfect addition to the typical Christmas playlist. Songs vary from a more mellow tone with soft accents to exciting solos with fast paced tempos. Perhaps the most popular song, “Christmas Eve/ Sarajevo,” is featured on this album. Many Christmas light displays and shows feature “Christmas Eve/ Sarajevo” as one of the main songs for the display. Trans-Siberian Orchestra offers quality Christmas music to all and an alternative from typical Christmas music and its lyrics.

Photo from allmusic.com

Michael Bublé Michael Bublé’s “Christmas” became the best selling holiday album of 2011, and has still been a very popular choice. The album features many traditional songs that everyone has grown to love, with a modern twist. The mix of traditional and modern is perfect to get in the holiday spirit, with songs such as “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas,” or “White Christmas,” a duet with singer-songwriter Shania Twain. The album went platinum in many countries around the world, and has been a chart topper since it’s release.

Photo from michaelbuble.com

culture

Time of the Year 12 Songs of Christmas “Jingle Bells” – Bing Crosby (featuring The Andrews Sisters)

“Baby, It’s Cold Outside” – Idina Menzel (duet with Michael Bublé) “All I Want for Chirstmas is You” – Mariah Carey

“White Christmas” – Michael Bublé (duet With Shania Twain) “Winter Wonderland / Don’t Worry Be Happy” – Pentatonix (featuring Tori Kelly) “Mistletoe” – Justin Bieber

“White Winter Hymnal” – Fleet Foxes

“O Holy Night” – Josh Groban

“Christmas Shoes” – Newsong “Christmas Eve/ Sarajevo” – Trans-Siberian Orchestra

“Blue Christmas” – Elvis Presley

“Joy to the World (A Christmas Prayer)” – Nick Jonas

Graphic illustrations by Paige Paulsen & Becca Schwisow DECEMBER 2015

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culture

Coffee for the Soul

Local coffee house reviews, each different in style, flavor, cultural surroundings

by Maddie Egerton

Mutiny Information Cafe: 2 South Broadway, Denver Coffee, vinyl, books, comics n’ more. That’s Mutiny alright. It is a bit out of the way, but definitely worth the drive. Mutiny is not only a spectacular coffee house, but an incredible book, comic, record and more store. Almost every night there is an open mic, a musical guest or a poetry slam, not to mention the fantastic art made and sold by local artists. Amazing atmosphere aside, Mutiny also has incredible coffee, tea and Italian soda. Head over before the holiday season ends and get a butter beer latte. Beautiful variety and pricing for an all around awesome experience.

Kaladi Coffee Roasters: 1730 E. Evans Ave, Denver Although it is a stretch away, it is worth it. Kaladi is a good place to get homework done, and has some of the kindest people to chat with. It is an eco-friendly place right by Denver University with good prices and even better coffee. They gave me what I can honestly say was one of the best mochas I have had. With a large variety of their own coffee, Kaladi is a popular, rustic coffee house that gives one a sense of warmth upon entering. With the weather changing, I could not think of any place better to spend these cold, snowy evenings.

Enchanted Grounds: 3615 West Bowles Avenue. Suite 5. Littleton Coming from one, this is a nerd’s nirvana. Enchanted Grounds is the perfect place for a Magic: The Gathering game, flipping through a comic book or just sitting down for a lovely cup of coffee or tea. Cards, games, dice, figurines, comics and much more are available for purchase as well as different cold or hot drinks and food. Enchanted Grounds makes and sells their own coffee and tea, so you can take a little bit of the magic home with you after a Dungeons and Dragons tournament or after traveling through Gotham City with Batman and the Joker in a graphic novel.

Romancing the Bean: 5800 S. Prince Street, Littleton in the RTD Parking lot at the corner of Prince & Alamo Romancing the Bean is one of the most quaint and cozy coffee houses I have ever been in. It is also one of the most unique. It is not only a lovely little coffee shop, but also a museum. The actual building is a train depot for the RTD, but has been configured into this brother-sister establishment.

Once you get your warm cup of phenomenal chai tea, or a steaming cup of joe, you can snag a couch in the next room decorated with historic pictures and relax with a book.

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DECEMBER 2015

Honorable Mentions: Bardo Coffee House: 238 S Broadway (1blk North of Alameda and Broadway) Denver Spur Coffee: 5624 S. Prince St., Littleton 303 Coffee Co.: 8283 S Akron St Unit 170, Centennial Photos by Maddie Egerton

The Masks We Wear It’s been pushed under the rug for too long. It’s time to bring it out.

The contents of this section may be triggering or upsetting for some audiences.

Discretion is advised.

Photo by Mason Steiner

DECEMBER 2015

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In-Depth

Leave the mask behind

An open letter to anyone who is struggling

by Mackenzie Callahan

D

ear reader, You are worth fighting for.

And though I might not be able to explain to you the ways in which you can and have impacted this world, know that you have made a difference.

You have made a difference.

Maybe you have not seen it yet. Maybe it is the way you perceive yourself that makes you blind to the perceptions of the people around you.

You are not what you see in the mirror. Where all you can do is pick apart who you are into a million tiny pieces and lay there without much of a thought as to who you want to be.

You are worth fighting for.

You may not believe me when I say that, but I swear one day you will realize how special you are to the world.

Maybe, one day, you will believe me.

“You have galaxies inside your head. Stop letting people tell you that you cannot shine.”

I cannot tell you that getting better implies an easy path to recovery. I cannot explain to you the pain you will endure in order to live the life you were given. You will have to go through hell.

I swear it will be worth it.

I swear that there will be a point in time when you are able to get out of bed and believe in the strength in your legs to carry you.

There will come a time when the sky seems brighter and the leaves seem softer, and you will look into the mirror and see more things you like about yourself and less things that you resent.

That time may seem far away and it may feel as though it will never come.

I can promise you one thing.

You may feel like the only acquaintance you have is the depression that constantly sticks around. And it yearns for you to stay in bed and takes away all your strength, and the only thing you feel like doing is taking yourself out of the equation we call life.

Stay. Do not go.

The answers to the questions you seem to be constantly asking will come, but the answers you are searching for are not buried in your wrists, so do not dig through them to look.

Do not lose your fight, kid. You are worth fighting for.

“There will come a time when th leaves seem softer, and you will look you like about yourself an 16

THE HERALD

DECEMBER 2015

he sky seems brighter and the into the mirror and see more things nd less things you resent.�

Photo by Mason Steiner

DECEMBER 2015

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17

Unveiling

the Truth Mental problems deserve the same attention as physical problems

by Amber Malom

A

girl in my class walks in on crutches and an injured foot. Everyone asks her what happened and if she is doing alright.

She talks about her experience and how walking on crutches has been really difficult for her. People comfort her and hopes she gets better soon.

This is normal.

What is not normal is people talking about a recent mental breakdown of the kid next to her, yet about 25% of high school students shows symptoms of mild to severe depression. It is the most common mental health disorder for adolescents, a rate that jumps to 33% for female students.

Why are we not talking about this? One in four of the male friends you have could be struggling with a mental illness. One in three of your female friends could have serious mental health problems. We always know when someone has a broken bone, a pulled muscle, shin splints and stitches. But we do not usually find out when someone has suicidal thoughts, is paralyzed with anxiety or is unable to get up in the morning because of their depression. Why is this?

There are a few reasons why mental health is usually overlooked with the biggest one being the stigma surrounding mental health. People, teens especially, are consumed with the shame and fear that might come 18 ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM DECEMBER 2015

when they open up about their problems. They suffer from the social stigma and negative selfimage that accompany personal discussions about psychological struggles.

According to many studies, the most commonly held belief is that people with mental health problems are dangerous. Forty-six percent of adolescents say they have experienced stigmatization by family members in the form of unwarranted assumptions, distrust, avoidance, pity and gossip.

Additional statistics report that 62% experienced stigma from peers which often led to friendship losses and social rejection and 35% reported stigma perpetrated by teachers and school staff who expressed fear, dislike, avoidance and under-estimation of abilities. This attitude towards mental health is even widespread in the medical profession, at least in part because it is given a low priority during the training of physicians and general practitioners. When mental health problems are left unresolved in adolescents there can often be life-changing consequences later in life, such as a decline in personal relationships, poorer school grades, a higher risk of unprotected sex, teen pregnancy and even suicide, which is the leading cause of death for 10 to 24-year-olds.

With a risk this high, we as a

society need to do something. We need to cut through the stigma so that we can help people in need.

Acknowledgement of the toll of avoiding treatment is the next step we need to take to help people in need.

We need to take responsibility for giving care and getting care. Taking a proactive approach could prevent things from getting worse later.

Learn the tell-tale signs of common disorders, speak out if you notice any and extend help to young people who seem as if they need a hand. Over half a century ago, the World Health Organization defined health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease.� Being okay does not mean that you do not have any broken bones or bloody knees; it means that you can cope with the normal stresses of life. Do not push off mental illness as not relevant and someone else’s problem. Many of the people you know could be wrestling with a mental disorder just the same as many people struggle with physical problems. Take a minute to understand them and help with what they need because it could benefit their future and yours.

In-Depth

Not just a

Trend Photo by Mackenzie Callahan

9.9% of teens aged 12-17 have experienced a major depressive episode.

34.7%

Of those teens, only recieved treatment for their depression

69.3% of those who recieved treatment reported improved functioning

58.6% of adults 18 and older have not recieved treatment for any mental illness

Statistics based on the 2013 behavioral survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) DECEMBER 2015

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“As a society, we have begun to train ourse stopped expressing any negative feeling # 20

ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM THE HERALD DECEMBERMONTH 2015 ####

Photo by Mackenzie Callahan

In-Depth

The Importance of Sadness Embracing the emotions that we hide away

by Mason Steiner

B

ob Ross often gave life advice in his show, “The Joy of Painting,” such as, “Gotta have the opposites dark and light, light and dark in painting. It’s like in life. Gotta have sadness every once in awhile so you know when the good times come.” A veteran in the military, Ross knew much about the light and the dark in life.

As humans, we all experience a range of emotions, both good and bad. Oftentimes, it is easy to embrace these emotions. If you are happy, you smile or laugh.

If you are angry, you might yell or want to break something. However, not all emotions are easily expressed. Sadness, specifically, is incredibly difficult to feel and express.

Of course everyone has been sad. I know I have.

Whether your pet just passed away, you failed that test you studied so hard for, or your significant other has left, sadness will eventually set in.

As a society, we have begun to train ourselves not to feel sadness, or anger. We have stopped expressing any negative feelings because they are simply too difficult.

We’re told to ignore them; we drink, do drugs and distract ourselves to numb the senses. The fact of the matter is that it is okay to be sad.

No, sadness is not a fun emotion to feel. It’s painful and seeps into every part of one’s life. Often it feels like there is no time to be sad because of all the immense pressures that we face. We as a society need to change

our perception of “negative” emotions.

Sometimes people are sad for no discernable reason, and that is completely okay. Nobody is capable of being fully happy all of the time, and it’s time to stop pretending we can be. We need to take off the mask and admit to ourselves and others when we’re not okay. We need to stop running away from these emotions because we all have them. We’ve become too accustomed to not facing the truth of our situations and too accustomed to running away and avoiding the emotions.

Admittedly, taking off that mask is easier said than done. But be honest with yourself: when is the last time you actually embraced the sadness? Or the anger, the depression? When was the last time you dealt with these emotions?

In the words of Bob Ross, you truly do have to have the dark to see the light. In the coming weeks, we’ll all be taking a break. As much time as we spend with family or friends, we need to remember to set some time aside for ourselves.

Stop running away from how you feel. Your sadness is valid.

elves not to feel sadness, or anger. We have gs because they are simply too difficult.”

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In-Depth

Focusing In Expanding on Many Common Mental Disorders

By Kiennes Adams

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ills are everywhere.

People use them for headaches, sleep deprivation, stomach aches, colds, even depression. But people have yet to realize that there are illnesses that can change your personality and character that may not be as well known as depression.

The spotlight is set on depressed and suicidal people, which is not looked down upon at all.

But the spotlight needs to change, broaden, expand, deepen. The world not only needs to rethink our values, but rethink our focus.

“The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders,’ or ‘DSM-5,’ is a diagnostic tool used by mental health professionals.

This diagnostic manual describes the different types of disorders, explains how they come to be, how they are treated and cured and much more.

Examples of different disorders recognized in ‘DSM-5’: Anxiety Disorders which are related to fear and anxiety. Although

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fear is presented as a present threat and anxiety as a future threat, they can both be associated with this type of disorder and ultimately lead to panic attacks, depression and suicide.

Trauma and Stress

Disorders. Trauma and Stress Disorders can ultimately lead to suicide and depression.

Personality Disorders are defined as a pattern of inner experiences and behavior that can eventually lead to distress

“The road to recovery with a mental health issue is often harder than dealing with some physical symptoms because so much of it has to do with your mind and changing the way that you think is a really difficult thing to do and it takes time and work.”

- School Psychologist Elizabeth Wilburn

Disorders are very common when a person is exposed to traumatic events or stressed about certain events. This type of disorder can lead to a path of anger, corresponding with Dissociative Disorders which relate to multiple personalities or splitpersonalities. This category of disorders can also relate to Anxiety

or impairment. This type of disorder is more stable over time, takes effect in early adulthood, and has a suicide and depression risk as well.

Others include Dissociative Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Sleep-Wake disorders and Addiction Disorders.

Mental health disorders are common

throughout the world.

So common, in fact, that teenagers often joke about them, which can be both helpful and harmful.

When people say, “Oh my god, I organized my Skittles by color, I am so OCD,” they may not realize that Obsessive Compulsion Disorder is a serious mental illness that people have.

Joking about mental health matters can be helpful because, in a way, the jokes de-stigmatize and can help people with these disorders fell more comfortable. On the other hand, joking about mental health can lead those with problems to not seek help, which can lead to relatively simple concerns turning into major problems.

“It’s just like you get a cold and if you go run a mile and don’t get a lot of sleep, then you’re cold could turn into pneumonia. So, I look at mental health issues in the same way,” school psychologist Elizabeth Wilburn said.

All mental health issues are important, and they are also just as important as physical disabilities.

In-Depth

Wilburn also made the point that, just like a cold developing into pneumonia, mental health issues can develop into depression and suicidal thoughts with the right “cake mix.” For example, when you add eggs, milk, flour, butter and sugar, you make a cake.

This is similar to combining a teenager’s mindset with their genetic disposition, as well as stressful environments at home and at school -- all of this can create mental health issues.

Many times, people are scared. Scared to get help, to talk about problems they are having, scared of life and death.

“The road to recovery with a mental health issue is often harder than dealing with some physical symptoms because so much of it has to do with your mind and changing the way that you think is a really difficult thing to do and it takes time and work,” Wilburn said.

Changing a mindset is not easy. The common stigma surrounding mental health issues creates many problems.

Mental health issues are very preventable, yet the stigma surrounding them keeps many from seeking help.

Mental health services should be made available to everybody just like doctors and nurses are available for the physically sick and injured.

Major Mental Illnesses in ‘The Diagnostic and Statistic Manual of Mental Disorders’

1. Anxiety Disorders Anxiety Disorders might be more anxiety than fear, but the two states do overlap. Anexiety leads to avoidant behaviors and cautiousness.

Being cautious all the time can lead to overestimation of danger in curtain situation, whether they be physical or mental dangers, and can lead to stress. Nightmares and physical sympotoms of distress are found to be a likely outcome of anxiety.

2. Trauma and Stress Trauma and Stress Disorders are very common when a person is exposed to traumatic events or stressed about certain events. This type of disorder can lead to a path of anger, relating to Dissociative Disorders, or a path of fear, a relation to Anxiety Disorders, and possibly depression.

3. Personality Disorders Personality Disorders are defined as a continuous pattern of experiences and behavior that is different from the expectations of an individual’s society. This disorder is commmon during the teenager stage or early adulthood. This disorder can lead to distress or impairment.

DECEMBER 2015

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Local Resources At Arapahoe High School, there are two school psychologists and six counselors who are always waiting with open arms for those who need and search for help. Safe 2 Tell is another resource for those who seek help for either themselves or someone else.

Mrs. Jenica Schoonover* Mrs. Rachel McNiff* Mrs. Lindsay Gillespie* Ms. Shannon Kershaw* Mrs. Kelly Talen* Mr. Scott Wadsworth* Ms. Bree Dougan* Ms. Liz Wilburn* Safe 2 Tell

*For more information such as email and or phone numbers for these school counselors and psychologists check the Arapahoe school website.

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Photo by Mason Steiner

sports

Warriors Look to Build On Winning Ways

by Quinn Trask

A

fter an impressive 19-5 season followed by a heartbreaking loss to Fruita Monument, the girls basketball team looks to piece together another impressive season.

The team is led by seniors Katie Crowley and Jordyn Vega who both averaged around seven points last season.

The leading returning scorer is junior guard Macy Ziegler. Ziegler averaged 10 points per game and five assists per game. The team lost their leading scorer, Jennah Knafelc, who averaged 20 points per game

“

The Warriors look to have another exciting season and solidify themselves as a powerhouse team.

They look to best last year’s progress after an upset in the playoffs.

“My expectation for the year is to finish stronger than we did last year,” Ziegler said. “Everyone is doubting us because we lost Jennah but I personally expect myself to help my team to finish stronger than last year.”

Ziegler looks forward to playing for their rowdy student section, the MOWB. “I’m really looking forward to

We had a tough summer and we all realized what we want to accomplish and now we have learned to play together really well.”

and was the team’s star player.

“Everyone has stepped up,” Ziegler said. “Our posts have started to score more and with Jennah being gone, the rest of the shooting guards have gotten more opportunities to score.” The team has used their strengths to overcome the challenges that preseason presented.

“The strength of the team is definitely our chemistry,” Ziegler said. “We had a tough summer and we all realized what we want to accomplish and now we have learned to play together really well.”

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the games,” Ziegler said. “There is nothing I love more than playing , especially for our incredible fan section, the MOWB.” The Warriors have found a source to draw motivation that has also maximized their efficiency.

“We all play for each other,” Ziegler says. “We always have five players on the floor who can contribute and we can really count on each other.”

The Warriors won their season opener against Legacy and look to continue to grow as a team come playoffs time.

1. Junior Macy Ziegler looks for her options as she takes the ball up the court. 2.

Senior Jordyn Vega drives to the basket. Photos by Jordan Petteys.

MOWB: A True Home Court Advantage

by Quinn Trask The womens basketball team has seen a recent uptick in fan attendance the last three seasons thanks to an up-and-coming fan group called the MOWB. The MOWB (Men of Womens Basketball) has attended every women’s game since its creation.

The MOWB always has a theme for the games including costume night, jersey night and Coach Knafelc night. The MOWB has roughly 15 members who are all upperclassmen. Members of the MOWB include Garrett Connor, Andrew Carlson, Jacob Schramm, Evan Bunch, Quinn Trask, Ben Brandse, Dane Carr and Reid Conant.

Class of 2015 student Scott Ayers is one of the original MOWB members and one of his favorite memories are the guys he MOWBed with.

“The best part of the MOWB had to be just going with the guys to cheer on the girls,” Ayers said. Many friendships and relationships have come out of the MOWB’s creation and all the members are very passionate about the group.

“I like to think of the MOWB as a family, not a student section,” junior Andrew Carlson said.

“The games are electrifying and the themes are even better.”

Not only MOWB members enjoy the group, the players do as well.

“We think they are the absolute best fans,” junior Macy Ziegler said. “The amount of people in the MOWB is less than the boy’s game, but, they are louder and much more hype.”

The MOWB has stayed loyal to the team and attends every home game and most away games. They have become a well known presence around the state.

“They are very loyal and we appreciate them so much,” Ziegler said. “My friends that I have played against that go to other schools have all told me how crazy and exciting the MOWB is.

We would much rather have the MOWB than the bleachers being packed.”

The MOWB plans to be at every women’s game and plan to give the Warriors a true home court advantage.

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Colin Suszynski: A Warrior on the Slopes

by Keegan Fulwider

O

n the brisk slopes of Vail, junior Colin Suszynski is at home. He takes his passion for skiing beyond what some may consider normal. Suszynski participates in competitive big mountain skiing.

“It’s like bouncing on clouds,” Suszynski said as he described his love for the powder. But every week he comes back down to Earth and walks the halls of Arapahoe.

Suszynski transferred to Arapahoe this past year after attending his freshman year at Vail Ski and Snowboard Academy.

“At VSSA, we had a ‘winter schedule’, where every school day except for Mondays, we would train on the mountain from about six or eight to about 11:45, when we would get lunch and attend classes until about five.” Suszynski said. “At five we did drylands until six, and skied the whole day on weekends.”

The rigorous schedule at VSSA prepared him to compete at a high level

of skiing. He originally competed in ski racing for six years while at VSSA. “While I was racing, I fell in love with big mountain,” Suszynski said. “So once I finished racing I moved to the big mountain program. Big mountain is basically a type of skiing where judges give a technical and steep trail with features such as cliffs and rocks and judge you based on your line (the cliffs you hit and such), fluidity and style, among other subcategories.”

Suszynski competes in various big mountain competitions throughout the winter months.

“It depends on the snowpack, but for the most part it’s about one or two competitions a month starting in January and ending in March.” Suszynski said.

The regional and national competitions typically can have 50 to 75 opponents of his age group. Suszynski trains every Saturday and Sunday to perfect his form and technique. Skiing is

his calling; it is practically embedded in his name: Suszyn-ski.

His passion for skiing sees past the popularity and stardom other sports draw and his love for the slopes is genuine and unique to Arapahoe.

“There is something so freeing about being on the snow,” Suszynski said. “I think it’s about the closest feeling to flying I’ll ever get.”

Colin Suszynski competes in Big Mountain skiing. Photo courtesy of Ted Vickerman.

Girls Swim Team Engages in Season with Intensity, Excitement

by Lindsey Archipley With their season now in full swing, the Girls’ Swim and Dive team is training hard with the hopes of accomplishing another impressive season.

Last year the team placed sixth in the state, but they are still always trying to better themselves. With last year’s graduation of all-star swimmer Ella Moynihan, the team must work to reinvent themselves. “[The girls] seem to be cooperative and nice kids,” Head Coach Mike Richmond said. “Every group of kids, when they reengage, there is a sense of anticipation. I enjoy seeing the formation of 26

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and the reinvention of “team” and becoming a tribe and seeing the process from the beginning stages until the end and watching kids getting excited about it. It’s a pretty neat and special experience.

People are in need of connecting, finding meaning [and] spending their time similarly.”

Along with the coaches, the girls also have a sense of excitement about forming new bonds and becoming closer with their teammates. This year’s varsity swim captains are seniors Taylor Verbsky, Shilan Schechter, Katie

Sanders and Izzy Benasso.

“I really hope that as a captain I just get to know my team better, and work alongside them to grow as a team,” Verbsky said. “I feel like our team is a lot closer than it has been in previous years, and this year we are a lot more low-key. We are still training really hard and we are really excited for our meets coming up but I feel like we are more focused on having fun and improving as a team rather than self-improvement.”

Of course with every team comes formal and informal bonding traditions. The girls

are continuing the tradition of “Big Sis/Lil’ Sis,” where upperclassmen are paired with underclassmen and each are encouraged to get their sis a small gift before every meet and cheer them on for every race. The team also sings its own rendition of “Lean on Me” in the locker room at the beginning of every meet followed by a team cheer.

Cheer on the Lady Water Warriors’ teams at their meets and especially at B-League on Jan. 30, A-League on Feb. 6 and State on Feb. 13.

Boys Basketball Shoots for Bounce-Back Season

by Reid Conant

T

he boys Varsity Basketball team is off to a 2-2 start. With several returning varsity players the team has high confidence this year.

“As a team we have really high expectations for ourselves because we really saw what we could do over the summer, winning a good amount of games and having eight returning varsity players this year,” senior captain James Walsh said.

This being the second season for Head Coach Brad Jansen, the Warriors are ready for the new season so they can forget about last season’s 7-17 record.

“We will be much much better this year. We play more as a team and we play unselfish. We have great leadership and varsity experience. Plus we have an unexpected junior core that can make a huge difference this season,” junior Jared Johnson said.

There will be many tough home games for the team this season, including Overland, Cherry Creek, Cherokee Trail and Heritage.

“Overland has a lot of returning talent so they will be tough as well as Cherokee Trail,” junior Kyle Lukasiewicz said.

The Warriors are looking to transfer some of the experience they gained last year into tons of wins this season and a deep playoff run.

“We are a close group this year, that knows what it takes to play at a high level,” Lukasiewicz said.

There is a great deal to look forward to this season for this Varsity team. The whole team seems to be on the same page and chemistry is at an all time high. With plenty of returning seniors, this team is on a mission to win the state championship.

“I’m most looking forward to just enjoying my last season of basketball with all of my best friends in front of the best crowd in the state. I’m just excited for the great atmosphere that always comes along with basketball season,” Walsh said.

The Basketball program has been exceptional for the last 20 years. Behind former Coach Dan Snyder, varsity was superb almost every year. Now it is Coach Jansen’s time in the spotlight to lead his team to many wins this year and leave the legacy of Coach Snyder a thing of the past. “[We can go] as far as we want because we have lots of depth and potential for great success this season. [I’m looking forward to] creating memories with my brothers and having fun playing the sport I love, for our school,” Johnson said.

With a win against Mountain Vista on Dec. 3, and a double overtime loss on Dec. 4 against Monarch, the Warriors are off to a 2-2 start. Their next game will be on Dec. 9 at Arapahoe against Brighton at 7 p.m.

Behind loads of varsity experience and Coach Jansen’s second year as the head coach, the Warriors could go pretty deep in the playoffs. There is a collection of talent and potential on this team and they want to turn that into many wins.

sports Wrestling Looks to Gain a Grip on the Season

by Reid Conant The Varsity Boys Wrestling team begins its season this year with a matchup against Cherokee Trail on Dec. 4th. Then on Saturday, Dec. 5th the Warriors will host the Warrior Invitational in the main gym of Arapahoe High School.

The expectations are high this season with many returning Varsity wrestlers. Returning Senior, Dakota Gutierrez had this to say about this season, “I expect that we will be a hard working team that is really committed, I think that with the dedication we are putting in now, we are going to go really far,”.

They face some of their toughest opponents after Christmas break so make sure you go and support your Arapahoe Wrestlers. The Warriors will take on Cherry Creek in their last match on the road on February 4th.

“I think our toughest opponent will be (Cherry) Creek,” Gutierrez said.

During the preseason, three Warrior Wrestlers were ranked in the “On The Mat” rankings. Those three were, senior Dakota Gutierrez, Foster Houts, and Kyle Hart. All three of them are returning varsity wrestlers that are looking to take their team to state.

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1. Junior Kyle Lukasiewicz drives to the basket. 2. Senior Joey Kleeman pops a three from the corner. 3. Senior Dane Carr prepares to shoot in for a takedown. 4. Senior Dakota Gutierrez lines up to take on an opponent.

Photos by Anna Zeek and Olivia Fink DECEMBER 2015 ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM

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16 Winter Driving Tips

16.

Graphic illustrations by Erica Martinez

Some helpful tips to get you through the winter months

by Erica Martinez & Madison Wacaser

1. Always have at least half a tank of gasoline. It is a good idea to keep enough gas in your tank so you do not get stuck on the side of the road.

2. Do not use cruise control on slippery surfaces. If you lose contact with the road while in cruise control your car will automatically speed up, which makes losing control of the car much more dangerous.

3. Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Having over-inflated or deflated tires reduces the amount of traction you have on the road.

4. Always wear your seat belt. Seat belts reduce crash-related injuries and deaths by about half.

5. Keep an eye on weather reports before driving long distances or in isolated areas.

6. If you become stuck in the snow, stay in the car. It will provide temporary shelter, and it is easier to find a car than a person on the side of the road.

7. Clear the exhaust pipe of any snow, ice or mud. A clogged exhaust pipe can cause a deadly carbon monoxide build up in the car.

8. Accelerate and decelerate slowly. It takes longer to adjust your speed on icy roads.

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9. Instead of following the normal distance of 3 to 4 seconds, you should follow 8 to 10 seconds behind the car in front of you.

Following further back gives you more time to react to anything happening in front of you.

10. Know your brakes. Some cars will stop faster than others, or require more pressure on the brakes. Make sure you know the car you are driving in.

11. Do not stop while going up a hill. Once you are stopped, it is hard to get going again.

12. If you do not have the proper tread on your tires, you could face fines up to $650.

13. Check seasonal closures, it will help you get to your destination on time.

14. Take the extra time to completely clear your car of ice and snow. Even a little bit of snow could block your view of hazards.

15. Keep headlight beams low when driving while it is snowing.

High headlight beams can reflect off the snow and lead to decreased visibility.

16. Make sure you have windshield wiper fluid, a heater or defroster and adequate wiper blades.

Information compiled from the websites of AAA (American Automobile Association), CDOT (Colorado Department of Transportation) & CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

opinions

Taking a Step Back

The holiday season is more stressful than it seems

by Hayden Peirce

T

his time of year, more so than any other time it seems, I am stressed. Despite the fact that I recently came back from a much needed Thanksgiving break, I feel more overwhelmed and up to my neck in work than ever. Of course, the holidays are always a stressful time. They are made even more so considering that I have to balance the added pressure of school and find time for extracurricular and social activities.

I know for a fact that I am not alone in feeling this way. Everyone here at school is feeling the impact of the added pressure and the raised expectations that come with the end of the semester.

Granted, everyone is under a different kind of stress. Some students, those enrolled in honors and AP classes for example, are under even more pressure from school. Students who have to find the time to make it to practice or attend a meeting for a club each day are struggling to balance their already rigorous schoolwork and the responsibility that comes with being involved outside of school. Still others are suffering from stress that comes not from school, but from family or friend troubles. For many, it is all of the above. These may seem like obvious facts but the unfortunate truth is that the majority of people who are struggling to keep up in all of these different areas are doing so quietly.

I will be the first to admit it: I am feeling anxiety from all of these stressors. I am enrolled in all honors classes, which is no doubt one of the most stressful paths I could have taken for my freshmen year. I know I put myself in this position by choosing to test into honors; however, looking back I can say that I may have done things differently – taking some regular classes for example so that I had more time for things outside of school. One thing that I know for certain is that while I am experiencing considerable pressure, most have more on their plate than I do.

Besides the fact that students have an

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unrelenting workload this time of year from school and extracurricular activities, pressures stemming from relationships with family and friends are also prevalent. Oddly enough, despite the fact that the holidays are a time meant to spend with family, this often leads to new issues and tensions flaring. Part of this comes from the fact that some family members have already strained relationships and part comes because certain people do not see each other often. I know from experience with my family. Part also seems to result from the supposed requirement to purchase gifts during the holidays.

Finances are already tough for a considerable number of teens without the extra money that is always spent during the holiday season.

When this aspect of the holidays is added, it almost never has a good result for those struggling financially.

Although there is more pressure from this aspect of the holiday season on those who are actually struggling to make ends meet, regardless of the financial situation everyone will feel more stress from this area.

There is almost certainly more pressure during the holiday season; however, it seems that this is not a commonly recognized fact. Not only is this unrecognized by peers, it is also possible for one to get so caught up that they simply do not realize how much they actually have to shoulder. My message to everyone, then, would be this: take a step back.

Without question, there is an immense amount of stress and anxiety in everyone’s lives, whether they are involved with a sport or club, taking advanced classes or tangled up with family and friend troubles. With so much going on, we all get caught up and do not take enough time to just unwind. Additionally, take a step back to notice the struggles that other people are going through. It is almost never obvious, but when these struggles are noticed, it is nice to support someone in any way possible. Make a conscious effort. I guarantee it will be more helpful, either to you or someone else, than you probably realize.

After all, that is what the holidays should be about.

I am enrolled in all honors classes, which is no doubt one of the most stressful paths I could have taken for my freshmen year.”

DECEMBER 2015

Get happy: Get outside

by Alissa Brown Try to remember the last time you were completely focused and relaxed. Think of a time when you had nothing on your mind but the present moment.

Can you recall or even imagine this?

Even when people have nothing to do, they make themselves busy by shuffling through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and other social media on their phones, or focus on an exhausting stream of thoughts.

Getting outside, even when it is cold, is the best way to relieve stress and quiet the mind. There are not many people who have not been awestruck by nature. The sight of a sunset, snow on top of the mountains, the sound of water crashing into the beach, or the light hush of wind rustling through the leaves of trees has at some point brought peace to the viewer or listener.

Being outside can make you feel relaxed and allow for stressful thoughts and ideas of yesterday and tomorrow fade away.

Going outside is just as important and if not more helpful than any other stress reliever.

When someone is focused on the beauty of the outdoors, thoughts of tasks they need to get done will be temporarily dismissed.

The dismissal of unpresent thought allows for temporary relief from worry and anxiety.

Spending time outdoors is a major stress reliever as well as a place to think and reflect.

opinions

Gift Family with Your Time this Holiday Season

by Alissa Brown

A

s I have grown older, I’ve started to wonder why I celebrate Christmas if I am not a Christian. One thing for sure is that I do not celebrate for the presents.

Gifts have creeped their way into the holiday season, and it is getting out of hand. Working in retail, I can speak to the reality that people are far more angsty and grumpy this time of year, which is ironic for the holiday season when the words joy, faith and peace are posted just about everywhere.

From the time we are little kids, we are taught what’s really important about this time of year: the presents.

I remember anticipating Christmas morning when I was a child. Every year my little brothers and I woke each other up and snuck out to the living room to quickly peek at our presents, being careful not to let our parents catch us. We would all sit together, usually in their room, and discuss what we thought was underneath that thin wrapping paper, which we could already feel ourselves tearing apart in our tiny hands.

We waited as long as we could, but eventually we could not wait any longer so we went into our parents room together and woke them up.

Our generation has been given a false idea about what this time of

year is about. For many of us, greed and gifts have been two main elements of the holiday season, and I will admit I have asked my cousins what they got for Christmas before asking them how their holiday went for years.

In the last five to 10 years I have seen more and more people give up their Thanksgiving holiday to shop for the upcoming Christmas holiday.

Sure, getting a gift for someone you love is fun and gives you those warm, fuzzy feelings inside, but many would argue that the best gift to receive from the people you love is the gift of their time, especially during the holiday season.

Giving up time with family on a holiday for shopping is absolutely ridiculous. Gift giving is nice, but giving family and friends time on holidays shows that you are there and enjoy being around them.

My brothers and I have always had an unspoken mutual agreement not to get each other presents for our birthdays, Christmas or any other holiday. My brothers are also my best friends.

To make the most of the cold winter months, in which many people celebrate different holidays, everyone should spend more time with their family and less time worrying about what to get for them.

Fix the Prison System In the wake of President Obama’s historic meeting with six inmates in a federal prison, a conversation about this country’s prison policies has risen to the surface. There are some startling statistics that go along with this topic. The United States has only 5% of the world’s population, but it has 20% of the world’s prison population. This makes the U.S. the world’s largest jailer.

It is an easy stance to say, “These people are criminals so they deserve to be locked up.” It is easy to forget about the 2.2 million people who are incarcerated. By disregarding the staggering amount of people in our prisons, we are able to ignore the problem. And there most definitely is a problem. The prison system in this country is broken.

According to The Vera Institute of Justice, an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit center for justice policy and practice, “Even as violent crime rates began to decline, the jail intake continued to surge, nearly doubling over the last 30 years. Much of that growth is attributable to an increase in the number of defendants jailed on drug charges as the War on Drugs accelerated.” As a country, we should at least take the time to have a conversation about a system that imprisons thousands of low-level offenders.

This issue affects more than just the inmates. Those imprisoned have families and loved ones. Most Americans don’t often think about the damage incarceration can have on families.

“More than 2.7 million children in the U.S. have an incarcerated parent,” The Pew Charitable Trusts, an independent nonprofit organization, found. “Ten million children have experienced parental incarceration at some point in their lives.” There are secondary effects to incarcerating millions of people.

A disproportionate amount of people in prisons are black and Hispanic and from lower income neighborhoods. This means most families where a parent is incarcerated do not have the resources to frequently visit their loved one in prison.

This is a complex issue. I know I can’t begin to really understand the depth that incarceration affects a country, a community or a family. I don’t know what the solution to this problem is, but I know this topic is worthy of a serious national conversation. In a country that boasts of having the most freedom, it is odd that we have the largest prison population in the world.

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SAY WHAT?!

Ridiculous, out-of-context comments overheard throughout the school.

“Ugh, I hate PDA.” “That’s because you’ve never done PDA.” – E8 “I’ve been coughing so much, I’m pretty sure I’m going to get a six pack.” – Einstein’s “I don’t like round tables.

They make me feel insecure.” – Cafeteria “Robin Hood’s a hero.”

“You’re a communist.” – King Soopers “Don’t you diva shake your head at me.” – C2 “Do chem teachers have chem labs at their house?”

“Do zookeepers have zoos at their house?” – W101