Lauren Haggar- News Editor-2016

LAUREN HAGGAR

Journalism. The profession for the curious, the independent, and the ones who wish to provoke thought and question into others. Journalists in the real world, face the same successes and struggles as those journalists still in high school. Being a leader is one of the most rewarding and, at the same time, difficult things to do. Leadership is especially important to me, and something that I take very seriously. I work extremely well with others. I consider myself to very cooperative, open minded, approachable, and most of all caring and compassionate. I enjoy working with others especially my fellow editors, on creating design ideas, helping each other edit, and most of all just being a soundboard for various ideas throughout the year. My biggest flaw as a leader would be that I hold people to very high standards, forgetting that everyone is different and has different priorities and standards. In the future to better myself as a leader, I would love to pursue the role as Editor in Chief, therefore furthering my role as a leader in the class, continuing to help others, and work on making our paper even better than before. My favorite part of being a leader other than working with others, is helping to show others the love of journalism. I genuinely love editing people’s articles and demonstrating to others how to properly write and then seeing them succeed afterwards. Likewise being a leader in a class like newspaper gives you a lot of say in

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content and focus of the paper which is very important. Personally I don’t see many negatives about being a leader aside from when peers don’t respect you.

As for style of leadership I have high expectations, I wish for a lot of effort from everybody; but at the end of the day I am very compassionate, kind, and always willing to help. This leadership style most definitely works for me. By being this type of leader, I get respect from my peers due to my kind nature, but I always get quality work and people who put in a lot of effort.

I truly believe in order to be an effective leader you have to have a good balance of knowing when to be nice and easy going, and knowing when to be tough on people; and overall I have a pretty good sense of balance. In my life I will continually use these skills, for as long as I am interacting which people- which will be essentially forever. These skills of learning how to lead, deal with others, be effective, and lead a group who respects you will without doubt help me in any future situations.

Particularly this semester I learned a lot more Indesign skills, and I am finally beginning to feel more proficient in this software. I hope to continue my knowledge of Indesign and create more aesthetically pleasing designs. Deadlines continually teach me the art of not procrastinating. Overall I feel I do not procrastinate too much, but there is always times when I wish had done more in advance. In the future I am going to try, to prepare as much as I can before the due dates.

Likewise, journalism ethics is probably one of the most important things to me, especially as an editor. This year we as a staff have experienced the repercussions of plagiarism. Telling the truth, and remaining honest is one of the most important things in journalism. You truly can not have a good paper if your work in it is not fully honest and truthful. In my eyes, nothing

is more shameful in journalism, than plagiarizing. With all of this being said, I feel that I am a major asset to the CSPress in various different ways. First off I have been an editor on the staff for two years, helping to improve the paper and my dedication for the publication has never wavered. I always finish my articles; with proper information, making sure that what I am submitting is the very best work I could possibly do. On productions days I work effortlessly during the week to get my pages done as timely as possible, and when others are having trouble or can’t attend productions days I am always the first to offer my assistance. I feel that besides my writing and editing ability, one of my biggest assets is my personality and leadership qualities. For example, I helped to train our newest travel editor in Indesign and guided him along the way of making his pages. In addition I try my hardest to have close friendships with my fellow staff and editors, in effort to make our staff as cohesive as possible.

Lastly, I voluntarily copy edit due to my strong passion for our paper, and offer to finish others pages or articles when needed.

During this first semester, things I felt went smoothly overall, but not without a few bumps in the road. The hardest thing I faced this year, was editors not changing comments that copy editors made. It was very frustrating because that changes were only made to better the paper, but yet people failed to acknowledge the comments. I learned from these situations, that you really have to double check everything before it goes to print. If these situations arise again, I plan to do one more check before the paper goes to print to make sure all changes we made.

One of my own personal hardships is Indesign related. I struggle with Indesign in the aspect of learning things other than the basics. In the future I would like to further my design skills, and also work more in Photoshop. I plan to push myself to pursue new skills-not the ones I am accustomed to and use frequently, and continue to use Mr. Adamson as a key resource in Indesign skills.

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As my third semester in newspaper comes to a close there have been so many spreads with so much effort put into them; but in the end there is one spread that really sticks out to me. The most recent, December issue is my all time favorite from this semester. First off the content of the paper, I felt was very good, and written. I also really like how almost all of my stories were timely. Likewise, all the topics covered were very important, from Proposition 206, to The Great Sioux Nation, all of the articles had effects on our society and were important topics that needed to be covered. The article specifically dealing with Proposition 206, was important to readers because it has direct correlation to many businesses in Cave Creek. The articles themselves were well researched and obtained a lot of good, powerful quotes, which made them exciting to read. In addition to great articles, I felt that there also some really impressive photography. I thought that the pictures that accompanied that Foothills Animal Rescue article were exquisite, and I also really like the photo that was with the dance article. In that picture I especially love how elegant her positioning is, and how her hair flows almost all the way to the ground. This spread was harder to design than others, for whatever reason things weren’t flowing well on the pages in the beginning, but after a little help from Adamson the pages looked well designed. I also felt this was my best spread because of how much I paid attention to the little details. This issue, out of all of mine had minimal errors, and and following most, if not all, of the AP style rules. The only thing that I wish was different about this spread, was that all the pages were in color, but aside from that this spread is definitely something I am proud to put my name on.

September Spreads

NEWS

By KATELYN REINHART g features editor

CONSTRUCTION COMING TO A CLOSE

NEWS

Proposition 205 has Arizona flying high

T

By KIERA RILEY g opinion editor

HE push for the legalization of recreational mari-

juana has once again hit Arizona as it will be on the ballot this coming November. Proposition 205, or the Arizona Marijuana Legalization Initiative, will decide the future of marijuana use in the state.

Proposition 205 is the movement to legalize the recreational use of marijuana. Similar to states like Colorado and Washington, if passed, the proposition will regulate the sale and use of marijuana like alcohol. This proposition made it on the ballot in Arizona and will go to the public on November 8.

“It’s never hurt anyone, I don’t see the point in it being illegal and having people go to jail when it hasn’t killed anyone,” said Matt Blackert, a junior.

In order to get on the ballot, petitioners need 225,963 signatures by July 7th, 2016. This year, six initiatives were proposed involving marijuana, but prop 205 was the only one to make it on the ballot.

The most recent poll surveyed individuals 21 and older about their stance on the issue. According to the Arizona Republic, 50 percent of voters support the proposition, 40 percent oppose the measure and 10 percent remain undecided.

This does not definitively decide which way the vote will go. The margin of error is around 3.4 percent and with upcoming campaigns both supporting and opposing proposition 205, undecided voters could go either way.

“I would be against legalizing any new drugs, I just don’t see the purpose,” said Chris Dodrill, history teacher.

The regulations in prop 205 covers issues like sale, possession and consumption limits. If the proposition passes, Governor Ducey will appoint members to the Department of Marijuana Licenses and Control to monitor all dispensaries.

It is also likely that the proposition will create a separate law enforcement team to enforce these new regulations.

Distribution, cultivation, manufacturing, and testing facilities will be required to be licensed and regulated. The legal age to use and grow marijuana will be the same as alcohol, 21. All users are limited to one ounce and are only allowed to consume the drug in private, public use is still outlawed.

“I think as far as it being legalized, I think you’re going to get into a lot of trouble with people going out and smoking marijuana and doing things while they’re impaired, like driving or committing crimes,” said Dodrill.

Users are also only allowed to grow 12 cannabis plants in

a single household. Even so, landlords would still have the right to prohibit the use or growth on properties.

The amount of retail marijuana stores would be limited in their numbers, their location and what they could sell to customers. Licenses to sell would be limited at about ten percent of the alcohol licenses in Arizona, which is still under 180.

Neighborhoods would also have the right to limit when and where dispensaries were allowed.

“People should understand that marijuana isn’t some gateway drug.

It’s a medicine and it’s here for a reason. It helps us,” said Aless Zamora, a junior.

Packaging and labeling guidelines would also be required for these dispensaries, similar to the sale of medical marijuana. Businesses would also be required to test marijuana products for safety and health reasons.

As far as taxing goes, the state would implement a 15 percent tax on marijuana. This would not change the existing tax on medicinal marijuana. Initially, the money will go towards the Department of Marijuana Licenses and Control and other related services.

“We spend millions of dollars on the war on drugs so we’d be saving money and making money off weed being legalized,” said Blackert.

All other revenue would be split among the Department of Education and the Department of Health Services in three categories: school construction, maintenance and operating costs, full-day kindergarten, and a public education program about the dangers of alcohol, marijuana and other substances.

While the legalization will change laws regarding possession and sales, many regulations will remain the same.

Public use will remain illegal along with operating a vehicle under the influence, and selling the substance without a license. Employers are still granted the right to prohibit drug use as well.

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

they know how to use them,” said Bebee.

When in a dangerous situation, teachers can push the button and alert the office of their trouble, even without cell reception.

Many students seem to be fine with the change, such as junior Allie Holt, “they always have the right time, which is nice, and that’s really smart… safety first.”

The hallway clocks are a different story. Large digital clocks seen around the campus out-

4 KATELYN REINHART

By EMMA RUSELLO g staff writer

This year's new Nest leaders have been chosen, and have big plans to hype up the student section at the upcoming athletic events.

Seniors Aaron Cohn and Chloe Warrington were picked by the student body to become the head of the Nest. Having Nest leaders and a student section is a somewhat new tradition.

“Three years ago, I was at a game and noticed there were certain kids who were standing at the front, who were starting to lead cheers and people were following them, and I thought maybe we should have nest leaders,” said Cameron Bender, student council advisor.

NEST LEADERS

A Nest leader is the person in charge of starting all of the chants at the athletic events, and getting the student section to cheer on the team.

“Student nest leaders are the people who are going to stand

COMING TO YOUR TOWN. Ann

Murray a clerk at Muffy’s Pot in Port Townsand, Washington prepares for another busy day in a state that has legalized recreational marijuana. 4ROBERT ADAMSON

“The most recent poll surveyed individuals 21andolderabouttheirstanceontheissue.

According to the Arizona Republic, 50 percent of voters support the proposition, 40 percent oppose the measure and 10 percent remain undecided.”

Arizona Republic

side of classrooms can, in case of emergency, display certain messages depending on the situation.

Bebee explained because the announcements are sometimes hard to hear, “In the event we have a lockdown, those digital clocks will automatically tell you… a scrolling message will appear on the screen.”

When informed about features to make the campus safer, Michael Chmura, a junior, said, “I never hope there’s any emer-

gencies ever, but it’s really good they’re doing that… I feel like the clocks are adding a whole new level of security on the campus.”

Besides the safety features, the clocks have also been able to project the right time for the three weeks they have been in use, as opposed to last year’s, many of which were broken altogether.

The clocks are a district wide change.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2016 ■ 5

up in front of the crowd outside of their own comfort zone sometimes and stand up and lead a cheer that people will follow,” Bender said.

“It is really exciting for me to be considered a leader of the best student section in the state, and I am really glad to have such an awesome person as Chloe by my side,” said Cohn.

Bender explained that she has confidence in Cohn and Warrington, and feels that they will be successful in this leadership role.

WARRINGTON EXPLAINS

“I want to bring lots of energy to the game, and I want to include the freshman,” Warrington said.

A Nest leader should have certain qualities according to Bender.

“The past Nest leaders were kind, were nice to everybody, they embraced underclassman, they made them feel really welcome. Kindness is something that really stood out to me, and obviously school spirit,” said

Bender.

Cohn believes that he has these qualities as well, including some others that will help him lead the student section.

“I’m a very outgoing and loud person, and I want everyone to enjoy the game not just a select group,” said Cohn.

DIFFERENT STYLES

Students who went to Cactus Shadows last year, know the previous nest leaders and their cheers. This year's leaders will have different styles, but Bender and Cohn seem to think that they can fill those shoes.

“I do believe we will be able to live up to Ashley and Ben, because we will come with the same kind of energy and try and go above and beyond what nest leaders have done before,” said Cohn.

Both Nest leaders will be found at all of the football games in the very front leading the Falcons. Some of this year's chants include “I Believe” and “The Rollercoaster.”

NEST LEADERS, Chloe Warrington and Aaron Cohn lead the school in chants done at footballs games, at the big blue pep rally. Student council held two pep rallies on Friday, September 2. 4 LOGAN LARKIN

4 ■ SEPTEMBER 16, 2016

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

New clubs on campus are looking to recruit members

C

By MEGAN WALKER g staff writer

LUBS are one of the

more popular activities on campus, but there are a few that students have never even heard of.

By SARA WINDOM g style editor

ers to reach the office with no cell reception,” Bebee explained.

Classroom clocks, along with the day to day functions of telling the time, broadcasting the announcements, and ringing the bells to signify the beginning and end of class, also serve a safety purpose. All of the timekeepers are wired with a red button hidden somewhere in the classrooms in case of emergency.

“The teachers all know where they are in the classroom and yes,

working away, the field house is the hub for construction.

While most students have expressed support for these new renovations, the student body still has some questions about the changes.

“I feel like a lot of the money spent on the football field could have gone to other things.

There isn’t really a need for a lot of the things they’re working on, and schools tend to spend a lot of money on sports programs,” said Cristofer Bonilla, a junior.

Similar to the field house, the softball field is also estimated to be completed in November.

What used to be the softball field is now being turned into the West parking lot, and all students who are parked at the Fine Arts Center and District Office will be moved to the new lot when it is completed. Due to this, students will no longer park at those locations in future years.

These parking changes have been a cause for excitement in students, with many being temporarily placed somewhere else until the new parking lot is open.

“It’s a five-minute walk to get from the Fine Arts Center to campus, and it will be a lot more convenient when we can park closer to the actual school,” said Sydney Scudder, a junior.

With all of these projects in motion, school campus will have a new look and many students eagerly await the changes.

FALCONS FLY HOME TO THE NEST, FOR THE BEGINNING OF THE FALL SEASON

TICK TOCK TIME FOR NEW CLOCKS With the start of a new school year in sight, Cactus Shadows stepped up the security on campus in several ways, even the clocks underwent adjustments.

“The systems we had last year, by a company called Integra, costed too much money [to repair], so we upgraded to the new ones,” said Principal Steven Bebee.

The upgrade included new features such as, “call and emergency buttons that allow teach-

Machines whir and fluorescent orange hardhats gleam as construction workers break ground at Cactus Shadows. With a new parking lot, softball field, tennis court, and field house currently in deep stages of construction, workers are on the job for hours on end. After a four-year process, the construction has finally taken off and students can expect to utilize all of these new changes by spring of this year.

So far, there have only been estimates of when construction will be done, but the completion of the field house for the football field is set in November. Many plans are set in stone for the football field this year. New bleachers and a storage room will also come by the end of this year, but these changes will likely occur after the end of the football season.

All of the construction is set to be completed at springtime, so all of the spring sports will be able to utilize all of the new renovations this year. This is a perk for sports like tennis, who are receiving new courts. However, the football teams will miss out on these changes.

At the moment, there is one structure that will set the pace rest of the construction.

“The field house really drives the rest of the production, it’s a key note of the construction” said Steven Beebee, the Cactus Shadows principal.

With dozens of workers scaling walls and

Model UN or MUN is sponsored by social studies teachers, Steve Mitten and Jacob Bombaci with Natalie Nabaty as a club president and Senior Regan Anderson as vice president. This diplomatic club is looking for students who desire to know about current affairs, socialeconomic standards, improving Human Rights, and people who love to win arguments.

“Personality wise, you can be out-going or introverted. What matters is having a passion for making a difference on a global scale,” said Natalie Nabaty.

MUN will attend two negotiation conferences, and will be representing different nations in the debate.

They hope to accomplish more this year with things they learned to do and not do last year.

“My favorite thing about Model UN is the conference that we work and practice for in February,” said Regan Anderson.

Lunch meeting are held on Thursdays, and every passionate student is welcome.

Another lesser known club on campus this year is Falcon Unified, a club that focuses on assisting students with developmental disabilities increase or discover a sense of acceptance within their peers around school, and with people

Cactus Shadows’ new and improved nursing classes provide useful information for students pursuing medical careers 4MIA GILLING

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

they meet in the real world.

Special Education teachers Cindy Pages and Janelle Perrin are the sponsors of this club. This club needs members that would be excited about making friends with special education students, encourage others to accept people who might look or act different from themselves, and include the students to help in developing social skills. Also, members will attend social events, recreational activities and the unified sports programs with the students.

Because Chinese is a relatively new subject, many students may not know about the Chinese Club.

One of the school’s Chinese teachers, Yang Song, is the Chinese club sponsor. The club currently meets on Wednesdays after school every week. They focus on many aspects of Chinese culture, and they plan to go on a field trip regarding Chinese culture this year, as well as eat a lot of Chinese food.

“If you are interested in other Asian cultures, like Korean K-pop, or Japanese manga, we can incorporate that into what we learn in the club because those things do have a big influence on Chinese culture,” said Song.

The club officers are hoping for an informational meeting every first Wednesday of the month followed by fun activities like watching movies, learning about the culture, or even origami. Chinese club involves many social activities as well, but students do not need to know Chinese to join.

GOING CLUBBING

NEWS

YANG SONG PROMOTES CHINESE CLUB with extensive props symbolizing Chinese culture.

Chinese club does many activities during the year to achieve their goal of immersing stdents in other cultures. 4 MEGAN WALKER

Nursing program comes to life

By MIA GILLING g creeker editor

THE NURSING ASSISTANTS PRO-

gram is a new career-oriented course available exclusively to students who are interested in going into the medical field.

It is offered on campus, and will teach students medical terminology as well as handson procedures.

“I highly recommend it if you want to be in the medical field when you’re older because it gives you the opportunity to get it done when you’re in high school,” said Hannah

Pusateri, a senior who is in the class.

Taught by Paradise Valley Community College nursing faculty, students have the opportunity to learn hands-on skills from trained professionals both on campus and off campus at medical facilities.

“The Nursing Assistant course is very broad based. The course teaches from basic wellness to the illness continuum.

Students learn communication skills in the medical fields and intervention measure for patient safety,” said Kendra Howe, a student service specialist from Paradise Valley Community College.

Students can earn six college credits, as well as eligibility to become a certified nursing assistant upon receiving a certificate of completion from PVCC and completing the Arizona State Board of Nursing certifying exam.

“The Nursing Assistant course provides clinical experience, patient communication skills, and an understanding of the health fields from the patient's first point of contact,” said Howe.

In addition to gaining real life skills and valuable medical mastery, students can uti-

lize the Nursing Assistants program to better their chances at being accepted into college.

“As a student pursuing a degree, the Nursing Assistant program is a great resume builder, the experience gained can be used during the application process to competitive nursing or doctorate programs,” said Howe.

In addition to the added bonuses of having real life nursing experience, students can also see the benefits it has on their college courses.

“My stepsister was in the program her senior year; she loved the class, and she’s in nursing at ASU now. The program brought her scores up and helped make colleges interested in her,” said Adam Penzone, a senior who is in the class.

During the fall semester of this course, students will be learning everything there is to know about medical terminology before applying it in the spring semester where they will be using the learned material in real life applications.

More information on the nursing program can be obtained from the counseling department or PVCC.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2016 ■ 3

October Spreads

NEWS

By Mia GillinG g creeker editor

NEWS

no more horsing around The Salt River horses are in danger of being harmed if Forest Services are allowed to capture and kill them.

Captains of the Joker’s improv troupe Alexa Dragone and Joey Britton, both seniors, chose new members in late August and are beginning to prepare for their four shows this year.

Improvisational theatre, or improv, is the theatrical art of creating a scene, characters, and relationships without a script. The Joker’s improv troupe, which is made up of 23 students, practices every Friday.

“You never mess up in improv, you just have unexpected results. Even if you make what someone thinks is a mistake, it becomes a cool opportunity to do something you didn’t think you could do,” said Andrew Cupo, drama teacher and Joker’s improv advisor.

A member of Joker’s improv for four years, Dragone explains what it is like to be a captain of the troupe.

“Being a captain is actually a lot more responsibility than you would think; you have to make sure you set your troupe up for success regarding how to play the games, and it’s stressful because you don’t want to send out people who aren’t ready,” said Dragone.

While improv has its stressful moments, Dragone looks forward to mentoring the new members and watching them grow. In addition, Dragone emphasizes how the club can help people express themselves and show their personality in a unique way.

“I love being able to watch people be themselves. In improv, you don’t have

to be anyone but yourself, because the whole point of improv is being yourself and being able to make the best of it. It’s cool seeing people who are normally quite shy being able to completely break out of their shell, and that’s usually when they’re their funniest; when they’re comfortable being who they are,” said Dragone.

Regarding the selection process for new members, Dragone explains that although it is important, humor is not the main factor they look for in potential members. Many members of the troupe have that quality, but many are chosen just on their capability to let go and be themselves.

“You don’t really want to find people who are funny. I mean that’s great, that’s an awesome quality, but you want to find people who are eager to learn and are willing to put themselves out there. And even if they put themselves out there and it didn’t go well, the fact that they were willing to just put their all into it is what we look for,” said Dragone.

Confidence and originality is key for improv, and the new troupe members all display these qualities.

“Each of the new members brings such individual and unique styles to improv, and that’s why I think they made the team. It takes a lot of confidence and courage to get up there.

The number one fear in the world is public speaking, the next is death, so I think that speaks for itself,” said Joey Britton, a senior.

Throughout the year, there will be a total of four improv shows in the lecture hall. Students are encouraged to attend and support their peers, and, as audience participation is crucial to improve, students should come prepared to write down their ideas for scenes and characters and to applaud when appropriate.

“People should come to the shows because they’re always funny. It’s just a good time to hang out with your friends and watch your other friends perform,” said Britton.

The Jokers had their first show in September, and their next show will be on November 4, but tickets tend to sell out quickly due to the popularity of the event.

joke’s on you The Jokers discuss the process of preparing for their first show.

Tara prager and kameron moore, By annalee Barnett g sports editor

The Salt River Wild Horse Management Group, along with thousands of other horse lovers, have been fighting against the roundup and possible euthanization of the Salt River horses on U.S. Forest Services territory.

House Bill 2340 makes it illegal to kill, harm, or interfere with a herd of approximately 100 horses that reside in the Tonto National Forest area. However, both the Bureau of Land Management, otherwise known as the BLM, and Forest Services want the round up of the horses from the land due to possible safety hazards, overpopulation, and overall care for the horses.

This Bill is not permanent and will go into full effect on January 18, 2018. Forest Services deserted their plan for roundup after receiving thousands of messages from angry horse lovers.

Those who wish to have the horses rounded up believe that it may be for their own good.

“If [the horses] are starving out there, than it’s better for them to die humanely than having to suffer, but if it’s just because they’re annoying, I think they could find better ways,” said Taylor Searles, a senior. A rally on September 15 was held at a BLM board meeting by the Salt River Wild Horse Management Group.

The group attended to denounce the proposal of killing 45,000 captured wild horses as well as to call out faults in the BLM’s Wild Horse and Burro System.

The group has alone taken steps to ensure the safety of the horses as well as drivers along the highway, by providing fencing along the road to keep horses off of it.

“The fencing along the road came out of our pockets,” said Simone Netherlands, president of the Salt River Wild Horse Management Group.

The Audubon Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to conservation is also concerned about the horses, but for different reasons. Some environmentalists say that the horses are hurting the habitat and causing harm to native species.

“None of the plants there evolved for the grazing of horses, so it’s definitely damaging,” said Steve Grager, a member of the Audubon Society.

While the Audubon Society and environmentalists believe that the horses are hurting the ecosystem, the Salt River Wild Horse Management Group believes otherwise. A 2009 study in the BMC Ecology showed that there were cases of native plants becoming more diverse and growing through the distribution of seeds through manure.

“People think we only care about the horses, but we care about the entire environment,” said Netherlands.

There are approximately 80 to 140 horses on U.S. Forest Service land alone, with more horses in other territories. Geographically, the Salt River horses are located in three major locations, Tonto National Forest, Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, and Pima-Maricopa County Indian Community.

The Forest Service is only allowed to handle horses on their land, so if a large herd moved off their territory and into another, those horses would be protected by that land. In Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, the horses are completely protected by tribal law.

A memorandum was signed by the Forest Services stating that the management of the wild horses can be undertaken by anyone as long as there is written consent from Forest Services.

The Salt River Wild Horse Management Group is made up of approximately 100 volunteers and holds volunteer and clean up days along the river. The group has several upcoming events such as a parade at Apache Junction and a presence at the Arabian Horse show at West World.

particpate in a fan favorite activity, called scenes from a hat. The first show of the year was on September 23.

4 mia gilling

One fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish The new aquarium is part of a complex that includes butterflies and performing dolphins

By Faith hasher g staff writer

The Odysea aquarium Opened

aT The odysea

horses graze in a field,

at Spur Cross Ranch Reseration. These horses unlike the ones at the Salt River, are at no risk of being harmed. 4 lauren haggar

aquarium Madison Vreeburg admires the new fish exhibit.

4 louise jagus

September 3rd in Arizona next to Butterfly Wonderland off the 101 and East Via de Ventura.

The aquarium opened early than expected, as most of the buildings have not been completed yet.

The Odysea, provides many unique experiences offered for everyone of all ages. One activity is where individuals can pay one hundred dollars, to go underwater and get up close with the creatures. There are many rescue creatures, such as a turtle with two arms. Many go to the aquarium for sheer enjoyment, for others the Odysea serves as a great learning experience.

“I’ve always been interested in Marine Biology so it was a great learning experience,” said Sean Wright, a senior.

Unlike other aquariums, Odysea has a moving carousel, which is a room where people can

sit while they whole room moves, so individuals can visit different tanks as staff members give descriptions of the animals that are surrounding them.

“My favorite part on the aquarium was the carousel because when we sat down it moved rooms and we got see a lot of the animals,” said Kailee McKeon, a junior.

The aquarium has provided a change in scenery for families to go and enjoy the creatures they do not get to see on a daily basis while also providing an education.

“I went with my family and I would go a million times because I love aquariums,” said McKeon.

The aquarium has proven to be very busy especially during the opening week, “We went opening weekend; we had a 12:15 check in time; we arrived at 12:10 and had to wait to 12:45,” said Evan Dougherty, a para professional.

Odysea Aquarium opened sooner than was expected, and therefore lacked efficiency of getting people in at their scheduled time.

“We felt like it was a work in progress at this point. It also was one way and pushed you through the exhibits from start to finish” said Dougherty.

Due to the fact that the aquarium is fairly new, they are still working out all of the faults in their system.

“In general, I am not a fan of aquariums except rehabilitation of injured animals. Migratory animals do not belong in enclosed spaces,” said Dougherty.

People are also petitioning against marine life in the desert as they believe it is not right to have these creatures in Arizona.

Besides the complaints from petitioners, many aquarium enthusiasts were not pleased with the prices to get into the Odysea.

“It cost way too much because half of the aquarium still isn’t opened, and it cost full price,” said Wright.

For only half of the aquarium being opened, it costed thirty-five dollars for each person.

4 ■ OctOber 14, 2016

tHe cActUS SHADOWS PreSS

ccusd prepares for upcoming election

F

By Maddie Howard g spotlight editor

or this year’s Cave Creek

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

OCTObER 14, 2016 ■ 3

at grant the district, the Cave Creek Education Foundation gave Allison Zilka, a history teacher a check of $2,300. Zilka shared the moment with governing board member Cynthia Weiss.

4 logan larkin

School District governing board elections, there will be four candidates running for three available spots; current board member Janet Busbee, previous member Susan Clancy, and first time candidates Kathryn Hill and James Rich.

If elected, they will serve a four year term.

The governing board’s main job is to create and oversee policies for the schools. The board approves policy, puts it into the schools, then checks to see if the policy is making a difference.

“The board is allowed to tweak the policies passed down from the legislature to make it more custom for the schools,” said Dr. Debbi Burdick, Superintendent.

Many students are not aware of what the governing board does and how their decisions affect what they learn and who teaches them. Ultimately, it is the school board who determines who will be hired or fired at the schools. Because teachers are so important to a student’s learning, this directly affects students.

“I want a teacher that will make an impression on me that I will remember,” said Ellie Garner, a junior.

The school board also oversees

NEWS

many aspects of the school’s finances.

Burdick said that the board must sign off on expenditures over $50,000, and that smaller expenses can be approved by the District.

The school board was involved in creating and approving the bond that was passed last year. The money raised from the bond will cover many construction projects around Cactus Shadows, including the new football field.

“I’m really excited to see the finished product of the construction around the school,” said Kailey McCann, a junior. “I hope that the governing board continues to make good decisions about renovations that will benefit the school for a long time.”

The school governing board is a volunteer position. Two current board members are resigning, Karen Tufts and David Schaefer, both of whom have served for several terms.

“As a high schooler, you want folks who are around and present at the school and make decisions for the students. You want people who care about the students and about the education they are receiving,” said Burdick.

Each person running for school board must be a registered voter, live in the Cave Creek School District boundaries, and be a U.S. citizen.

Student Council elects this year’s student body leaders

By Maddie Howard g spotlight editor

As A fresh yeAr comes

around, there are new students who run for the opportunity to be in charge of the student body and all of the affairs necessary to create the best school environment for students.

The student government is all about promoting what leadership really means. Each student who is volunteering for student government must show their leadership skills by giving the students a positive ground to walk on when they come to school.

“You just have to have leadership in your heart,” said Cameron Bender, student council advisor.

The ultimate goal for student council would be to fill the campus with school spirit, so that the students don’t have a hard time finding excitement surrounding school.

“We want to nurture the positive culture at Cactus Shadows, as well as the school spirit,” said Bender.

Not only does student council promote a fun culture at Cactus Shadows, but they also promote community service around town. Student council as THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

a whole conducts over 600 hours of community service over the year.

“We also want to give back to the community in all different ways,” said Bender.

Compared to last year’s election, there has been an increase in students running for positions.

“Many more students have stepped up to run for offices in this year’s election. I have a strong philosophy that leadership does not require a title and the students that didn’t win the office that they went for will still be amazing leaders in student council,” said Bender.

This year’s student body president is senior Lauren Busbee. Busbee has been involved with student council all four years of high school.

“I wanted to get involved with student council during freshman year when I saw the pep rallies and fun assemblies. I wanted to be able to help put stuff on like that,” said Busbee.

Busbee’s inspiration for running for student body president was to make her senior year as memorable as possible.

“I wanted to be really involved my

senior year. School is so much more fun if you’re involved,” said Busbee.

Delaney Barrett, a senior, is the student body vice president this year. During her four years of high school, Barrett has been involved with student council. Barrett was the communications director her junior year, and ran the social media aspect of student council.

As vice president, Barrett wants to make sure everyone comes out of their shell this year to show more school spirit.

“As VP, I want everyone to look up to me and know that it is okay to be goofy and show school spirit,” said Barrett.

From the beginning, Barrett was inspired by her sister, who was student body president, to get the students to have a fun and memorable

times while at school.

“When my sister was in student council, I’d see her do goofy dress up days and put on different events.” said Barrett.

“I thought it was cool to be in the background of things and get to plan events like homecoming.”

Over the past four years, Bender has seen how Busbee and Barrett’s leadership has grown. She believes that they will encourage leadership and fun around the school.

student body president, Lauren busbee

leads the Nest in a cheer at the first pep rally of the school year. The pep rally helped students who are new to the Nest to understand certain cheers and traditions.

4 logan larkin

OCTObER 14, 2016 ■ 5

November Spreads NEWS

Feeding the hungry one bowl at a time Harold’s Corral helps support World Hunger Day in the annual Empty Bowls Project.

By ANNALEE BARNETT g Sports Editor

ALL AROUND CAVE CREEK,

local potters and artists band together to produce thousands of clay bowls for the annual Empty Bowls project. The Sonoran Arts League created the event nearly two decades ago, and since then it has flourished.

The project supports Foothills Food Bank.

“It gives [the community] cash flow so that they can buy meat and dairy product like milk which are commodities that can’t be donated. So they purchase those for individuals to keep them in the food bank,” said Marcia Lang, an art teacher who has supported the event since she lived in Michigan.

The Empty Bowls Project first began in the 1960’s out of the pottery movement at the time.

The event takes place on the third Friday of October every year in honor of World Hunger Day. Every donation given or bowl bought benefits the hungry.

Minimum donations are $15 dollars and it comes with the bowl chosen, a water bottle, and a piece of bread. The food is meant to represent the daily rations the hungry would receive.

This year’s event took place for the first time at Harold’s Corral, and with hundreds of bowls and even more people, it was a successful year.

The event raises approximately

$20,000 dollars a year and all of the proceeds are given to the Foothills Food Bank.

“It was a wonderful time, I think they sold pretty much most of the bowls. The leftover bowls are saved for next year,” said Lang.

At Cactus Shadows, four teachers got together and created 25 bowls to donate to the project. In previous years, students donated their bowls.

“I did it because it was an opportunity that the teacher gave to us so that we could raise money and help people,” said Tanner Laizeure, a junior.

Last year, Laizeure donated two of her bowls to the project. Also at the event was a silent auction where artwork from local artists was bidded off.

Over the years, the Empty Bowls project has grown dramatically with more local artists wanting to participate.

“I think the empty bowl project impacts the community because it’s a chance to raise money and awareness for the hungry as well as an opportunity for students to show their art,” said Tori Auer, a junior in Ceramics.

The project has also helped to raise awareness of hungry families in the Cave Creek area. According to St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance, Arizona’s hunger rates are higher than the national averages: 17.8 percent of Arizonans are food insecure and the national average is 15.9 percent.

As one door closes, another reopens

CAVE CREEK RESIDENTS DEEDEE WOOD AND GORDON MISCHKE, along with many others from across the valley, joined Harold’s Corral on World Hunger Day to help support St. Mary’s Food Bank. 4LOGAN LARKIN

NATIONAL ENGLISH HONORS SOCIETY RAISES AWARENESS FOR BANNED BOOKS WEEK

By MADDIE HOWARD g spotlight editor

The National English Honor Society also known as NEHS is a club consisted of students that explore their love for literature.

This year the club has been raising awareness for Banned Books Week that started on September 25- October 1.

Banned Books Week took place across the country to show people what kinds of books are being taken under the rule of censorship. Some of these books are favorites to many, including The Great Gatsby.

“I was definitely surprised by the amount of books that were put on the list, some of my favorite books are on the list and I never even considered that they were ‘banned’,” said Maddie McCormick, a junior and NEHS member.

Some of the books that are also on the

list are a classic example of traditional English literature that has been read by many people for many years.

“We need to be exposed to an advanced type of literature level in order to get better at reading and analyzing,” said Abby Kitnick, a junior and NEHS member.

OLD BOOKS STILL BANNED

High schools students around the country are still reading books that were put on the banned list. Many of these books hold an amount of literature that has been taught in classrooms even before it made the list. Teachers want their students to discover this literature that can show them a way to appreciate the story.

“I don’t think any English teacher is neutral about banned books, books are a way of exchanging ideas and unless if

you aren’t afraid of ideas, you shouldn’t be afraid of books,” said Amy Metcalf, NEHS advisor and English teacher.

The censorship of books has not affected the learning environment of students because there are different types of books for each student and each grade.

There are different kinds of books that correlate with the level that each grade or each student might be at. The community is understanding of the tools that the students may need in order to gain more knowledge by these books.

REBELLIOUS READERS

“I must give the teachers credit for not wanting to teach their students something that they are not ready for, but I also believe people in this community value education to the point that they get that

students should have many views and ideas as a good thing,” said Metcalf.

The goal for the National English Honor Society during Banned Books week was to think about all of the different books, that have been accused of censorship, and to bring awareness to them.

“People have always liked forbidden fruit, so if there is something on that list that’s forbidden, it makes it more appealing, so the goal, to get people to read,” said Metcalf.

Banned Books week is all about getting people to see the true stories within these books and to express what impact they all have on the learning environment. NEHS is a club that shares a love for literature and they want to spread that love across the school.

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

NOVEMBER 14, 2016 ■ 3

NEWS

The newly renovated Fine Arts Center is now handicap accessible and boasts many new upgrades.

As one door closes, another reopens

By KEELY DORAN g staff writer

HOME TO THE DRAMA CLUB, DANCE,

and choir, the Fine Arts Center has been completely revamped. New carpets have been smoothed on the floor, and pristine paint has been slapped on the wall.

“We [drama club] don’t have to be worried about things breaking on us, which is pretty cool,” said Riann Johnston, a senior.

Completely self-sustaining, the building is dependent on renter’s fees and participant donations for funding.

Recently, the Cave Creek district approved a bond to renovate the 25 year old building that was in need of new roofing, flooring and systems. Not only did the updates serve as slight cosmetic work on the facility, they also brought the facility into compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act.

RENOVATIONS IN THE THEATER

AT THE GRAND REOPENING OF THE FINE ARTS CENTER, Kameron Moore, and Julia Horner, seniors rehearse lines for the upcoming show. 4LOGAN LARKIN

Beforehand, the seating at the theater was not suitable for those wheelchair bound or with other motor disabilities. The steep incline that paved the path between audience seats was a large issue due to the lack of specially built chairs. To fix this, ten chairs closest to the entrance of the auditorium have wheels that allow them to be removed to make room for wheelchairs.

Another safety hazard was the stage, which had a hollowed out portion towards the skirt.

This cave of sorts was called the pit and was created to host live orchestras or bands. Instead of tearing up the concrete foundation, the district decided to fill it in.

“It’s wasn't worth tearing up the concrete foundation just to comply with the ADA, we

could use all the money to actually benefit the theater in a different way,” said Andrew Cupo, the school's theater stagecraft teacher and drama club advisor.

Cupo is at the FAC an average of 20 to 25 hours a week.

Backstage, the dressing rooms and costume room have all been organized, cleaned and painted. What used to be sagging makeup tables in the dressing rooms are now flawless marble counters surrounded by crisp white walls.

ACTORS AND ACTRESSES SPEAK OUT

“The dressing rooms are beautiful, but the white concerns me,” said actress Lauren Boley who has been a part of drama club for two years.

With all the heavy makeup that stage lighting requires, stains are a real risk. Because of the money put into the renovations, Cupo has banned food anywhere backstage, except for the green room, on stage and in the auditorium.

Most cast and crew members are not excited about this new limitation seeing how the week before a production is put on they are constantly at the theater.

Formerly a location for small productions only, the black box is now considered a flex stage.

“We can do anything, we could have seating on all four sides, on three sides or on one side, it just depends on what we want to do,” said Cupo.

For a building that has been through everything from classic musicals like Footloose to rowdy shows such as Peter and the Starcatchers, the Fine Arts Center has survived and thrived but the recent rehaul has only exacerbated the beauty that used to hide behind faded walls and dusty floors.

Students read original poems at Janey’s

By SARA WINDOM g style editor

Taking over Janey’s Coffee House once again, Literary Magazine hosted their seventh annual latte poetry event on the night of November 7.

“We try to encourage kids to submit their work,” said Lori Hart, adviser, “so if they come to this cool poetry event, and they hear people reading their poems, it’ll inspire them to submit.”

And inspire them it did. Starting out with twelve entries, more and more poets began signing up on the spot, ending in a total of 18 readings.

This was one of the higher turnouts Literary Magazine has seen, typically the average is approximately ten to fifteen readers.

“I always think it’s a really good success because we get people to come and express what they like doing, what they’re passionate about,” said Logan Larkin, president.

After each poem was read, the judges; Hart, Drama teacher Andrew Cupo, and English teacher Scott 4 ■ NOVEMBER 14, 2016

LaVigne, determined which was the best of the night. Once they reached an agreement, the winner was announced and won the prize of taking home half of the money raised that night.

“It was a little nerve racking at first, but now I’m glad I did it, because I was just surrounded by people who like the same things,” said Kiera Riley, a junior who read two pieces.

This year’s winner was Maja Pierce, a sophomore, for her piece entitled ‘Fight or Flight.’

Though most readers choose to perform their original poetry, Hart encourages those who write short stories or other literature to read as well.

“It was so cool to see so many people I knew showcasing their amazing writing or musical abilities that I would have had no idea about otherwise. Sitting around with your friends with a hot drink is always fun too,” said Annie Sogaard, a sophomore who has been in attendance

for two years now. “Seeing everyone reading their work and singing little songs made it 100 percent worth it.”

Besides poems being read, there were musical performances by Sara Windom, Mia Gilling and Kate Rosenbaum, all juniors. The songs, however, were not judged.

This is the seventh time Literary Magazine has hosted the event, and it has always taken place at Janey’s Coffeehouse in Cave Creek.

For those who missed their opportunity to perform their pieces last Monday, Literary Magazine will be hosting their first monthly event called Third Thursdays on the 17th of November. Third Thursdays will be held in the lecture hall each third Thursday of the month, where poets will be reading their work during lunchtime.

“Third Thursdays gives more people the opportunity to read poetry,” said Hart.

Admission is one dollar or a submission to Literary Magazine.

AT THE ANNUAL LATTE POETRY EVENT, BLAKE BRADSHAW, a sophomore read her original poem entitled “A Patriarchy of Gods, of Men.”

4LOGAN LARKIN

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

NEWS

Trigger warning

4 SEAN GANNON

Arizona pushes for the legalization of concealed carry for teachers in public schools.

By SEAN GANNON g staff writer

Increasing threats of terrorism and school shootings across the country have become concerning to schools in Arizona as they push for the legalization of concealed carry in public schools.

Open carry is legal in the state of Arizona as long as the carrier is at least 18 years old; however, some private businesses, military bases, Indian reservations, and a few other places do not allow open carry. Concealed carry requires that the carrier be at least 21 years old and have a concealed carry permit.

According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, there are 286,228 active permits in Arizona.

Private schools in Arizona are allowing teachers and staff to conceal carry handguns on campus. This is being done in an effort to make schools a safer place for everyone attending.

“I think that if we’re prepared for the worst, then it’s probably not going to ever happen,” said Steve Mitten, a history teacher.

There are a select few colleges such as Arizona State University and the University of Arizona that allow students to keep a firearm locked and out of sight in a car.

If this law passed, staff would not be funded by the school or district to purchase a firearm or proper training with

that firearm. Teachers and staff would have to go out on their own time to obtain the required training for a concealed handgun and pay with their own money for the training and firearm.

“It will be a private, kind of on-yourown, basically for police departments to know who is carrying the guns and to know who’s going to be protecting people,” said Jimmy Flanagan, a junior.

According to the Concealed Carry Weapons website, in the first year alone of legal concealed carry in Arizona, 63,000 concealed carry permits were issued which in turn caused the violent crime rate to drop 28.7 percent statewide.

“This will benefit schools because it

will make it a safer place. If some sketchy person with a gun tries something, a good person with a gun can stop it,” said Kevin McCaw, a senior.

Concealed carry has been proven to stop several public shootings including Pearl Junior High School in Pearl, Mississippi, Parker Middle School in Edinboro Pennsylvania, Players Bar and Grill in Winnemucca, Nevada, New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and many other places across the nation.

“I think this will provide another level of protection for schools,” said Mitten.

Concealed carry continues to grow among Arizonans.

Arizona is one of four states that does not forbid texting while driving as ...

TEXTING AND DRIVING FATALITIES SKYROCKET ACROSS COUNTRY

By EMMA RUSSELLO g staff writer

THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY

Traffic Safety Administration reported that texting and driving multiplies the risk of crashing by 23 percent.

According to the US Department of Transportation, sending a text message while driving, is equivalent to someone driving completely blind while going 55 miles per hour.

“I think that using a cell phone while driving is super unsafe, whether you are texting or just changing a song. All of your atten-

tion needs to be focused on the road,” said Bailee Walker, a senior and car accident victim.

Arizona is one of four states that does not have any texting and driving laws, despite efforts by the Arizona State Legislature.

However, in the cities of Phoenix, Tucson, and Tempe there is a 100 dollar fine for texting and driving, and a 250 dollar fine if texting is what caused an accident, according to drivinglaws.org.

“It is irresponsible to text and drive, or to even use your phone in general while driving, because

“There are 11 teen deaths every day caused by texting and driving, and it accounts for 25 percent of all crashes”

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

when you do it you are not thinking about the other lives you are putting at risk,” said Bella Esparza, a junior.

The National Safety Council estimates that about 1.6 million crashes are caused by texting each year. This number continues to rise as cell phone use gets more and more popular, especially in teenagers.

“I think using a cell phone while driving is seen more in teenagers, because we are so obsessed with our technology these days, and can’t be away from it,” said Esparza.

According to edgarsynder.com, texting and driving is six times more likely to cause an accident than driving drunk.

“You are more likely in this day in age to find someone texting and driving, than drinking and driving,

and they are both just as hazardous to not only yourself, but the people driving on the road around you,” said Officer Brett Penner.

There are 11 teen deaths every day caused by texting and driving, and it accounts for 25 percent of all crashes, according to textinganddrivingstatistics.org.

“To me, it is unsafe. Obviously as a young driver, your number one priority should be the road because even at my age I can still get distracted by my phone. It's even ten times worse for a younger driver that is still learning how to drive,” said Penner.

Since technology is advancing, there are a couple different ways one can talk on the phone with someone while driving, if it is necessary.

“I set my phone on airplane mode

while I am driving so I don’t get any notifications that will cause me to look at my phone,” said Walker.

Along with simply setting phones on airplane mode, cars with newer technology have the ability to make help decrease texting and driving.

“If you really have to reach someone set up the bluetooth in your car because it's hands-free and you can talk to someone while keeping your eyes on the road.

Texts can always wait until you reach your destination,” said Esparza.

Some schools do offer a drivers education course, and do cover the dangers of texting and driving, but many are wondering if there should be more time spent covering those dangers.

NOVEMBER 14, 2016 ■ 5

December Spreads NEWS

The Sioux NaTioN fighTS back agaiNST The DakoTa acceSS PiPeliNe

By Sean Gannon g travel editor

NEWS

A Pawsitive beginning

The Great Sioux nation began protesting the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline through the Dakotas and Illinois in spring of 2016 out of fear for the Sioux’s cultural and spiritual preservation.

Crude oil would be transported along this 1,172 mile long pipe that is 30 inches in diameter from North Dakota to Patoka, Illinois.

“It’s a large pipeline that will help us produce a lot more oil and a lot of people are protesting it because it’s supposedly going through a Native American reservation,” said Connor Lawrence, a junior.

Dakota Access Pipeline claims

that they will work with individual landowners to minimize disruption of land and restore whatever is damaged to its original state.

“The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe is protesting the pipeline because it threatens their environmental well-being and could possibly destroy very significant cultural and historical sites to the tribe,” said Kevin Donnellan, a junior.

According to CNN, the protesters have vowed to stay the winter even though they have received threats of prosecution from law enforcement.

On Nov. 26, the US Army Corps of Engineers warned protesters that refused to leave that they may face arrest. Authorities have yet to act on that promise.

“They’re arguing that it is going over sacred grounds and there’s a fear of water contamination which we’ve seen in the past.

That’s not their property. The pipeline was rejected from going through Bismarck for that very

“The problem with camping out there is that the Dakota winters are very bad, very difficult. So there’s an issue with the construction being able to continue in the winter and the safety of the people camping out in the areas.”

Steve Mitten about the protests in the Dakotas

reason,” said Steve Mitten, a history teacher.

Another problem presented by protesters was the fear of purified water contamination.

North Dakota Governor Jack Dalrymple ordered the demonstrators to leave not only because of the original accusation of trespassing, but because of extreme winter weather conditions. First responders would no longer be responsible for helping those who chose to remain for the winter.

“The problem with camping out there is that the Dakota winters are very bad, very difficult.

So there’s an issue with the construction being able to continue in the winter and the safety of the people camping out in the areas,” said Mitten.

Veterans join together for the annual ceremony in Carefree

By MeGan Walker g staff writer

Foothills Animal Rescue opened Brynne Smith Memorial Campus, as a memorial to a life lost too soon.

every kiss begins with k-9 a woman meets her perfect match.

4 lauren haggar

A

By Lauren Haggar g news editor

fter nine months of construction and preparation, Foothills Animal Rescue, otherwise known as FAR, officially opened the Brynne Smith Memorial Campus.

Lead architect Douglas Fredrickson, a family friend of Brynne Smith, along with Victoria Cowper, Executive Director of FAR, created the shelter to further improve the lives of animals.

The new shelter is a memorial to Brynne Smith, a volunteer who came to a tragic end. Smith, a lifelong animal lover, was a victim of a helicopter crash that took her life. In efforts to keep Smith’s spirit alive, the shelter is not only dedicated to her, but also has many hidden messages within the building that held meaning to Smith.

“In the roof, as you walk in, it has the numbers 831, and that was her [Smith’s] favorite saying. Eight words, three letters, one meaning, I love you; and there are little things like that, that is her, throughout the building,” said Vickie McWatters, FAR Engagement Manager.

Brynne Smith Memorial Campus boasts many new upgrades and advancements. The shelter is now a sprawling 4,200 square feet, with 18 foot ceilings, and many windows allowing for natural light to flow in and out of the space. love At first sight- a little Likewise, the areas where girl met her forever friend, at the the animals are conadoption event. 4lauren haggar tained are state of the THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

art, offering many new advancements. The rooms now have a music program in efforts to reduce the stress and anxiety animals may have due to previous conditions. In addition, rooms now have indoor and outdoor access, with the outdoor space holding an 1,000 square foot dog park and two dog runs.

“I think the new shelter will allow the animals to get more exercise, which will make them a lot happier and I think that having extra space for the animals to run around is really important,” said Madison McCormick, a junior who volunteers at FAR. Despite the new and improved space, the original shelter, located in Scottsdale, will still be used as an intake facility. When new animals are transferred from Maricopa County Animal Shelter, they will first go to this location and be evaluated. Here, they will be spayed and neutered, treated for any medical conditions, thus reducing the number of animals possibly being infected.

After this process has taken place, the animals will then be transferred to the new facility.

“I think this process is pretty beneficial because it makes any dog adoptable, no matter what condition it’s in,” said Kaitlyn Inman, a junior who volunteers at FAR. The FAR resale boutique will remain at its current location and expand into some parts of the old shelter. Animals are always in need At the grAnd opening of brynne smith memoriAl of a forever home and can now be found at cAmpus tAtum, a Pitbull terrier mix met potential adopters. The adoption 10197 East Bell Road, Scottsdale AZ 85260 event lasted all day and many animals found new homes. 4lauren haggar with the same shelter hours as before.

DECEmbER 16, 2016 ■ 3

Law enforcement plans to immediately block people and supplies from entering the protesters camp in an effort to drive the protesters away. Anyone entering the area will be notified that they are trespassing and punished accordingly.

Originally, the pipeline would not have gone through any Sioux Tribe reservations, but was rerouted due to the costs. It would now cut through the Sioux Tribe reservation and they fear it will destroy sacred grounds and disable access to purified water.

On Dec. 5, the protesters succeeded in rerouting the Dakota Access Pipeline. According to CNN, the Army Corp of Engineers will look for an alternate route underneath Lake Oahe in North Dakota.

Veterans and their families celebrated at the eVent hosted by VhP. The day was filled with music and many gave speeches commemorating Veterans.

4 Megan Walker

With a sizzle, spark, and bang the celebration for Veterans Day commenced in Carefree.

On November 11, the Cactus Shadows club, Veterans Heritage Project or VHP, participated in the 7th annual Veterans Day ceremony held at the Carefree Sundial. The event first occurred in 2004, and it was used to honor the veterans of the community. At the event there were multiple Veteran speakers, singers, as well as a lot of dancing.

Veterans Heritage Project participates in the ceremony every year. Members of the club set up the event, and speak with many different veterans and veteran’s families during the ceremony.

“We setup our booth and have all of our banners up, we tell people what VHP is all about,” said Melissa Satran, a club member.

To prepare for the ceremony, members of Veterans Heritage Project meet in the weeks before Veterans Day to talk about design and schedules.

The VHP board decides on a guest speaker, who is a veteran.

Usually, the selected person, is someone that VHP has interviewed before for their annual Veteran's Story book.

“Last year it was an Air Force officer who was in the Hanoi Hilton for seven years as a

4 ■ December 16, 2016

POW,” said Mikaela Morris, VHP president.

For the past seven years, VHP has been allowed to use the Sundial area for the ceremony.

“We always have musical performances from students and professionals each year,” said Barbara Hatch, a club sponsor.

This year, many people attended and performed. Kevin Glenn, a middle school chorus teacher, Katlyn Reinhart, Chance McLaughlin, and Anika, Alex, and Gabby Arias performed.

Also at the event were booths of different organizations that represented things that could benefit military families and personnel with the Veterans Heritage Project booth within the mix. The Veterans Day Ceremony in Carefree shined lights on many aspects of veterans that are not always thought about.

The Maricopa County Veterans Court spoke about how the experiences of veterans in conflict can affect how they act upon return. This court represents veterans who struggle with adjusting to their previous lives.

Overall, the ceremony represented all branches of the military with musical tributes, speakers, and booths. Many veterans were present and sang along with the anthem of their country with the other patriots.

THe cAcTUS SHADOWS PreSS

From the white house to the dance floor...

Honors dance company prepares for next week’s politically themed show

Wage change

NEWS

Arizona businesses prepare for the passing of Proposition 206

By Caity Bonine g staff writer

By emma Russello g staff writer

Every year, Falcon Dance, the honors dance company, puts on a show in December at the Fine Arts Center.

The theme for the show changes each year and every dance performed reflects the theme in one way or another.

This year’s theme is Political movement.

“All the dances are about issues that a voter would consider when in the voting booth,” said Elissa Ericson, Falcon Dance company teacher.

In past years, the themes have included the seven deadly sins and virtues, astronomy and constellations, the music of the Beatles, prison, and other topics. This year, the theme relates to modern day issues that people face every day, which is what makes it different from past years.

“I think this show has a lot more meaning behind each dance and each piece represents a problem or a good part of our society. So all of the dances have their own little story in a way and are extremely diverse as far as style and music,” said Ariana Heiner, a senior company dancer.

Some of the topics covered in the show include refugees, the wall, and homelessness, all common issues

The passage of Prop 206 in November means that the minimum wage will gradually increase from $8.05 an hour to $12 an hour by 2020.

The purpose is to ensure that more families can meet their basic needs, increase the amount of money being spent, and decrease poverty in Arizona.

Not only will the wage increase, but there will be a requirement of 40 hours paid sick time for employees in businesses with more than 15 employees, and 24 hours for employees that work among fewer than 15 others. The number of situations that are considered sick time is also broadened in the proposition.

According to Ballotpedia, Stephanie Vasquez, owner of Fair Trade Cafe said, “Almost half of Arizonans can’t earn paid sick days to care for themselves, or an ill family member. Families are left with impossible choices, go to work and potentially infect others, or risk a portion of a much-needed paycheck.”

Every county in Arizona voted in support of Prop 206, except for Graham with 55.8 percent voting no. Statewide, 58.9 percent voted yes, and 41.1 percent voted no, according to cnn.com.

Officials in support of the proposition include United States Representative Ann Kirkpatrick, Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton, and other Democratic officials. The argument for this proposition is that people with families who work full time at a minimum wage job should be able to put food on the table, pay mortgages, medical bills, and whatever is necessary to be able to keep their family healthy.

“I think that it is good, particularly for teenagers who are working, who don't have their career established yet, but it's also good for people who can only find minimum wage jobs to make more than eight dollars an hour,” said Louise Rochford, a marketing teacher.

On the other side, officials and organizations like United States Senator John McCain, and the Arizona Restaurant Association, are not in support of this proposition. The argument is that it will decrease employment, and increase prices for consumers, encourage more electronic implementation, put Arizona at a competitive disadvantage, and it does not fit the difference in cost of living between rural and urban areas.

“I think it's good because you are giving people an opportunity to make more money and perhaps provide for themselves better, but the downside is you're forcing employers to not meet performance standards but just wage standards set by law, which, in a free enterprise environment, can be dangerous,” said Steven Mitten, a history teacher.

There are many split views about this new minimum wage in Arizona, but more than half voted for it to change. Students who work at jobs that pay minimum wage will be getting paid more starting in 2017, but there will be less jobs available due to employers having to downsize, according to ballotpedia.org.

“I think that the passing of Prop 206 will hurt a lot of small businesses in Cave Creek especially, and some might even go out of business. Also, the prices of regular items I buy will most likely go up, so that’s kind of disappointing, because people who don’t even work a minimum wage job, will still have to pay more for things,” said Naomi Marc, a junior.

The next three years will be an adjustment for Arizona, and employers will have to prepare accordingly. The breakdown of the gradual increase in wage will be $10 an hour in 2017, $10.50 an hour in 2018, $11 an hour in 2019, and $12 an hour in 2020.

After 2020, the minimum wage would increase according to the average cost of living, according to ogletreedeakins.com.

Tipped employees will be required to make a minimum of $3 less an hour, than the minimum wage.

that are prominent in modern politics.

“The theme is interesting because it’s a show that deals with problems in the country and today’s world,” said Jessie Stevenson, a senior company dancer.

There is much more that goes into a dance show then what is merely displayed on stage. The dancers rehearse during school as well as after school in order to prepare for the show. All of the hard work that is put into preparing for the show pays off when the dancers step onto the stage.

“I love getting to see the dances unfold on stage with costume and lighting. The dances really come to life once all the technical elements are included,” said Ericson.

Many people contribute to the dance show, including choreographers. Ericson, Haley Vago, Elizabeth Lincoln, and Lori Hart choreograph dances for the show every year, along with graduates from Cactus Shadows like Marty Nagle. Guest choreographer Ricky Maloof also comes each year to create a hip hop piece.

Tickets to the show on December 15 and 16 are $5. The show starts at 7 p.m. at the Fine Arts Center.

During rehearsals

for a dance entitled “Waiting for Home,” Jordan Dauch, a junior assists Hannah Lybbert, a senior in a layout. 4Logan Larkin

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

DECEmbER 16, 2016 ■ 5

September Articles With the controversy surrounding the two major presidential candidates, Donald Trump and HIllary Clinton, many people are considering voting for the independent party. Gary Johnson and Jill Stein are both running as independent candidates in the upcoming November election.

Many people are unaware of the two candidates since the spotlight is mainly on Trump and Clinton. But the few who do know about them, see them as potential threats, in making sure Trump or Clinton get elected.

Gary Johnson tends to have more republican views, whereas, Jill Stein has more liberal views.

According to JohnsonWeld.com, Johnson believes in getting rid of wasteful spending, revising the tax code, incentivising job growth, letting women have the choice of abortion, and legalizing marijuana.

On Stein's website, Jill2016.com, she discusses ending poverty, increasing federal minimum wage, helping to protect the planet, and protecting human rights as a whole.

Both candidates stand for many issues that concern Americans today. Given more media attention, and publicity, both may have stood a chance at competing against the major party candidates, Clinton and Trump.

Despite how much each party fights with each other, most will agree that they are unhappy with the GOP and DNC nominations for this year.

As many stand with their party no matter what, and continue to back the controversial candidates, others have considered voting for Johnson and Stein.

The only problem with voting for these candidates, is that people fear it will split the vote. Because neither candidate has an actual chance of being elected, a vote for either of them is practically the same as not voting at all.

Others argue that voting for the lesser known and certainly less controversial candidates is a good thing for America, but in all reality, that is not the case.Voting for someone who you feel is a good representative for the country is generally never a bad thing, but when it comes to the livelihood of America, people need to make smart decisions.

As a nation, people must come to their senses and realize no matter how you slice it and dice it, either Trump or Clinton is going to be the next President of the United States of America.

They are the most popular, and, despite how great or not so great Stein and Johnson are, they don’t stand a chance in beating Clinton or Trump. hether you are a Republican or a Democrat, both of the parties are at risk if Americans split the vote by voting for the independent candidates. Make the smart decision this November and vote Trump or Clinton.

w

ArizonA’s Got TalenT

SPOTLIGHT

October Articles I See Reality worth the read

By Dominic Davies g staff writer

I See Reality is a unique collection of twelve short stories using simple text and comics to depict what it is like being a teen.

I See Reality, edited by Grace Kendall, covers many topics such as addiction, sexuality and speculating a breakup. 12 authors contribute their own fiction short story to create an informative novel on what teenagers go through.

All 12 stories deal with issues teens face in different ways and perspectives, but there were three that stood out.

The first short story, Three Imaginary Conversations with You, is a brilliant way to start off the book. The reader is walked through Jessa’s thoughts as she plays out three separate scenarios in her head about how she will break up with her controlling and manipulative boyfriend.

Hush, was about a mother who protective andof time to he Odysea Aquarium has become the year. This was leavesextremely very minimal amount paranoid germs with her American Southwest’s newest impracti- take serious action about on violations aquariums may cal and unethical feature. Using two mil- have made.daughter. This was one of the sadder stories as the main charlion gallons ofhas water supply all 10,000 that, the interactive programs like “The FirsT occasion” is one of senior Logan Larkin’s favorite paintings that he has created.

His work been to displayed at Pita Jungles aroundFollowing the acter felt bad for her mother and 4Logan valley. Larkin hopes to study art on the East Coast next year. sea creatures imported to the Aquarium in the Larkin ‘petting pools’ often introduce foreign bacteria would sneak outside so she would middle of the Sonoran Desert is the irony of the and other not pathogens, they can become anxBy Lauren Haggar g news editior find out. and The ending complicentury. ious, frustrated, aggressive, andseemed even neurotic as a cants out of 1,000 nationwide. mented the story and to This 200,000 square foot can his be acceptance seen result confined to shallow tanks and exporistles on the paint brush whir across the “When Logan sent me behemoth the email [about intoof being finish off the plot.

The Night of the Living Creeper newly stretched canvas as artist Logan Larkin, theofprogram], I instantly started crying, I was so excited anytime day on the East side of the 101 freeway. surefor to constant interaction with humans. wasmany one of the worse senior, adds splashes of acrylic color and design to him,” saidlike Lorithese Kurtz-Larkin, Larkin’s mother, who teaches Aquariums are industries built on As a result, animals in thestories. aquariums can Throughoutand the whole story, it was harmed a blank canvas. Larkin has been pursuing the love Health. of intelligent, social beings who are the suffering become physically psychologically told from the pointless perspecof art ever since he was young.

In order to be considered, applicants had to submit 10-15 denied everything that is natural and important to due to human neglect, and improper habitats that tive of Skittles the cat. The cat was “I started taking it seriously around eighth grade, when I of their personal art pieces, and a personal statement. While them. The ratio from 10,000 sea creatures, to the will never be able to replicate the animal's natural out at a Halloween and described really started trying to find purpose in my there, Larkin took painting, aesthetic, and drawing courses, 200,000 footage is an abomination.

With environment. the events done by the people that art,” said Larkin. andsquare visited art galleries, museums, and artists’ studios.

“I like the piece simple, math it is easily each aniAccording tohard the to World Society forone theofProtection was follow.

This was Larkin credits his art teachers Dara “The program wasdetermined really cool. Itthat consisted of three weeks because it is kind mal onbeing average given square with feet other to spend of Animals, a dolphin in the wild swims two short stories that used com- 40 miles Parsons, Luwin Lazo and Deborah Wales, in theis city, being20 immersed artists my age, of boundary-less, they didn’t require make this story pens to for giving him a springboard for his learnand from art average professionals and lives professors work the rest oflearning it’s life in.

The human in a who per day, butics, USbut regulations dolphin ing. Presently, Larkin pulls inspiration Larkin. and there is a lot of home at of NYU,” 2,600said square feet. Compared to a human, be only 30 any feetbetter. in length. A dolphin would have to Larkin’shammerhead work was recently onwhich displayisatthe various Pitahis tank Overall, the book did atimes good every job from artists such as Takashi Murakami the scalloped shark, circle more than 3,500 day to undeveloped structure and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Basquiat is well Jungle locations throughout the valley. of getting into the mind of young largest shark on display reaching up to 8.2 feet in simulate his natural range. in it. In addition, it “It is amazing to see his art everywhere, especially the adults. Many of these short stoknown for his pieces focused on counter length, would require a space much larger than a No matter how hard an aquarium tries, they ries were relatable and captured culture, and Murakami primarily concen- first show. When we were walking around the restaurant, all was the largest piece humanI could to be comfortable. never the be able to of synthesize the actual ocean, think was every one of these paintings is mywill son’s, feeling what life is like in trates on ‘superflat’ style. These influences I have done yet. It is Animal rights activists oppose which ultimately is thewhile only showing suitable environment and he has done so much and hisaquariums body of workfor is so diverse. high school this help him to find new styles of art. reason they oppose zoos.

Fishon and other for a it sea creature.

“Murakami inspires me to developthe art same When you see these painting hanging these huge walls, through different types of people intimidating starting a that is unique to my own thriving mind is crazy cool,” said Kurtz-Larkin. different Due to water the sea creatures, like their land-dwelling relatives, are Anotherwith problem is views. the amount being piece that big,” and make art in the environment that the amany creates, one in particubeing so short, stories such and the sentient Despite and have rightpieces to liveLarkin free from human wasted for stories an hour worth of guilty pleasure inspires me most: myself,” said Larkin. lar stands out to him that he is exceptionally proud of. The to move Logan Larkin speaking exploitation.

In addition, there are concerns about loss of $30astoThe the Mistake curious seemed customer.

In the middle Larkin relates to these artists on many piece is entitled ‘First Occasion, and features primary colors, very fast and Coffee Chameleon of his art the treatment of the animals in captivity, espe- of the desert, Arizona is suffering from a drought different levels, but especially enjoys and an abstract feel. was difficult to understand. andand is running of ground Siphoning an Basquiat’s use of color and Murakami’scially flat marine “I likemammals. the piece because it is kind of boundary-less, Thisout book receiveswater. a four-star Some of isthe involving animal treatmillion gallons of water, followed by and The style of art. there a lotconcerns of undeveloped structure in it. In addition,initial it was tworating.

Stories like Hush ment are government however much longevity the aquarium will wereof spectacuGood the Brother “You can tell that he draws a lot of inspiration from their the poor largest piece I have regulations, done yet. It is interactive intimidating starting a lar, but other stories such as The [Murakami and Basquiat] works, he isn't afraid to take inspipieceseparated that big,” said Larkin. and physical/psyprograms, families, prove to need is excessive. and Night offor theanimal Living rights Creeper ration from them,” said Mia Gilling, a junior who has worked Larkin hopes to attend either regulations New York University, chological effects.

Many government As an advocate and the proper Gone this in Place not do with Larkin on the literary magazine and newspaper Parsons University, he will pursue offer little to or noPratt protection forwhere the animals, anda Bachelor treatment of theFrom animals thedid Odysea Aquarium, the book justice and left the reader Larkin attended New York University this past summer. of Fine Arts in studio art painting. As for after college, Larkin the U.S department of Agriculture have only 126 I am taking the action of not visiting the aquarium wanting more.

The program is highly exclusive, only accepting 36 appli- dreams of being a world-renowned artist by the time he is 25.

OPINION

B

T

inspectors that must inspect 10,433 facilities every

12 ■ OctOber 14, 2016

logan larkin

anti aquarium “No matter how hard an aquarium tries, they will never be able to synthesize the actual ocean, which is ultimately the only suitable environment for a sea creature.”

or supporting their values.

K

tHe cActUS SHADOWS PreSS

with guns

lauren haggar

kill shelters “It is truly saddening to think that someone could miss the chance to meet their forever friend because they came to a shelter an hour too late.”

8 ■ OctOber 14, 2016

ill a human and you are a murderer, kill animals everyday and you are somehow considered an animal shelter.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 7.9 million animals enter animal shelters each year, and of that rather large number, around 2.7 million are euthanized each year. Yes, you heard right not one million, not two million, not three million, but almost four million animals are euthanized each and every year. Innocent animals die every single day due to the lack of compassion and awareness in our nation.

AmericanHumane.org reported that the majority of euthanasia in shelters is due to overpopulation of dogs and cats. This problem is a legitimate issue but there are some rather simple solutions other than euthanization Individuals who breed animals without spaying and neutering them are doing the animals a disservice. Without this crucial process, the rate at which animals reproduce is much higher than it should be. The animals should not be punished for the owner’s poor decisions.The ASPCA stated that the cost of spaying or neutering an animal is less than the total cost of raising a litter of cats or dogs. It is vital for the safety of animals that people begin to understand the importance of this very simple procedure that could greatly reduce animal population, therefore reducing the number of animals euthanized.

In addition, many animals are put down for reasons that they cannot control. Sadly, such a vast majority of innocent animals are euthanized because of medical reasons.

It is terribly inhumane and cruel to decide to take away an animal's life because of a medical

condition.The difference between humans and animals is when humans can not care for themselves and do not have the money to do so, there are organizations that help pay for these treatments along with aids for the financial aspects.

Instead of just giving up on animals because they have one thing that flaws them from being the “model dog or cat” people need to fundraise for these creatures without a voice.

Similarly to being euthanized for medical conditions, animals are often put down for behavioral issues. This issue stems from individuals not understanding the importance of training and correct procedures on how to train animals. Yes of course their are some animals who are unfortunately tormented, with issues that cannot be solved, but the majority of animals can be helped with some simple training.

Before people turn in animals to a shelter for behavioral issues they need to make sure they have have used up every option, to ensure they have given the animal a fair chance. This does not mean spending thousands of dollars on training programs. Training a dog or cat can be done by purchasing books, watching YouTube videos, even reading articles on the subject.

Many will claim that euthanizing an animal is inevitable. In some cases this statement is true, but not before all of the options are thoroughly looked into, and each and every animal is given a fair chance at life.

These beings do so much for people's lives on a daily basis; dogs alone serve in our military, aid people with disabilities, and accompany peiple in lifelong companionship. It is truly saddening to think that someone could miss the chance to meet their forever friend because they came to a shelter an hour too late. tHe cActUS SHADOWS PreSS

November Articles OPINION One thing is fOr sure, teens

are known for getting into trouble and making bad choices. The stereotypical teen is depicted as rebellious and often selfish in nature and this is not far off.

Teens without a doubt make stupid, illogical decisions. Many of these choices have to do with alcohol or drugs. But it does not stop there, this also includes relationships, academic integrity, friendships, and more.

One reason for this is the prefrontal cortex lobe is not fully developed yet. The prefrontal cortex lobe is responsible for the decision making and planning part of brain.

With this not being 100 percent developed, it can shed some light on why teens make such awful decisions sometimes.

Yet with that being said, this not an excuse to party every weekend, get intoxicated or high, and then crash a car and kill an innocent family. Teens need to remember other people's lives are at risk when they make risky decisions.

Risky and often mindless decisions do not only affect the person who chooses to take part in them but all others around them. According to the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility, the fatality rate [of drunk driving] for people under 21 equates to 11 percent of the total rate. Drunk driving is a major problem in our nation. Not to ever justify it, but at least people who are drunk over 21 are abiding by

J

uuLs are newly popular, and highly addictive, versions of E-cigarettes that have become notorious among teenagers nationwide.

With this new epidemic, young people are developing fierce nicotine addictions earlier in life.

The reason Juuls have become so popular is attributed to it’s most attractive side effect, the infamous buzz. Since Juuls have a higher concentrate of nicotine than cigarettes, they have become the number one choice among students.

Because Juuls lack a filter, the nicotine formula is stronger and thus creates a faster and

stronger high than cigarettes.

When the Juul vapor enters the lungs, it becomes formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein and other toxic compounds. In a study conducted by the CDC, metal particles, specifically cadmium, nickel, and lead, were found in both cigarettes and Juul vapor.

Typically, Juuls and e-cigs are used as an alternative to cigars or cigarettes. Many people use them because they still get their nicotine fix and avoid the smell.

However with the new recreational use of the Juul among teens, people are getting all the negative side affects as opposed to stopping addiction.

The age requirement for purchase of Juuls and Juul pods (the contain-

the law; as long as they are not driving. Not only do many teens underage drink which is classified as a misdemeanor and can also lead to having you license suspended for up to one year, but if you are caught driving under the influence you could spend up to one year in jail, along with a bunch of other consequences. Many teens drink or use drugs, due to peer pressure. Peer pressure is one of the main reasons people do things they don’t want to necessarily do.

This doesn't just have to do with drugs and alcohol, this applies to school and relationships too. What is all to importantly and often forgotten is the emphasis on staying true to yourself and your own guidelines and morals.

Other’s bad choices do not, and should not have to be yours too. Now understandably high school and college is a time of experimentation and finding out who you are and really who you want to become.

However in the process of doing so, remembering the life you want later should relate to the actions you are participating in now.

Above all having respect and caring about those around you should always be top priority, and remembering that your life matters and so does others, should help to decrease the bad choices many members of society make today.

The juul is especially popular on the school campus. Students have even gone so far as to bring their e cigs to school and use them in class.

The reason behind this is the fact that Juuls are very discrete. They do not give off a recognizable odor and they can be disguised as USB drives.

This has become an increasingly alarming problem to the administration as it is occurring at such a high rate. And because of this, administration has been catching a plethora of students with the device.

Previously, students could easily get away with bringing a Juul on campus because it was a new product. Many teachers were oblivious to the Juul. Now, there has been a push from administration to raise awarenss among teachers about how to recognize a juul.

Overall, students have to realize that developing a premature nicotine addiction is detremental to their health. Addiction is one of the hardest things to overcome and it can lead to other addictions like drugs and

Lauren haggar

decisions decisions decisions “Other’s bad choices do not and should not have to be yours too.”

LOuise jagus

too cool for juul “Juuls can destroy lungs, reputations, and school records.”

December Articles NEWS

A Pawsitive beginning Foothills Animal Rescue opened Brynne Smith Memorial Campus, as a memorial to a life lost too soon.

OPINION Controversial does not begin to describe the conflict surrounding the president elect. Students discuss their outlook on a Trump presidency

every kiss begins with k-9 a woman meets her perfect match.

4 lauren haggar

A

By Lauren Haggar g news editor

fter nine months of construction and preparation, Foothills Animal Rescue, otherwise known as FAR, officially opened the Brynne Smith Memorial Campus.

Lead architect Douglas Fredrickson, a family friend of Brynne Smith, along with Victoria Cowper, Executive Director of FAR, created the shelter to further improve the lives of animals.

The new shelter is a memorial to Brynne Smith, a volunteer who came to a tragic end. Smith, a lifelong animal lover, was a victim of a helicopter crash that took her life. In efforts to keep Smith’s spirit alive, the shelter is not only dedicated to her, but also has many hidden messages within the building that held meaning to Smith.

“In the roof, as you walk in, it has the numbers 831, and that was her [Smith’s] favorite saying. Eight words, three letters, one meaning, I love you; and there are little things like that, that is her, throughout the building,” said Vickie McWatters, FAR Engagement Manager.

Brynne Smith Memorial Campus boasts many new upgrades and advancements. The shelter is now a sprawling 4,200 square feet, with 18 foot ceilings, and many windows allowing for natural light to flow in and out of the space. love At first sight- a little Likewise, the areas where girl met her forever friend, at the the animals are conadoption event. 4lauren haggar tained are state of the THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

alex laggren art, offering many new advancements. The rooms now have a music program in efforts to reduce the stress and anxiety animals may have due to previous conditions. In addition, rooms now have indoor and outdoor access, with the outdoor space holding an 1,000 square foot dog park and two dog runs.

“I think the new shelter will allow the animals to get more exercise, which will make them a lot happier and I think that having extra space for the animals to run around is really important,” said Madison McCormick, a junior who volunteers at FAR. Despite the new and improved space, the original shelter, located in Scottsdale, will still be used as an intake facility. When new animals are transferred from Maricopa County Animal Shelter, they will first go to this location and be evaluated. Here, they will be spayed and neutered, treated for any medical conditions, thus reducing the number of animals possibly being infected.

After this process has taken place, the animals will then be transferred to the new facility.

“I think this process is pretty beneficial because it makes any dog adoptable, no matter what condition it’s in,” said Kaitlyn Inman, a junior who volunteers at FAR. The FAR resale boutique will remain at its current location and expand into some parts of the old shelter. Animals are always in need At the grAnd opening of brynne smith memoriAl of a forever home and can now be found at cAmpus tAtum, a Pitbull terrier mix met potential adopters. The adoption 10197 East Bell Road, Scottsdale AZ 85260 event lasted all day and many animals found new homes. 4lauren haggar with the same shelter hours as before.

DECEmbER 16, 2016 ■ 3

dump trump On November 8, Donald Trump was elected president, marking the beginning of the end. His demeaning comments, severe lack of experience, and overall hotheaded personality has the majority of progressive Americans terrified. They have every right to be scared. A Trump presidency means going back 50 years. His proposed plans and recent cabinet appointments suggest the return of ideologies that should have been left in 1960.

Trump ran on the campaign slogan: Make America Great Again, promising to return us to our glory days. Which begs the question what, exactly, is wrong with America? The Treasury Department just announced that we now have the lowest unemployment rate since before George W. Bush took office, FBI statistics show that violent crime has decreased steadily over the past 20 years, and, despite Trump’s claim to the contrary, repeated studies show that there is no correlation between immigrants and violent crimes. In fact, the only thing that has changed in America since the “good old days” is that we are more diverse. In 1980, white people made up 80 percent of America’s population, and today, they make up only 63 percent. Perhaps the most troubling aspect of his presidency is the blatant racism during and after his campaign.

Before he was elected, Trump received support from many infamous white nationalist groups, including but not limited to the KKK and its former leader David Duke. He also appointed Steve Bannon as his chief strategist and senior advisor. Bannon is the executive chairman at Breitbart News, an alt-right news source broadcasting homophobic, sexist, and racist stories. Talk about unfair, biased media.

Trump himself has made many comments degrading women and minorities. "When Mexico sends its people, they're not sending their best," he said. "They're sending people that have lots of problems, and they're bringing those problems with us. They're bringing drugs. They're bringing crime. They're rapists." What he said about women is not decent to print in a high school newspaper. If Trump wanted to really show that he was for these minorities, he should have picked a somewhat more open minded running mate. Mike Pence, the vice president elect, is known for his anti-LGBT stance.

Another major cause for concern are his views on global warming.

In a tweet earlier this year, he said that “the concept of global warming was created by and for the Chinese.” His choice to appoint Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt to head the Environmental Protection Agency is a clear signal that he plans to cut funding to global warming research and prevention. Pruitt has denied that climate change exists, despite the fact that the majority of scientists agree that it is real and that humans contribute to it. Trump’s actions over the next four years have serious consequences for the future of our planet.

Trump supporters often cite that he will make America safer by dealing with our immigration problem. This is understandable, illegal immigration is a problem that needs to be dealt with. But building a wall is not going to stop illegal immigrants from coming into the country. It even seems that Trump has begun to realize this, as he said on a 60 Minutes interview that he would rather build a fence and then increase security.

Another reason he is well liked by his supporters is the fact that he is a successful businessman, and that he will bring these skills to the White House to “fix” our broken country. Yet everyone seems to disregard the fact that he has had four companies that have declared bankruptcy, which raises the question as to whether or not America will be dealt the same fate. He also just agreed to pay $25 million to settle a fraud lawsuit against Trump University, for hundreds of students who were tricked into believing they were getting something they were not. Is this really the kind of leader we want for our country?

Despite the obvious fact that he has had no political experience and lacks the thick skin that is needed in politicians, Donald Trump will be our next president. It is ironic that one of Trump’s promises was to “drain the swamp” of corruption, but it seems that he is only adding to it by appointing cabinet members who donated heavily to his campaign: a billionaire who has no education experience to run the Department of Education, an anti-climate change man to run the Environmental Protection Agency, and the list goes on.

Given all of the above, it is not any wonder that sensible Americans are worried about the Donald Trump presidency.

THE CACTUS SHADOWS PRESS

lauren haggar

trump it up “Make America Great Again,” a profound slogan that carried the Trump campaign from the beginning to the very end. Not only is it a slogan, but it is a beacon of hope for millions of Americans nationwide.

It restored faith in those who thought they would never see America rise to its fullest potential and greatness ever again. “Make America Great Again” is a slogan, but it is also a promise to every person no matter what nationality, gender, religion, or economic status, that President- Elect, Donald J. Trump is going to restore and revitalize the country.

American people find Trump’s lack of political correctness, passion for America, and willingness to inspire change, not only refreshing but extremely promising.

With the announcement of Trump as President-Elect, many were afraid and outraged by policies Trump proposed. What many fail to understand is what a Trump presidency actually may look like; instead, many listen to the dishonest media that continually hype up every single news story. A Trump presidency is the only way to save America from the downward spiral it is currently on. Perhaps the most controversial and important policy from Trump is his proposed ideas “Only 3% of on immigration.

Americans One major misconception about Trump is that he opposes immigration and is racist towards others of different nationalities, this, in fact, actually is far from the truth.Trump supports legal immigration, just like the wait until millions of the people who voted for him. On day one of Trump in office, marriage” building a wall between the United States and Mexico will be top priority. Trump plans to deport all illegal aliens with a criminal record.

These aliens are causing crime rates across America to increase.

According to The Center for Immigration Studies, in October of 2013 there was two million undocumented immigrants with criminal records. Imagine that number now, especially with immigration constantly on the rise. Fox News reported that 900,000 illegal and legal immigrants are arrested each year. Additionally, according to Fox News, illegal immigrants account for twelve percent of murder sentencings, and 20 percent for kidnapping sentencings. With that being said, many of the immigrants in America are here lawfully and abiding by rules, and it is those who Trump has no issue with.

Trump has also been under scrutiny, the entire campaign period, about his proposed ban on refugees from Middle Eastern countries such as Syria. This ban was not about him opposing immigration or targeting a certain group of people, it was about protecting our nation first, then allowing people to enter after an intense screening process.

Trump’s main purpose is ensuring our well being. Trump wants to keep America safe, while allowing others to enter legally. Americans should be grateful that we have a leader that cares this deeply about our safety.

Another key issue that Trump plans to resolve is the infamous Obamacare. The Kaiser Family Foundation reported that Obamacare was supposed to lower premiums by $2,500 a year, but the complete opposite happened; family premiums increased by approximately $5,000 dollars. Obamacare was supposed to help those who could not afford health insurance, while letting individuals keep the doctors they had previously. Instead, many went without insurance, and, those who found the money to pay, struggled due to the high cost of the premiums. Trump proposes to repeal Obamacare and replace it with Health Savings Accounts, and then come up with a better healthcare system with the help of Congress, that everyone can afford, and that everyone has access to. Once again, his focus and concern is on every American, not just the wealthy elite, as many like to say. Trump cares about everyone, because a thriving and working system equals a thriving society.

Trump has proven this most recently with the Carrier Company deal saving over 1,000 jobs, securing an investment of 50 billion dollars from Masa (Softbank) towards new jobs, and going around the nation on his Thank You Tour, thanking the people in the states that he won.

Despite how you feel about Donald Trump and his policies, it is undeniable that he is extremely successful and passionate for the United States. With Trump as President, not only will America be great again, but America will be safe again, reformed again, thriving again, and, most importantly, Americans everywhere, can be proud to live in the land of the free and the home of the brave.

The RepoRT CaRd powderpuff This year’s Powder Puff event was well attended and taken seriously by the participants. Because it supported the Susan G. Koman foundation, an organization which funds breast cancer research, the evening proved to be very meaningful for all involved. While the players and cheerleaders had only three days to practice, they put their best efforts on the field to support the cure. All of the money raised by the players and the spectators was donated to the Cure.

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west lot

The new parking lot has opened, causing a lot of chaos. The students who were parking at the Fine Arts Center and district parking lot now park in the new west parking lot. While we are very happy to have a new parking lot closer to school, the logistics were definitely not thought through. The main issue of concern is that the only way to get in and out of this parking lot is to go through the main parking lot.

This has caused the main parking lot to get backed up, especially in the afternoon when everyone is trying to leave at the same time.

dlater break This year, Cactus Shadows does not get out for winter break until the 23rd, the day before Christmas Eve. Many people travel for the holidays, and getting out so late makes it extremely difficult to get where you are going in time for the big day. Leaving early is not an option for most, because it is finals week.

f Ufaith hasher DECEmbER 16, 2016 ■ 7

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