Lauren Haggar

Lauren Haggar news editor

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Throughout my third year in newspaper I continue to grow and learn as a not only a person but as a writer. As a leader in the classroom and being the news editor, it comes with a lot of responsibility and teamwork that is vital to the papers prosperity. Working with others was definitely more challenging this time around, especially when it came to differences in opinions. But despite minor bumps in the road, I feel that through the challenges we faced as staff we all grew together and found a fondness for each others differences in a way we had not before.

One challenge of being in a leader in the classroom is remembering that you truly are setting an example for the rest of the class. I feel I completed this task, rather well, and I truly feel that I have showed the class what a great leader looks like. Being a leader is an experience I never take for granted. I feel blessed and honored to be in a position where I can help inspire change. With that being said, there are some challenges that come along with being a leader. First off sometimes it is often hard to lead when those you are leading are the same age as you. It can make for uncomfortable scenario when also having to grade your peers, which are often good friends as well. Truly though I feel this is the only downside to being a leader. Otherwise getting to help others learn and grow as journalists, and getting to have a strong say in how the the paper turns out, are definitely major benefits. As far as leadership styles go, I would say that I am hands on, and like to be involved in the entire writing process from ideas, to print. Likewise I feel that though I am a strong willed and determined leader, though I am very approachable and easy to communicate with. This leadership style works well for me because it allows me to have stable control over my pages and constantly ensuring that everything is ready for print, while also allowing writers to be in charge of their own articles the paths that they take. The leadership skills I learn today will forever impact me, for the leader I will be tomorrow. I have always been a natural born leader, and enjoyed the task that leaderships brings on. I sincerely look forward to the future and how these learn and acquire skills will aid me in my life ahead.

Just as I have stated in many past years self analytical evaluation, procrastination is always the deadly disease of all journalists- and I myself am not immune. It seems no matter how much time and preparation you put in as an editor, there is almost always loose pieces, that go unnoticed until production day which often leaves everyone a little panicked. But just like every year, I could always improve on procrastination and checking in more on what is actually turned in for my pages.

Ethical journalism is something that is not only important to me, but as a staff I feel we truly excel at being honest journalists. Especially in our nation today, where journalism is not looked at as a trusted source of where to get information there is no better time than now to ensure that are articles are honest, and objective. Being objective in today’s society is hard. To be brutally honest it is very difficult, but so very crucial. There is a time and place to share opinions and how we feel, but the majority of the articles (minus opinion) should always remain completely unbiased, and if covering a tricky topic we should always do our best to get interviews from both sides.

As far a being an asset to the staff I feel that I was am a valuable one, from the standpoint that I have one of the most important sections in the paper, along with the most pages to design and create each issue. Likewise, I take extreme pride in how my pages turn out, and I spend hours on end ensuring that every detail is as perfect as I can get it. Many occasions I have worked with bit and pieces of unfinished articles and made a whole lot of nothing, into beautiful spreads. I often also helped others with their pages whether it be headlines, captions, or even assisting in getting an extra interview.

As this semester comes to a close, there was many successes and failures we faced as a staff. One of the biggest challenges I personally faced was people not turning in their articles. This never ending challenge just like always made it hard to put together my pages which was particularly challenging considering the number of pages I have this year. I learned that you truly can never believe something is there until you see it with your own eyes. In the future I plan to step in more, and handle situations quicker, rather than later. Another challenge we faced as a staff was the ongoing conflict between editors. It seemed that for a large part of this semester that no matter what the topic, there was enormous amounts of tension and arguments, over issues that could have been handled much better. Additionally both sides were to blame in this issue, but it appears that things are turning around for the better as we approach the new year. Despite all the challenges we had many successes as well. As a staff we won a Crown and Pacemaker this year, which is incredible and we all are striving to win both next year too.

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The piece I feel is my most significant and overall my best work was the December news pages. I really enjoyed this pages for various reasons, and overall feel that these showcase my abilities well. First off these pages covered a lot of school events which is great because the judges like to see that as a staff we are covering a wide variety of clubs and school oriented activities. Likewise the articles were mainly well written, especially the stories involving the opioid addiction, climate accord, and the puppy mills. I truly feel that though design is so important, that content is paramount and must remain excellent above all other factors.

Additionally I feel that I did a good job at incorporating quality photos and design features throughout the pages. I used many different journalistic aspects such as drop caps, pull quotes, second decks, colored text, and many forms of emphasis. The pages evolved a few different times, as for in the beginning of design I had little pictures, but as the week went on things slowly got turned in which allow me to have more fun designing. My favorite picture is the one featuring a boy horseback riding. You can see the emotion on his face and his trainers, and you can almost feel the emotion come straight out of the picture. Another aspect that I really enjoyed about this spread was when the amount of pictures featuring students, along with the fact that I was able to get quotes for all captions.

O n n u e m b e r 4 ■ DECEMBER 22, 2017

Students raise their voices for choir

Kachina’s Place offers therapeutic equine opportunities

U.S. pulls out of Paris Climate deal

By KASSIDY WHEELER g staff writer

AT AN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING SESSION, ELI NECHTMAN RIDES EQUINE THERAPY HORSE, JASMINE. Necht-

man has been riding for a little over a year and works with trainer Franky. “She [Franky] is glowing with positivity which shines out on the kids during therapeutic riding. We are lucky to have Franky in our lives.

Kachina’s Place is a beyond friendly for everyone from kids to adults,” said Marc Nechtman, Eli’s father. 4 KATELYN REINHART

K

By AUDREY FOWLER g staff writer

ACHINA’S Place in

Cave Creek offers equine therapy for those with physical and cognitive limitations. Equine therapy can help develop relationships and better the lives of people with disabilities.

Kachina’s Place offers therapeutic riding and groundwork. Miniature horses can be transported to hospitals, group homes and schools for additional off-property therapy.

Therapy helps many different aspects of life, such as communication, setting boundaries, overcoming fears, and trust and coping with feelings.

According to Elements Behavioral Health, when working with horses, people recognize their conscious and unconscious patterns of working with others.

“They are able to do things and achieve things that some of them are not able to do on the ground,” said Franky Greaves, an equine therapist at Kachina’s Place. Greaves works with clients, and tends to the horses every day.

The horses help build confidence in their riders before they even get off the ground. Working with the horse before riding is a crucial part of what

they do at Kachina’s. Participants will do ground work, then discuss their feelings and behaviors with a therapist.

“Based on their challenges, I make a plan that is achievable,” said Greaves.

By observing patients handling the horses and building a relationship, Equine therapists identify behavior patterns and decide a treatment plan.

Treatments can include riding, groundwork, carriage rides and grooming.

“You should do them in a specific order. First, you should do the groundwork, like hanging around the horses like you would do with a friend,” said Nina Leonard, a junior who owns a horse.

Not everyone starts with same skill set, and, at Kachina’s, they are willing to teach all types of riders, from new to experienced. The therapy the horses provide can be the first steps in building confidence in living with a disability.

“A little boy came in and would not put on a helmet and would barely get on one of the minis,” said Greaves.

In just a year, this same boy was fully confident in his riding, walking and trotting on his own without a problem.

“I think having that bond with an

animal is something that really fosters a place of joy in a person's heart and that's really important to carry in your day to day life,” said Blake Bradshaw, a senior who has been riding horses since she was three.

At Kachina’s, they help kids with a variety of disorders, from Down Syndrome to Attention Deficit Disorder. The discipline the horses give riders can be great for concentration and overall communication skills.

Although horses follow verbal commands, there is also an unspoken language between both rider and horse that anyone can create with enough time.

An integral part of equine therapy is learning to care for horses by doing barn tasks.

“A lot of people come in here and they can not use a pitchfork or scrub out a bucket and I think, for them, in their lives, it is helping achieve tasks that they may not have thought they could have done,” said Greaves.

Another type of therapy Kachina’s tackles is carriage riding. This therapy style simulates the rewards of riding without getting on the horse. A two wheeled cart is pulled by one of their miniature horses. The rider works in harmony with the animal to control direction and speed.

The Paris Climate Accord is a deal between 195 nations to work together to reduce the carbon emissions of countries around the globe in order to limit global temperature rise to 2 degrees celsius.

Earlier this year, President Trump announced that the U.S. would pull out of the Accord. However, under the terms of the agreement, the United States cannot legally pull out until November 4, 2020.

“I think the Paris Accord is good for the world, and it makes me very upset that the United States pulled out of it because every country is on board to defend against climate change,” said Lori Kurtz-Larkin, an English teacher.

SYRIA JOINS IN

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

SADD takes a stand

By AVIANNA HOPPES g staff writer

NEWS THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

Saddling up for therapy

NEWS

2 ■ DECEMBER 22, 2017

European Union creates 11 percent, India creates 6 percent, and the rest of the world emits 38.4 percent.

Scientists say that the United States pulling out of the accord will contribute to the world breaking the critical two degree Celsius threshold before 2060. Once the globe passes the two degree Celsius mark, some changes to our climate will be irreversible. Stephen Hawking has said that as our planet’s global temperature increases, Earth will start to have catastrophic events such as raising temperatures past 200 degrees celsius, and sulphuric acid rain.

Even though these things are hard to imagine, climate change does have the potential to make Earth uninhabitable.

“I think we have other things to worry about like politics, funding for schools, and helping our allies,” said John Bush, a junior.

Recently, Syria announced they are joining the Accord, which makes the United States and Nicaragua the only countries not particiAMERICA FIRST pating. Nicaragua’s reason President Trump has for not joining is because promised to put American they feel the Accord does businesses first, yet many not go far enough to defend United States business leadthe environment. ers want to stay in the Paris “The bottom line is that Accord. Exxon Mobil and the Paris Agreement is very Royal Dutch Shell have unfair at the highest level to stated they wanted to stay the United States...The Paris in the Paris Accord because Accord would undermine they feared backlash, carour economy, hamstring bon tariffs, and consumer our workers, weaken our KASSIDY WHEELER g staff writer boycotts coming from cussovereignty, By impose unactomers in the countries that ceptable legal risks, and put are still bound under the as at a permanent disadvanParis Accord. tage to the other countries “I think it’s important of the world,” said President because companies have a Trump. “Compliance with big impact on the environthe terms of the Paris ment, especially the factoAccord would cost America ries they use,” said Olivia as much as 2.7 million lost Palmer, a junior. jobs by 2025.”

According to even more The United States and CEOs, the Paris Accord only China are the world's two strengthens the United largest economies, and States’ competitiveness in they are the two largglobal markets, expands est producers of carbon global and domestic markets emissions on the planet. for clean technologies to China is responsible for generate jobs and economic 28.6 percent of the worlds growth, and encourages annual CO2 emissions, American manufacturing to while the United States modernize to more efficient is responsible for 16 pertechnologies. cent. Comparing this to other nations, the entire

The school choir spends a lot of time preparing for concerts, as both regular and honors students put in time and effort by continuously rehearsing songs and learning their parts.

Choir is separated into two different classes: regular and honors. Anyone can join the regular choir class, but students must audition for honors choir. One of the main differences between the two is that the students in the honors class have more experience singing than those in regular choir.

“Honors students have to audition solo and they have to be able to sight read, have a good voice and be able to match pitch easily,” said Karen Dolezal, choir teacher.

Though choir may require a lot of time and effort, some students do not mind putting the hours in because it is their passion. Every student might have a different reason for starting it, but a lot do it because of their love for music.

“I started choir because I love to sing, it is my favorite thing to do in my spare time,” said Hayley Smith, a sophomore in honors choir.

Students spend a lot of time practicing for upcoming concerts by singing songs, putting the finishing touches on the pieces, and making sure everyone knows their part.

“We learn the pieces a couple of months in advance, and we practice them while fixing the things we messed up on,” said Smith.

After spending a long time learning the songs and once all the hard work and preparation is over with, they all perform the songs together.

“My favorite part about choir is seeing everyone come together during concerts,” said Maya Morant, a freshman in honors choir.

Since the kids in choir spend time together practicing every day, they often get to know each other very well.

They can become friends with other people in their class, bonding over their passion for singing.

“My favorite part about school choir is how well we've gotten to know each other and how we can all come together as individuals and create music together and have fun doing it,” said Smith.

Practicing every day for an hour, choir meets in first or second block, depending on which class it is, so they can perform better.

So far they have had three concerts this month.

CHOIR STUDENTS practice for their upcoming show.

Honor Choir students often spend many hours rehearsing and perfecting new songs, 4AVIANNA HOPPES

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS NEWS

DURING A SADD MEETING

members Alyssa Tate and Nicole Mauk, both sophomores, help create a banner spreading messages of kindness. 4

Declared a national crisis by President Trump, Governor Doug Ducey calls Arizona’s opiod crisis a public health emergency.

SEAN GANNON

By GRIFFIN GOLDSTEIN g staff writer

DRUGS AND ALCOHOL OFTEN pose a major issue at public schools.

There is only so much school administrations can do to prevent their students from using drugs and alcohol, because, in the end, their job is to educate the students.

Because of this, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), a nationwide organization, makes it their mission to minimize teens’ use of drugs, alcohol, and other destructive actions, like risky or impaired driving.

SADD was founded in 1981 by Robert Anastas at Wayland High School in Massachusetts, only then it was known as Students Against Driving Drunk. In 1997, they expanded the limits of their mission by officially changing their name and greatly increasing their size. There are SADD chapters, which take place at middle schools, high schools, or colleges that have an adequate adviser on their staff. There are over 10,000 total in all 50 states. More than 350,000 students actively participate in SADD chapters all across the nation.

“SADD is a nationally recognized, student ran and led organization that strives to ‘empower young peo-

ple to successfully confront the risks and pressures that challenge them in their daily lives. SADD was on hiatus for the last couple years at Cactus Shadows but was reinstated this fall due to increased student interest,” said Diane Montano, the SADD adviser.

SADD is unique in the sense that all the efforts it makes to inform and educate students on the dangers of drugs and alcohol is done by students themselves. Peer-led classes, forums, workshops, conferences, and rallies are all tactics SADD uses to communicate their message with other students.

Drugs and alcohol are the two biggest destructive behaviors that SADD fights against. To get to the root of the problem, it must be made clear why students get into using them in the first place.

“I think they are just curious and want to try them out,” said Lauren Jankowski, a sophomore.

This is true for most teen drug and alcohol use. Seeing their peers or older siblings doing it makes them become curious as to what it is like. SADD students use positive peer pressure and role modeling as one of their main tactics to get other students to steer clear of destructive pathways.

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS NEWS

LITERARY MAGAZINE HELD THE 10th annual Latte Poetry, an open mic competition where students can come read their poetry out loud, at Janey's Coffee House in November. Musical acts are also encouraged to perform.

“Latte poetry is always a success. I just love getting to see my students perform their work, and then hopefully they’ll submit that to the magazine,” said Lori Hart, Lit Mag adviser.

The winner of this year’s competition was Julian Voitek for his poem, A Captain’s Rite (Promises to my Loved Ones). Additionally, Lit Mag also recently held a paint party,

In seminars, they talk about accidents that have happened and lives that have been ruined to help their fellow students realize just how dangerous these behaviors can be.

However, not everyone is reached by these messages and decide to try drugs and alcohol anyway, unbothered by the consequences and punishments from the schools for being caught abusing substances.

“They shouldn’t be punished because they’ll suffer from the consequences of their own actions,” said Andrew Hertig, a senior.

SADD is not only fighting to reduce teen drug and alcohol use, they also to put an end to texting and driving.

This is a major issue that kills thousands of teens every year, and SADD has been working for decades to reduce its death toll.

SADD holds meetings every other Thursday during lunch in room 150.

Those who attend play ice-breaker games to get to know one another and discuss current issues with substance abuse, reckless driving, and other destructive behaviors. Members, if they want to, can also discuss personal experiences to express feelings or come up with solutions to actual problems.

Puppy mills, a practice of breeding dogs in tightly packed facilities, are on the rise throughout Arizona and many other states in the U.S. In May of 2016, Governor Doug Ducey signed legislation that allowed pet stores to sell commercially bred animals in the state of Arizona despite the pleas of animal advocates.

The legislation made void regulations in

By BROOK BOWMAN g staff writer

HE

Arizona Department of Health Services released its latest data on opioid overdoses in Arizona, showing that it has reached the highest number of deaths in ten years due to opioid overdoses.

They reported that more than 3,200 suspected opioid overdoses have been reported to state officials since June 15th.

According to the NY Times, of each American drug overdose, nearly twothirds of them are from prescription opioids, heroin and synthetic opioids, killing some 64,000 Americans last year, which is over 20 percent more than in 2015. This statistic is more than double the number in 2005, and nearly quadruple the number in 2000, when accidental falls killed more Americans than opioid overdoses.

PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY As a result, Governor Doug Ducey declared Arizona’s opioid crisis as a publichealth emergency in June. This opens the question to what exactly has started the problem and how to fix it.

To start off the epidemic, more fingers are being pointed at doctors and highly paid pharmaceutical producers. On October 26, 2017, John Kapoor, the founder of opioid pharmaceutical producer Insys Therapeutics and the sixth richest man in

Arizona, was arrested due to illegal distribution of fentanyl spray and violating antikickback laws.

Allegedly, Kapoor was bribing doctors into over-prescribing painkillers intended for cancer patients. But, these patients being prescribed these drugs did not have any trace of cancer.

As one solution, President Donald Trump has directed the Department of Health and Human Services to declare the opioid crisis as an public health emergency. Trump vowed to get rid of drug abuse and addiction that has diseased the United States.

“I have lost some friends due to the epidemic and I feel that a common root of the problem is depression in the users. There needs to be more of a focus on fixing this issue and then, maybe we might see a drop in the number of young people who abuse opioids,” said Michael Chmura, a senior.

Yet, Trump has not prompted any federal funding to this issue yet, and has not suggested any plans for supporting any sort of medical treatment. However, he does plan to include a requirement that federally employed prescribers are trained in safe practices for opioid prescriptions, and a new federal initiative to develop non addictive painkillers.

“I believe that Arizona is being affected by the opioid epidemic because of ignorance and/or mental diseases. People aren’t

taking the time to care about how the illicit substance they are consuming is affecting their body. All they care about is getting high sometimes without regard to what pill they are even taking,” said Matthew Blackert, a senior. “People need to become aware and educated as to how these drugs are going to affect their body and if they are prepared to allow their drug use to take their life away from them.”

PLAN TO ATTACK PROBLEM Consequently, the University of Michigan has devised a plan to address the nation's opioid epidemic. They have decided to start cutting down opioid prescriptions by prescribing half of what they would usually prescribe. Many other hospitals are following in their footsteps. According to National Public Radio, despite getting less medication, patients did not report higher levels of pain, and they were no more likely than the previously studied patients to ask for prescription refills. Additionally, these patients asked for fewer pills.

Many celebrities in the past years have been affected by opioids. For example, Heath Ledger, Elvis Presley, Prince Rogers Nelson, Cory Monteith, Chris Farley, Janis Joplin, and most recent a rapper named Gustav Åhr, or more commonly known as Lil Peep each were victims to an opioid overdose. Ironically, Åhr’s death took place in Tucson, Arizona, which continues to

face a serious drug problem, seeing as many as one hundred opioid-related deaths per month.

Steven Beebe, the principal, stated, “We have a huge opioid issue in the United States. There have been a lot of incidents, but we currently aren’t finding any at Cactus Shadows. We are dealing with other issues. Nine years ago when I joined Cactus Shadows that wasn’t the case. We have been working really hard on that issue ever since. The last five years for homecoming and the last four years for prom, we haven’t had one drug or alcohol related problem and we are continuing to improve.”

With that being said, the White House is slowly, but surely approaching the issue. Kellyanne Conway, counselor to Trump, has created an “opioid cabinet.” This cabinet consists of experts from the Department of Health and Human Services, the Office of National Drug Control Policy, and other executive branch offices. Conway leads weekly meetings at the White House in order to develop a plan to respond to the opioid crisis.

Nevertheless, Sarah Sanders, the White House press secretary, has declined to discuss funding or addressing the opioid crisis.

Now, it is unsure how exactly the United States will fix this major problem.

4 ADAM ROBERTSON

VETERANS HERITAGE PROJECT PRESERVES WAR STORIES

By MAJA PEIRCE g staff writer

VETERANS HERITAGE PROJECT

LIT MAG MEM-

BERS Jacqueline kennedy and abby nosan, sophomores help man the table at the clubs first paint party.“I wanted to do the paint party because I felt like our club didn’t host enough events; I wanted to create more opportunities for us to come together as a club and share our art, writing, and music,” said Mia Gilling, Literary Magazine Editor in Chief. 4 MIA GILLING

where students could come and share their and nobody is creativity while listening to music.

Lit Mag is a student run production that showcases student literature and art in a magazine every year.

Lit Mag meets every Wednesday to critique submitted content.

The critique process is as followed: a piece will be displayed on a big Lori Hart, Lit Mag adviser. screen for the club to see.

When this happens, it is completely anonymous

“Latte poetry is always a success.

I just love getting to see my students perform their work, and then hopefully they’ll submit that to the magazine.”

allowed to say who it is. The club then individually critiques based on a set of specific criteria, then adds up scores and find the average.

For a piece to get in it must get a 32 or higher on the grading scale.

“The easiest way to submit is online on the Lit Mag page there’s a form that you can use to submit your art or literature,” said Julian Voitek, secretary of Lit Mag. Another option is bringing your art into room 609 to be photographed.

Lit Mag submits the final magazine to multiple competitions each year. After winning a gold or silver crown for the last several years, the club has not been nominated for a crown this year.

Crown awards are given by scholastic press association at Columbia University in New York. Students in all publications including Lit Mag travel to accept the award each year.

“I feel really upset about not winning, but I’m not exactly surprised, our content wasn’t the best we need more variety,” said Samantha Holmes, a junior and active member of three years.

Lit Mag meets every Wednesday in room 609.

Governor Ducey signs bill changing rules for pet stores

By ANNALEE BARNETT g sports editor

T

DECEMBER 22, 2017 ■ 5

Literary Magazine holds annual Latte Poetry and Paint Party events

By AUDREY FOWLER g staff writer

DECEMBER 22, 2017 ■ 3

Nation Addicted

Tempe and Phoenix of pets stores limited to selling rescue animals. However, stores are only allowed to obtain animals from breeders that have a license from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“I breed Great Danes and I’ve met other breeders who’ve had run ins with puppy mills. It’s a disgusting practice that needs to be stopped,” said James Black, a dog breeder.

According to the Puppy Mill Project, there are an estimated 10,000 puppy mills in the US with over two million puppies being bred a year.

“I think it's messed up, because dogs didn't do anything wrong to us, so what right do we have to do wrong to them?” said John Bush, a junior.

Dogs living in puppy mills exist in

unsanitary conditions and are usually kept in wired, stacked cages. The facilities offer no protection from harsh conditions and neglects to provide veterinary care.

“Seeing the ways that these dogs are forced to live is deplorable. I couldn't believe my eyes, it made me want to go after puppy mills even more,” said Black.

Pet rescue organizations like the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals otherwise known as the ASPCA, encourages people looking for pets to pay attention to where the dog came from.

“Being a licensed puppy mill doesn’t mean anything, dogs are still kept in cages 24/7 and conditions are still in humane,” said Black.

Often times, puppies are taken away from their mothers in puppy mills much

too early, leaving them with severe behavioral disorders as well as health issues.

Puppy mills are also a main source for pet stores when they are stocking up on dogs. That is why it is important to adopt dogs from rescues.

“People should rescue dogs more from shelters rather than getting them from breeders, so that puppy mills can be stopped,” said Audrey Coleman, a junior.

The USDA is a federal department that deals with laws related to food, farming, agriculture, and forestry, so some may argue that the USDA has nothing to do with animal rights. Anger from animal advocates was sparked when the animal welfare page was abruptly taken down from the government website.

(VHP) has been giving students the opportunity to hear first hand stories of veteran’s war experiences.

VHP is a club devoted to students interviewing veterans and organizing their stories into a book, as well as sending them to Washington D.C. to get archived in the Library of Congress.

“The whole purpose of the club is to chronicle the events before the veterans unfortunately pass on. The theme this year is World War II, because these are, unfortunately, the group of veterans that are most susceptible to this,” said Bret Lineburg, clubs sponsor, and World History teacher.

While interviewing veterans, students

have to be ready to deal with a variety of reactions. Some are more willing to share their stories than others.

The memories can be very painful and many veterans have not shared these stories with even their closest family members.

Cactus Shadows teacher Barbara J. Hatch founded Veterans Heritage Project over a decade ago. They have made connections with other sister schools who send their interviews to Cactus Shadows to be archived and put into the book. The most recent school Cactus Shadows has connected with is in Florida.

During their meetings, VHP members go over purchase orders, field trips, and organizing interviews.

“We went to Washington D.C. right after this last school year, and we’re going

to Vietnam this spring break,” said Austin Hagan, a junior.

During these field trips, members gain an educational hands on experience exploring places rooted with war history.

Veterans Heritage Project brings veterans in to give lectures about their experiences, as well.

“The lecture series that we do, we typically try to do monthly. In the beginning of the school year we hold off in August because kids are kinda getting used to their schedules. Then we also skip December because of finals. So first semester is typically September, October, November. Next semester we’ll likely do the same thing. January we might leave open and than February, March, and April is where we’d really hit with that lecture series,” said Lineburg.

Veteran Heritage Project needs differently faceted members. Technology inclined people have a place organizing the interviews and communicating with other schools.

Social and curious people have a place interviewing and speaking at events.

“My most memorable experience has been laying out the book, specifically the all -nighters we pull on deadline and the reception where I get to see the veterans looking at their stories in the book.” said Harrison Kessel, a member.

Additionally, many colleges appreciate seeing the hard work VHP offers on student applications. VHP teaches its members to be respectful and empathetic by interviewing veterans for touching and personal stories.

coping with this, because it has never been this sequence. as we see it strict in previous years. A good learning environAlso, implementing new school-wide policies and ment with little distractions is a great thing, but if rules in a school of this size is difficult, and teachers a good student is done with their work or workare supposed to be following those rules. Almost every ing on something, they should not be penalized for having their teacher is different on how they are approaching the ‘No Phone phone on their desk. The disruptive or immature actions of a few Zone’, and it can be confusing for students. It should be up to the should not penalize the majority. teacher whether or not a student should use their phone in class, Being able to do other homework after one is finished with and at which points they are allowed to do so. their class work is almost a necessity for a lot of students, espeHaving a school-wide policy like this causes confusion cially ones who participate in sports and/or have a job. Some between the students, teachers and administration because all might argue that one does not need a phone to get homethe classes approach this rule differently.

the editorial

a r t i c l e s

The EDITORIAL represents the consensus view of the members of the Editorial Board.

The Editorial Board members are Kiera Riley, Katelyn Reinhart, Lauren Haggar, Annalee Barnett, Maddie Howard, Mia Gilling, Sara Windom, Emma Russello, Grace Haycraft-McKee, Faith Hasher, Olivia Stickel, Zoie Lambesis and Sean Gannon.

OPINION

SUPPORT THE BLUE LAUREN HAGGAR

s e p t e m b e r

As a proud American it is truly saddening how our country has forgotten who the true, unsung heroes are, the police.

We live in a nation where hating police has become a hobby, and something that much of the media glorifies. From Black Lives Matter, to the new Anti Fascist establishment, antipolice rhetoric is nothing new, but it must come to an end.

When you dial 911, no matter what the situation is, police show up to protect you. They show up with no judgment in mind, it doesn't matter what race you are, your age, income, social status; none of that plays into it. Police show up to save your life, while also risking theirs. But yet, instead of glorifying these selfless human beings, who risk it all for a stranger, the media and and hate groups make them out to be cold-blooded murderers.

Antifa and Black Lives Matter are both hate groups who promote violence, and who mask themselves as peaceful activists groups. In reality, Black Lives Matter promotes the idea that police officers are racist and in the industry for the sake of arbitrarily kill-

ing African Americans. What makes them such a threat to society is not only do they have thousands of misinformed followers, but they have the liberal media's unwavering support.

According to Roland Fryer, an African American Economics Professor at Harvard University, after studying more than 1,000 officer involved shootings, there was zero evidence of racial bias in police shootings. In actuality, according to the Washington Post, whites are more likely to be shot than African Americans, so the basis of their movement is invalid.

Even more importantly, what it comes down to is respect for authority. We live in a nation where when we do not get what we want, instead of using our rights respectfully, we abuse them. Turn on the news, you’ll see it; the riots where a car is on fire, or a Starbucks window is smashed, or even someone is getting punched because of their views.

This is not peaceful protest, yet the media covers it as so.

And in these very scenarios,,

“Police show up to save your life while also risking theirs.”

police stand courageously to protect the right to a peaceful protest. Now, when these protests turn violent (which they often do), and police are forced to act, the left often likes to bring out the term “police brutality.”

Police brutality is defined as “the use of excessive and/ or unnecessary force by police when dealing with civilians.”

Picture this; urine filled water bottles flying through the airalong with bricks, rocks, and other random projectiles, and above all, objects on fire being thrown at the police. Police are not the brutal ones, the protestors are.

School Resource Officer Brad Penner suggests that people use the word “police brutality” because it is a buzz word, not understanding it’s true meaning.

“In law enforcement we have a continuum. It may vary between agencies, and even officers, but it is the ‘ask, tell, make rule.’ We are going to ask you to do something, we are going to tell you to do the same thing, then we are going to make you do the thing you were asked to do. If we have a

lawful reason to tell you to do something, then my suggestion is to do that, and we will never get to police brutality,” said Penner.

The opposition truly believes that police are brutal and biased towards certain races. They often are the ones protesting, and who witness the events that make national television. Some of these groups have various points that are valid, but their whole message is lost due to violence.

But, as any grounded person knows, there is corruption in every field. Of course there are bad cops, just as there are bad teachers, bad lawyers, and bad doctors. And, ultimately, we must remember that everyone is human, and cops make mistakes, too.

But we are all Americans, we stand under the same flag, and we live within the same borders. We all want the same things, the freedom to pursue life, liberty, and happiness. But this is only achievable when we learn to respect those in authority, and we learn to see those who risk everything for us as heroes, instead of enemies.

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animal as service, it has grown in popularity over the past few years, according to NBC News.”

OPINION

SARA WINDOM AND AUDREY FOWLER

over the past few years, according Under the Americans with establishment are only allowed to Service dogs are crucial to everyto NBC News. This increase could Disabilities Act, service dogs and ask two questions: ‘Is the service day lives of those with physical and be due to the fact that citizens in their owners have certain rights dog required because of a disabilpsychiatric impairments, but many need of service due to any disabilin public places. These rights proity?’ and ‘What work is the animal people take advantage. ity are not required and cannot be tect disabled people, allowing them trained to do?’

These individually trained dogs forced to provide paperwork provto keep their dog with them in Even when vests are acquired know their owners’ disabilities ing that they are disabled. most scenarios. Staff of any public legally, many abuse the looseness of and how to help them in times of trending need and suffering. The good they the registration process. According can do is much greater than the to the National Service Animal bad, making life easier and safer.

Registry, a letter from a doctor is Service dogs are well trained to not required to claim a service dog, help perform life tasks for those and everything from alcoholism to with impairments. They are also anxiety counts as a disability. trained in warning their of teen's Instagram feed has Although one may wish their Everyowner Scottsdale September 24, but current exhibits include an oncoming situation asfrom sei- the Scottsdale Museum of furry friend could accompany seen asuch photo Marking the Infinite: Contemporary Women Artists zures.

Contemporary Art (SMOCA). Whether it is the From Aboriginal Australia and Authenticated them on trips to the grocery, and In order for one well-known to be eligible forroom," its brightly colored "light Cheese Slice from Cheese Grid by The Art Guys.nights out at restaurants, obtaining a service dog, a patient should be illegal vests and other means of serwalls, or its ever-changing display of artwork, Additionally, an upcoming exhibit of Paolo Soleri's unable to perform at least one life vice dog attire or achieving a serSMOCA is a popular spot for students who are work, Repositioning Paolo Soleri: The City Is activity including eating, drinkvice dog license when it is unnecinterested in art.

Nature, will feature drawings, architectural moding and going to the bathroom. essary simply because a person Students visit SMOCA primarily to take phoels, prints, and photographs of this famous archiHowever, it has proven very easy knows they will not get caught is tos with the art, especially with Ocean of Light: tect's work. to “fake it.” immoral.

Submergence, a Squidsoup project. Known "My favorite exhibit was the skypace, espeA quick click online, and any Rather than going to all this troustudents as the "light room," it is one of cially when it is cloudy outside. It's really inter- ble bending around or breaking the person is able to among purchase a dog most recognizable exhibits from the museum, esting because of the shape of the exhibit," saidlaw altogether, service dogs and vest with SERVICEthe printed on the featuring hanging Lauren Sinani, a junior. sides. Although it is a federal crime colored lights and soft music. their owners should be respected, saw the A permanent exhibit in SMOCA's collection isand the registration process should to pass off a domestic"I animal aslight ser- exhibit over the summer. It was super for both photography, but also to sit James Turrell’s Knight Rise Skyspace, an outdoor,only be utilized when necessary. vice, it has grown in cool popularity

SMOCAing hot

DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP ACADEMY Mia Gilling

style editor

FURRY FUN

tive screen illuminating a pair of

form of social media, and they have dealt with both the pros and

ve done it before, but I’ve never heard cons of technology for as long as loved it, even if they didn’t escape the they have had a smartphone. For Larkin, an AP English teacher. many students, the consequences become a lot more popular in not just of social media are obvious; once a the older adventurers Theyit is nearly impospictureasiswell. online, many, especially for birthdays or nights can book a room in advance, or try to paired with a random group of people. ur locations for Escape the Rooms hoenix,Tempe, Mesa, Peoria and

oom booked, and the amount of peoticket prices start at $30 per person, days to complete them is on Fridays or

trying to escape forget their team skills dividually. This leads to losing important ng it harder than it already is. roup because everyone is frantic and it’s ille Halstead, a junior. and vibe of the group also make or click right away with clues, while some pressure and start to get angry with one

th a big group before, but everyone is e listens,” said Halstead. they do or do not escape, in the end, hat it is indeed a game, and the experimemory for all of them.

Morgan Reimer staff writer

Small comments or concerns can be sent to cspress@gmail.com. For letters to the editor or more formal responses, students can write a 300500 word editorial.

When writing a letter to the editor, we ask that it is structured as a formal editorial.

With formal requests, please contact the news editor-in-chief, Kiera Riley, at 480-620-0801

o c t o b e r

“The minority of students who do abuse social media will not learn anything through a handful of lessons, and even if they did, the hypothetical success of this program is impossible to measure.”

KATELYN REINHART e valley, groups of friends can bonding exercises and puzzle Technicolor photos flow steadily sible to erase completely. This conmedia may seem like a daunting Twitterand one might the caption “open for a Room. through a phone screen, the refleccept is an easy When one toscrolling grasp, on espeevensee alien system.

Parents

a lot, it sounds cool, buteyes kind of young as chalthey scroll through Satran, a freshman.

Instagram. The Digital Citizenship hysical adventureAcademy scenarios is that groups that aims to a program e together to solve a mystery or achieve bring awareness to students about the dangers social cenario they are playing.

They of have to media, but its execution flat because of its ks in order to move forward,falls and make it all in one hour orfailure less. to teach students anything oom, they get to new. pick a ‘Great job’ NearlyIfeveryone that is in high the escape room website. they do not school now ter luck next time’ posterright to show theirwill use some

But, we cannot create an inclusive and varied environment without the input of the students as well. If you are in any way moved, angered, upset, excited, saddened, or confused about any of the content published in the CS Press- we implore you to reach out to us and share your thoughts.

circular, concrete room with a hole in the ceiling that allows viewers to watch the changing colors of the sky.

KATE ROSENBAUM explores the Ocean of Light in the Scottsdale

OPINION

We realize the world is a particularly divisive place and with this in mind, the newspaper staff emphasizes healthy differences in opinions without the hatred that comes with partisan issues.

4LAUREN HAGGAR

and just watch the lights change for a while. The music and light procession worked really well together," said Kate Rosenbaum, a senior.

The Ocean of Light exhibit closed on

Museum 4MIA GILLING

We strive to incorporate a diverse range of viewpoints in our paper, especially on the opinion page. As a staff, we aim to publish editorials that reflect journalism ethics. Journalism ethics incorporate facts, logic, and a desire to convince, not isolate our readers.

withpreached a picture attached hidden dog.falling Open vicfor a cially becausesurprise” it has been may showing imagineatheir child is atheir trendwhole that started in to late summer 2017. When opento high schoolsurprise students tim dark webof predators, sending ing the scandalous picture, one can see theofsmiling animal. lives by their parents. The horror pictures themselves Without openingand the picture, willrepnot stories are endless. to strangers, ruiningone their get to see the dog at all. This Twitter Students being harassed online, utations online. missing out on job opportunities These fears are valid, andasthere trend is supposed to serve a way because of a questionable post have to certainly make thebeen readerinstances smile. Fromof on Facebook, colleges rejecting these tragic throughout the scrollingacts through political conapplicants after a quick glance at years. However, the modern teenflicts and other harsh news, their social media. Starting off the ager has navigated social these puppies are theremedia to be Digital Citizenship Academy proand technology their whole life. a lighthearted addition to one's gram with an hour long presentaOn the contrary, to many parents, feed. tion on information that is already social media is a relatively new and known and heeded by the majorpotentially dangerous addition.

Emma Russello ity of students made the intentions While being aware of risks of travel editor of the program clear: to give adults social media is important knowlinvolved peace of mind. edge to have, there is a very limTo older generations, social ited amount of information a stu-

Keeping up with Kylie

dent can learn in five advisory lessons, which is the amount of time students will spend on Digital Citizenship Academy through the school year. Even if the information is new to students, it does not offer enough content to leave a lasting impression.

The minority of students who do abuse social media will not learn anything through a handful of lessons, and even if they did, the hypothetical success of this program is impossible to measure.

If the goal of the program was to lessen cyberbullying, it would be easier to determine the success rate of the program. However, the main message of the assembly was an overwhelming plea for students

The world stopped for a moment in awe, as TMZ announced that Kylie Jenner is pregnant. As if that shock was not enough, it was reported that Travis Scott is the father; not Tyga. Millions of fans and haters responded to Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat to gossip.

Many found the news shocking due to the short length of Scott and Jenners relationship in comparison to hers with Tyga.

Many speculated that the release of this supposed pregnancy was a publicity stunt to increase ratings for the 10 year anniversary episode of Keeping up with the Kardashians or to increase sales of Kylie’s lip kits, since Fenty beauty is a new fierce competitor.

Lauren Haggar news editor

9

not to send sexually explicit photos to each other. While this is a fair request to make, it is impossible for a school to measure whether or not the Digital Citizenship Academy program is lowering the number of inappropriate photos sent between students.

Even if the success rate of the program was measurable, it is extremely unlikely that the students who already engage in such behavior would stop because they saw a speech and sat through five lessons on “maintaining their digital reputations.” While this program may grant a sense of satisfaction to adults, it certainly is not doing anything constructive for students.

a r t i c l e s

OPINION

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

a r t i c l e s

NOVEMBER 17, 2017 ■ 7

FEATURE

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

A

NOVEMBER 17, 2017 ■ 12

MILITARY AID CAN PAY FOR COLLEGE

BACKLASH OF SENIOR SPLASH

MERICA

is a Yet, despite these stateunder DACA did not know any country built on ments, Obama still went ahead better and were just children the fundamental and bypassed all of Congress, when they were brought over dream, in which and used an executive order from Mexico, by this logic, if people can immito ultimately change the law. your parents were to sneak you grate, and have the opportunity Attorney General Jeff Sessions into Disneyland, and then you to prosper and thrive, but the stated that DACA "contributed get kicked out, is it your parents’ 12.5 million illegal immigrants to a surge of unaccompanied fault or Disney’s? presently here are putting a minors on the southern border Yes, it is true that most of heavy burden on our nation. that yielded terrible humanithose in the DACA program President Trump OPINION recently tarian consequences, and it also can hardly call Mexico home, received enormous amounts of denied jobs to hundreds of thoudue to the amount of time spent criticism on his proclamation sands of Americans by allowing in the United States. But once that he would be rescinding the those same jobs to go to illegal again laws are laws, and emoDeferred Action for Childhood aliens.” tion should not come into play.

Arrivals program, or DACA. Sessions’ statement is valid, graduation just around work. What isWhile it is troubling for some This program was initially just as President Trump's reato understand this choice, it is the corner, seniors face feelis that instituted under the Obama soning isworse for ending the transproa fundamental one that must Administration, and what many gram. Though many in favor ofarebe made. DACA recipients ings of excitement and enthusiferring students fail to understand is that DACA the DACA act claim suspending should instead strive to become asm for the future, but also risrequired to makeAmerican citizens the right way, is completely unconstitutional, it is unethical, it is important to ing the fears instability. up andare legally Obama ofhad no look at the facts.every assign-and complete the process legally. to enforce it.

700,000 jobs from are all filledthe It is about time that Americans Uncertainty is a mainauthority concern on everyone’s mind, ment Obama himself stated in 2010, by dreamers, according to stop letting emotion control how and useless sessions of“I'm senior splash andking. fourIf years years theywe view situations and, instead, president, I'm not Newsweek.

We livethat in a counCongressto hasappease laws on the booksfears. try where, instead of helping let laws and facts do the talking. of ECAP have done nothing these missed. that says that people who are close to 50,000 homeless veterSenior Splash is a program for senior high school If graduationThe United States needs to start here who are not documented ans find stable jobs and housing, putting their citizens first, and students that discusses applying for college, comes around andnot until every American has a have to be deported, then Ischolwe choose to aid those who have OPINION can For exercise some flexibility illegally a entered our country. arships, Free Application Student Aid [FAFSA], student does notstable job and income, we as a LAUREN HAGGAR in terms of where we deploy Children or not, laws are laws and other college related issues. There are sevhave every singlecountry are in no place to take our resources...That's what the and they must be followed. care of others when we cannot eral senior splash sessions ECAP Executive throughout Branch means. I the can't year.

Although the assignment opposition yet take care of ourselves. just make the lawsultimately up by myself.” good, states that those protected Intentions of these meetings are completed, they

Even if that student had perfect grades and a great track record, the very thing that they had been working towards for four year would be stripped of them because of a missed ECAP assignment.

ANNALEE BARNETT

W

ITH

JUST A DREAM AFTER ALL

however, it only adds an unnecessary amount of are not allowed to stress and worry onto an already pressured senior. graduate. Even if The Education and Career Action Plan, or ECAP, that student had is an Arizona school board approved plan for perfect grades and a great track record, the very Arizona high school students to work on assignthing that they had been working towards for four “After threements years of would activesupposedly duty service, veterans who were that help them transition year either would be stripped of them because of a missed honorablyinto discharged or retired are eligible to receive the fullassignment. the real world.

ECAP benefits of the MGIB or Montgomery Government Issue Bill.”

It includes assignments like building a resume A better alternative to making students complete and making a four year plan, which are both very added assignments for ECAP would be to take one OPINION LUC FLASCHENTRAGER useful things to have when planning for the future, day out of the month in an English or history class allocated extra pay for textbooks and other ent civilian work environment.

Fortunately between officers enlisted personnel however, the bar falls a little when student time is to teach studentsiesuseful skills forand the future.

EOPLE today put much expenses. though, with all of these new opportunities, and between those with more and less time wasted with assignments like time management Useful assignments less consideration into joining Using the GI Bill, veterans are able to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics reported in grade.should include learning how the military as a career with- and receive a full college education without hav-tasks thatare unemployment veteransa have it file is required have a college college comparison.

These assigned ratestoincreate budget, While how to taxes, to and how to sucout knowing the full scope of ing to worry about loans or being in debt. been steadily decreasing over the years. to be an officer, they are able to go to each grade separately, and as a student graduates cessfully preparedegree for an interview. benefits that can be gained And this is just one of many benefits of joinDue to another benefit, some veterans to college again after their service in order each completed all ECAP and senior splash are both great through time in the armed forces. ing thegrade, military.they are expected to have don’t require employment after their service. to further their education and/or ideas pursue for a Yet over the years, the assets have of Respect is one ofpieces. the driving factors for This is because of the military pension.

After higher degree.for life after college, but the assigned helping students prepare increased exponentially. many who enlist. No matter what your job is 20 years served, once someone retires, they The pension is based on both rate and the A student should not have to worry about addithe idea went awry when it became a high school Through enlistment alone, perks include: while in service, everyone helps to drive the receive a pension of half of their base pay. service entered. All services have different on top of already heavy requirement. paid continued education through the GI Bill, tional militaryassignments machine.

This can be school enough to easily sustain retireretirement plans, with most relating to 50

FALCONS ON THE FRONT LINE

P n o v e m b e r

a lifetime of respect, monthly retirement pay through a military pension, and a military family.

After three years of active duty service, veterans who were either honorably discharged or retired are eligible to receive the full benefits of the MGIB or Montgomery Government Issue Bill. This gives payment of full tuition, a housing allowance, and

Veterans also receive help when applying for employment after serving. Many employers give much higher regard to employees who have been in the military, with some even seeking to employ veterans specifically.

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS Unfortunately, many find themselves without work, sometimes just because they have adapted so much to theg military lifeswtyle By MADDIE HOWARD creeker editor that it is hard to transition to the very differ-

ment without taking up other employment.

While each branch of the military offers benefits for veterans, they are different for each branch, based on whether the service member was an enlisted person or an officer.

The GI Bill is the same for all branches.

The government will pay for the full tuition. However, Instead the housing of allowance waiting and allocated pay for other necessities var-

percent of base pay after 20 years served in an active duty station.

Some argue that the risk of joining the military is too great. And it is true that, on average, two soldiers die each day. For those people, the military may not be the right choice.

But for those willing to put their lives on the line, the benefits surely outweigh the risks. to take an expensive schedule was exactly like.

WLAUREN HAGGAR

Advanced courses should improve college acceptance chances WITH THE START OF THEIR FRESHman year of high school, students have a hard time deciding what classes they should take and understanding how their class choices can affect their chances of getting into college.

“Freshman should take AP and Honors classes right from the beginning. One of the biggest selling points for taking rigorous course is that it preps you for college,” said Amy Metcalf, an AP Literature teacher.

Advanced Placement (AP), Honors, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, are all rigorous courses that show colleges that a student is college ready.

“Colleges aren’t stupid, they know the difference of the quality that the course makes.

Courses like AP and IB that are externally graded are incredibly valuable to colleges because they know there is not an easy teacher or hard teacher that is affecting the grades, it is measured outside the course,” said Metcalf.

NOVEMBER 17, 2017 ■ 15

courses will secure a high weighted GPA college course when a student is admitted to “For some of the classes I took, I wish I had that the colleges may take into consideration college, taking an AP course can be a cheaper taken a normal class because I received a B when a student applies for a scholarship. alternative to receiving that college credit “I applied for a lot of scholarships, but for a certain course. Students that take these none asked whether I took any difficult rigorous course are also exposed to what the classes, so I am not sure if taking these college workload will be like. classes will help me get a scholarship or “All the papers that I have had to write are not,” said Multz. similar to college research papers. The homeStudents may also think that taking a difwork load is a good challenge, and I have had ficult class will cause a bunch of stress that great teachers who have prepared me for a will take up all of their focus. It is imporworkload similar to what I’ll get in college, tant to balance out the amount of rigorous regardless of my major,” said Alissa Hafezi, a courses and normal classes a student takes senior and IB student. so they do not end up getting overwhelmed.

Another factor to consider when taking “Every high schooler I think can feel or thinking about taking an AP, Honors, or IB overwhelmed at times. There is generAmy Metcalf, an AP Literature teacher.

LIFTING SPIRITS- Damon Urban, a senior, the course would be that if a student can earn a ally performs more homework involved in courses deadlift exercise. 4 LAUREN HAGGAR B in these rigorous courses, it is worth more like AP and IB, but overall I would say that than getting an A in a standard class. Also, stress is manageable if I schedule my time most colleges, such as in-state schools, do not in the AP class when I know I could have and work efficiently,” said Hafezi. look at a weighted GPA. Some students may gotten an A in a regular class,” said Meagan Colleges do check to see if the classes a stunot take an AP or Honors course because Multz, a senior and AP student. dent takes in high school were rigorous or of that factor. However, colleges still ask Regarding scholarship opportunities, not, so taking these difficult course can have whether the course a student tookPUMPING was AP, THE some may want to see if a student has taken an impact on admission.

Honors, or IB, so they know what aIRON student’s any rigorous courses and most of these At the gym,

“Freshman should take AP and Honors classes right from the beginning.

One of the biggest selling points for taking rigorous course is that it preps you for college.”

Ben Mercer, a senior, works out his back at a machine called the cable row.

4LAUREN HAGGAR

TUNING OUT Damon Urban works on his back and jams out during a workout session. Urban has been bodybuilding for two years. 4 LAUREN HAGGAR

Gains: body builders share tips and tricks

By LAUREN HAGGAR g news editor

FROM

LEGENDS

SUCH

AS

ARNOLD

Schwarzenegger to Serge Nubret, bodybuilding is a sport for the disciplined and dedicated. Although bodybuilding became more popular in the late 1800s it has been around since the time of ancient Egyptians and Greeks. Despite the age of the sport, the techniques, goals, and nutrition aspects have widely remained the same.

TRAINING Bodybuilding not only takes physical aptitude, but also extreme dedication. Most bodybuilders train in the gym six to seven days per week, for hours on end.

“Discipline is definitely the most important aspect of training, it is so easy to miss a few days and the consistency portion of it is key. I have always felt that if working out is a chore to you, than you are not going to do it,” said John Thompson, owner of Power in Motion crossfit studio.

An important aspect of training is working different muscle groups, to not only create variety in the workout, but also to allow proper healing time for each muscle group.

“I go in a steady schedule of legs and calves, chest and triceps, back and biceps, then a rest day, then arms and calves, then rest and repeat. It’s important to do it this way because you want the muscle to recover from the previous lift,” said Ben Mercer, a senior and avid bodybuilder.

Proper recovery time is crucial to the muscle developing, without this allotted time, the efforts put into the gym will be wasted. While working out muscles experience microtears, and during the recovery process, naturally the body repairs them which thus creates muscle growth. If a body builder experiences too little tears, than muscular gains will be slim, but if one experiences too many tears, the body will fail to

fully repair itself.

One of the hardest muscle groups to work are calves and forearms, due to that genetics play a big part in how muscular they can become.

“They are most difficult to develop due to their insubordination to other muscle groups when working out. For example when you train arms the biceps and triceps take the most strain from the resistance due to our muscle mechanics. Same can be said for legs with quads and hamstrings, calves are less activated than that of the thighs,” said Damon Urban, a bodybuilder.

NUTRITION Like any sport eating right is key, but in bodybuilding it is critical. Many bodybuilders create personalized plans to ensure they achieve optimal gains.

“Dieting is the most important aspect of training, because if you have a bad diet, you are not going to perform. It all comes down to your recovery, it doesn't matter how hard you lifted, what matters is how you recovered,” said Mercer.

Since bodybuilding is an individual sport, with each person having their own regimen, and habits, most are self taught when it comes to dieting and nutrition.

“I am self taught, I look to the greats basically… I have a bodybuilding textbook by Arnold [Schwarzenegger] that has lots of tips, and I watch videos of bodybuilders on Youtube and watch what they do and how they prep and try to mimic what they do ” said Urban.

High protein diets are what most bodybuilders aim for, and Mercer suggests eating one gram of protein, per pound of bodyweight each day. In order to attain this amount or protein both Mercer and Urban drink multiple protein shakes a day, along with eating protein bars, and meat.

According to Bodybuilding.com, “Delivering your body

a constant supply of Protein throughout the entire day is essential for optimum muscle growth. Protein is made up of amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of your muscles and body. Without them, it would be impossible to build, repair or even maintain muscle tissue.”

Along with frequent protein shakes, bodybuilders often use pre-workout supplements to help with the intensity of the workout. These supplements generally contain caffeine, creatine, amino acids, and beta-alanine.

COMPETITION After months to years of preparation many bodybuilders take things to the next level, by participating in competitions.

Competitions either permit steroids or not, and at natural bodybuilding competitions, all participants must complete a polygraph test to ensure the validity of their statements.

“What keeps me away froms steroids is I’m only 17 and I’m still growing, and I don’t want to mess up my body,” said Mercer.

Mercer is competing in his first competition, on Nov. 18; the OCB Desert Valley Natural Pro Qualifier.

Competition preparation not only consist of months of strict dieting, increasing reps in the gym, but also tanning, and practicing posing.

The event begins with prejudging, which officially begins the day.

“Prejudging is where you essentially win, finals is to pick overall winners, and also for the crowd to see, since prejudging only has the judges in the room,” said Mercer.

Dieting in the weeks before the competition entails keeping high protein, but cutting back on carbs, and trying to lose fat in order to make the muscles appear more striated.

During the posing portion of the event there are seven mandatory ones for all participants.

style

The chapstick choice

ing to find the perfect makeup a holiday or New Year’s party? of these eyeshadow looks that p trends of the season.

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As many head straight into the dry and bitter winter cold, chapstick becomes a vital part of daily life. With many different choices on the store shelves, it is important to know which chapstick is the best option for you.

CO BIGELOW- MY FAVORITE NIGHT BALM Price- $7.50

ners of my lid, I used Dirtysweet which is a gold, shimmery shade from the same palette.

Step two: Afterward, apply a dark brown shade and blend that across the crease. Top off the eyelook with a white glitter like High from Urban Decay’s palette in the middle of your lid.

Step three: In this look, I used a more simple eyeshadow in order to draw more attention to the lips.

“I love seeing the colors many makeup companies are producing in order to cater to the trend that is a perfect bold lip,” said Abby Defelder, a sophomore. As previously stated by Cosmopolitan last year around this time of the year, liquid lipsticks are becoming more and more popular by the day. But, now it seems like these types of products at dying out, the consumers aren’t buying them, and the companies aren’t making them due to them not being the most comfortable product. To counteract that idea, use a creamy matte lip product to get a similar effect. I applied a dark berry shade named Manbun from Tarte’s line of lip products.

This chapstick is a perfect overnight treatment, leaving lips ridiculously soft and supple the next morning. The consistency is very thick, so it is best to apply only a thin coat.

Despite the price, this product has so many benefits, and if used sparingly the tube can last for months.

CARMEX- ORIGINAL STICK Price- $4.70 For the price this chapstick is a close runner up, and features a many benefits similar to the Co Bigelow option. The menthol like smell is not for everyone, but if you can look past this, Carmex will surpass all expectations. Once again due to thick consistency, a little goes a long way.

NIVEA SMOOTHNESS LIP CARE Price- $3.15 All of the Nivea products are fairly priced with average benefits. Nivea Smoothness keeps the lips moisturized, but only for a short amount of time. Smoothness Lip Care smells great, but truly the benefits don’t last long enough to bother using itbut for the price it can be a quick fix.

Brook Bowman staff writer

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SMITH’S ROSE BUD LIP SALVE Price- $5.50 Rose Bud lip salve is a great fix for hours of moisturization, featuring a wonderful rose smell.

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Lauren Haggar

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4BROOK BOWMAN DECEMBER 2017 intrigue

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2 ■ SEPTEMBER 25, 2017

t e a r s e s p h t e e e m t b s e r

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

“As we’re learning, time management is key.

We have all of these great ideas, but it’s just a matter of getting them organized.”

Barbara Burt, Culinary Arts teacher.

Cutting class New cooking class prepares students for life after high school

By MORGAN REIMER g staff writer

N

ew this year, students can take part in the Culinary Arts program that focuses on team building, cooking, and overall life skills.

Barbara Burt, the Culinary Arts teacher, decided to take on the challenge of new students, a new atmosphere, and creating new types of food.

“I love the creativeness of it. Everyone’s happy when you have food,” said Burt.

“Students will get to learn life skills, like preparing food for themselves whilst on their own, and learning to live a healthier lifestyle.”

So far, students made cupcakes and cookies, and moved on to experiment with different dishes like salad and salsa. Throughout the year, students anticipate learning knife skills, and beginning to cook more difficult meals.

Because it is a brand new class, there are complications alongside the fun.

“I feel it should be a two hour class. It’s just hard to split up the cooking skills we’re learning one day and cooking the next,” said Madison Monoscalco, a junior.

On some days, it was a juggle between classes to explain the entire lesson, have the students cook the food, then have time to clean up afterwards. On top of that, having

CHOP TO IT. Tanner Laisure,

a senior, prepares the ingredients for homemade salsa. After the students prepare the food, teachers get to taste it and vote on the best. 4 SARA WINDOM

Vouchers

from page 1 “I think the vote should be open to the public because a lot of parents send their kids to private schools and it could seriously impact their child’s education, seeing as public schools are already severely underfunded,” said Drew Ballard, a senior.

As soon as the signatures were turned in, opposition groups filed lawsuits questioning the legitimacy of the signatures. These groups

support the expansion and focus their message on school choice.

Among the opposition groups are the Goldwater Institute, Americans for Prosperity, and the American Federation for Children.

Organizations like the Goldwater Institute focus on offering a wider range of educational options to children and giving parents the freedom to use their property tax dollars to educate their children as they please.

The group also argues that the

free market approach to education pushes public schools to perform better.

“This delay has put many families’ educational future in limbo as school year begins. This does a tremendous disservice to all of the parents and children whose main concern is not politics, but are simply seeking a better education that fits their needs and helps them achieve their dreams,” said Victor Riches, Goldwater Institute President and CEO, in a statement

the next batch of students walking through the front doors in a matter of minutes.

“The hard part is cleaning up after. As we’re learning, time management is key. We have all of these great ideas, but it’s just a matter of getting them organized,” said Burt.

Burt looks to the future years of culinary arts, believing it should be split into higher and lower levels of the class. For example, a class for beginners who can learn the basics of the art, and an advanced class where more experienced students can continue improving their skills while under a more rigorous course.

“I like how different it is, you’re not going to get that experience with another class,” said Jackson Finacle, a junior.

There is only a small minority of students taking the course who want to be chefs in the future. Most thought the class would be easy, but have discovered that cooking takes practice and precision, activities the students will get to experience even more as the year goes on.

“Since my dad owns a bakery, I’ve baked a lot before, so I know my way around the classroom,” said Monoscalco.

In order to take culinary arts, students are required to pay a $25 fee in the beginning of each semester, which contributes to the food provided and the utensils used.

on the Goldwater Institute website.

Just recently, however, Secretary of State Michele Reagan confirmed the referendum will be on the 2018 ballot unless challenged or declared null by lawsuit. Following initial action, additional lawsuits began popping up on both state and national levels.

The Goldwater Institute was among the first to file lawsuits.

These lawsuits target the validity of the signatures collected, the notaries, and the wording of the

petitions.

“If the voucher bill goes through, meaning the petitions that SOS gathered doesn’t work, then we will face the consequences THE of CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS reduced funding out of general

By LUC FLASCHENTRAGER g staff writer fund, meaning less money going to schools,” said Christine Marsh, EOPLE across the nation English teacher and SOS volunteer. raised millions of dollars “I think it’s really ironic that we are towards Hurricane relief efforts fighting so hard just to make sure after they touched down in things don’t get worse. We aren’t Florida and Southern Texas, even in the position to fight to costing billions of dollars worth of damages to make things better.” business and residential areas.

Many different organizations are helping those affected, such as The American Red Cross, and various GoFundMe links that assist in getting money to those in need. Those affected are asking for various donations such as new furniture for their homes, clothes, and general necessities for daily life.

“I think that the way people can help most is to donate to associations like the Red Cross.

They do a lot to help people after disasters like this,” said Doni Nasr, a Spanish teacher whose family was affected by Hurricane Harvey.

Prominent people such as J.J Watt of the Houston Texans, raised and donated over $19 million. Others such as Sandra Bullock, Leonardo Dicaprio, Jamie Foxx, and President Donald Trump also donated to the relief efforts. Although most are unable to travel to the areas affected and help by volunteering, there are many different ways to help even from across the country.

With all of the fundraisers, it is only a matter of clicking a few buttons to donate to those

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who need it. Even seemingly small amounts can be greatly beneficial to those in need.

“It makes me happy to see everyone pitching together to support during times like this, and I hope everyone is able to get back what they lost,” said Austin Engelbrecht, a senior who had friends affected by Hurricane Irma in Florida.

Those who experienced the storms have all lost something. Some have small needs that must be replaced such as a window here or there or some furniture. However, many have lost much more. There are those who have lost their entire homes, and without flood insurance there is not much they can do to retrieve it.

In Texas, there are tens of thousands who never believed that they would need insurance against floods, because their home is so many miles away from the nearest shore.

“I am lucky enough that none of my family was near enough to have been affected, but I send my thoughts out to everyone who was hit. Hopefully everyone will make their way back to where they were before,” said Marissa Gimenez, a junior with family members in Texas.

Despite the tragic outcome for some, the majority of people affected resided near an inlet or river, and got out in time.

WORLD RUSHES TO AID IN HURRICANE RELIEF The aftermath of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma left many in need of assistance.

With the help of everyone, from local citizens to prominent people, relief was on its way.

BEFORE HURRICANE IRMA

STRUCK FLORIDA, Ted Rhoads of Jacksonville watches a helicopter aiding in evacuation efforts. 4 SHARON HART

Free Speech bill vetoed by Governer Ducey

By MAJA PEIRCE g staff writer

4 ■ SEPTEMBER 25, 2017

Last May, Senate Bill 1384 was introduced by Senator Kimberly Yee. The bill would have given student journalists the same free speech rights as everyone else.

Despite being passed unanimously by the Senate and nearly unanimously by the House, Governor Doug Ducey vetoed the bill.

“In the second senate hearing, only one person was opposed to it, so I really thought it was going to THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS to see go through.

It was upsetting that even though it won as a majority, a single person was able to veto it,” said Sara Windom, Editor in Chief, who spoke at both the senate and house hearings.

Student journalism rights have

NEWS

ARIZONA MERIT SCORES HIT RECORD LOW DISTRICT-WIDE

We’re an A school, and if that changes, how many people are going to want to go to a B school or a C school? So the public reception of a school is based on their letter, there’s going to be consequences to the school,” Dr. Steve Bebee, Cactus Shadows Principal.

By SARA WINDOM g editor in chief

The 2016 Arizona Merit scores were recently released, and the decline of the school district’s results are a concern for the 2017 school year.

“For the first time ever, the school did not meet their year-long goal because of Arizona Merit scores.

Across the board from third to twelfth, there were some grades that did better than others, but as a whole we did not meet our goal,” said Dr. Steve Bebee, principal.

Having now been in effect for three years, the Arizona Merit serves as the achievement test statewide.

This year, 25 percent of juniors, 31 percent of sophomores and 36 percent of freshmen taking the Language Arts portion passed. 34 percent of students testing in Algebra II passed, while 25 percent of Geometry students did. Overall, this is down 5 percent from last year in both categories.

“I think that without the graduation requirement, students are less likely to put as much effort into the

tests causing grades to drop slightly,” said Kalia Flannery, a senior.

However, currently, school districts are not legally allowed to demand the passing of Arizona Merit as a graduation requirement, nor can it be incorporated into a student’s class grade.

“I think there are far too many students around the state who do not take the Arizona Merit seriously because there are no consequences for you at this point if you don’t do well,” said Bebee.

Out of 116 Cactus Shadows students surveyed on Aug. 28, 86 percent of students admitted to not taking the Arizona Merit seriously.

While the students face no disciplinary action, the Arizona Merit scores not only measure a teacher’s proficiency, but help determine the school’s letter grade.

“Our school label is going to be partially based on your test scores.

Cactus Shadows, in my entire career, has been an excelling school. We’re an A school, and if that changes, how

many people are going to want to go to a B school or a C school? So the public perception of a school is based on their letter, there’s going to be consequences to the school,” said Bebee.

Cactus Shadows faced several obstacles during the 2016 testing period, including computers freezing and a city-wide power outage.

While the majority of tests were able to be recovered, some students were forced to retake the assessment.

“I did my entire test and it wouldn’t submit because everyone was taking the test and the internet went down.

I had to take it all over again. I gave it effort the first time, but the second time I was so done, it took me five seconds to answer A for every single question,” said Michael Chmura, a senior.

With the threat of the school’s letter grade dropping, an online curriculum used on campus already within E-Learning classes is incorporating free AZMerit test preparation courses to all students.

\SARA WINDOM

New bill allows schools to hire teachers without certification

By BROOK BOWMAN g staff writer

Governor Doug Ducey signed Senate Bill 1042 on May 2. The bill allows all schools in Arizona to hire teachers who have not been certified to instruct.

The bill was created to help deal with the significant teacher shortage in Arizona. The Learning Policy Institute in Arizona found that over 62 percent of school districts had unfilled teaching positions three months into the school year, and over a 1,000 teachers were on substitute credentials. This is recorded as one of the highest turnover rates of any state in the United States.

“We have been losing qualified teachers every year for at least the past five years,” said Scott LaVigne, an English teacher and Department Chair. “Many teachers are simply leaving the profession to work in a higher paying field.”

Senate Bill 1042 allows principals to hire applicants who have a higher education

degree, have taught a relevant course for at least the past two years, and have at least five years experience working in a relevant field.

“Today’s legislation is a win for schools, teachers, and students,” said Ducey. “No longer will an outdated process keep qualified, dedicated individuals out of the classroom.

Instead, principals will now be empowered to make hiring decisions and attract the best individuals to serve our students.”

The new bill is controversial, with opponents concerned about placing unqualified teachers in the classroom instead of addressing the needs of current teachers.

“Freshman year, I didn’t have a Spanish teacher first semester. She was a long term sub and didn’t speak Spanish at all,” said Blake Bradshaw. “I didn’t learn anything that semester.”

School officials are faced with difficult decisions because of the teacher shortage.

The policy in Cave Creek is to fill open positions with certified teachers but, if none are

available, they hire non-certified teachers.

These teachers are required to take education courses during the first two years of teaching and actually become certified through this process.

“I believe that these teachers will be able to help our school and help our students,” says Abby Defelder, a sophomore.

One of the major concerns is that these new teachers will not know how to control a classroom. This could scare away applicants from the job due to the immense responsibility and stress, just when the state schools need them the most.

Sasha Sypkens, a new biology teacher and Cactus Shadows alumna, is one of the five new teachers hired under the new bill.

“She’s really good at explaining the problems and going into depth on how we will use it in the real world,” said Kylie Klein, a freshman student in Sypkens biology class.

Other teachers hired under the bill include James Vogt and Adam Hillier in the math

department, Luis Diaz in the world language department, and Lori Kurtz Larkin in the english department.

In the past, the district had an emergency certification policy to hire non-certified teachers when no others were available. Diane Douglas, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, later opposed this law saying, “lowering the standards for new teachers is not the way to correct the problem.”

In other states where the law still exists, the Learning Policy institute says that the consequences are very severe since these teachers were never prepared to instruct.

Therefore, schools were forced to increase class sizes, cancel classes, use short-term substitutes, or assign teachers from other fields to fill up vacancies.

It will be up to districts and schools to aid these teachers in instructing students, so Arizona’s quality of education will prosper beyond its current standards.

been an issue since the Vietnam War, when the Tinker case decided that student journalists should have the same free speech protections as everyone else. However, in 1988, the Hazelwood School District vs.

Kuhlmeier case ruled that schools retain the right to reject sponsoring speech that is “‘inconsistent with 'the shared values of a civilized social order,” according to Oyez, a website dedicated to Lll Supreme Court Resources.

The purpose of bill SB 1384 was to give back some of the restrictions that came with the Hazelwood decision. The bill specifically stated that “a student journalist may exercise freedom of speech and freedom of the press in school-sponsored media,” and would not be

limited by the school-sponsored media being financially supported by the school the journalist is attending.

The student free press bill was introduced when Yee was a senior at Greenway High School in 1992.

She was a journalist and editorial cartoonist for her school newspaper, and she wrote and testified for the bill. Unbeknownst to her, the bill died without being voted on and was never passed. Fast forward to now, Yee decided it was time to resurrect the bill.

“There were so many advocates who supported this student free press bill, from students who have experienced censorship, to First Amendment freedom groups.

Free speech and First Amendment

issues should not be partisan. These freedoms were created by our great country's founders,” said Yee. This past year, Yee united student journalists, journalism advisers, university administrators, and school boards to supply their input and support the passing of the bill.

“The idea of this bill was to push students to cover controversial issues in an objective, respectful manner. I think it is very important for that to be upheld and kept sacred,” said Kiera Riley, Editor in Chief, who expressed disappointment that the bill was vetoed.

While the Cactus Shadows journalism program has not experienced significant censorship from the administration, many school newspapers in Arizona struggle

with the ability to publish political or debatable topics. This impacts the news that is provided to these schools’ student bodies.

Ducey’s reasons for vetoing the bill include concern that students would publish work that is inappropriate.

“This bill could create unintended consequences, especially on high school campuses where adult supervision and mentoring is most important,” said Ducey, in an interview with AZ Central.

Many journalism professionals feel differently about the subject.

“That is why you hire a certified teacher to make sure that doesn’t happen,” said Lori Hart, journalism teacher and adviser who testified in support of the bill.

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2 ■ OCTOBER 20, 2017

Phoenix Dream Center aides in foster care efforts

By ANNALEE BARNETT

g

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

ON THE SPOT Ryder Bootz shows

shock as his fellow jokesters, Maggie Ewens and Max McGregor, prepare for the next move. The team plays a variety of games to keep the show going. “We really try to keep it balanced. If there are too many of the same type of game then the audience gets bored,” said Ewens.

4 SEAN GANNON

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Improv troupe welcomes new members and begins the year with a sold out show

sports editor

Children in Arizona face the increasing problems of child poverty and a flawed foster care system, resulting in 18,000 children in the system and 600 children being brought into it each month.

“I don’t know why it’s so bad in Arizona, but it is a real problem that needs to be fixed,” said Katy Nasar, a senior who was adopted from South Korea at a very young age.

Arizona’s foster care system is in place to protect children from possible domestic abuse, homelessness, or even a lack of basic resources being provided by the family.

There is approximately one child being removed from a home every 40 minutes in Arizona.

“Arizona is always working on making the situation better, but it remains a big problem. The focus needs to be on prevention,” said Teri Vogel, Director of Foster Care Prevention at the Phoenix Dream Center.

The Dream Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping the community, deals with issues like human trafficking, homelessness, rehabilitation, foster care prevention and many other needs in the Phoenix area.

Vogel originally became involved in foster care when she met a woman at the Phoenix Dream Center who had six of her children taken from her due to substance abuse. Along with the Department of Child Safety, Vogel helped the young woman regain custody to her children.

“She would have had to do it alone if it weren’t for the support of the Phoenix Dream Center and its volunteers,” said Vogel.

There are several dream centers all around the world, with one in 24 different states and one in eight different countries.

The department of foster care prevention at the dream center is dedicated to thwarting a child ever being placed into the foster care system. They work in cooperation with Arizona Department of Child Safety caseworkers and local social workers as well.

“The Dream Center really is doing something great in Phoenix. They have so many different programs that are making a real difference,” said Bethany Godzich, a worker at Dream City Church, which is associated with the Dream Center.

As a team, they join clients and community supporters together to meet the basic requirements set down by the Arizona Department of Child Safety. If certain needs are not met, that could potentially end with a child being removed from the home and placed into the system. Reasons for removing a child from a home include physical abuse, neglect, homelessness, substance abuse, and the death of the parents.

However, removing a child from the home may not be in the best interest of the child. A person that decides to take a foster child into their home receives a monthly check of approximately $600 to use for the child being fostered, but the foster parent may not always have the best interest of the child in mind.

In an article published by the Arizona Republic, a study found that out of 42 families interviewed, 11 children were found to be physically or sexually abused, exposed to drugs, or harmed in some other way while in foster care.

As a result, foster care youths have been reported to be more prone to substance abuse than the average high school student. A study by Spark Action found that 56 percent of adolescents in foster care admitted to using street drugs.

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By MAJA PEIRCE g staff writer

HE first Improv Show introduced new Jokers

to the team and experimented with story-telling scenarios.

“You are so vulnerable in front of those people because you get up there and you have no idea what you’re going to do, no idea what you’re going to say and you’re relying on these people to help you build up,” said Tara Prager, a captain of the improv troupe.

With a team of now 24 Jokers, the troupe chooses who performs during which shows by their grades and attendance at practices.

“You need at least a 2.0 GPA and no Fs,” said Maggie Ewens, another captain.

Since the troupe only lets 18 into a show, if one doesn’t meet the requirements they are less likely to be able to perform in that show. Additionally, the first show does not typically showcase new team mates because they are still learning games and building trust within the team.

During practice, the troupe learns new games and at the end they are given feedback about their work.

“When you do a game in practice together and you end up doing that game on stage with that person, it kind of gives a reassurance. You already know you have that chemistry and that you can do this,” said Ewens.

In loving memory of...

The improv troupe prides itself on adding to the community of the school and creating school spirit for people who cannot usually find it.

“The improv troupe builds character. It breaks apart everyone trying to be the exact same way. The thing that I find funny is that some people think ‘Oh they’re lame.

Why am I going to an improv show when I could obviously be doing something cooler with my bros?’ and then when they get there, they find a little piece of them that is liking a school event,” said Ewens Following the tradition set up each year, the improv troupe show sold out. With the seats packed, it is often hard for members to see who was able to get their hands on a ticket.

“People you don’t even expect come up to you and tell you that you did great at the improv show and you’re like, wow I didn't even know you came,” said Prager.

Everybody on the troupe has different ways of performing and some have certain games they are particularly inclined to do.

“It’s a nice getaway and escape for the kids who are on the troupe. The kids who are on it are just goofy kids,” said Andrew Cupo, adviser of the troupe.

One must go through the audition process in order to be on the improv team, and must join drama club. This year, the troupe will perform four times, once every quarter.

Gus Angeli 1967-2017 Gus Angeli taught math for four years at Cactus Shadows and described himself as “a guy that likes to teach math, not a math guru.”

Angeli made it his goal to make math fun and create a comfortable environment for his students, often playing music in his classroom. His favorite was 70s rock n’ roll.

Prior to teaching, Angeli served in the Navy, completing two Pacific tours on the SS Cleveland and

attended Arizona State University on a GI Bill.

When Angeli was not teaching he could be found watching ASU football, supporting his favorite sports teams, and riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle.

A dedicated teacher, friend, husband, and father, Angeli is survived by his wife, Cadi and his daughter, Mali. His service will be held on October 21 at 11 A.M. at the Christ Church of the Valley with a reception following at CCV. NEWS

4 ■ OCTOBER 20, 2017

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

Equestrian club lassos new members

By AVIANNA HOPPES g staff writer

Students share their passion for horses with the new Equestrian Club which meets every Thursday at lunch.

This new group allows students to discover and grow their love for horses. The club is trying to expand the horse community at Cactus Shadows, allowing people of all skill levels to join.

“We have people who are beginners and we have people who are more experienced riders,” said Hailey Johnson, a freshman and club member.

Students do not need to own a horse to join, as member Madison Jacoby rents out her horses to members who need one.

“There are goals that still need to be achieved but we are trying to bring more people out and ride horses,” said Jacoby.

Club members also meet every Thursday at Scottsdale Saddle Club to discuss competitions and talk about their visions for the club’s future, in addition to their weekly lunch meetings.

“There are a lot of career options for horses and I want to make them aware these opportunities,” said Tina Bech, club adviser.

During some meetings they have guest speakers talk to them about equestrian careers, making them more knowledgeable on horses and how they can pursue their passion.

The Equestrian Club was created because there was a lot of interest from students.

Fortunately for the club, there was an advisor available with horse experience.

“I had a student approach me about advising this club, and since I have a background

working with horses, I decided to do it” said Bech.

They discuss their goals and the steps they need to take to achieve it. One common goal they have is to try to expand the community and educate more people about horses.

As the club of nine members works towards reaching their goals of expanding, they do not want to get too big.

“Ideally the club would have 10 to 15 people, making it easier to meet and safer to compete, but of course anyone who wants to join can,” said Bech.

The club is about more than just horses though, as they do perform community outreach and try to give back to local organizations.

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AT SPUR CROSS HORSE STABLES, many different breeds of horses are used for trail rides. Trail rides range anywhere from one to four hours long, and all levels of experience are welcome.

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4 LAUREN HAGGAR

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Lost IDentity With implementation of harsher ID regulations, students and faculty clash over the newest policy.

By SARA WINDOM g editor in chief

BY ADMINISTRATION IMPLEMENTING A STRICTER STUdent identification card policy in the current school year, students who cannot provide an ID when asked face consequences.

“I came from a school in Colorado that didn’t require IDs because it was such a small school,” said Hailey Johnson, a freshman, “and then I came here and I had no idea what we were doing with IDs, so I left it at home every single day and got so many lunch detentions.”

The current school policy regarding identification is that it must be visible on a students’ body. In a pocket or wrapped around a backpack is not permitted. In addition to this, if a student is unable to show an ID upon walking into class, they must purchase a new one in the library before being allowed entrance. Besides the $5 fee, the office adds a referral to their record.

“I got punished because I didn’t have my ID five days in a row, so I got lunch detention twice. And then here I had to pay $10 for two new IDs. I have four now. I forgot my ID today. It’s hard adjusting to bringing something every single day,” said Jo Breese, a freshman.

In previous years, students who found they had misplaced their cards for the day could visit the front office and get a temporary sticker. While this did encourage students to turn themselves in, the numbers soared so high that the school could not keep up.

“On average, we were probably giving around 90 to 100 stickers a day.

So we were constantly reordering new stickers to accommodate students that came to campus without their ID,” said Aaron Pettinato, Dean of Students. “It seemed like we were enabling the problem. This year, we tried that for a week and decided as an admin team that we would not be buying any more stickers.”

After being warned twice and gaining two referrals, if the problem persists, a student can face lunch detention and in serious cases, suspension.

“If you get a detention, it’s not about the ID anymore, it's about being disrespectful of the school rules. I don’t understand why kids are taking it to that point. It’s really just about making this campus more safe and secure,” said Pettinato.

While the 90 students acquiring temporary stickers daily last year has concluded altogether, the library still sees nearly 30 students a day purchasing new identification cards.

“I expected to have a big curve and then it’d come down, but it’s not happening,” said Ray Flamm, a librarian that oversees printing the replacement cards. “I’ve been doing 30 to 40 cards a day some days.”

Faces do typically vary, but Flamm knows many frequent visitors by name now. However, he joked, he has not memorized their student numbers yet.

VISIBLE OR NOT VIABLE students must have their

ID visible on their body. Unlike last year, IDs are no longer allowed to stay in pockets, wallets, and backpacks.

4 SARA WINDOM

Rank Drop from page 1

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THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

OCTOBER 20, 2017 ■ 3

“I think that in the future for freshmen, that administrators might tell teachers that they have to start giving AZmerit as a grade.

I feel like standardized testing isn’t necessarily the best way to judge someone’s academic abilities, and now I feel like they are going to put more emphasis on it,” said Drew Ballard, a senior.

By SARA WINDOM and KIERA RILEY g editors in chief School boards across the state claimed the new ranking system is over reliant on Following the deadliest mass shooting in modern American history, former standardized testing scores. Both students Arizona representative Gabrielle Giffords and her husband, Captain Mark Kelly and administrators foresee possible consespeak out against current gun control policy. quences of the newest system.

While most other states require concealed carry with a permit, in Arizona, anyone 21 years of age or older may carry a weapon openly or concealed without a license.

Giffords, a long term gun owner, was the victim of a violent mass shooting in Tucson in 2011. What was intended to be a community outreach event left 6 people dead and 13 injured.

Suffering from a shot to the head from point blank range, Giffords underwent extensive surgery and later fell into a medically induced coma. She recovered with brain damage and has since made it her mission to speak out against gun violence alongside her husband, forming the organization, Americans for Responsible Solutions.

Only hours after the Las Vegas shooting, Giffords called Congress to action, stating, “The nation is counting on you.” Kelly also brought up solutions including stronger background checks and tighter restrictions on assault weapons.

The discussion exists on both a state and national level. Citizens look to both their legislators and the nation's leaders for the next steps.

“Trump says he supports the second amendment right so I think he’s going to do as little as possible to restrict gun rights,” said Robert Griffith, a senior and gun enthusiast.

From tragedy to controversy...

Vegas massacre stirs gun control debate

LEGISLATION FAILS In the past, legislation failed to go through following shootings such as Sandy Hook and Pulse Night Club. Though many are pushing for reform, Molly Gum, a government teacher, remains unfaithful that much will be able to pass.

“It would be very messy and would take a very long time. It’s sad, because even basic reforms that 90 percent of American people support, Congress still won’t do anything about because they think politically it could hurt them. So instead of doing what the citizens want, they’re doing what the people who fund their campaigns want,” said Gum. Party lines are also playing into the debate swirling around gun control, but there is some element of compromise

MOST SUPPORT SOME CHANGE.

“According to a new study put out by CNN, 89 percent of Republicans and Democrats support preventing the mentally ill from owning guns.”

According to a new study put out by CNN, 89 percent of Republicans and Democrats support preventing the mentally ill from owning guns. The study also stated that 77 percent of Republicans and 90 percent of Democrats support background checks at private sales and gun shows.

Despite this study, opinions among students remain divided following the mass shooting in Las Vegas.

“I don’t think there is a way to resolve a mass shooting. That’s like getting into someone’s head and making them stop doing something, it’s not expected, it just happens,” said Ryan McQuiston, a senior and gun owner.

Abby Kitnick, a senior and gun control advocate, felt differently.

“I think there should be a limit on the amount of weapons you should have and the magnitude of those weapons. You don’t need military grade weapons. People say they need it to protect themselves from an intruder but a handgun can do just that,” said Kitnick.

A nationwide brainstorm of solutions result in two sides of the spectrum. One side pushes for the strict regulation of firearms while the other believes in making guns more prevalent.

“Regulate them [guns] just as you would regulate cars. You have to go through registration and insurance type things. And make it less accessible based on age so you can’t buy guns when you’re younger,” said Olivia Persyn, a senior and gun control advocate, “I think when you add more guns to the situation it’s just like fighting fire with fire.”

In the following weeks, citizens expect to see talks in Congress about the gun control issue.

“Administrators may take it too heavily and might start pushing teachers to crack down on students or put more stress on state testing, like AZMerit and I feel like it could overstress the students,” said Kamryn Kadatoni, a senior AP student.

Besides measuring student success on the Arizona Merit, another 20 percent of the rubric measures improvement from prior years. Many public schools find this category unfair, because it rewards lower performing institutes over ones that have already been in high performance for years. Because they are measuring by improvement percentage, a school that increases their 64 percent grad-

uation rate to a 66 would gain a higher score than one that has achieved a 90 percent each year. When looked at out of context, the two percent increase is higher than maintaining an excelling score from year to year.

Another 10 percent is centered around English-Language Learning students scores on the Arizona English Language Learner Assessment (AZELLA). The last 40 percent is split between graduation rate and “College and Career readiness indicators.”

These indicators incorporate Career Technical Education (CTE) classes, SAT, ACT, and ASVAB participation, and other career recognized certificates.

In hopes of achieving an A on the 2018 assessment, administration is offering the ASVAB and the SAT for juniors free of charge to gain extra points in lacking categories.

Cactus Shadows is not alone in the drop in rating. According to AZCentral, 17 percent of high schools earned an A, 34 percent received a B, 37 percent were graded a C, nine percent earned a D and three percent received a F. Districts across the valley, including Cave Creek Unified are in the process of filing appeals. Although the state rank dropped, the school still retains its title as an A+ School of Excellence.

o c t o b e r

s h e e t s

news

2 ■ November 17, 2017

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By Luc FLaschentrager g staff writer

US braceS for poSSible conflict with north Korea “The Trump Administration has been handling this much differently than the past presidents. Instead of leaving them on the back burner and not handling the obvious problem, they have taken a firm stand against them.”

any US citizens fear the current crisis between the United States and North Korean officials as the nuclear threat from both sides has the possibility of astronomical consequences.

As debates continue, tensions have been rising between the two countries. Both countries have taken a position on these issues that the other disagrees with, and there is no common ground in sight.

These policies have led to an inflammation of the nuclear program in North Korea, which has put politics around the world on edge.

However, this has not just begun recently. There is a history behind it all.

From Grandfather to Father to their current political leader, the North Korean political value has been to be better than the other guy, so to speak. They have been racing to become a powerful nation since the Korean War, and are still not able to achieve that.

“I think that North Korea is really struggling as a nation. This issue is just a last-ditch effort to make a

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

name for themselves before they are wiped off the map,” said Isaiah Shipley a second-generation North Korean student.

Yet, recently, there has been a turn of events. Even with the extreme sanctions that the United Nations has set on them, they have been able to build and test missiles with extremely destructive capabilities. There have even been reports that some may be able to reach the United States mainland, almost as far in as Nevada.

The Trump Administration has been handling this much differently than past presidents. Instead of leaving them on the back burner and not handling the obvious problem, they have taken a firm stand against them, saying that if the US feels threatened by Korean actions, there will be a military response.

“The Trump Administration looks at what past administrations have done, for a number of presidents, and basically seen the same pattern repeat itself, and are trying to break that pattern by taking a much firmer stance on the issue with North Korea and telling them they’re no longer willing to make concessions as previous administrations have,” said Steven Mitten, a history teacher.

This has been shown through the rapid-fire verbal assault by both sides, with name-calling and threats being issued as well.

Many believe that this could be the beginning of the end. As these threats are being thrown around, there are many, very real, missiles to back them up.

“I don’t think North Korea is a real threat to the US just because of their outdated technology, but if anything did start it would probably spark a third World War. I think Trump is doing a good job but he should just leave it alone for now and keep an eye on them until they start to become a threat,” said Sam Harrison, a South Korean student.

The U.S. has one of the largest stockpiles of nuclear weapons, and, according to Trump, are ready to use them whenever necessary. Also, while not as many, there is the threat of North Korean missiles which could destroy the Western US. Government classes this semester began studying the relationship between the two nations. Because of the extensive coverage this issue is getting, many classes are spending weeks on the subject, and some are considering debating the topic of foreign policy altogether.

n s o v h e e e m b t s e r

to join the military by showing them advantages such as free education.

“Joining the military means I get benefits for the rest of my life, I get the pleasure of serving my country and I get experience,” said Tyrus Smedes, a senior enlisted in the navy.

Members may join the military out of patriotism for their country, a secure job, medical coverage or the opportunity to travel.

Many students who choose the military path first, still plan on getting a college education. The GI bill helps with this. The post 9/11

Government Issue (GI) bill provides up to 36 months of educational benefits to eligible service members.

Members are also able to access 4,500 in Tuition Assistance while in service. The military gives service members a variety of opportunities to get an education.

In the state of Arizona, it is a requirement to complete Educational and Career Planning (ECAP) within the four years of high school. ECAP’s purpose is to prepare students for a plan after high school.

Senior year, students planning on joining the armed forces show

the letter from their recruiter saying that after high school they have a plan on serving their country.

“All of my family has served in the military, as well as it sets your life up with benefits and housing,” said Jessica Congo, a senior enlisted in the army.

According to military.com, “The military offers very competitive pay and benefit packages. Entrylevel jobs start at $1300 a month, pays for food, housing, medical, education and 30 days paid vacation.” Some of the jobs include engineer trainee, transportation offi-

C

By Sara Windom g editor in chief

elebrating the third year of the now annual exhibit, art students from introduction to AP field tripped to the Carefree Enchanted Pumpkin Garden on Oct. 25.

“I thought it was cool that the guy was super excited to share his pumpkins with us and his passion for pumpkins,” said Lauryn Stornelli, a senior.

Upon arrival, students were able to sit down in a small group and learn from master carver Ray Villafane himself. Once working as a toy sculptor for Warner Brothers, Villafane realized his true medium-- pumpkins. Having sculpted on the fruit for 22 years, as of now, Villafane has carved on more than 2,500 pumpkins.

“I loved the fact that I was doing something no one had done before,” said Villafane during his discussion with the art students. Much of his talk was based on encouraging artists to think outside of the box and dare to be different because what matters is how it makes the artist feel. “The more I enjoyed it, somehow, the more the world enjoyed it.”

After his speech, the artist did a live pumpkin carving in which he displayed the technique he uses most frequently. After shaving down the pumpkin and beginning to carve basic detailing, he offered the students to try to carve an eye, nose, cheek, or any other facial feature they desired.

“It was wonderful because Ray is a sculptor and he invited us for the third year in a row. He loves kids and loves artists,” said Deborah Whales, an art teacher that went on the trip.

After the talk, students were encouraged to walk around the garden and experience the exhibit for themselves. Featuring different scenes inspired

by Villafane’s personal humor, some pumpkins were found in jail cells, in the hospital, or even going for a swim in the Carefree fountain.

“I wanted to see the exhibit, I wanted to see the hanging pumpkins, I thought that was kind of scary for a kid exhibit,” said Stornelli.

After viewing the exhibit, many students to Villafane’s intent, found inspiration behind the carvings.

“I want to draw more pumpkins now,” said Emily Cabrera, a senior.

The 10 day tradition is organized by the Villafane Studios team, which consists of Villafane, and other carvers from around the world, Chris Vierra, Nikolay Torkhov, Sue Beatrice, Dean Arnold, and Dmitry Klimenko.

Sonoran Arts League, encouraging student artists in the community, is hosting the next art field trip to Hidden in the Hills, which will be occurring today.

By annie Sogaard g staff writer

\ xandra squier

Young adults have a variety of options of life after high school.

Following the nontraditional route, some high school graduates choose to join the military.

When enlisting in the military, students meet with a recruiting officer, take a physical fitness test, take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) and sign the contract committing to the armed forces.

Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) come around to high schools and to encourage students

cer, oil field trainee, Security, cable installation technician and more.

“Every teenager should potentially serve in the military. It would be helpful to students by giving them more insight, independence, time management skills and physical education,” said Lori Dahne, a counselor.

High school students are often indecisive of how they want to pursue their future.

When joining the military, students sign a contract agreeing to amount of years one will serve that cannot be broken.

Digital Journalism, a new class on campus, enters its first year as a branch of the CTE program. The course is designed for students who have interest in a contemporary and technology-centric form of journalism, and all the things that encompass it. Students who are enrolled in Digital Journalism have the opportunity to build on a wide variety of new skills and employ them in producing content for the school’s web newspaper, CS Press Online.

“You learn to figure out what is interesting to kids at the school and how to report it in a fair and ethical way,” said Lori Hart, digital journalism instructor. “The cool part now is that students are doing so with this technology that we didn’t use before.”

In terms of the structure and organization of the class, students are placed in six different teams with tasks switching off weekly. They learn things like how to shoot and edit videos for video news broadcasts, make podcasts, write in the journalistic style, or create infographics and polls.

“We get to do fun things you wouldn’t do in normal classes, like writing stories about popular topics both at school and around the world,” said Riley James, a sophomore in the class.

The rotation begins with writing news article with photos, then to writing opinion articles or reviews, doing “man on the street” interviews or polls, video news broadcasts, the podcast, and a photo essay. Students are responsible for all of the content posted to the site.

“The hard part is keeping up with the deadline because you only want to publish your best work for each project,” said Blake Dorame, a sophomore. “But my favorite thing is that we are always working on projects about topics we chose and have significance to us.”

Another trait unique to the Digital Journalism class as opposed to ‘regular’ courses is that students play a large part in what work they do for the class and what topics they enjoy.

“It’s hard to begin a story or to find a good topic that other people will be interested in,” said James, “but the easiest thing is when I do get to write about something I’m interested in; for example, we had to do a movie review, and I’m a huge movie fan and plan on being a director when I grow up.”

Like any new class, technical difficulties can and will occur. Students recently started updating the site daily and continue to learn from mistakes as they arise. But, with the site now posted to the school website and app, the pressure is on.

Cactus Shadows’ digital newspaper can be found at cactusshadowscspress.com and students interested in joining digital journalism in the future can see Lori Hart in room 609.

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

Featuring different scenes inspired by Villafane’s personal humor, some pumpkins were found in jail cells, in the hospital, or even going for a swim in the Carefree fountain.

Military representatives recruit students on campus

4 ■ NovembeR 17, 2017

NOvEmbEr 17, 2017 ■ 3

Art classes travel to New digital journalism class Pumpkin Festival revives online newspaper

Military representatives recruit students on campus

By Faith hasher g opinion editor

news

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

Sculpting SeSSion Children at

the enchanted pumpkin garden help Villafane carve a pumpkin at the annual festival. 4 sara windom

Hopping on the band wagon After two years of of sitting out, the band is finally large enough to march.

GET IN FORMATION Jeremy jones, a freshman plays the trombone at a football game. The band recently competed in a local competition and received the superior rating, outstanding percussion, and oustanding auxilllary awards.

4 MIA GILLING

Crash Course from page 1 A majority of these crashes occurred on other roadways, like country roads or city streets.

This is seen on the local level. Recently, student car crashes occurred both on and off campus.

Marcus Watts, a junior, and a parent collided outside the west parking lot a few weeks ago. While this occurrence was not fatal, it caused substantial backup on Dove Valley road, blocking students from pulling into the west lot. Since the start of the school, some claim to see a rise in fender benders, putting most of the blame on the new parking lot system.

“I think the way they’re set up it makes sense in some part but it is also a very bad idea to have everybody coming through only one street because that is going to lead to people flying out of the parking lot,” said Watts, “with more cars, more collisions will happen.”

In previous years, a lot was dedicated entirely to seniors; juniors would either be assigned to fill in the extra spaces in the main parking area, or park in a lot on the other side of the campus. However, administration implemented a new policy this school year, in which all grade levels are able to park in whichever lot they choose.

Despite the change in the lots, car accidents on campus are nothing new. Some of the more serious incidents in the past

By MADDIE HOWARD g creeker editor

Marching their way back into Cactus Shadows, after a two year hiatus, is the the school marching band.

Kevin Brady, a music teacher who has taught in the Cave Creek school district for all four years of his teaching career, has helped with the comeback of the marching band program. Brady was able to step in and take the place of the former band teacher, Gerry Wykoff.

“The opportunity kind of ell into my lap. I was doing my thing at the elementary school and, when I found out Mr. Wykoff was retiring, I thought back to college, my dream was to direct high school bands and to teach cool, challenging, interesting music,” said Brady.

With the marching band only consisting of 20 students this year, and had only 14 members last year, there are some hardships that the band faces.

“Sound would be the biggest issue we face. Every person plays their own part and they really need to be strong, confident, and independent musicians because if one person is wrong that entire part is wrong and it’s pretty easy to hear if there’s only one person playing that part,” said Brady.

The marching band has been playing at certain events around school that include football games, assem-

“You don’t only endanger yourself, you endanger everyone around you.

My parents always told me that you can’t rely on the other people around you because you never know what they’re going to do.”

include a student hitting another student with their car and a parent flipping their vehicle in the student parking lot.

School and state officials struggle to pin down the central cause of the rise in car crashes.

Many look to distracted or destructive driving like texting and abusing Jessica Menton, a sophomore. alcohol and illegal drugs.

According to AZDPS, impaired driving crashes account for about onethird of fatal collisions. Crashes involving impairment related to alcohol, illegal drugs or prescription medication killed 406 people and injured 4,089 in 2016. Because of this spike, schools aim to educate students about these dangers.

“You don’t only endanger yourself, you endanger everyone

blies, and their marching show.

“I feel more involved because we have things that we can play and the students can join in too and it’s just really fun to have people watch us and see our progress throughout the season,” said Anika Arias, a senior and a member of the marching band who plays the flute.

The marching band has participated in a couple competitions, one of their first competitions was on the weekend of October 14 and their next competition will on November 18.

“Our first competition of the year is going to be at Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher and it’ll be mostly against other Division 4 schools with small band programs under 60 pieces,” said Brady.

The marching band competed in the 1A and 2A class and received a superior rating, outstanding percussion, and outstanding auxilliary captions.

The students of the marching band have zero period every day and practice on Tuesdays from 6 p.m until 8 p.m.

“It’s a little hard to balance school and band, but this year it’s not too bad because my classes are easy and I feel like you just have to plan out your time,” said Gaby Arias, a senior and a clarinet player in the marching band.

Brady is confident that the marching band will grow as the years go on because the middle school student seem to have a good attitude toward the marching band program.

around you. My parents always told me that you can’t rely on the other people around you because you never know what they’re going to do,” said Jessica Menton, a sophomore.

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS On campus, the health department used “drunk driving goggles” with classes to simulate the feeling of driving under the influence.

“I was trying to give them the idea of what it's like to go through daily tasks while being under the influence of alcohol and showing how it's impairing,” said Tandehl Collentine, health teacher.

This is the first year that health classes offer the drunk driving simulation in the curriculum. The new prevention coordinator, Diana Montano, made this possible. Montano also revived the school’s Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) program.

“I think that with having a prevention coordinator on campus we are going to see even more things brought to school for us to be able to use,” said Collentine.

Texting and driving also plays into the distracted driving epidemic. Arizona is one of four states that does not have specific laws regarding phone usage in vehicles. According to AT&T’s It Can Wait Campaign, states without statewide antitexting laws have a roughly 17 percent higher rate of texting while driving than the 46 states with bans. Arizona legislators have yet to take action in this area.

NOVEMBER 17, 2017 ■ 5

NEWS

STUDENTS TURNED TRAINERS Joe Harvey,a trainer, teaches students how to assist athletes with their injuries.

4 SEAN GANNON

CUP IT UP After school Kayleigh Hreha cups Tommy

Brown’s back before football practice. Hreha has been helping the athletic trainer for two years. Cupping is an ancient Chinese tradition in which suction is used to bring more blood to the muscle. 4 SEAN GANNON

S

By LUC FLASCHENTRAGER g staff writer

TUDENTS at Cactus

Shadows are participating in a Sports Medicine internship associated with a class in order to further their high school experience and prepare themselves for medical careers in the future.

There are a number of students interning with athletic trainer, Joe Harvey, some interning for years.

However, this year, a class was opened up for those who wanted to learn even more.

Those interning do everything the trainer does. When dealing with contact sports, there can be a lot of medical issues.

One of the major things they do for players is cupping. When playing intense sports such as football, soccer, and hockey, athletes’ backs can get extremely tense and create knots. Cupping is when the interns or the trainer places cups on the back, and sucks out some of the air inside, this stretches out the entire back which breaks up knots, both relaxing and stabilizing the muscles in the back.

Along with this is the process of the next day, which is where they shock the area with low voltage for a long period of time to relax it out.

Another technique students learn is wraps. The trainers will wrap a hand or foot in order to relieve pain in the area after a collision. This helps by not allowing it to move a certain way that will cause pain.

“We help out by doing rehab, cupping, scraping, tapeing, and all that good stuff, and we take our priorities to whatever sport is in season with focusing on high-risk sports like football or soccer, but anyone can come in and we will do rehab for anyone for anything,” said Gibson Hreha, a junior in the sports medicine class.

There are a number of students involved in this program. They are required to have at least 100 hours in the training office by the end of the year, which includes helping out after school, at games, or whenever needed.

“I started working with the trainer last year, and I just fell in love with it, so I came back this year for the class to learn more since I’m going to pursue a career with it,” said Kayleigh Hreha, a senior and student in the sports medicine class.

In the class, they have a much more education-based approach.

They learn about the human body, what can go wrong, how to fix issues, and so much more.

“I think it’s phenomenal. It’s really good for our student athletes to have an opportunity to be able to take the class because education is key, the more you know the better health you’re going to have, and whether you end up being an athlete in college or become a healthcare professional, I think the more you know the better,” said Harvey. The Sports Medicine class, just started up this year, with many believing that this is just the first step.

Dreamers in a nightmare

Close to 800,000 DACA recipients are fearing deportation after President Trump’s decision about the program

By GRIFFIN GOLDSTEIN g staff writer

On September 5, 2017, the DACA program was suspended for six months by the Trump Administration to be reviewed to determine its whether or not it is constitutional.

The suspension protects people who entered the country under its terms, and has kept them from being deported.

DACA is a program that allows undocumented immigrants, who were brought to the United States at a young age by their parents illegally, to be protected from laws that may threaten them with deportation and allows for them to receive work permits.

The program was created by the

Obama administration to address the problem that an increasing number of illegal immigrant students were graduating from high schools, a number upwards of 65,000 per year.

Obama instituted this policy through an executive order, which caused uproar because that action is considered by many to be unconstitutional, because it bypassed Congress.

“I don’t think it would be necessarily helpful to the US for it to be removed. I don’t believe it should exist because it allows illegal immigrants to be protected here and get work permits, but doesn’t give them full citizenship,” said Dylan Hayes, a senior.

President Trump and some

members of his cabinet believe that DACA should be repealed or reformed because of its legality.

According to the acting homeland security secretary, it conflicts with our existing immigration laws.

Upon DACA’s suspension, Trump stated that he would be deporting criminals, security threats, recent border-crossers, visa overstays, and repeat violators, but would leave law-abiding people be.

“The United States is a nation of opportunity and second chances.

DACA kids deserve protection and deserve citizenship. By allowing this, they become tax-paying members of society and can make direct contributions to our economy,” said Molly Gum, a government teacher.

One of the reasons why DACA

has been suspended is because criminals are finding ways to be legally protected under the law.

Statistically, criminals and people who fall under all of Trump’s categories eligible for deportation make up a very small minority of people protected under DACA. Since 2012, when DACA was passed, to the present day, over 800,000 illegal immigrants are protected under its conditions. The termination of the DACA program would result in thousands of people losing their jobs, homes, and ultimately their eligibility to live in the United States, as law enforcement would be legally obligated to deport them. However, these 800,000 people are safe, as the program is only suspended for revi-

sion.

“I think DACA should help people become citizens, not just take everybody in,” said Harrison Connell, a senior.

According to President Trump, a possible revision of DACA could help these people legally obtain citizenship through military service, which many of the 800,000 are already involved in either presently or in past years.

Along with the conditions of DACA, President Trump reviewed prototypes for the construction of the border wall. The estimated cost for the wall according to Senate Democrats is $70 billion.

NEWS

2 ■ DECEMBER 22, 2017

Students raise their voices for choir

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

SADD takes a stand

t e a r

By AVIANNA HOPPES g staff writer

The school choir spends a lot of time preparing for concerts, as both regular and honors students put in time and effort by continuously rehearsing songs and learning their parts.

Choir is separated into two different classes: regular and honors. Anyone can join the regular choir class, but students must audition for honors choir. One of the main differences between the two is that the students in the honors class have more experience singing than those in regular choir.

“Honors students have to audition solo and they have to be able to sight read, have a good voice and be able to match pitch easily,” said Karen Dolezal, choir teacher.

Though choir may require a lot of time and effort, some students do not mind putting the hours in because it is their passion. Every student might have a different reason for starting it, but a lot do it because of their love for music.

“I started choir because I love to sing, it is my favorite thing to do in my spare time,” said Hayley Smith, a sophomore in honors choir.

Students spend a lot of time practicing for upcoming concerts by singing songs, putting the finishing touches on the pieces, and making sure everyone knows their part.

“We learn the pieces a couple of months in advance, and we practice them while fixing the things we messed up on,” DECEMBER 22, 2017 ■ 3said Smith.

After spending a long time learning the songs and once all the hard work and preparation is over with, they all perform the songs together.

“My favorite part about choir is seeing everyone come together during concerts,” said Maya Morant, a freshman in honors choir.

Since the kids in choir spend time together practicing every day, they often get to know each other very well.

They can become friends with other people in their class, bonding over their passion for singing.

“My favorite part about school choir is how well we've gotten to know each other and how we can all come together as individuals and create music together and have fun doing it,” said Smith.

Practicing every day for an hour, choir meets in first or second block, depending on which class it is, so they can perform better.

So far they have had three concerts this month.

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS NEWS

Nation Addicted

Declared a national crisis by President Trump, Governor Doug Ducey calls Arizona’s opiod crisis a public health emergency.

T

By BROOK BOWMAN g staff writer

HE

Arizona Department of Health Services released its latest data on opioid overdoses in Arizona, showing that it has reached the highest number of deaths in ten years due to opioid overdoses.

They reported that more than 3,200 suspected opioid overdoses have been reported to state officials since June 15th.

According to the NY Times, of each American drug overdose, nearly twothirds of them are from prescription opioids, heroin and synthetic opioids, killing some 64,000 Americans last year, which is over 20 percent more than in 2015. This statistic is more than double the number in 2005, and nearly quadruple the number in 2000, when accidental falls killed more Americans than opioid overdoses.

PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY As a result, Governor Doug Ducey declared Arizona’s opioid crisis as a publichealth emergency in June. This opens the question to what exactly has started the problem and how to fix it.

To start off the epidemic, more fingers are being pointed at doctors and highly paid pharmaceutical producers. On October 26, 2017, John Kapoor, the founder of opioid pharmaceutical producer Insys Therapeutics and the sixth richest man in

Arizona, was arrested due to illegal distribution of fentanyl spray and violating antikickback laws.

Allegedly, Kapoor was bribing doctors into over-prescribing painkillers intended for cancer patients. But, these patients being prescribed these drugs did not have any trace of cancer.

As one solution, President Donald Trump has directed the Department of Health and Human Services to declare the opioid crisis as an public health emergency. Trump vowed to get rid of drug abuse and addiction that has diseased the United States.

“I have lost some friends due to the epidemic and I feel that a common root of the problem is depression in the users. There needs to be more of a focus on fixing this issue and then, maybe we might see a drop in the number of young people who abuse opioids,” said Michael Chmura, a senior.

Yet, Trump has not prompted any federal funding to this issue yet, and has not suggested any plans for supporting any sort of medical treatment. However, he does plan to include a requirement that federally employed prescribers are trained in safe practices for opioid prescriptions, and a new federal initiative to develop non addictive painkillers.

“I believe that Arizona is being affected by the opioid epidemic because of ignorance and/or mental diseases. People aren’t

taking the time to care about how the illicit substance they are consuming is affecting their body. All they care about is getting high sometimes without regard to what pill they are even taking,” said Matthew Blackert, a senior. “People need to become aware and educated as to how these drugs are going to affect their body and if they are prepared to allow their drug use to take their life away from them.”

PLAN TO ATTACK PROBLEM Consequently, the University of Michigan has devised a plan to address the nation's opioid epidemic. They have decided to start cutting down opioid prescriptions by prescribing half of what they would usually prescribe. Many other hospitals are following in their footsteps. According to National Public Radio, despite getting less medication, patients did not report higher levels of pain, and they were no more likely than the previously studied patients to ask for prescription refills. Additionally, these patients asked for fewer pills.

Many celebrities in the past years have been affected by opioids. For example, Heath Ledger, Elvis Presley, Prince Rogers Nelson, Cory Monteith, Chris Farley, Janis Joplin, and most recent a rapper named Gustav Åhr, or more commonly known as Lil Peep each were victims to an opioid overdose. Ironically, Åhr’s death took place in Tucson, Arizona, which continues to

face a serious drug problem, seeing as many as one hundred opioid-related deaths per month.

Steven Beebe, the principal, stated, “We have a huge opioid issue in the United States. There have been a lot of incidents, but we currently aren’t finding any at Cactus Shadows. We are dealing with other issues. Nine years ago when I joined Cactus Shadows that wasn’t the case. We have been working really hard on that issue ever since. The last five years for homecoming and the last four years for prom, we haven’t had one drug or alcohol related problem and we are continuing to improve.”

With that being said, the White House is slowly, but surely approaching the issue. Kellyanne Conway, counselor to Trump, has created an “opioid cabinet.” This cabinet consists of experts from the Department of Health and Human Services, the Office of National Drug Control Policy, and other executive branch offices. Conway leads weekly meetings at the White House in order to develop a plan to respond to the opioid crisis.

CHOIR STUDENTS practice for their upcoming show.

Honor Choir students often spend many hours rehearsing and perfecting new songs, 4AVIANNA HOPPES

DURING A SADD MEETING

members Alyssa Tate and Nicole Mauk, both sophomores, help create a banner spreading messages of kindness. 4 SEAN GANNON

By GRIFFIN GOLDSTEIN g staff writer

DRUGS AND ALCOHOL OFTEN pose a major issue at public schools.

There is only so much school administrations can do to prevent their students from using drugs and alcohol, because, in the end, their job is to educate the students.

Because of this, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), a nationwide organization, makes it their mission to minimize teens’ use of drugs, alcohol, and other destructive actions, like risky or impaired driving.

SADD was founded in 1981 by Robert Anastas at Wayland High School in Massachusetts, only then it was known as Students Against Driving Drunk. In 1997, they expanded the limits of their mission by officially changing their name and greatly increasing their size. There are SADD chapters, which take place at middle schools, high schools, or colleges that have an adequate adviser on their staff. There are over 10,000 total in all 50 states. More than 350,000 students actively participate in SADD chapters all across the nation.

“SADD is a nationally recognized, student ran and led organization that strives to ‘empower young peo-

ple to successfully confront the risks and pressures that challenge them in their daily lives. SADD was on hiatus for the last couple years at Cactus Shadows but was reinstated this fall due to increased student interest,” said Diane Montano, the SADD adviser.

SADD is unique in the sense that all the efforts it makes to inform and educate students on the dangers of drugs and alcohol is done by students themselves. Peer-led classes, forums, workshops, conferences, and rallies are all tactics SADD uses to communicate their message with other students.

Drugs and alcohol are the two biggest destructive behaviors that SADD fights against. To get to the root of the problem, it must be made clear why students get into using them in the first place.

“I think they are just curious and want to try them out,” said Lauren Jankowski, a sophomore.

This is true for most teen drug and alcohol use. Seeing their peers or older siblings doing it makes them become curious as to what it is like. SADD students use positive peer pressure and role modeling as one of their main tactics to get other students to steer clear of destructive pathways.

In seminars, they talk about accidents that have happened and lives that have been ruined to help their fellow students realize just how dangerous these behaviors can be.

However, not everyone is reached by these messages and decide to try drugs and alcohol anyway, unbothered by the consequences and punishments from the schools for being caught abusing substances.

“They shouldn’t be punished because they’ll suffer from the consequences of their own actions,” said Andrew Hertig, a senior.

SADD is not only fighting to reduce teen drug and alcohol use, they also to put an end to texting and driving.

This is a major issue that kills thousands of teens every year, and SADD has been working for decades to reduce its death toll.

SADD holds meetings every other Thursday during lunch in room 150.

Those who attend play ice-breaker games to get to know one another and discuss current issues with substance abuse, reckless driving, and other destructive behaviors. Members, if they want to, can also discuss personal experiences to express feelings or come up with solutions to actual problems.

Nevertheless, Sarah Sanders, the White House press secretary, has declined to discuss funding or addressing the opioid crisis.

Now, it is unsure how exactly the United States will fix this major problem.

4 ADAM ROBERTSON

VETERANS HERITAGE PROJECT PRESERVES WAR STORIES

By MAJA PEIRCE g staff writer

VETERANS HERITAGE PROJECT (VHP) has been giving students the opportunity to hear first hand stories of veteran’s war experiences.

VHP is a club devoted to students interviewing veterans and organizing their stories into a book, as well as sending them to Washington D.C. to get archived in the Library of Congress.

“The whole purpose of the club is to chronicle the events before the veterans unfortunately pass on. The theme this year is World War II, because these are, unfortunately, the group of veterans that are most susceptible to this,” said Bret Lineburg, clubs sponsor, and World History teacher.

While interviewing veterans, students

have to be ready to deal with a variety of reactions. Some are more willing to share their stories than others.

The memories can be very painful and many veterans have not shared these stories with even their closest family members.

Cactus Shadows teacher Barbara J. Hatch founded Veterans Heritage Project over a decade ago. They have made connections with other sister schools who send their interviews to Cactus Shadows to be archived and put into the book. The most recent school Cactus Shadows has connected with is in Florida.

During their meetings, VHP members go over purchase orders, field trips, and organizing interviews.

“We went to Washington D.C. right after this last school year, and we’re going

to Vietnam this spring break,” said Austin Hagan, a junior.

During these field trips, members gain an educational hands on experience exploring places rooted with war history.

Veterans Heritage Project brings veterans in to give lectures about their experiences, as well.

“The lecture series that we do, we typically try to do monthly. In the beginning of the school year we hold off in August because kids are kinda getting used to their schedules. Then we also skip December because of finals. So first semester is typically September, October, November. Next semester we’ll likely do the same thing. January we might leave open and than February, March, and April is where we’d really hit with that lecture series,” said Lineburg.

Veteran Heritage Project needs differently faceted members. Technology inclined people have a place organizing the interviews and communicating with other schools.

Social and curious people have a place interviewing and speaking at events.

“My most memorable experience has been laying out the book, specifically the all -nighters we pull on deadline and the reception where I get to see the veterans looking at their stories in the book.” said Harrison Kessel, a member.

Additionally, many colleges appreciate seeing the hard work VHP offers on student applications. VHP teaches its members to be respectful and empathetic by interviewing veterans for touching and personal stories.

4 ■ DECEMBER 22, 2017

NEWS THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

Saddling up for therapy

Kachina’s Place offers therapeutic equine opportunities

U.S. pulls out of Paris Climate deal

By KASSIDY WHEELER g staff writer

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS NEWS

DECEMBER 22, 2017 ■ 5

Literary Magazine holds annual Latte Poetry and Paint Party events

By AUDREY FOWLER g staff writer

LITERARY MAGAZINE HELD THE 10th annual Latte Poetry, an open mic competition where students can come read their poetry out loud, at Janey's Coffee House in November. Musical acts are also encouraged to perform.

“Latte poetry is always a success. I just love getting to see my students perform their work, and then hopefully they’ll submit that to the magazine,” said Lori Hart, Lit Mag adviser.

The winner of this year’s competition was Julian Voitek for his poem, A Captain’s Rite (Promises to my Loved Ones). Additionally, Lit Mag also recently held a paint party,

AT AN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING SESSION, ELI NECHTMAN RIDES EQUINE THERAPY HORSE, JASMINE. Necht-

kennedy and abby nosan, sophomores help man the table at the clubs first paint party.“I wanted to do the paint party because I felt like our club didn’t host enough events; I wanted to create more opportunities for us to come together as a club and share our art, writing, and music,” said Mia Gilling, Literary Magazine Editor in Chief. 4 MIA GILLING

where students could come and share their and nobody is creativity while listening to music.

Lit Mag is a student run production that showcases student literature and art in a magazine every year.

Lit Mag meets every Wednesday to critique submitted content.

The critique process is as followed: a piece will be displayed on a big Lori Hart, Lit Mag adviser. screen for the club to see.

When this happens, it is completely anonymous

“Latte poetry is always a success.

I just love getting to see my students perform their work, and then hopefully they’ll submit that to the magazine.”

allowed to say who it is. The club then individually critiques based on a set of specific criteria, then adds up scores and find the average.

For a piece to get in it must get a 32 or higher on the grading scale.

“The easiest way to submit is online on the Lit Mag page there’s a form that you can use to submit your art or literature,” said Julian Voitek, secretary of Lit Mag. Another option is bringing your art into room 609 to be photographed.

Lit Mag submits the final magazine to multiple competitions each year. After winning a gold or silver crown for the last several years, the club has not been nominated for a crown this year.

Crown awards are given by scholastic press association at Columbia University in New York. Students in all publications including Lit Mag travel to accept the award each year.

“I feel really upset about not winning, but I’m not exactly surprised, our content wasn’t the best we need more variety,” said Samantha Holmes, a junior and active member of three years.

Lit Mag meets every Wednesday in room 609.

Governor Ducey signs bill changing rules for pet stores

By ANNALEE BARNETT g sports editor

Puppy mills, a practice of breeding dogs in tightly packed facilities, are on the rise throughout Arizona and many other states in the U.S. In May of 2016, Governor Doug Ducey signed legislation that allowed pet stores to sell commercially bred animals in the state of Arizona despite the pleas of animal advocates.

The legislation made void regulations in

man has been riding for a little over a year and works with trainer Franky. “She [Franky] is glowing with positivity which shines out on the kids during therapeutic riding. We are lucky to have Franky in our lives.

Kachina’s Place is a beyond friendly for everyone from kids to adults,” said Marc Nechtman, Eli’s father. 4 KATELYN REINHART

LIT MAG MEMBERS Jacqueline

Tempe and Phoenix of pets stores limited to selling rescue animals. However, stores are only allowed to obtain animals from breeders that have a license from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“I breed Great Danes and I’ve met other breeders who’ve had run ins with puppy mills. It’s a disgusting practice that needs to be stopped,” said James Black, a dog breeder.

According to the Puppy Mill Project, there are an estimated 10,000 puppy mills in the US with over two million puppies being bred a year.

“I think it's messed up, because dogs didn't do anything wrong to us, so what right do we have to do wrong to them?” said John Bush, a junior.

Dogs living in puppy mills exist in

unsanitary conditions and are usually kept in wired, stacked cages. The facilities offer no protection from harsh conditions and neglects to provide veterinary care.

“Seeing the ways that these dogs are forced to live is deplorable. I couldn't believe my eyes, it made me want to go after puppy mills even more,” said Black.

Pet rescue organizations like the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals otherwise known as the ASPCA, encourages people looking for pets to pay attention to where the dog came from.

“Being a licensed puppy mill doesn’t mean anything, dogs are still kept in cages 24/7 and conditions are still in humane,” said Black.

Often times, puppies are taken away from their mothers in puppy mills much

too early, leaving them with severe behavioral disorders as well as health issues.

Puppy mills are also a main source for pet stores when they are stocking up on dogs. That is why it is important to adopt dogs from rescues.

“People should rescue dogs more from shelters rather than getting them from breeders, so that puppy mills can be stopped,” said Audrey Coleman, a junior.

The USDA is a federal department that deals with laws related to food, farming, agriculture, and forestry, so some may argue that the USDA has nothing to do with animal rights. Anger from animal advocates was sparked when the animal welfare page was abruptly taken down from the government website.

K

By AUDREY FOWLER g staff writer

ACHINA’S Place in Cave Creek offers equine therapy for those with physical and cognitive limitations. Equine therapy can help develop relationships and better the lives of people with disabilities.

Kachina’s Place offers therapeutic riding and groundwork. Miniature horses can be transported to hospitals, group homes and schools for additional off-property therapy.

Therapy helps many different aspects of life, such as communication, setting boundaries, overcoming fears, and trust and coping with feelings.

According to Elements Behavioral Health, when working with horses, people recognize their conscious and unconscious patterns of working with others.

“They are able to do things and achieve things that some of them are not able to do on the ground,” said Franky Greaves, an equine therapist at Kachina’s Place. Greaves works with clients, and tends to the horses every day.

The horses help build confidence in their riders before they even get off the ground. Working with the horse before riding is a crucial part of what

they do at Kachina’s. Participants will do ground work, then discuss their feelings and behaviors with a therapist.

“Based on their challenges, I make a plan that is achievable,” said Greaves.

By observing patients handling the horses and building a relationship, Equine therapists identify behavior patterns and decide a treatment plan.

Treatments can include riding, groundwork, carriage rides and grooming.

“You should do them in a specific order. First, you should do the groundwork, like hanging around the horses like you would do with a friend,” said Nina Leonard, a junior who owns a horse.

Not everyone starts with same skill set, and, at Kachina’s, they are willing to teach all types of riders, from new to experienced. The therapy the horses provide can be the first steps in building confidence in living with a disability.

“A little boy came in and would not put on a helmet and would barely get on one of the minis,” said Greaves.

In just a year, this same boy was fully confident in his riding, walking and trotting on his own without a problem.

“I think having that bond with an

animal is something that really fosters a place of joy in a person's heart and that's really important to carry in your day to day life,” said Blake Bradshaw, a senior who has been riding horses since she was three.

At Kachina’s, they help kids with a variety of disorders, from Down Syndrome to Attention Deficit Disorder. The discipline the horses give riders can be great for concentration and overall communication skills.

Although horses follow verbal commands, there is also an unspoken language between both rider and horse that anyone can create with enough time.

An integral part of equine therapy is learning to care for horses by doing barn tasks.

“A lot of people come in here and they can not use a pitchfork or scrub out a bucket and I think, for them, in their lives, it is helping achieve tasks that they may not have thought they could have done,” said Greaves.

Another type of therapy Kachina’s tackles is carriage riding. This therapy style simulates the rewards of riding without getting on the horse. A two wheeled cart is pulled by one of their miniature horses. The rider works in harmony with the animal to control direction and speed.

The Paris Climate Accord is a deal between 195 nations to work together to reduce the carbon emissions of countries around the globe in order to limit global temperature rise to 2 degrees celsius.

Earlier this year, President Trump announced that the U.S. would pull out of the Accord. However, under the terms of the agreement, the United States cannot legally pull out until November 4, 2020.

“I think the Paris Accord is good for the world, and it makes me very upset that the United States pulled out of it because every country is on board to defend against climate change,” said Lori Kurtz-Larkin, an English teacher.

SYRIA JOINS IN Recently, Syria announced they are joining the Accord, which makes the United States and Nicaragua the only countries not participating. Nicaragua’s reason for not joining is because they feel the Accord does not go far enough to defend the environment.

“The bottom line is that the Paris Agreement is very unfair at the highest level to the United States...The Paris Accord would undermine our economy, hamstring our workers, weaken our sovereignty, impose unacceptable legal risks, and put as at a permanent disadvantage to the other countries of the world,” said President Trump. “Compliance with the terms of the Paris Accord would cost America as much as 2.7 million lost jobs by 2025.”

The United States and China are the world's two largest economies, and they are the two largest producers of carbon emissions on the planet.

China is responsible for 28.6 percent of the worlds annual CO2 emissions, while the United States is responsible for 16 percent. Comparing this to other nations, the entire

European Union creates 11 percent, India creates 6 percent, and the rest of the world emits 38.4 percent.

Scientists say that the United States pulling out of the accord will contribute to the world breaking the critical two degree Celsius threshold before 2060. Once the globe passes the two degree Celsius mark, some changes to our climate will be irreversible. Stephen Hawking has said that as our planet’s global temperature increases, Earth will start to have catastrophic events such as raising temperatures past 200 degrees celsius, and sulphuric acid rain.

Even though these things are hard to imagine, climate change does have the potential to make Earth uninhabitable.

“I think we have other things to worry about like politics, funding for schools, and helping our allies,” said John Bush, a junior.

AMERICA FIRST President Trump has promised to put American businesses first, yet many United States business leaders want to stay in the Paris Accord. Exxon Mobil and Royal Dutch Shell have stated they wanted to stay in the Paris Accord because they feared backlash, carbon tariffs, and consumer boycotts coming from customers in the countries that are still bound under the Paris Accord.

“I think it’s important because companies have a big impact on the environment, especially the factories they use,” said Olivia Palmer, a junior.

According to even more CEOs, the Paris Accord only strengthens the United States’ competitiveness in global markets, expands global and domestic markets for clean technologies to generate jobs and economic growth, and encourages American manufacturing to modernize to more efficient technologies.

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