The Herald - March 2016

march 2016

Volume 52 | Issue 4 Arapahoe High School | 2201 East Dry Creek Road | Centennial, Colorado 80122 | arapahoeherald@gmail.com | ArapahoeXtra.com

contents

Original caption from 2001 Calumet Yearbook: In the early morning, prior to the start of school, two members of the Arapaho Tribal Nation raise the American flag in front of school. Drummers sounded a traditional song while the flag was raised. Photo by Calumet Staffer.

INFO: ARAPAHOE HISTORY 23 Interesting Facts

SPORTS

OPINIONS

Athlete Gabe Cardenas

5

by Quinn Trask

by Kiennes Adams

Boys & Girls Lacrosse

Arapaho Relationship

by Reid Conant

6–7

14

15

Field Hockey

CULTURE

IN-DEPTH: TEEN EMPLOYMENT & FINANCES

by Mackenzie Callahan

Student Jobs Survey

Local Music Artists 10–11

by Xavier Maier

Budgeting Tips

Spring Break Calendar 12–13

by Madison Wacaser

by Maddie Egerton

by Erica Martinez 2

THE HERALD

MARCH 2016

18–19

20

Tipping Etiquette

by Amanda Brenner & Abigail Guadnola

Downloading Music

30

by Erica Martinez

by Alissa Brown

by Keegan Fulwider

by Amber Malom

28–29

School Promotes Lethargy

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by Hayden Peirce, Becca Schwisow & Mason Steiner

Under-the-Radar Artists 8–9

Pressures of School

24–25

ON THE COVER

31

The Indian Paintbrush (left) is the Wyoming state flower and the Blue Columbine (right) is the Colorado state flower. The Wind River reservation is home to the Northern Arapaho tribe and is located in Lander, Wyoming. In Northern Arapaho tribal culture, the sagebrush (background) has been used for medicinal purposes, as a ceremonial item and carried for luck and protection.

Information from the dictionary of the Arapaho language and “The Arapaho Project” done by the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Graphic illustrations by Lindsey Archipley.

From the editor

Are you picking up the pattern here? My high school life is not necessarily what one might call “fun” or “exciting.” Sure, it’s not all bad – I enjoy some classes and if it weren’t for being involved in The Herald, I might find it a little more difficult to get out of bed every morning. However, I still feel as though I am more than ready to move on.

Graduation Brings Excitement About Let’s be real for a Independence, Fresh Starts second. Most of you know me as the quiet, awkward, ith graduation looming in the near occasionally witty girl who turns bright red distance, I am constantly hearing more and anytime the slightest amount of attention is more of what I have been hearing since the brought to her in class (I mean, what’s up first day of freshman year: “Enjoy it while it with that?). Some of you have known me for lasts.” No matter who I talk to – my family, almost seven years now, and I’m guessing my teachers, my coworkers – it’s like they are you feel pretty solid in your opinions about all trying to send me the same message, that me. My point is, I’m ready to shed these once I graduate high school, it is all going to predisposed assumptions I’ve been carrying go downhill from there. around with me since middle school.

They tell me that if I think I’m stressed I’m simply ready for a fresh start. I’m now, the “real world” is going to be so much ready to go somewhere where all of the worse. Being independent, working 40 hours faces are new (no offense to your faces, a week and paying my own bills is going they’re all lovely). I’m ready to go somewhere to be more stressful than any homework where no one knows me and people do not assignment I have ever had, and I better already have their mind made up about me. I enjoy all of this free time while I have it. don’t want to be the quiet, awkward, tomatoWait, what!? By my calculations, with faced girl anymore. school, homework and my job, I am already I’m also ready for independence. I’m working way more than 40 hours per week. excited to go grocery shopping on my own I usually spend my “free time” taking naps, and make dinner for myself but also have because I’m usually too exhausted to do cereal for dinner when I’m not in the mood anything else. However, I digress. This isn’t to cook. I’m excited to be curfew-less and supposed to be another whiny, “Boo-hoo, also hopefully not have to wake up at 6:30 high school is so hard,” article. a.m. every day for class. I’m excited for new High school is hard, and my point is that experiences and a new routine. I love you, I’m sick of being told that these years are Mom, but you and I both know that I’m ready supposed to be the best of my life. Don’t get to fly the nest. me wrong; I’m sure high school is a whole High school has certainly been an lot of fun for some people. I hear about the experience, but I know there is much more parties, I hear about the crazy Friday nights, I out there for me. I’ll try to make the most out hear about it all. I’ve just never been involved of my last couple months here at Arapahoe, with any of it. but honestly, May 19 cannot get here fast Some of you may be shocked to read enough. this, but I have never been to a high school party (gasp!). My social life consists of the Sincerely, occasional (and by occasional I mean about every three months) shopping trip with my best friend since fifth grade. My Friday and Saturday nights are spent working so that I can afford to eat when I am in college. I eat lunch everyday in the Journalism room with one person, and the majority of the half-hour is spent in silence.

Lindsey Archipley

W

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.

MARCH 2016

ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM

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info

Heneebe3boootiini’ “There is a Powwow going on”

by Mason Steiner In 1993, Principal Ron Booth took a trip up to the Wind River Reservation to meet with the Northern Arapaho Nation.

Twenty-three years ago, Booth started a relationship between Arapahoe High School and the Northern Arapaho Nation that has continued to this day. With biannual trips of our students to the Wind River Reservation alternating with trips from the nation to our school, our school has been one of the only in the country to gain the approval of our Native American name from the tribe.

Photos by Eli Bachali, Emily Merlin, Marissa Marino & Tori Hoffman, Calumet Yearbook 2014

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MARCH 2016

The Bubble, a new main entrance on the east side, was built in 1997. Some students thought it made the school look like a hospital, but they eventually came to like the new design.

The first prom was titled “Misty Moonlight” and “Romeo and Juliet” was the first play performed.

Members of the Tom Toms wore actual deer hides for their first performance costumes in the1960s.

The first trip to the Wind River Reservation was in 1995.

30 students attended this trip.

The newspaper was originally called Swashta. The name was changed to the Herald in September 1990. The first issue was published in February 1964.

The school day was lengthened by 7 minutes in 2007.

The mascot of Arapahoe has changed a lot and at one point was a cartoon Pawnee Indian, an enemy of the Arapaho tribe. The official logo used today was unveiled at the first tribal assembly on Sept. 17, 1993.

Basketball, cross country, and track are very popular sports on many Indian reservations, including the Wind River Reservation.

The first class of Warriors actually went to Newton Junior High in 1964 while AHS was being built.

Seniors contributed $9,000 to build the outdoor classroom in the year 2000.

Sophomores wore black and gold beanies in 1966 for initiation. The initiation also consisted of pledges and war cries.

The year 2000 was the first year of Link Crew, which helps incoming students.

Arapaho Tribal Elder Anthony Sitting Eagle passed away in February 1997.

K-9 locker searches begin in 1995 to ensure a safer environment for students and staff.

Wilbur Antelope, Northern Arapaho artist, is the designer of the Arapahoe High School mascot.

23 things you may not know about ARAPAHOE

In October 1988, Vice President George H.W. Bush visited Arapahoe. Room S14 has his signature on the chalkboard in the back of the room.

The Arapaho language, spoken by the Arapaho tribe, is part of a wider launguage, called the Algonquian lanuage. For more info, search for the Arapaho Language Project website.

Arapahoe was recognized as a Blue Ribbon School in 1992.

In1965, a popular fundraising activity was Donkey Arapahoe’s gymnasium Basketball, with teams of students and faculty name was officially changed to Sitting Eagle members playing basketball on the backs of donkeys.

Gymnasium on Dec. 9, Arapahoe officially 1994 to honor The cheerleading team only opened its doors in Arapaho Elder Anthony consisted of 6 girls in 1964.

September 1964.

Sitting Eagle. Anthony gave the advice, “Always Students and teachers take care of one another.” protested for increasing teacher This motto is still used pay in 1974. daily at A.H.S.

info

Booth Took First Step in Lasting Friendship Former principal’s meeting with Arapaho tribe established legacy

by Hayden Peirce, Mason Steiner & Becca Schwisow

A

rapahoe High School is one of the few schools in the nation named after a Native American tribe that has actually received the endorsement of the tribe. While there are numerous other organizations that have adopted the name of a tribe, few have actually received their approval. For our school, the process was an exhaustive one. Former principal Ron Booth was the man responsible for establishing the lasting relationship that Arapahoe High School has with the Northern Arapaho Nation.

Booth was put in touch with the tribe almost by accident. He went to a printer to have the commencement programs for the graduation nearly two decades ago printed, when the printer noticed that the brochures were for Arapahoe High School.

Booth later learned from the printer that

there was an Arapaho Indian working for the print shop who was not at work that day. He was put in touch with the man, but they were unable to meet. However he did put Booth in touch with another member of the Arapaho tribe, Carolyn Mclaughlin. Mclaughlin was able to arrange the initial meeting with the Arapaho tribal elders which took place at the Wind River Reservation from sun down to sun up.

“One of them slid a chair right in the middle. It was an elementary, first grade chair. So I sat there, and they looked down and they talked to me. They took their time; they were in full control of this council,” Booth said.

The meeting opened with a series of difficult questions, such as “Why did you name your high school Arapahoe after our people and you didn’t ask our permission,” and “Why can’t you change your mascot to an eagle?” and “Why do white people believe they can make decisions for Arapaho people?”

“One of the things they said was ‘Do you know we have watched Arapahoe High School since it was first being built?

Yes, we have sent people down to watch it develop. And we’re not too happy with your school. Because your mascot is the Pawnee, and the Pawnee are our enemy!

You call yourselves the Arapahoe Warriors and your picture is of our enemy!’ They got me, I didn’t know how to answer,” Booth said.

The mood was fairly grim in the room, no small talk was made and no one smiled.

Booth had asked the tribe questions about endorsing the school, but none were answered.

“I’ve traveled here to speak with you about endorsing our high school, which is named after your people,” Booth said.

“To receive your endorsement but also to receive the authentic Arapaho warrior.”

Upon hearing that, Anthony Sitting Eagle, the tribe’s chief, asked the rest of the tribe to give Booth what he wanted, saying that Booth was “an honest man.”

By the conclusion of the meeting, Principal Booth had received the endorsement of the tribe and had sparked an enduring relationship with the Arapaho people.

“Years later, I asked Anthony [Sitting Eagle], ‘Why did you do it?’ He said, ‘Before you came to us, we had a council.

We determined that, in the history of our people, you are the only white man to ever ask us for a favor. And we wanted to grant that,’” Booth said.

The current Warrior logo was created in 1993 by Northern Arapaho Artist Wilbur Antelope. Earlier school mascots were more similar to a Pawnee Indian and depicted the culture in a negative light. The original agreement stated that the new logo would not be placed on the floor for any reason, that it would never be used in a derogatory fashion and must be represented with pride and respect to Northern Arapaho Indian Nation, and the logo may only be used and reprinted for the use of the high school for high school events.

Four is a very powerful number to the Northern Arapaho people. The importance of four is seen in the four directions, four colors and the four wise elders in the Northern Arapaho Nation.

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MARCH 2016

info

How Do I Say...

Hello

tous (m-f, f-f) or héébe (m-m)

Thank You

hohóú

_____, Is my name

_____, nee’eesíh’inoo For more information and pronunciation, search for the Arapaho Language Project website, produced by CU Boulder.

The Northern Arapaho Nation Flag The Arapaho Flag was created in 1936 as a sign of respect and remembrance for the Arapaho War Veterans. The three colors used each have a different meaning and symbolism: Red is for the People. Black so the People will be strong and unfearing of death. White represents knowledge to be passed on to the young. The seven stripes each represent one of the Seven Medicines of Life. The White triangle signifies the way one begins a prayer, “Hey-so-no-ne-hoe-,” or “Great Spirit, that is the way I want it.” The circle in the exact center of the triangle is Black on the left, because that is where the heart is. The right side of the circle is Red representing the human side, for our happiness, strength and sorrowful ways. The White line dividing the two spheres represents the Great Spirit so we will not forget who created us. The entire circle represents the world, the center of our lives. The Arapaho People approved and adopted the flag in 1956.

– From the Northern Arapaho Nation website, www.northernarapaho.com

Graphic illustrations by Becca Schwisow & Mason Steiner

MARCH 2016 ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM

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culture

Seven Artists Everyone Should Know

by Mackenzie Callahan

W

hen someone looks around at any point in time at school, at least one person will have their headphones in.

Music is a way of life. Musicians dedicate their life to making music and people dedicate a much of their time to listen to music. It is always exciting to discover new music to listen to. Here is a list of seven artists you should definitely know.

MAX

The Runaway Club

With good summer vibes in his music as well as an unbeatable voice with crazy range, MAX is a fantastic artist to listen to. His melodic voice can brighten up any day. He collaborated with Hoodie Allen in the song “Gibberish.”

If one is searching for an uplifting song with mellow vibes, The Runaway Club would be a good artist to search. Their song “We’re Gonna Be Alright” is a perfect song to listen to.

I Prevail

The Hunna

I Prevail is a band that everyone should listen to at least once.

Though they are more on the alternative side of music, there is more to the band than the genre they are in. Their song, “My Heart I Surrender” is an acoustic masterpiece.

Palisades

If you are looking for an artist to listen to when you are camping, driving or just living, The Hunna would be the artist to look at.

Their song, “Bonfire” is perfect for the 9 p.m. sunsets and drives to nowhere.

Yellow Claw

Once again, Palisades are more on the alternative side of music. They have a combination of EDM and rock in their songs, and it makes for an incredible song to jam to. Their song “Mind Games” has the perfect balance of both EDM and rock for fans of both genres to enjoy.

Yellow Claw is an EDM artist with incredible songs. The bass drops in their songs may not be for everyone, but they still make wonderful music. Their song “Runaway” is an outstanding portrayal of their musical capabilities.

Dirty Heads Though most people have heard their song, “My Sweet Summer,” the Dirty Heads are much more than that song. They have have an immense talent for creating marvelous music. Their song, “Sound of Change” is a song that everyone can enjoy.

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THE HERALD

MARCH 2016

culture

Spring Break Jams

by Mackenzie Callahan & Maddie Egerton

I

f you are in search for new songs to jam to when you are taking a break from school, whether you are working, sleeping, driving or anything else, this playlist is for you. This list compiles songs from several different genres and many different artists. Not only is this playlist capable of expanding music tastes, but it can also show you a different side of music itself.

“Fall” – Palisades “Sunlight” – Modstep “Seventeen” – Alessia Cara “Born Again” – Newsboys “Heaven In Our Headlights” – Hedley “YOUTH” – Troye Sivan “Roses” – The Chainsmokers “Rock Bottom” – Hailee Steinfeld “Cake By The Ocean” – DNCE “Smoke Filled Room” – Mako “Wrong” – MAX “Sentiment” – Paradise Fears “Used” – Someone You Used To Know “Back To Earth” – Fall Out Boy “Hold Me Down” – Halsey “Mugshot” – MAX “Don’t Threaten Me With A Good Time” – Panic! At The Disco “Old Boy” – Brick + Mortar “Did You Have Your Fun?” – R5 “One Day” – D-WHY “30 Minute Break” – The Luka State “Oh Wonder” – Lose It “No Words” – Erik Hassle “Take Me There” – Ryland Background photo of Michael Tait, member of Newsboys. Photo by Abigail Guadnola

MARCH 2016

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Discover Colorado’s Local Music

by Amber Malom

W

hile being involved in both nationally and internationally-known music can be fulfilling, the local music scene can create a sense of community and a connection to your city. You will encounter more

interesting and creative sounds when you start listening to local music and going to lesser-known shows. While bands such as The Fray are popular, they are old news and well-known across the country.

Embrace your local roots and see what the Colorado music scene has to offer.

Here are a few local gems, but believe me when I say that there are thousands more to discover out there.

2

1

Boldtype

Paper Bird

Boldtype describes themselves as fast, loud punk-rock.

When you listen to them you will feel energized and excited. They are a staple in the Denver music punk scene.

Paper Bird is an indie-folk band. They have three female leads that create rich multi-part vocal harmonies and a velvety, sweet sound.

3

DeVotchKa This well known group is worth a listen if you have not heard of them yet. DeVotchKa is a gypsy-punk, dark-cabaret, indie band that has already taken big steps in the world.

They were chosen to score the movie, “Little Miss Sunshine”. They performed most of the music on the soundtrack and were nominated for a 2006 Grammy Award for Best Compilation Soundtrack.

4

In The Whale In The Whale from Greeley, Colorado is easy to like. The alternative-rock, two-person band is energetic and fun, and you’ll find yourself listening to them for hours.

5

Pan Astral

If you are a fan of dream-pop and indie music, you will enjoy Pan Astral. They are an indie/ art-rock/electropop group that has high-energy performances with light shows and live art.

Photo from 1) boldtype1.bandcamp.com 2) paperbirdband.bandcamp.com 3) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/100_Lovers 4) inthewhale. bandcamp.com 5) panastral.bandcamp.com 6) www.elephantrevival.com 7) www.fortheloveofpunk.com 10

THE HERALD

MARCH 2016

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6

The Potato Pirates

Elephant Revival For those who enjoy the roots of Colorado music, listen to Elephant Revival.

This folk-bluegrass band from Nederland is talented and enjoyable even for those that do not typically call themselves bluegrass fans. The lead singer’s voice is captivating and worth a listen.

This hard-edged, stripped-down punk band called The Potato Pirates has a do-it-yourself attitude which is apparent in their music. Along with the typical vocals, drums, bass and guitar, they also have a bagpipe player that makes listening to the band a fresh experience.

Music Elitists Are Not Welcome

by Kayle Hughes

Music is something many people enjoy, in many different ways.

From classical to rock to punk rock to country, everyone has that one genre or song that they just cannot stand, but what if we

stop and listen with more open minds maybe to someone else’s favorite music? Here are five reasons to not discriminate against other’s music taste.

1

Your musical taste isn’t any better than someone else’s.

2

Music is a matter of opinion.

3

It is most likely not bothering you.

Everyone has a different taste in music; therefore, no one has a better musical taste than someone else.

Like most things, someone’s musical taste is their opinion, not yours. Not everyone is going to like the same music, and that is okay.

Most high school students have a pair of earbuds. They walk the halls with music blaring in their ears. You rarely hear music playing out loud so do not let something you can’t hear bother you.

4

No matter what you say their musical taste most likely won’t change.

5

You might end up liking different music.

When you find a music group or a song that you like, you listen to it over and over, and no matter what anyone says you most likely won’t stop listening to it because someone else dislikes it.

Before you start to discriminate, why not take a second to listen to other music? You might find a new music group you end up loving. Don’t be afraid to branch out of your comfort zone.

Background photo of Vic Fuentes, member of Pierce the Veil. Photo by Mackenzie Callahan MARCH 2016

ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM

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culture

SprinG Break 2016 March 19-26

Saturday

Anger, from the movie “Inside Out,” Lewis Black will be at the Bellco Theatre on his “Emperor's New Clothes: The Naked Truth Tour.”

Sunday

Sphere Ensemble is Colorado’s newest chamber orchestra, without the strictness of a conductor. They will be playing at the Broomfield Auditorium.

Intonaut and The Ocean will be at the Bluebird Theatre.

Catch German metal band, The Ocean, and progressive rock group, Intronaut, at this intimate venue.

NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Denver - Session 3 at the Pepsi Center.

Consisting of Quavo, Offset and Takeoff, the hip-hop trio from Atlanta, Migos, will be visiting Denver this Saturday at City Hall, a cavernous performance hall that hosts artists of a variety of genres ranging from hip-hop to dubstep.

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THE HERALD MARCH 2016

The folk/bluegrass band, River Whyness, will be at the funky venue, The Hi-Dive. Cheap food, live music, what more could you ask for?

At the dive bar, Lost Lake Lounge, indie artisits Alex G, Porches and Your Friend will be performing.

Tuesday

Monday

Indie rock band, Geographer, headlines at the Bluebird with opener, county rock group, The Crooks.

BANNERS along with The Moth & The Flame and POP ETC will be at the Marquis Theatre at 6 p.m.

For a night of jazz, the upscale, urban club, Dazzle Jazz, will be hosting classical and jazz group, Jazz for Kay, alongside, Adriana Teodoro-Dier and Teresa Carroll and later “Jazz Jam” with Todd Reid.

culture

Staying home this break?

Here are some ways to keep busy.

Wednesday

Thursday

After releasing her third album, “99¢,” the electronic star, Santigold, will be at the Ogden.

Head to Summit Music Hall for a night of alternative, folk and punk rock with Brian Fallon, guitarist for The Gaslight Anthem.

Philadelphia 76ers at Denver Nuggets at the Pepsi Center.

Saturday

Friday

Later this upcoming week at the Bellco Theatre there will be many performances of the classic musical, “Newsies!” Don’t worry about not catching it on time, there are plenty of showings.

Philadelphia Flyers at Colorado Avalanche at the Pepsi Center.

Colorado Mammoth vs. Calgary Roughnecks at the Pepsi Center.

The singer-songwriter, Rachel Platten, will be in Denver after her third single, “Wildfire,” reached number five on the charts.

Sports Event

Concert

Other

MARCH 2016 ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM

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sports

Cardenas Set To Run All Over Competition

by Quinn Trask

one of the fastest positions on the field, because of his excellent speed.

“I had high confidence coming into the season,” Cardenas said. “I knew my speed and I knew I could run with anyone out there.”

After his superb season, Cardenas is looking forward to his senior track season. He has set his goals high as he hopes to run a sub 50 second 400 meter dash. This sets him up nicely to be a state contender.

or game I have the same playlist that I play.” f speed really did kill, senior He finds a deeper source of Gabe Cardenas would be a inspiration than just a good beat wanted man. Cardenas clocked or his favorite rapper. a 4.6 second 40 yard dash time “Once you get deeper into and is one of the top runners the music and you actually listen on the track team. Cardenas to the lyrics, it pumps you up also was one of the starting even more than just listening,” cornerbacks for the 10-1 league Cardenas said. champion football team.

Cardenas uses both music “I like running track more and his competition around the than football,” Cardenas said. state as his offseason motivation.

“I just picked it up later and I “The fact that other people discovered my love for it pretty at other schools are doing the late. I love competing in the same motivates relays and me,” Cardenas said. running fast.”

I knew my speed and I knew I could “They have more Early on, run with anyone out there,” experience so I feel football was like I have to catch Cardenas’ – senior Gabe Cardenas up to them.” number one Cardenas knows that playing Gabe has worked hard for sport. But during his junior year, a fall sport could set him back years to leave a lasting legacy that all changed. for track, but everyday he wills with his name.

“Junior year was when I himself to get better.

“I want them to think that really fell in love,” Cardenas said.

“I know that all the state dudes crazy fast,” Cardenas said.

“Originally, I ran just to get better champs have had more time to “That’s what I wanted them at football but then I found out I work out than I have,” Cardenas to think of me during football really loved it.” said.

“They don’t do a fall sport season so that applies to every Cardenas had a great or anything so I’m just trying to sport I play.” football season as the Warriors’ spend my time catching up and You can check on and number one cornerback. He had getting closer to them.” follow Gabe and the rest of 14 total tackles, three passes Like most athletes, Cardenas the Arapahoe track team defended and one interception. has a playlist that he will listen to through constant updates on “I thought for my first year before every game or race.

But ArapahoeXtra.com. playing defense I really had no music for Cardenas has a special idea what to expect,” Cardenas effect that really motivates him. said. “But I’m really happy with “Music has a huge impact,” what I did. I played my best Cardenas said. “If I play a song against the best receivers I right now that reminds me of matched up with.” my season last year it gets me He knew that he would be in the zone.

So before every race successful as a defensive back,

I

“

Gabe’s Pregame 6 pump-up songs

“R.I.C.O.”-Meek Mill “Stick Talk”-Future “Intro”-Meek Mill “Tonight”-Lil Snupe “All Over”-Young Thug “Weight Up”-Rich Homie Quan

Cardenas is a two-sport athlete who plays football and runs track. He was a defensive back this year on the football team and specializes in the 400 meter dash on the track team. Photos courtesy of Gabe Cardenas.

sports

Boys Lacrosse Finds New Leadership

by Reid Conant

T

he Boys Lacrosse team is looking to get back on track this year with a run at the state title. With many returning varsity players and plenty of talent, this team has the capability to win state.

The expectations are very high coming into this season.

Three years ago they won a state championship, and the Warriors are looking to get back to that level this season.

When asked what the expectations are for the season, junior Kyle Mackey said, “We are going to be state champions.”

This season the team will have a new head coach, Logan Bobzien. Bobzien is an Arapahoe alumni and was a four year starter on varsity lacrosse while he was in high school. He was the head coach at Mullen High School last year, and an assistant coach at Arapahoe from 2008 to 2014 serving as the co-offensive coordinator. In 2011,

Bobzien was recognized as the Colorado High School Lacrosse Coaches Association “Assistant of the Year” and was part of an undefeated season that year, which ended in a state championship title.

“He is one of the most knowledgeable lacrosse coaches I have ever had and I am very excited to have him as our coach for my senior year,” senior Grant Evans said.

The expectations are very high coming into this year as the team has been knocked off early in the playoffs the last couple of years and they are trying to get back to the level of play that will win them another state championship.

“Our expectations are to play team lacrosse and put in enough work to meet our end goal of winning state,” Evans said.

Three seniors, Sam Cofield, Grant Evans and Charlie Leonard, won the state title their freshman

year. They are looking to be leaders and show the team what it takes to win a state championship.

“What got us there my freshman year was the leadership of the upperclassmen. Everyone respected them and they all respected each other,” Evans said. “I hope to bring that same leadership and help guide our team back to state.”

The team captains this year are seniors Grant Evans, Sam Cofield, Tyler Pauls, Charlie Leonard and Declan Murray. The senior leadership is very crucial to this team, and it is very evident because the team voted to have five captains.

“We’re all jazzed,” senior Keenan Moffitt said.

With a new coach, lots of senior leadership along with young talent, this lacrosse team is expecting a state championship title. Keep up with them the rest of the year on Arapahoextra.com.

By the numbers Number of Seniors Girls: 6 Guys:15 Number of Juniors Girls: 2 Guys: 9 Number of Returning Varsity Players Girls: 10 Guys: 20 Number of Underclassmen Girls: 14 Guys:12

Division I Players Charlie Leonard-Notre Dame Keenan Moffitt-Marquette Chase Douglas-Air Force Jackson Harvey-Denver

Girls Lacrosse Features Young Talent on Varsity

by Reid Conant

The girl’s lacrosse team has many returning players this year and the team is looking to make a run far into the playoffs. With only four seniors graduating from last year’s team, the team has eleven returning varsity players.

As they look to capitalize on their experience and depth as a team, the sky is the limit this season.

“This season we expect to make playoffs, and we are hopeful for a state championship,” junior Tatum Ramsey said.

The Warriors have played three games so far, and make sure to check Arapahextra.com for their results throughout the year. The team has some high expectations and want, to make it

past the quarterfinals this year.

“Our goal is state. We could go pretty far I believe. The farthest we have gotten my three years playing was to the quarterfinals so I hope we can get farther this year. I believe we have a decent shot to be in state if we all work our hardest in the regular season. Our hard work will pay off in the postseason,” Goldsberry said.

The team seems excited for the new season and new challenges.

The challenge of winning a state championship will be an uphill climb but the team seems ready and the team chemistry is at an all-time high.

“By the end of the season, I expect us to be clicking on all cylinders and very

close as a team and that we all trust each other,” Goldsberry said.

Against the toughest opponents the team will rely on their experience from last year.

“I think it will help to have experience on the team because during the tough games, the younger and newer girls can look to us for composure. It also helps because we all know how each other can play from the past and make those connections,” Goldsberry said.

With much experience in returning varsity players, the girls are striving to win in the postseason this year. Come out and support your lady warriors this season as much as possible.

MARCH 2016 ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM 15

sports

New Sports Welcomed To Arapahoe

by Keegan Fulwider

Mens Volleyball

This spring season, Arapahoe will introduce a new club sport, the school’s first mens volleyball team which will be coached by Jordan Wright. The mens team will consist of a combination of students from Arapahoe and other schools.

“I look forward to coaching boys and seeing the differences of their competitiveness and style of play,” Coach Wright said.

The program is separated into two teams. The higher level, Gold, and the lower level, Black. Both teams compete in the 5A conference. The boys play doubleheaders against two opponents on their scheduled days. Regionals begin Saturday, May 5, and if they qualify, Arapahoe will have the chance to compete for a state championship.

“It’s amazing to be a part of the team because our group of guys are setting the standards for future teams.

Its an honor,” Gold player Camden Castellano said about being on the inaugural team.

Coaching boys is a change for Wright, who coached Arapahoe’s girls volleyball team to a 18-9 record this past year.

“I am looking forward to teaching guys, who have never formally played before, about the game,” Wright said. “Guys play a little differently and it will be interesting to see their level of competitiveness.”

The levels of experience with the sport range throughout the program.

“Kids like Quinn Miller have played this game for years, and there’s guys like me who have played for fun and picked up on it quickly,” Castellano said.

Womens Field Hockey

Womens field hockey is officially a CHSAA sanctioned sport. Coming this fall, Arapahoe girls will have the opportunity to compete for their school.

The team was organized by juniors Natalie Kellogg, Stella Bispham, Sara Soltes and Emily Armstrong. The girls began petitioning for a team last year. They pitched their idea to athletic director Steve Sisler who assisted with the process of meeting with the Littleton Public Schools athletic director.

After presenting their case to him and the board of education at LPS, field hockey was approved as a sport at Arapahoe on Jan. 14.

“It took a lot of hard work, but we got exactly what we wanted!” founder Emily Armstrong said.

“

It took a lot of hard work, but we got exactly what we wanted!”

– junior Emily Armstrong

The program is hoping to offer a varsity and junior varsity team and the school is working to hire a coach for the fall season. The teams will compete against other 5A teams across Colorado.

Students from Littleton and Heritage High School will be able to join the team. Girls will have the opportunity to go to camps this summer to learn how to play.

“I’m so happy that it all worked out, and I can’t wait to play this year!” Sara Soltes said.

Stay connected: • Follow the girls field hockey team on twitter @arapfhockey for updates on the team.

• Visit www.cbhsva.net/schedule to see the mens volleyball schedule.

• Check out ArapahoeXtra.com for frequent sports updates.

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in-depth

IN-DEPTH WHAT’S INSIDE: >How do students earn & save their money? >Budgeting advice >Helpful tax information >Digital payment >National & international social standards for tipping

Y E N O M

MONEY Y E N O M

Graphic illustration by Alissa Brown

MARCH 2016

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in-depth

Teens & Money

by Xavier Maier & Erica Martinez

Exploring student financial & employment trends of students have a job.

What kind of jobs do students have?

9.4%

52%

Internships

59.6%

Retail

31.7%

Food Services

26.9%

of students make between $8 and $10 an hour.

4.8% 13.8%

24.8%

35.9%

Child Care Other

of students make over $200 per month.

How many hours do students work per week?

1–4

5–9

10–14

19.5%

30.8%

21.8%

15–19

15.1%

20–24 25+

5.3%

9.5% of students have started saving for retirement.

7.5%

89.5% of students save for long term goals.

8.6% 18

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MARCH 2016

of students contribute to their family’s monthly bills.

in-depth 28.2% of students do not spend within their budget.

52.6% of students do not receive an allowance.

53.3% of students have a budget for themselves.

26.6%

13.1%

Food

of students save $50+ per month.

of students do not save at all.

What do students spend the majority of their money on?

Clothes

Transportation

Athletics 9.2%

51.9%

11.3%

Other

Electronics

Bills/ Taxes/ Family support

2.1%

1.7%

10.5%

Entertainment

3.3%

Skiing 1.3%

8.8%

Information based on 250 responses to a survey taken

by Arapahoe students on March 1 through March 2.

Graphic illustrations by Lindsey Archipley, Xavier Maier & Erica Martinez MARCH 2016

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19

in-depth

How to Successfully Save Money

by Madison Wacaser

$

1

$

$

$

5

$

2 $

Be disciplined. Once you have a budget stick to it, and put away money regularly. Not only does it add up, but if you are saving in the bank, you earn more interest on your money the more you put in.

$

Limit smaller expenses.

Going out for lunch once a week adds up after a month or even a year. If you can save instead of spending money, it adds up.

3

$

$

Start saving early. Money builds up over time, especially when you keep adding to your savings.

4

$

Plan for the unexpected. There are many situations in which unexpected expenses can come up quickly, so keeping money tucked away for a rainy day is always a good idea.

Set a budget for the long term. Start saving for something you want, a down payment for a car, a trip, or emergency situation that comes up.

Two Different Saving Plans

Money Saved

In this example, both Person One and Person Two put away $2,000 in a bank account every year in an account with a compound interest rate of 5%. The only difference is the ages at when they put away money. Person One starts at age 19 and stops putting in money at age 27, allowing the account to accumulate interest. Person Two does not begin saving until age 23 and keeps putting away money until age 65. Even though Person Two put away more money, they did not have as much time to let interest accumulate and ended up with almost half as much as Person One did.

Interest and early savings can make a large difference in future savings.

Age (Years) 20

THE HERALD MARCH 2016

Information from Teens Got Cents.

in-depth

How To File A Tax Return

by Paige Paulsen

Form

Form

W-2

1040

Mail to: Colorado Department of Revenue Denver, CO 80261 - #### Verify the 4-digit zipcode extension to get returns and payments routed to the correct tax office within the department.

Go to colorado.gov for more information.

1.

Gather and organize all personal tax documents.

These are received in the mail. Forms may include: Form W-2 (tax withheld for income, social security and Medicare), Form 1099 (miscellaneous income) and Form 1098 (college tuition, etc.)

2.

Determine whether you will complete the tax return forms with tax software (Turbo Tax, H&R Block, etc.), online resources or by filling out hard copies of the documents.

3.

Input the data from your tax forms into the program or paper documents. Be sure to fill out both federal and state tax forms: Form 1040 and Form 104.

4.

Review Form1040 and Form 104 to confirm the accuracy of the information you have entered.

5.

To file the return, it can be sent to the IRS via mail* or an e-file which can be delivered through a tax program. *If you print your tax return, it must be signed. It is also important to attach the forms you received in the mail and send your forms to your designated IRS processing center.

MARCH 2016

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in-depth

Money doesn’t grow on trees Financial apps simplify money management

by Paige Paulsen

oung adults are Y not usually known for being financially savvy, yet money management apps may change that.

With a little assistance from programs that offer services such as organizing a budget plan and monitoring overall financial health, people can significantly benefit from learning how to keep track of their finances.

Security

Savings

MINT By syncing with credit card and bank account information, this financial management app offers users a range of services including a comprehensive overview of their individual spending habits and investments in addition to providing customized tips and alerts which recommend money saving opportunities. mint.com

BILLGUARD This app records and monitors all transactions completed while using synced credit cards or bank accounts. Each transaction is accounted for in detail and is sent to your account inbox. Swipe right to confirm or swipe left to alert the need to resolve potential identity fraud or unauthorized transactions. billguard.com

VENMO This app can be used to send and receive funds as well as reminders about money owed. It is especially useful for splitting bills with a roommate or when dining with friends, although transfers can only be made between people who have Venmo accounts that are connected to their credit card or bank account. venmo.com

ROBINHOOD This app appeals to investors due to its simplicity as well as its lack of per-share fees and per-trade fees. The company’s self-professed priority is to provide easy access to the stock market in order to make investment opportunities more available to everyone. robinhood.com

MVELOPES

Investing

22

Mvelopes is a basic budgeting program that helps users create a spending plan according to their personal financial needs. The user organizes available funds into “spending envelopes” for specific expense categories.

The app also syncs with the user’s bank accounts and credit cards to monitor balances and transactions. mvelopes.com

Spending

QAPITAL

Budgeting

This app offers great strategies for users to accumulate money for a rainy day. User preferences determine when and how much savings to deposit into their account which can later be withdrawn or accessed using a Qapital debit card. qapital.com

THE HERALD MARCH 2016

The apps featured above are all free & can be downloaded on Apple & Android devices.

SMART Goals People are more likely to succeed when they have a thorough understanding of what they hope to accomplish. The SMART system is a commonly-used business technique that helps people set and achieve their goals. It can be applied to any set of objectives, although it is often used as a method for financial planning.

Specific:

Specify what you want to accomplish.

Creating a more precise goal will help you focus on your desired outcome.

Measurable:

Describe how your progress will be measured and how you will know when your goal has been accomplished.

Attainable:

Create a step-by-step plan for what you will need to do to achieve your goal.

Realistic:

Consider what sacrifices you will have to make in order to find the time or resources to achieve your goal.

Time-Bound:

Set a deadline for when you want to accomplish your goal.

in-depth

Paying With Your Phone Is using your phone for digital payment a thing of the future?

by Sybrand Braakaman

T

he exclusive acceptance of cash amongst retailers and restaurants have dried up as credit and debit cards have become more prevalent in our society. Recently there has been a new alternative to these cards. Apple, Android and Samsung Pay have proven that the days of carrying your cash and credit/debit cards in the back of your phone case have changed.

Tim Cook, The CEO of Apple has declared 2015 as “the year of Apple pay” and with little follow up from users, this begs the question: Was 2015 really “the year of Apple Pay?” Ideally, with the option to use a credit card right off of your phone, why would you have both?

The new forms of digital pay utilize the option to pay by scanning your phone instead of a credit card. It can make managing money easier especially for those who are new to pulling their card up on their phone, [regardless of it being as easy as it could be.]

Because it is a new form of payment and it involves putting personal information on your smartphone, there are critics who are forced out of their comfort zone when using this new form of payment. Being able to access a credit card with your smartphone can be threatening because of the risk of entering such important information onto a device that can be stolen or lost. This means losing your smartphone could release your financial information along

with any personal information to anyone who has access to the data. However there is reassurance in the fact that, just like any information on your phone, it can be set behind the security of your fingerprint and/or a password.

Security is priority for the companies that focus on making successful payment apps. These advancements have come with little response from consumers, which is greatly needed for progress that ensures efficient transactions via phone.

As it is now, the payment process takes a lengthy amount of time. It has the potential to give people second thoughts. If only to create more issues, Apple has made it so that people are only eligible to use Apple pay with their newest devices, the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus or later. With similar options such as Android and Samsung Pay, some have called upon the companies as trying to promote their new phones aggressively, giving users the option to either upgrade or get left behind.

70% of people are aware

that digital payments exists and understand what it is.

20% of people have used digital payment before.

10% of people use digital payment often.

Information from www.pymnts.com Graphic illustration by Sybrand Braakman

MARCH 2016

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in-depth

Tipping Point in the Service Industry Teenagers & their tipping habits leave employees dissatisfied

by Erica Martinez

T

eenagers are notorious for leaving stingy tips at restaurants.

Many servers see a group of teenagers and grumble to themselves about the bad tip that they are expecting. It is time to change that stereotype of young people. As many of us have begun to enter

Bar

ista

10% Ma

- 20

%

nicu

re

deliv er y

Food

$

$

$

Tatt oo

per

car THE HERALD

MARCH 2016

Coa

per

t ch

eck

jac

ket

r

ite Wa

%

18

20 %

20%

Arti st

18%

rcut

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24

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the workforce, it is easy to understand what it feels like to deliver good service and not get a proper tip. Many people are not sure what to tip in certain situations. When in doubt, always tip on the higher side. Here is a brief guide to tipping etiquette:

in-depth

Tipping Etiquette Around the World NORTH AMERICA

AT A GLANCE 15 - 20% Canada

10 - 15%

15 - 20%

CANADA

NO TIP

United Kingdom

U.S.

China

OFFENSIVE Japan

10 - 15% Mexico

UNITED STATES

5 - 10% Italy

10 - 15% India

MEXICO

10 - 15% Brazil

BELIZE HONDURAS GUATEMALA EL SALVASALVADOR EL COSTA RICA

SOUTH AMERICA

PANAMA

EUROPE

NO TIP 5 - 10%

GUYANA

VENEZUELA

NICARAGUA

SURINAME FRENCH GUIANA

COLOMBIA

ECUADOR

10 - 15% 15 - 20%

FINLAND NORWAY

PERU

SWEDEN

LATVIA

DENMARK

IRELAND

LITHUANIA

UNITED KINGDOM

BOLIVIA

BELARUS

NETHERLANDS BELGIUM

PARAGUAY

LUX.

FRANCE

SWITZ

ITALY URUGUAY

PORTUGAL

POLAND

GERMANY

CHILE

ARGENTINA

RUSSIA

ESTONIA

BRAZIL

CZECH REPUBLIC

AUSTRIA

UKRAINE SLOVAKIA

HUNGARY

SLOVENIA

MOLDOVA

ROMANIA

CROATIA BOS & HERZ

SPAIN

SERBIA

BULGARIA

MACEDONIA ALBANIA

TURKEY GREECE

Graphic illustrations by Erica Martinez MARCH 2016

ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM

25

opinions

Love.

Respect the person behind the belief

by Abigail Guadnola & Chiara Kovar

W

e live in a sick world. Our personal beliefs have become reasons to hate, fight, harm and even kill one another. Sometimes it seems like any light or love there was has been sucked from the universe by hurt and anger.

No longer do we listen to each other’s grievances and have a genuine concern in what others are saying.

Instead we shout our opinions from rooftops and demand conformity to our personal rhetoric.

At some point we must decide to change our angered narrative. We must stand up to the hatred that has poisoned our minds and our surroundings. This is our world and instead of making the most of it, we have coated it thick with pain because of our inability to love.

Everyone matters. We have forgotten that. We forget that underneath the tough exterior we put up we are all flesh and bones. The mistakes we make, the things we

26

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MARCH 2016

think, that is what makes us human. And that is so worth loving.

What is there to do? Can the cataclysmic hatred that has all but destroyed our species ever be cured?

Yes, but only if we collectively join together and put to death our animosity towards our fellow human, cross over our battle lines and actively make a choice to love. No longer can we act as if we are deeply offended at every word out of someone’s mouth, no longer can we scream over each other until our ears burst from the deafening soul shattering sound of hatred. Instead of resorting to predetermined judgements, the world must choose to be slower to speak and eager to listen.

Simply put, just choose to love. Make an active choice to put away disgust and bring forth the one thing that makes us all human, the ability to love.

Photo by Abigail Guadnola

editorial

Students Held to Past Expectations Generations’ old standards unfairly applied to today’s high schoolers This editorial represents the views of the majority of The Herald staff. also participated in sports and clubs. What those other generations did have that we do not is more hen I was a kid...” Is a phrase that we have all heard at one point or another as an adult attempts time to focus on things other than school, such as maintaining bonds with friends and family. The hours to convey how much more difficult their teenage have not changed; there have always been 24 hours years were than ours. The truth is, while there are in a day. What has changed is the amount of work certainly those who insist on throwing in hyperboles that high schoolers have to fit into the allotted hours. to get their point across, a number of those “when It takes more time to meet daily expectations than I was a kid” scenarios were real. The problem with there are hours in a day. them is that they do not apply to high schoolers Teachers should not assume that the schedules today. they kept with respect to schoolwork apply to today.

It is not that our generation wants to ignore the words of wisdom from parents and grandparents; We as students understand and respect that the nightly assignments and lengthy it is simply that today, we have It takes more time papers are part of your class. But do vastly different struggles than not be surprised if not everything kids several decades ago did. to meet daily you assign gets done, not out of Expectations are different now expectations than disrespect but out of a lack of time. and we have to navigate other Perhaps the responsibility of challenges. there are hours scheduling better lies with us; after The workload coming out in a day.” all, students taking three AP classes of school has only increased since should understand that there are going to be certain the “when I was a kid” days. As students, though things they give up. However, some of the change we would have no way of knowing how much was must come from teachers. Communicate with each required of students back then, we have seen a other so you are not giving students four tests on the steady increase throughout our decade or so of same day, or two massive assignments due at the school. Based on this alone, it seems fair to say that same time. There must be a way to adopt a schedule school expects far more of today’s high schoolers that works for everyone and allows students to better than they did in the past. meet expectations.

It is no secret that there are people struggling All said, this is not meant to draw pity for our to get five hours of sleep at night. Not only because generation, or to complain about how difficult things of educational expectations, but because of sports are for most high schoolers. This is simply to express practices lasting three hours, or club meetings that life today is very different than it was in the past stretching late into the night. These other aspects and that expectations should be fairly adjusted. are nothing new, those several generations ago

“W

“

MARCH 2016 ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM

27

opinions

The 30 Hour Day The impossible, perfectly balanced student

by Amanda Brenner & Abigail Guadnola

Expectations

Student opinion of pressure “High school education, especially at AHS, is meant to prepare students for college which, in theory, will eventually lead to a productive or financially stable career. The course load and rigor that students are expected to maintain is meant to provide guidance and at the very least, awareness of the work ethic needed to succeed as well as the opportunities available to people as they become more independent,” junior girl “So much pressure is put on students. Ever since grades were introduced into students lives, school is no longer about learning. It’s about competition, getting your grades better than your friends. Or competing with yourself, if you get 99% on a test, you aren’t happy. All you want is the last point” sophomore boy

#28

ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM MONTH #### THE HERALD MARCH 2016

We Are Trying

Sleep Deprivation Facts

by Abigail Guadnola

“Dear Teachers,

I promise, I am trying. I promise I am not blowing off homework just to go party with friends and I am not spaced out in class because I do not care. I do care about school, I care about my education and I care about my future...”

Read more at ArapahoeXtra.com

Tips and tricks to cope with pressure • • • • • • • • •

Make a list Create a study group Study in chunks of time Take 15 to 30 minutes to de-stress after school Color to de-stress Get a stress ball Get outside Create a strict work-only space Voice your needs and communicate with teachers

How Much Sleep Do Students Get?

• Teens require roughly 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night to function properly — a study by the National Sleep Foundation found that only about 15% of high schoolers reported sleeping 8 1/2 hours on school nights.

• The National Sleep Foundation found that high schoolers naturally go to sleep around 11, and suggested that school start later since teens need 8-10 hours of sleep to function their best.

• As found in a study by Stanford Med, sleep deprivation increases the probability that teens will experience negative consequences, including poor concentration, bad grades, drowsy-driving occurrences, anxiety, depression, thoughts of suicide and even suicide attempts.

• Researchers from Stanford Med found that 68.9 percent of students participating in their study reported an insufficient amount of sleep on an average school night. Students who reported lack of sleep were also more likely to engage in risky behavior such as, physical fighting one or more times, smoking cigarettes, smoking marijuana, drinking alcohol, sexual activity, feeling sad or hopeless and seriously considering suicide.

What Gets Cut Out of Students’ Days?

Results based on 370 responses to an online survey administered March 1-2. Information compiled by Amanda Brenner & Abigail Guadnola. # MONTH #### ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM ARAPAHOEXTRA.COM 29 MARCH 2016

opinions

Free Music Downloads Hurt Musicians

by Erica Martinez

W

e are the generation who inherited the Internet. We grew up immersed in the digital world. We can find anything we need online and know the ins and outs of most websites.

Many teenagers have learned to scour the Internet for free music to download. Not many people know how these songs end up on certain websites, but they do reap the benefits from leaked albums and songs.

A lot of people say that there is a part of them that feels guilty every time they download a free album online.

It is hard to remember that there is a real, hard-working musician on the other side.

This band gets cheated out of money every time someone gets that new song on their

phone without downloading it through conventional methods.

Bands made up of multimillionaires are not as relevant to this conversation as the touring musicians who struggle to survive. Many artists can barely pay for the gas to get

“

downloading music for free can really hurt the musicians that we all enjoy so much.

When a fan base does not support artists, they must find other ways to make a living.

Your favorite underground indie band may be forced to

Many artists can barely pay for the gas to get them to their next gig.”

them to their next gig. Touring bands make all of their money on merchandise, including albums. Skirting around the systematic way that artists are paid undermines the industry that gives these artists a platform to share their music.

The culture of

sign a contract with a major record label in order to support themselves, and this can alter the sound of a band. Pushing artists into a corner where they have to drastically change their music to get fair compensation compromises the art they are making. Even streaming

services, such as Spotify or Tidal, compensate musicians.

Most nights I can be found at a small concert downtown.

At all these shows it is not hard to see the desperation bands feel when trying to sell their CDs. The best way to tell a musician that you are thankful for the music they make is to support them, which means exiting out of those websites with free downloads and actually buying a song.

So the next time you have a little extra money on your paycheck or you are just feeling generous, you might as well show your loyalty to a band and buy their newest CD. It will only cost you $10, but it will help the musician on the other end immensely.

Vitriol Threatens American Greatness

We are falling behind. As a nation, as a role model to the rest of the world and as a people. Our current policies and image result in scoffs around the world. We talk the big talk yet seem to do little to back ourselves up. I’m feeling discouraged, angry and maybe even a little guilty.

There is a new level of accusations and vitriol reported on the news. Foreign countries are jokingly offering Americans a place to live if a certain presidential 30

THE HERALD

MARCH 2016

candidate wins. Refugees are being denied a safe place to live. American students rank lower than many students around the world. Millions of American citizens live in poverty. America is supposed to be this grand place of prosperity and opportunity, but it is sometimes hard to see results of the American dream. Are you uncomfortable yet? Good, me too.

We seem to be falling behind, but the perception of what this country represents may not be the reality of the situation.

Sensationalized sound bites repeat for hours on TV. It is scary when real news headlines could conceivably blend right into satirical websites. People are barraged with a constant stream of new information, and we have yet to learn how to wade through the influx of details. Our perception

of what kind of country we live in is flawed.

I have seen an American people that is capable of awe-inspiring feats.

Average people, without a microphone or news program, are not gearing up for a fall of American values. Most people are politically and socially moderate, welcoming and just trying to help their fellow citizens. It is too easy to get wrapped up in the failings that make the headlines.

We forget about the great movements this country has inspired. And the great people who span from coast to coast.

America is not falling apart. Polarizing viewpoints appear to be running rampant, but this country was built on the backbone of compromises. I have always been told that America is the greatest country in the world. I’m not disputing that claim, but maybe it is time we looked in the mirror and really examined what makes America so great. Maybe America isn’t the greatest country in the world anymore, but maybe it can be once again.

opinions Why We Struggle To Get Through A School Day

by Alissa Brown

O

ne of the biggest challenges I have faced throughout school is feeling completely worn-out. For some reason, schools have assumed that the moment we transition from elementary to middle school, we no longer need multiple recesses throughout the day, just one after lunch.

Then in high school people assume that we do not need to go outside at all. Eventually, we are adults and we are expected to sit all day in an office at work.

When people find out that I walk to school they give me apologetic looks as though it is an unfortunate situation for a senior. Every day, I make the choice to walk to school even though I have a car.

Walking to school allows me to start the day fresh and allows my thoughts to flow naturally and freely, rather than forcefully switching my mind around as I go from subject to subject in school. It is a relief to go outside in the morning and breath some fresh air. What makes school so monotonous for me is the nonstop sitting. In school, I feel confined to the small two foot by two foot space that is my desk. My brain shuts off by lunch time and my body begins to feel tired and worn out.

Every day I hear students talk about how tired they feel and how boring their classes are. Sadly, school has made learning a mundane task for many students. Many students struggle through school rather than enjoy it. If school has taught me anything about myself, it is that I cannot learn or succeed under these conditions. My brain turns into sludge when I sit in a desk each morning at 7:21 a.m., and naturally, my body begins to shut down immediately after I have forced it to wake up.

To feel more energetic and awake in school students should be able to spend more time being active as well as more time sleeping, rather than spending our long waking hours being inactive in school.

“We’re all pretty bizzare some are just better at hiding it than others” This topic has been talked about heartless person but that is truly not probably more any other topic. “Be who I am. yourself.” It sounds like more of a Recently, I have been living like motivational cat poster than something I actually want to and not like I have that I, of all people, would talk about. convinced others. And it has been But being yourself is one of the most fantastic. People are asking me what important things you can do. happened to me and why I am acting Most of so different, the time we and I just tell High schoolers are constantly them that I am act differently than we dealing with identity problems, not actually a want and we cynical person. but none of these problems can do not even I implore realize it. But everyone to be solved without living how many of stop living like your true self.” us act like the like you have same person, convinced regardless of who we are spending yourself to. High schoolers are time with? How many of us are able to constantly dealing with identity be ourselves and who we want in any problems, but none of those problems situation. can be solved without living like your For most of my high school career true self.

I have put on a façade of a pessimistic To those who are wondering how kid who does not really care about his to exactly find their identity, I invite friends, thoughts or emotions. It has them to find a club or a sport that they not been until recently that I decided to are interested in. The most important stop living such a “meh” life. It was not thing about you, is you. And it is so until my second semester of my senior important to realize that and live like year that I have decided to live like my that. actual self. When you get down to it, I Others’ opinions of you do not am not a cynical person. I have made matter. Be yourself in everything you tons of jokes about being a cynical, do, and I promise, you will be happier.

“

MARCH 2016

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SAY WHAT?!

Ridiculous, out-of-context comments overheard throughout the school. “‘There’s little aliens inside.’ ‘Those are peas.’” – E8 “Treehouses are the swimsuit issues of homes.” – C18 “Life is like a box of matches. If you light them all at once, you die.” – Math department “My fear of turkeys has gotten so intense I’m now a vegetarian.” – Cardio room “The plural of freshman is freshmeme.” – E8 “I can see my failure out of the corner of my eye.” – E11