AP program nationally recognized - Columbia Heights Public ...

Jenessa MohnCo Editor-In-Chief

Hard work, rigorous curriculum, dedication and a commitment to building solid relationships between

staff and students has resulted in Columbia Heights High School being named the recipient of the national AP District of the Year Award for small districts. In addition, CHHS was also added to The College Board’s Honor Roll.

Every year, three districts representing a small, mid-sized and large school are chosen for demonstrating an increase in the number of students taking AP tests and the number who earn a passing score of three or higher. Columbia Heights falls into the small school category meaning the district was chosen out of 14,000 school systems nationwide.

“It is expected that when a large number of people join a select few, the results get worse, but Columbia Heights has done the opposite. They have dramatically increased the participation of students taking AP tests by 50%, while simultaneously increasing the number of students successfully passing an AP test by 15%. That is what makes Columbia Heights an excellent candidate for this award,” senior vice president of The College Board and AP instruction, Trevor Parker said.

Increasing test scores and participation was the result of hard work. Staff and administration diligently revamped courses, developed lessons and prepared students for the May AP tests. Students put in long hours of studying and participated in review sessions held before and after school and on weekends to understand rigorous course material.

“I’m in multiple AP classes, and they each take a lot of work. Sometimes its hard to balance all of them, but in the end, the challenge and the college credit are worth it,” William Cooke (11) said.

Students did this while balancing extracurricular activities, other classes and

jobs. That takes persistence and tenacity.“The hard work that we have put in has

paid off. Students are seeing value in their education and recognizing that it will get them far in life. Here at Columbia Heights, college is not a dream; it has become an expectation thanks to the relationships that we have created between staff and students,” Principal Dan Wrobleski said.

On Wednesday, April 6, Parker presented this prestigious award to CHHS during an assembly where members of the College Board, school board, and AP and Pre-AP teachers and students were present.

“The assembly really showcased all the hard work we’ve done. It’s great to see the school getting recognized among other schools with strong AP programs,” Elise Rogotzke (12) said.

Superintendent Kathy Kelly commented on the achievement.

“Today is a benchmark day. The College Board is recognizing Columbia Heights Public Schools as the national 2016 small District of the Year. I am humbled and honored to be the superintendent of this district. The award is a testament to the incredible work done by students and staff to put education first and to always strive for excellence.”

AP United States History teacher Erin Edwardson-Stern spoke on behalf of AP teachers, commending staff and students for their dedication to learning.

“2000 was the first year that Columbia Heights offered any AP classes, and since then, the program has grown from 50 students in three classes, to 290 students in

17 classes. This award represents 16 years of hard work, training and commitment,” she said.

CHHS plans to continue expanding the AP program to provide all students with the opportunity to take AP classes. In 2015, the administration required all students enrolled in an AP class to take the AP test in the spring. The result was an overall increase in test scores.

“I wasn’t planning on taking the AP composition test last year, but I’m happy I did. Now, I am taking another AP English class and I know what I need to do to be successful,” Arely Martinez (12) said.

Driven to graduate students that are college and career ready, this outstanding award indicates District 13 is headed in the right direction.

Superintendent Kathy Kelly, Principal Dan Wrobleski and School Board Chairman John Larkin accept the AP District of the Year award.

Kelly thanks Luis Carchi (2015) for speaking. Dynamics performs “A City Called Heaven”.

AP program nationally recognized

heraldH E I G H T Sth

e

Columbia Heights High SchoolVolume XV Issue 7 April 29, 2016

Photos by Anahi OrdonezEdwardson-Stern speaks for the AP teachers. Caitlin Kane (12) performs in the drumline.

Hunter becomes beekeeperPage 7

Hylander girls adjust to change up 5

News BriefsEbooks

School Board

News2 April 29 , 2016HHthe

Credit alternatives availableFarhiya barquadleStaff Writer

As school reaches an end, students have opportunities to earn back credits they may have failed to get during the year. These alternative routes allow

them to catch up and be on track to graduate. Credit recovery occurs in the weeks following grade

submission. Students who fall in the 55-59 percentile can make arrangements with teachers to raise their grades to passing. To get enrolled in credit recovery, the student must go to a dean, fill out a sheet, then get it signed by the teacher and return it to the dean. The student has around two weeks to work with their teacher and earn that credit.

“In order to earn the credit, my students complete a moodle course that reviews all the topics from the semester. They watch videos, take notes and take quizzes. If they pass the final test, they get the credit,” Melanie Kennedy, science and AVID teacher, said.

“Doing credit recovery isn’t really hard since you’re going at your own pace. You can finish 3 units in a day or finish half a unit but it needs to be completed by the due date,” Asha Nooh (12) said.

Alternative Learning Centers (ALC) provide educational classes and programs for students who have not been successful in regular school setting in regards to behavior and achievement. According to the Minnesota Department of Education ,the first legislated State-approved Alternative Programs (SAAP) began in 1988 with four sites serving 4,000 students. ALCs focus on individual learning goals. Their programs feature small classroom sizes, flexible schedules and independent study opportunities. They typically accept students between the ages of 16 and 21 years of age. Schedules can accommodate students who work or have other obligations. Entrance eligibility depends on if the student is performing below performance

level, is at least one year behind in his/her grade, pregnant or is a parent, has been sexually or physically abused, has been homeless in the last 6 months or has limited English proficiency. ALCs serve as a dropout prevention strategy. The nearest ALC is the Fridley Moore Lake Area Learning

Center, located at 6085 7th St NE, Fridley, MN. Summer school begins a few weeks after regular

school has ended. It gives students a chance to earn back credits they have lost due to failures. Some summer schools offer more than academic courses. Enrichment

classes can focus on the arts and recreational areas of study.

“I went to summer school last year, and it helped me recover my credits

and now I am able to graduate with my class,” Anab Mahamud (12), said.

A relatively new way to make up lost credits is to enroll in an online program. These

courses allow students to learn at their own pace,

independently. The duration of a course depends on

the individual student. They essentially have all year to finish it.

Online credit recovery is only available to seniors who were unable to fit their classes into their schedule.

There are both benefits and drawbacks using an online credit recovery. An obvious benefit is the fact that seniors who are behind can make up their credits and end up graduating successfully with the rest of their class. A drawback would be that it’s self-study, and that’s difficult for some students.

“It’s always best to learn from a teacher. Because online credit recovery is mostly independent work, you won’t have a teacher there to help you when you need it,” Dean of Academics Mollie Sprouse said.

Students should carefully look into each of these alternative routes for getting the credits that they need for graduation.

Open ebooks is a free app with hundreds of the latest fiction titles.

The program, founded by First Lady Michelle Obama, provides students easy access to current fiction. The process is easy. Download the app on a personal device and then create a username and PIN with media specialist Ms. Harris. She is available every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday before and after school in the media center.

For the first time in nearly nine months, the Columbia Heights

School District once again has a full school board. Dr. Hala Asamarai was elected to the board on April 5 with 740 votes as opposed to Tim Utz’s 599. Voter turnout for April’s election was nearly three times larger than the special election held in January where Naty Severson was elected. Dr Asamarai will serve the remainder of the current four year term, which ends in November.

The Senior Program Office, located inside the ALC, provides students with support and help in gaining the credits they need.Photo by Tenzin Nyima

Photo by Tenzin NyimaThe Fridley Moore Lake Area Learning Center helps students from ages 16 to 21 receive their high school diploma.

April 29, 2016 News 3HHthe

Robotics competes at regionalsFatima Jeylaninews editor

Three CHHS Robotics team members put their passion and skills to the ultimate test in a challenging, fun technology based competition, on April 9 at the

10,000 Lakes MN First Regional Robotics competition.For Inspiration and Recognition of S c i e n c e

and Technology (FIRST) was founded in 1989 to spark young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. The non-profit public charity designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue educational and career opportunities in STEM, science, technology, engineering and math. The goal is to build self-confidence, knowledge and life skills to inspire students to become leaders and innovators enhancing their 21 Century work-life skills.

The tournament, held at the University of Minnesota’s Williams Arena from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, combined the excitement of a sport with the rigor of science and technology. Participating student teams were given six weeks to raise funds, design a team brand and build and program a robot to play a difficult field game against fellow competitors.

Randomly allied with each other, teams faced off against opponents. The process encouraged teams to interact with each other. According to the rule book, points are scored by breaching an opponent’s fortification and weakening and capturing the towers on the robot. Each game lasts approximately two and half minutes. In the first fifteen seconds, the robot cannot be controlled.

The CHHS robotics team, comprimised of AJ Thompson (11), Duncan Vandermark (11) and Chase Goodman (11), was founded in 2008 and goes by the team name “Quantum Mechanics.” They joined 63 other schools primarily from Minnesota and Wisconsin.

“There are only three of us on the robotics team compared to other schools that have like twenty. It’s a

disadvantage and a challenge,” Duncan Vandemark (11) said.

Practice rounds against other teams began on Thursday April 7.

“For most teams, it’s their first time being on a legitimate practice floor,” robotics coach and tech ed teacher Greg Kapitzke said.

The tournament began on Friday, with competitions going until Saturday morning and finals followed in the afternoon. The team experienced challenges with the robot qualifications. They were unsure of and what was

and wasn’t allowed in the competition. When an inspector showed up, they

had to change some designs.“The competition has some ups and downs. We’ve had

technical difficulties, but I was still confident,”

Vandemark said. The robot was

built and named Armageddon after the

1998 science fiction movie. Its measurements, complying

with competition guidelines, are 15 inches tall, 24 inches wide and

36 long. Only 20 out of the 180 teams

competing can move onto nationals. Quantum Mechanics didn’t make the cut.

“Minnesota has one of the biggest robotics tournaments in the country,” Kapitzke said. I’m proud of the kids and their hard work. We had a small, yet strong group of young men that really do enjoy robotics.

Participating in the robotics competition has benefits. It provides a way for students to gain knowledge and expertise in science related fields. It also gives them the confidence to succeed. According to FIRST, over 88% of participants show more interest in school, 90% express interest in taking a challenging math or science course, and 90% are planning on attending college. There is also a chance for participants to win millions of dollars’ in scholarships by competing.

“For anyone that’s interested, I recommend that they come to the practices. It doesn’t hurt to just slip in and see what it’s all about,” Kapitzke said.

Robotics is more than just a game with its challenging guidelines, it cretes skills and develops lifetime benefits.

Photo by Fatima JeylaniThe team finalizes preparation before the competition.

Photo by Fatima JeylaniOpposing teams check out the competition on April 16 at the University of Minnesota.Competition visitors could easily locate the CHHS Quantum Mechanics team.

Photo by Fatima Jeylani

News4 April 29, 2016HHthe

Last December, a 16 year old student at Central High School injured a teacher that was trying to break

up a fight. In March, a Como Park High School teacher had to be hospitalized after he sustained injuries during a student fight. These incidents show a disturbing rise of violence in St. Paul Public Schools. In 2015, Ramsey County charged at least 14 students with assault of a school official.

“Incidents like what happened at Como High School are absolutely not acceptable,” St. Paul Public Schools Superintendent Valeria Silva said, “We need to find ways to help our kids and our staff, to help the students get their anger out before it becomes an issue for them.”

According to the Twin Cities Pioneer Press, a possible reason for the escalation dates back to 2012 when the St. Paul district scaled back the types of offenses that were punishable by suspension in an effort to improve racial equity. Instead of suspending or expelling students, teachers, administrators and staff worked to better understand and address the underlying causes of their misbehavior. As a result, the number of suspensions dropped significantly, but the number of disciplinary cases rose.

“We must improve the school climate in our buildings,” Silva said.

A public-school educator working in the St. Paul school district emailed the Twin Cities Pioneer Press in December.

“Teachers feel powerless to discipline,” the educator said. “We are afraid to discipline for two reasons: district policies and fear of parent reprisals.”

Teachers are told to never, under

St. Paul school violence raises concernsEglantine NÖelStaff Writer

any circumstances, touch a student as a behavioral intervention, as this could cost them their jobs if the student reported it as abuse. Because of that, when students are violent, teachers can’t do anything but try to talk them out of it.

According to the public-school educator that emailed the Pioneer Press, a solution to the issue could be to provide violent children with the education and intervention they need in an alternative setting early in their school careers.

“The disruptive, violent children are ruining the education of students that are consistantly working hard and care about doing well in school,” the St. Paul educator said.

The St. Paul Public Schools teachers union negotiated with the district to find solutions for the increased violence in their buildings. They agreed to spend $4.5 million on school climate over the next three years. The district also committed to hiring 30 counselors, social workers, nurses, psychologists and teachers of English language learners, which the union says will help address student behavior problems.

Student aggression is not limited to Saint-Paul. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 5% of teachers in the US reported that they had been physically injured by a student during the 2011-12 school year.

Another possible explanation would be a lack of respect for the teaching profession. The National Council on Teacher Quality observed that students in high performing countries look up to teachers. Teachers are respected and well paid too. In China, for example, teachers are held in the same esteem as doctors.

According to the 2013 Global Teacher

Status Index, approximately 40% of American parents would not encourage their children to become teachers, because teaching is not considered a rewarding profession in the US.

Heights students feel fortunate they don’t face the same issues as St. Paul students.

“If something like that happened at our school, I wouldn’t feel safe anymore, and I would consider changing schools,” Nasro Sheikh (9) said, “I’m glad I don’t have to worry about violence at school, it allows me to focus on my education.”

“CHHS students know our expectations,

and they consistently keep it REAL,” Principal Dan Wrobleski said.

“Our school isn’t perfect, but we, as a staff, try to build positive relationships with our students to create a positive climate in the school,” Dean Mollie Sprouse said, “At CHHS, we find it important to support and protect our staff, especially in cases of violence.”

The St. Paul School District is currently evaluating the schools individually and determining strategies or routines to add staff support where violence is most likely to happen.

Embracing diversity, the CHHS media center has added books to the shelves that reflect the school population

thanks to generous community donors.In mid-March, Heights citizens funded a project

titled Culturally Relevant Libraries on the website Donorschoose.org. The site lists ways people can donate to specific schools. It provides options that vary by school subject, age or grade type, resource type, and the amount needed. The first step for those wishing to donate is funding a project that inspires them. The site then reviews the requested items and ships to the school. The teacher submits thank you notes to the donors. Whenever someone donates to a project, the website DonorsChoose matches the price of the donation. As more projects get funded, more open up.

Gail Harris, the district media specialist, asked for a collection of books written by authors of color or that feature characters which represent the diverse student body at CHHS.

“At a glance, many of the choices in the library contain all white characters or are written by white authors. That doesn’t reflect our diverse student body today. So when asking for donations, I chose diverse characters and authors,” Harris said.

The online donor request reaches far out on the web, but most of the funding came from the people who live right in the community. The project was totally funded in four days.

“The fact that the people in the community donated to our library shows that they care about us, and that our

Donations fund diverse booksRidwan HusseinStaff Writer

voices matter,” Abdalla Mohamed (11) said.Students appreciate the new addition to the media

center.“When a book is written by an author of color, and it

has diverse characters, I can relate more. You can also get other people’s points of view and their perspectives of life,” Christine Nwosuji (11) said.

A few students have written thank you notes. Harris hopes there will be more, once she receives all of them, they will be sent to Donors Choose, where they will be distributed to the respective donors. Harris plans to launch another project like Culturally Relevant Libraries.

The Culturally Relevant Libraries project served as an important step in creating a media center that reflects the CHHS student body while providing updated resources.

Photo courtesy of Peter CoxSuperintendent Valeria Silva of St. Paul schools speaks about the violence in the district.

A shelf in the media center showcases the donated books.Photo by Amber Beyer

Photo by Amber BeyerLynch Johnson (11) thanks the generous book donors.

Feature 5April 29, 2016HHthe

Behind the scenes of the Heights HeraldAdrienne SamuelsStaff Writer

Editor, Tenzin Nyima works on a story revision.

Krueger and Mohn create creative layouts.

Jungers reviews the pages before printing.

Ordonez captures shots to be used in the paper.

Writers work on researching sources for stories.

Born records ad payment from local businesses.

It may take less than an hour to read all of the articles in an issue of the Heights Herald, but the product

reflects hours of work and dedication. The Heights Herald staff falls into one of six areas: staff writers, editors, editors-in-chief, business manager, photographers and adviser. Twenty six people work every month to provide information and insight into life at CHHS. As soon as the previous issue has been distributed, work starts on the next one. The entire staff brainstorms article ideas. They are discussed, evaluated and then chosen. “It’s their school, and they decide what should run. It’s a learning process, how to assess and analyze topics,” adviser and J2 teacher Jill Jungers said.

After stories are assigned, writers and editors form maestro groups where they help each other develop outlines, brainstorm sources and discuss possible art ideas for each article.

“Maestro groups help determine the direction of an article. Once it’s assigned, all you have is the topic, not the purpose or angle. In maestro groups, we brainstorm ideas,” staff writer Jade Luttrell (11) said. Next, the writing process begins. Reporters must find a minimum for three credible sources and interview people to get supporting quotes. “Being a writer isn’t too stressful; it can be really interesting. You choose what story you want to write so, for the most part, you’re writing and researching about something that sparks your interest,” staff writer Mariah Newell (12) said. A big part of being a staff writer is interviewing. “When I first became a staff writer, I was nervous to talk to people but that changed quickly. I’ve learned so much about communication in such a short period of time,” staff writer Sandra Yang (12) said. When the story is written, it is far from being finished. Each story is edited and revised four times. “I tell the writers, never fall in love with your first draft; there are always things to fix,” Jungers said. Editors read all of the stories in their section and make suggestions regarding content and grammar. Besides editing,

they also write stories each issue. Their biggest job, however, is physically creating the paper. Using Adobe InDesign, they layout the pages in their section. Similar to a jigsaw puzzle, they need to make sidebars, place ads, pictures and the story itself and make it all fit on the page. “A week of layout can be very stressful. Trying to find unique designs that work well with the story and the pictures can be challenging. You really feel the pressure to get the paper done well and on time, but it feels very rewarding at the end of the month to read the pages that you spent hours putting together,” sports editor Michael O’Leary (12) said. Key elements to the layout process include photos and ads. The business manager generates ads for the paper by soliciting local companies. “I spend a lot of my time calling business trying to get ads. It has really taught me how to be a good salesperson.

In addition to ads, picture illustrations, cartoons and graphics are a crucial part of every publication. Known generally as “art”, it draws the reader’s attention to the stories. “The biggest challenge of being a photographer is capturing the right moment when it happens. If you miss it, you can’t recreate it,” photographer Anahi Ordonez (10) said. The three people that oversee the entire operation are the editors-in-chief and the adviser. The editors-in-chief edit all of the stories, layout the front page, back page and centerspread and keep everyone on task. “We have a lot on our plate, and it can be stressful, but it’s worth it. Helping the staff and then reading the paper that we have created is priceless,” editor-in-chief Jenessa Mohn (12) said. “Creating an award winning newspaper is a team effort. The staff has improved each issue, and every person has sharpened important life skills. I am so proud of the Heights Herald and the students that make it an excellent publication,” Jungers said. Journalism 2 provides an opportunity for students to get involved in school and gain awareness of what’s going on in Heights and around the world. “Becoming a part of the Herald staff was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’m truly the voice of the school, and I love it,” Stephanie Avalos (12) said.

Staff writers Jade Luttrell (11) and Adrienne Samuels (11) distriubute the March issue of The Heights Herald to fellow classmates during third period after spending a month working on it. Photo by Anahi Ordonez

Photo by Jenessa Mohn

Photo by Stephanie Avalos


Photo by Jenessa Mohn



Feature6 April 29, 2016HHthe

Finding that bestfriend Sandra Yang Staff Writer

Volunteers rescue abused dogs and deliver them to non-profits where they receive better treatment.

These puppies, which are for sale at a pet store, look sweet, but they may come from puppy mills and may potentially have health issues.

Photo courtesy of Tribune News Srevice

Photo courtesy of Tribune News Service

Breed Recommendations

Information provided by DogGuide.net

Information provided by American Kennel Club

Things to Consider When

Buying a Dog

Energetic Dogs:

Kid-Friendly Dogs: Australian Shepherd

Beagle Bolognese

Laid Back:

Bulldogs Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Chow ChowProtective:

Doberman Pinscher Bullmastiff

German Shepherd

Aggressive:

Basset Houds Huskies Pit Bulls

Airedale Terrier American Foxhound, Alaskan Malamute

1. Do you want an active or laid back dog? How much exercise can you give it?

2. Do you spend a lot of time away from home?

3. Does it require a lot of grooming?

4. Will it require special food?

5. Do you have time to train the dog?

6. Does the dog shed? Is that a problem?

7. Size of the dog in relation to where you live.

8. How many people will the dog be around?

9. Puppy or adult- know the pros and cons of each

10. Can you afford to buy it and then take care of it medically with vet visits?

While dogs can certainly become “man’s best friend,” owners need to be informed before jumping

into a relationship and understand the best way to find the companion of their dreams.

Dogs, like humans, have many different characteristics. It’s important to research breeds and types to know which one will be the perfect fit. Once that is established, the next step is discovering the best place to purchase the animal.

People looking for purebred dogs often seek out breeders. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), buying a dog from a responsible and well-respected breeder is very important. Breeders are held to high standards in producing healthy pups. Once a breeder has been selected, potential buyers should observe the parents of the puppy to see how it behaves and interacts with other dogs or humans. Purebred dogs have traits that are predictable. They are bred to produce specific traits including size, shape, color and personality, which many owners see as an advantage.

“I bought a purebred. American Eskimo, because I knew it would have qualities I like, and I knew I could handle it,” Jessica Velez (11) said

Potential owners need to become educated about breeds they are considering. Some have working habits such as hunting, herding or protecting other livestock. If a buyer isn’t planning to to use it for that, the characteristic could be bothersome. This trait could bother some who aren’t used to this characteristic.

“I thought I would like a purebred dog but it didn’t work with my lifestyle,” Jessica Sanchez (12) said.

A disadvantage of going this route is a cost. Purebred dogs can run $2000, according to Forbes Magazine. Certain breeds can also be prone to hereditary medical problems. For example, Basset Hounds are prone to blood disorders. This is caused by hereditary genes that can cause blood clots according to PBS.org.

The Humane Society and other shelters provide another avenue dog-seekers can take. Minnesota locations include Golden Valley, St.Paul or Richfield. The

Humane Society works to end puppy mills, strengthen animal cruelty laws and to rescue dogs and nurse them back to health. The Humane Society do have dogs to adopt and are also partnered with organizations such as Maddie’s Fund, Ad Council and The Shelter Pet Project where one can adopt dogs.

Neighbors provide another option for getting a family dog. Not strangers, they can generally be trusted. Since they already have a dog of that breed, they can provide important insight into behavior and care. Another benefit is that the dog can be more affordable or even free.

“Adopting my dog from my neighbor benefited the both of us. It was a lot cheaper than buying a dog somewhere else. My neighbor needed someone to take care of the dog, and I needed a companion. It worked great for both of us,” Shawn Martinez (10) said.

While these are all viable places to get

dogs, there are also options new owners should avoid. Puppy mills advertise purebred dogs, but they practice unethical standards. The Humane Society states that they continuously breed females without leaving proper time for them to recover. According to dosomething.org, over three million puppies die in mills every year due to overpopulation and malnutrition. Buyers may pay a little less, but they could also end up with a dog that has health issues.

Puppies may look cute in pet store windows, but savvy buyers will avoid those big brown eyes. According to Forbes magazine, these dogs are often overpriced and are commonly rejects from amateur breeders or shipped in from puppy mills.

Responsible pet owners should choose their pets with the intention what for the relationship to last for years. Getting the right dog from the best source will increase the chances of that happening.

Feature 7April 29, 2016HHthe

Hunter becomes beekeeperBlake KuetherStaff Writer

It’s a powerful feeling to accomplish a task

independently. This may be why Do It Yourself (DIY) projects have had a dramatic increase in recent years. While DIYs can be satisfying and economical, there are some instances, where projects should be left to the professionals.

Common DIYs include make up tutorials, house repairs, decorations and food related items. Many ideas come from Pinterest, a website where people share inspiration, menus and Do-It-Yourself instructions.

“I like using Pinterest to do easy cheap projects like the DIY Yarn art wood board nail,” Mary Ortega (10) said.

Using these Pins to create one’s own project can be fulfilling. While Pinterest sharing involves picture instructions, Youtube is an actual video. These

for Biotechnology Information, over 11 million patients experience pain, swelling, and bruising with a professional dentist doing the extraction. Of that 11 million, 11,000 people suffer permanent numbness in the lips, tongue and cheek due to nerve damage. Imagine the results of an amateur.

“I find DIYs fun, but I would never let a non-professional work on me when it comes to my health. In the long run, you would eventually end up paying more for something a professional could have done,” Ajla Ceric (12) said.

Another dangerous DIY that people are attempting is straightening their teeth to save a $5,000 orthodontic bill. People cut cheap elastic and tie it around the two teeth causing the gap to pull together.

According to Doctor Juan Rendon of Jefferson Dental Clinics in Texas, moving teeth creates pressure on the gums, stops the blood flow and changes the tooth color creating inflammation and infection.

DIYs can prove deadly

Beekeepers, also known as apiarists, manage and maintain colonies of bees that produce honey and provide

pollination services. This spring, Columbia Heights junior Hunter Bursch has joined that select group and has become a keeper of the bees.

Six years ago, Bursch was reading a National Geographic magazine and noticed an eye-catching article about bees. It revealed that they are facing disease and parasite infestation that threaten their extinction. Alarmed, Bursch became motivated to help the cause. The article served as a catalyst for his future as a beekeeper.

“The thought of another well-known species becoming extinct is very eye-opening to what we’re doing as a human race,” Bursch said.

During his sophomore year, Bursch contacted Doctor Marla Spivak, a professor of apiculture/social insects, at the University of Minnesota. He enrolled in his first class, Beekeeping in Northern Climates Year 1. The course cost $135 and lasted nine hours. He learned about equipment, hive maintenance and how to treat various diseases and parasites. After completing the course, he received a certificate of completion. Next year, he plans to take Beekeeping of Northern Climates Year 2 to obtain his next level certificate.

The primary duty of a beekeeper is to keep hives healthy and productive so they are able to yield honey and related by-products such as beeswax. A beekeeper

is responsible for assessing the health of the hive, checking for mite infestations, monitoring and treating the hive when health problems arise and maintaining detailed records of health, medication administration and honey production.

A beekeeper may also be responsible for preparing bees and equipment for pollination activities, feeding the bees, cleaning and constructing hives, raising and replacing queen bees, dividing colonies when necessary and replacing combs. Some beekeepers work directly with honey processing and bottling. Beekeepers can also specialize in a specific area of interest such as honey production, pollination services or bee breeding.

tutorials walk viewers through the process quickly and as cheaply as possible. Youtube DIYs can range from making homemade chap stick to turning an old t shirt into a dress.

On the other hand, DIY’s can take a turn down a bad road when the average person tries to do a highly skilled task.

These DIYs are taken way too far. A new crazy home project is a DIY tooth extraction. According to phys.org, the average cost for a tooth removal ranges from $75-$500 depending on the tooth that is being pulled. This DIY, found on Youtube, performs the task without any anesthetic, other than alcohol to numb the pain.

The dangers of self-tooth extraction are potentially damaging a nerve and the jawbone, excessive bleeding or developing an infection. According to Dr. Jay Friedman from the National Center

Self-manipulation of teeth can lead to bone loss and root damage. It can even cause teeth to fall out.

“When we do brace fittings and alignments, we have a wire that maintains the shape of the arch. We know how much we’re manipulating the teeth,” Rendon said.

Other DIYs gone bad are those that are potentially dangerous. Childrens toys can be turned into potential weapons. The “Spider-Man Flamethrower” contains a handheld torchwire, glue, Velcro, and a rollerblading wrist guard.

“People see all these dangerous things being done in movies, and they want to recreate them. Telling them not to do it only makes the desire to try it stronger,” Ortega (10) said.

Saving money and generating a sense of accomplishment make DIYs the current buzz, but people should realize some jobs are better left to the professionals and dangerous projects should not be attempted at all.

To avoid being stung, beekeepers wear special protective clothing such as veils, gloves and suits. They must also know how to properly use bee smokers and other hive tools to safely access the hive.

“Although it is recommended to wear a safety suit, I am already comfortable wearing normal clothes and being around the bees unprotected,” Bursch said.

A beekeepers income can vary based on experience, education and type of employment. They can choose to be a hobbyist or a commercial beekeeper. The latter makes an average salary of $52,000 whereas part-time or hobbyist bee keepers may average around $20,000 per year. Some tend to their bees on nights and

weekends while holding jobs in other fields.

Bursch hopes to receive his first package of bees this May. He will start his first colony in his backyard with the help of his dad.

“Partaking in this new hobby gives the whole family a fun activity we can do together. You can learn a lot from new ventures,” Fred Bursch, Hunter’s father, said.

A starter kit for the operation costs $239 and the bees are an extra $139. Along with extra amenities, the total cost of starting a hive is $450. Although some counties may require a permit for beekeeping, Columbia Heights does not have an ordinance against beekeeping, so Bursch can continue to carry out his bee plans.

The beekeeping will start as a hobby, but Bursch plans to make it into a full-time career. He plans on starting the production of honey, beeswax and queen bees in August. By the end of next year, he hopes to sell his products to local businesses and manufacturers that will then sell them to the public. Once he graduates from high school, he plans to attend the University of Minnesota Crookston to pursue agricultural business and then transfer to the U of M Twin Cities. In May of 2016, he will receive his first package of bees and the adventure will begin.

“We need bees because they pollinate crops. Without crops there aren’t any farms. Without farms there isn’t any food. Without food we cease to exist. We all need to join together to contribute to the survival of bees and our way of life,” Hunter Bursch, future beekeeper of America, said.

Bursh and his dad work on cleaning and assembling a safe and protected space for his beehive.

Pajhoua VangStaff Writer

Photo byJenessa Mohn

Photo courtesy of Lizzy Lentz

Jason Cabrera (9) watches a video and attempts to remove his tooth.

Home projects found online often take a dangerous turn

Variety8 April 29, 2016HHthe

Unique novel explores depressionTenzin Nyimavariety editor

Other books by Suzanne Young

Imagine a world where suicide is epidemic, where showing signs of depression could lead to being sent

away and returning as a shell of one’s former self and where shedding even one tear could wipe away the entire past.

“The Program,” a dystopian novel, focuses on human misery in its 405 pages. Characters lose close friends and family and use sheer willpower to hold in all their emotions to avoid being put in The Program. The stream of consciousness style of writing is marked by the sudden rise of thoughts and lack of punctuation.

According to literarydevice.net, narration mode is generally associated with the modern novelists and short story writers of the 20th Century. By voicing internal feelings, the writer gives the characters freedom to travel back and forth in time. The technique puts readers inside the mind of the character. In this example from “The Program,” Sloane is walking down the hall when, suddenly, a handler grabs her arm.

“I swing around, startled, and am face-to-face with the handler. I suck in a breath, nearly falling over. It’s happening. No. No. No. It’s happening.”

The book takes place in the not so distant future. Suicide has become rampant among teens. In a desperate attempt to cure them, the government has developed a treatment program that involves the involuntary

confinement of anyone “at risk” for suicide. A person is determined to be a risk when they have been exposed to traumatic situations like the deaths of loved ones. The treatment involves altering the brain by removing painful traumatic memories.

After the main character’s brother commits suicide, Sloane and her boyfriend James, who was also her brother’s best friend, must hide their grief to avoid being “flagged” or admitted into the program. Their plan fails, and James is taken. Sloane’s reaction to James admission puts her at risk as well, and she is also taken.

What stood out was the sweet romance between Sloane and James. Their relationship adds suspense to the story making the readers hope their relationship can survive The Program.

One of the novel’s weaker points was how high risks are decided. It’s obvious why people are concerned, but Sloane is asked daily

questions such as “Are you overwhelmed or lonely?” realistically, who isn’t every once in awhile?

Author Suzanne Young engages readers by creating romance between Sloane and

James as they fight to retain their memories in The Program. This book will appeal to young adults looking for a strong, enthralling

story that will break hearts and keep readers on their toes.

Highly addictive, it’s hard to put down. Reader’s fond of stories such as “Divergent” by Veronica Roth, “We Were Liars” by E. Lockhart and “If

I Stay” by Gayle Forman will definitely enjoy this novel.

Overall, “The Program” was a satisfying and captivating read. As suicide really is a problem in the 21st century, this book

makes sense. While heart wrenching and frustrating,

Young succeeds in crafting a beautiful romance with raw emotion and exceptional character development. This novel teaches readers the harsh reality of life and that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. The book deserves a 4 out of 5 star rating.

Photo courtesy Tribune News ServiceIn the sequal to “The Program”, the characters now face obstacles.This prequal novel explores the world before “The Program” began.

Photo courtesy Tribune News Service

Audrey and her family make an unexpected stay at the Ho-tel Ruby. She soon discovers

the hotel’s dark past.

Ameilia, a half demon once cursed a boy named Jones.

When a spark ignites between them, she must face

the consequences.

Caroline has to choose be-tween staying near her grand-ma or go to a party where she could get noticed by her long

time crush.

Variety 9April 29, 2016HHthe

Animated film attracts viewers of all agesCailin KruegerCo Editor-In-Cheif

Zootopia, Disney and Pixars newest animated movie,

follows a city of animals from mice to tigers, as they learn to coexist in one town.

The movie focuses primarily on a small rabbit, Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin), as she tries to become the first bunny police officer. While working the case as a meter maid, in order to earn her place on the force, Hopps

takes on the job of finding 14 missing predators.

“Zootopia is an adorable film, watching both predators and prey living together in a city was cute,” Lulu Vang (11) said.

Hopps runs into a clever fox voiced over by Jason Bateman. The pair appears to be two unlikely partners, but they learn to put their differences aside and end up good friends. Viewers will enjoy watching the relationship blossom.

Disney successfully wove in the deep theme of

friendship and how it can happen unexpectedly to creatures of all shapes and sizes.

Zootopia incorporates plenty of fun characters into an enchanting environment.

The movie shined in the area of animation. Icy tundra’s, rainy jungles and a bright and busy city came to life. Crafting different ecosystems into the city of Zootopia gave the movie a more realistic feel by creating a space for each animal to live. Savannah creatures lived

in a sandy desert, while jungle dwellers were in a rainforest. All of the animals came together in the city. Disney hit a homerun with the characters it created for this show.

Zootopia hosts a vast array of animals from all corners of the world, and they had their own personalities, just as humans do. Some of the most enjoyable characters included a shady weasel, a shrew who was a mob boss, an overweight cheetah who enjoyed listening to

pop music and an elephant yoga instructor. No two characters were alike, making the film humorous and entertaining.

The beauty of Disney shows is developing children’s stories that also carry underlying messages often directed at adults. One of the main conflicts in the movie involved predatory animals who were captured, because they were savagely attacking prey animals. In response, the prey animals started judging all predatory animals as a group, and they

discriminated against the offenders. It’s not difficult to make the correlation to the real world; stereotyping and discrimination are never acceptable. The movie highlights the animalistic side of humans.

Those deeper messages go undetected by young viewers, and the movie simply becomes an enchanting tale about animals.

Disney worked its magic and it satisfies both children and adults earning a 4 out of 5 star rating.

Photo courtesy of Tribune News ServiceIn the city of Zootopia, predatory and prey animals live together in peace and harmony.

Photo courtesy of Tribune News ServiceLt. Judy Hopps and her partner Nick Wilde visit Flash the sloth to obtain key information.

The making of a musical10 April 29, 2016HHthe 11

A show wouldn’t be a musical without song and dance. Movement captures the audience’s atten-

tion and moves the story forward. A professional actor and dancer, Grease is Ruthie Baker’s second show with CHHS. Her job is to tell the story through dance.

“We are so lucky to have a choreographer of Ruthie’s caliber. Her knowledge of theatre and her attention to crispness and detail have been so valuable,” Jungers said.

Baker began choreographing dances in high school. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in musical theater and dance. Her impressive resume of acting and dancing give her wealth of experience.

Once a show has been chosen, the choreographer re-searches the show and the era to see what dances would be appropriate.

Baker watches YouTube videos, and pieces together things she likes and then adds her own creative flair.

“The most important thing for me is to create dances that are challenging, yet do-able, so all of the actors will be comfortable. Because Heights doesn’t have any dance studios, some of these kids haven’t had any ex-perience. It’s my job to teach them the steps and then polish the routines,” she said.

The most rewarding part of teaching dances to high school students is seeing how their confidence level in-creases by the end of the show. The fact that everyone comes together to reveal a story through with the dances is fulfilling.

“They not only grow as performers, but also as indi-viduals,” Baker said.

Though she has been in many musicals and choreo-graphed others, Bakers favorite musical is always the one she is currently working on. Right now, Grease tops her list.

Domenica LlerenaOpinion Editor

Practice after practice, line after line, show after show, Maddy Gilbertson (12) has been involved in

four musicals during her high school career. From Hair-spray as a freshman to Grease as a senior, the stage has called her.

“I come back for the people and relationships that I have made over the years in theater. I have a passion for Musical Theater,” she said.

As she reflects on past musicals, she has many favor-ites, but The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee stands out for her.

“The show was so different from anything else I’ve been in; plus it had such high energy. Each of the char-acters was so unique,” she said.

Along with the many relationships and good memo-ries, the first performance of every show becomes a mo-ment frozen in time that gets to Maddy.

“The first time performing for an audience fuels me for the rest of the run. It brings the show to a whole dif-ferent level and the rush is amazing,” she said.

Her theater path hasn’t always been a yellow brick road.

“The most challenging thing for me is having full confidence in my ability and what I’m doing as we go through rehearsal as I develop my character,” she said.

Joining the musicals has greatly impacted this young actor’s life, and it will be a memory that stands out for-ever.

“I think everyone should join drama. I experienced huge personal growth, and I’ve also seen happen to oth-ers. Drama teaches you so much more than just how to project and sing harmonies. If I didn’t join drama, I would be a very different person than I am today,” she said.


A key component in every musical is being able to hear and see the actors. These behind the scene

heroes make the show look and sound good. The sound crew Amber Beyer (12), Lexi Dmytruk

(12), Kaylin Baker (9) and Alex Mueller (9) need to be multi-taskers as they operate a soundboard with over 40 different channels. They equalize microphones and balance sound between the band and singers throughout the entire show.

“It wasn’t too bad learning the basics; I continue to learn new things about the soundboard every day,” Alex Mueller (9) said.

The sound crew also make sures that the backstage monitors are operational.

“Having custodian Dale Marko there to help and guide us has been one of the best things about running sound. I also love the family feel the drama department generates,” Amber Beyer (12) said.

The light gals, KieKie Smith (9), Emily Valle (10) and Salma Abikar (9) work with the lighting designer and Mr. Ronchak to set up the lights and program cues.

“It’s cool how we help create mood and a sense of place for the play simply with lighting,” Smith said.

These gals operate the light board and the spotlights. Since they work off cues, sound and light techni-

cians must know the entire show. From the beginning of March until the end of the show on April 30th, the techies are at every practice from start to end. They are as dedicated as the actors.

Haley NelsonStaff Writer

Tech

Choreography

The curtain rises and four T-birds start their hip swivels. The audience knows it’s in for a treat as the iconic mu-sical Grease begins on the CHHS stage.

When it’s done right, a musical appears seamless and easy, but the polished show that audiences experience doesn’t just magically happen overnight; it takes months of preparation and dedication.

It all begins with the director and a vision. They recruits other experts and drama alumni to go on the journey as well.

“I’m fortunate to have such talented dedicated profession-als to work with,” director Jill Jungers said.

Jungers has been in charge of the CHHS musical since 2005.

“I start thinking of possible shows in the summer. Then I meet with the other principle adults on the production team, and we discuss the pros and cons of each musical in the fall,” she said.

It’s not a quick, simple decision.“We need to factor in our performance space, potential ac-

tors for parts, vocal ranges and abilities, degree of difficulty in dancing, required orchestration and what would appeal to our community. That a lot to consider. With hundreds of musicals to choose from people wonder ‘Why Grease,’ This was the first Broadway musical I directed at Heights. Since this is my last show, I decided it should come full circle. I knew this group of theater kids could do an outstanding job,” Jungers said.

“Besides, who can resist rock ‘n roll and rebellious teens

of the late 50s?”Once a show has been chosen, the director applies for

performance rights. For Grease, one of the most produced movie musicals of all time, that meant spending $4,000 be-fore show preparation could begin.

The director creates a master schedule calendar working in practice days for vocals, dance, scene work and set build-ing. Then it’s time to pull the the entire show together. By the time the curtain rises, over four months have been spent preparing for the performance. It’s demanding work.

“I tell the cast and crew that hard work pays off. If we’re going to do a show, let’s do it right and to the best of our abilities. We owe that to ourselves and to our audiences,” Jungers said.

As the overseer, a director’s job is seemingly endless. Whether it’s creating posters, tickets, programs, costumes, t-shirts, finding props or doing financials, the musical con-sumes this leader’s time. There are always problems to solve, especially since the musical involves over 70 students from start to finish.

“I spent one Saturday at the junkyard looking for hub-caps, an antenna and a tire iron for “Grease Lightning,” Jungers said.

Despite all the work, time, the work, the challenges and the stress, the end result is worth it all.

“There is no other greater feeling than when the curtain goes up and these talented young men and woman confi-dently bring a show to life. It fills me with joy and pride,” Jungers said.

Audiences will have two more opportunities to see Grease this weekend on Friday, April 29 and Saturday, April 30.


A look behind the scenes of everyone’s favorite 50s musical

Actors

Toes tap and fingers drum the beat as the pit band plays the songs and scene changes in Grease. These

dedicated musicians meet after school for three months learning the scenes and practicing for the actual per-formances. They provide the underlying thread that connects the actors and scenes through music. The pit director must recruit players for the show. Lisa Walls, a district substitute teacher, fills that important role in Grease.

The heartbeat of the show, the pit band controls the tempo and must adjust to the singers.

“Their job is really important, because they have to watch to make sure that everything matches up, and we work perfectly together in unison,” Lizzy Lentz (12) said.

For this production, the score needed to be re-written in different keys to meet the singers’ ranges. Each song took Walls anywhere from two to eight hours to finish. Shew also wrote music to fill in the gaps. Overall, live music takes a production to a higher level.

“The best part is watching everyone work together to make the show happen,” Walls said.


Pit Band

Getting actors ready for a show means more than applying makeup and putting on a wig. For 2011

graduate Alicia Malisheski, it’s an art. “I learned from professionals that work on stage, and

I have friends that have gone to school for makeup and hair. They have taught me tricks, but honestly, it’s a lot of hands-on practice. You play and try new things,” she said.

The process begins with makeup testing to match the actors skin tones and make sure they don’t have any allergic reactions. Then she recruits other alumni to come back and help with the show. They research the era of the play to get accurate information regarding hairstyles of the time. For example, Grease requires a certain haircut for the boys as well as slicking back their hair. Looking at pictures from 1959 gives them a good idea of what the characters should look like.

To avoid chaos and stress on performance days, the makeup artists split up the cast and make lists with time slots for makeup and hair. Depending on the show and the character, it can take anywhere from 5-15 min per person. With casts of 30 or more, it’s time consuming.

“The biggest challenges I have faced are wigs. It takes at least two people put them on. Then they need to be styled and kept in good shape; Wigs are rough. “Hairspray” was a wig nightmare,” Malisheski said.

Despite the stress and craziness, she returns. Staying involved in Heights Drama gives her a creative outlet and allows her to give back to a program that she loves.

“I enjoy helping and seeing kids on stage, full of con-fidence. I love all the kids in the drama department, new and old. They bring joy to my life,” Malisheski said.


Makeup

By definition, a good musical needs excellent vocals. No need to worry, choir director Alex Jacques has

taken care of that. “It’s my job to direct the actors vocals and coordinate

the music when the pit orchestra/band joins us in the PAC. I also serve as the right-hand-man to Mrs. Jungers. We are a dynamic duo, at least we think so,” he said.

Being in charge of the music is demanding. For Jacques, coordinating and working around everyone’s schedule poses a big challenge. The works with indi-viduals on solos and duets, with small groups like the Pink Ladies and with the entire ensemble.

“Our vocalists have improved tremendously under Mr. Jacques direction. This show wouldn’t be what it is without him,” Jungers said.

Along with the scheduling, staying motivated is dif-ficult when the days and weeks get long.

“We spend a lot of time doing many repetitions of the show, its scenes, and the music. We must pay close attention to detail. Building good habits translates into a great performance,” he said.

This work ethic he instills in his students pays off.“At the end, it’s all worth it. My favorite part is when

the show finally comes together. Seeing all of the hard work begin to pay off is so exciting. We are so proud of our students,” he said.


Vocals

Poodle skirts and leather jackets bring out the sass of the 50s. Claire Campbell, the professional cos-

tumer for Grease, received her degree in theater and an emphasis in costuming at the College of St. Benedict. This marks her fourth show with Columbia Heights Drama. She also costumes for Wayzata High School and the Lyric Arts Community Theater in Anoka. It is her responsibility to measure the cast and find outfits for every character that fit the time period. She designs and sews some of them. Other outfits are borrowed from local theater programs or purchased at thrift stores.

“Goodwill knows me on a personal basis. I’ve be-come the queen of thrift shopping. It’s amazing what you can find,” Campbell said.

A number of the Grease actors need multiple cos-tumes for different scenes. With 30 cast members, cos-tume needs are demanding and Campbell has approxi-mately one month to get them all and stay under budget. There’s more to costuming than just finding clothing. The job requires a knowledge of history to provide con-text for the show. A costumer must also have good com-munication skills to work with lights, the set designer and the director to ensure that the show flows well and the different components create a common vision.

“The best part of this job is definitely the creative outlet that it allows me to have,” Campbell said.


Costumes

What happens in front of the curtains wouldn’t be possible without a dedicated stage crew. Although

they are only seen in dim light creating scene changes, these backstage workers are crucial to a show’s suc-cess. As the stage manager for Grease, Jackie Mendez-Chavez (10) literally runs the show. She oversees the entire production and cues the pit and tech when to be-gin. If there are issues during the show, it’s her job to take care of them. Once the show is in the production phase, everything is turned over to the stage manager so it truly is a student production.

“Being a stage manager is a demanding role that comes with a lot of responsibility. She makes sure the show flows. Jackie does a great job of being my eyes and ears,” Jungers said.

Her assistant stage manager, Meylani McCorvey (11) tells her when all set pieces are in the proper places, curtains are ready and the scene can begin. She directs the eight stage crew members and the cast that help with scene shifts.

“Doing scene changes are a dance in the dark. Every-thing must be choreographed and done the same way every performance,” set builder and designer Doc Grau-berger said.

Though they rarely get attention, stage crew can make or break a show.

“Having been in shows where I was actually on stage it was really interesting and intriguing to see how the show runs from a different perspective,” Mendez-Chavez said.


Backstage

The sound crew adjusts microphones and voice levels.

Baker teaches choreography to the cast for “Hand Jive”. The cast gives sassy poses after singing “Grease is the Word”.

Walls conducts the pit band in playing “Summer Nights”.

Campbell works on the costumes for “Beauty School Dropout”.

Stage crew moves the set to prepare for the first scene of Act 2. Magnuson (2014) applies eyeshadow to Alejandra Llerena (11).

Jungers and Mendez-Chavez compare their production notes.

All photos by Anahi Ordonez

Variety12 April 29, 2016HHthe

Typically a coffee drinking country, America has opened

its doors to tea shops where customers can order a variety of tea based beverages.

Chatime Tea is a chain with over 1,000 locations worldwide. Customers can choose between milky, fruity or frozen tea based drinks with a variety of flavors. Chatime claims to be “the home of freshly brewed tea”, the company describes its products as fresh, fun and flavorful.

The company has popular locations at the Mall of America and in Dinkytown on the U of M campus. At the MOA, the store has a make it and take it set up, while in Dinkytown there is a space to sit down, enjoy beverages and chat. Cozy and relaxing, this Chatime is definitely a place customers will want to revisit. The menu offers a variety of teas including milk teas, jelly teas, bubble teas and smoothies.

Customers can choose their sweetener level, a straight up Chinese Taiwan practice. Patrons watch as employees mix the magic in a cup and seal it. A popular item is the coconut milk tea. One can clearly taste the coconut, and the drink is refreshing. The average cost is comparable to a Starbucks beverage. Employees are friendly and quick. Chatime Tea deserves a 4.5 out of 5 star rating.

“Chatime is the perfect place to hang with friends,” Alejandra Llerena (11) said.

A popular place in the Roseville Mall for tea and smoothies is right across from the food court. The tea chain, Fruiti Yogurt and Tea, draws plenty of business as shoppers dash around the mall. The three most popular menu items are smoothies, bubble teas and frozen yogurt. Drinks are topped with a cute mini umbrella to go. The Mango pineapple smoothie is a popular choice. The drinks have an equal combination of tea and fruity flavor.

Local tea shop optionsMariah NewellStaff Writer

Drinks typically come in one size, a good deal for the price range which runs $3.75-$7.00. Filling and tasty, they are worth the price. Employees are friendly and efficient. There are plenty of tables where customers can sit and relax, similar to a food court. Workers bring drinks out to seated customers, thanking them for service. It can get loud, so Fruiti Yogurt and Tea would not be the best place to sit down and study for finals or do homework. Fruiti Yogurt and Tea receives a 3.5 rating out of 5 stars.

While coffee shops are teen favorites, tea houses are gaining popularity. Coffee may give a boost of caffeine, but tea refreshes with a wide variety of flavors and supplements Antioxidants and nutrients that are proven to have powerful effects on the body and provide energy. Tea houses promote a more relaxed, meditative, cultural feel where patrons can socialize with friends.

Coffee drinkers looking for a change should try tea.

Photo by Mariah NewellChatime Tea welcomes customers to write on a chalk board and post flyers of upcoming events.

Tea lovers can order and then sit at the bar or at small tables to socialize with friends.Photo by Mariah Newell

C r e a t i v eorner

Pottery by Amanuel Berhane (12)

Painting by Amber Beyer (12)

Drawing by Sha’kila Hoke (12) Pottery by Emily Brousseau (12)

Painting by Maddy Gilbertson (12) Drawing by Tiana Dyar (12)

Sports 13April 29, 2016HHthe

Humans have worn footwear since 8,000 BC.

Over the years, the process has evolved into shoes made of cowhide or woven thread and then to leather and rubber. In 1924, sneakers became an international pop culture phenomenon. According to Dr. Stephen M. Pribut, about 350 million pairs of sport shoes are sold annually.

Sneakers, otherwise known as athletic shoes, come in hundreds of styles and types. Some customers base their purchases on fashion. They look for the latest trends. Unfortunately, that may not be the best criteria for footwear.

“If I don’t like the way a shoe looks, I won’t buy it. When thinking of purchasing a shoe, I also take into consideration what I have in my closet and how many outfits I can wear with them,” Tiana Dyar (12) said.

Shopping for shoes based completely on looks can have negative consequences.

“Don’t be a trendsetter. There is a dizzying array of shoes to choose from, and it can be tempting to be wooed by bargain-basement priced shoes that “look fast,” or promise to cure an injury or help you lose weight. Don’t shop by price or fashion,” Jennifer Van Allen, a writer for Runnersworld.com said.

Those who plan to wear the shoes while participating in a physical activity should look for quality and support. Whether a workout involves running, walking or gym equipment, a good shoe is a must.

“Wearing the wrong pair of running shoes can cause injuries to the body.

Shoes for every type of activityWearing an incompatible running shoe can create hip, knee, and back pain and can cause injuries such as Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis,” Laura Ramus, a DMC Sports Performance Academy manager said.

Buying a quality shoe can help prevent foot and ankle damage and make workouts more comfortable and enjoyable. Shoes do not fit into the, “one type fits all” category.

When purchasing them, the McKinley Health Center recommends that buyers try on as many pairs as possible before making a purchase.

The best time to try on shoes is in the afternoon, evening or after a workout as feet are the largest at these times. Try the shoes on with sport socks to ensure a good fit. Stand up and walk around. A perfectly fitting shoe should have a half inch between the big toe and the tip of the shoe. There should also be height so that the wearer can wiggle toes. When bending the shoe, it should not be overly flexible as this can indicate a lack of support.

“When I’m trying on shoes, I get up and walk around a bit to make sure I can move comfortably,” Salena Abram (12) said.

In recent years, athletic shoes have become very specialized. They cater to every type of activity. Running shoes have built in shock absorbers for joggers. Lightweight walking shoes provide support for walkers. Aerobic shoes are lightweight and shock absorbing. They prevent foot fatigue and cushion the ball of the foot, which carries all body weight during aerobic exercises. Tennis shoes come with flexible soles to protect feet from quick side-to-side

movements. Thick-soled, high top basketball shoes provide extra protection against ankle and foot injuries caused by jumping. Cross-trainers tend to be an all-around shoe that are suitable for those who exercise and perform a number of sports.

Knowing when to retire a pair of athletic shoes is just as important as purchasing them. Old footwear doesn’t provide adequate protection. According to Footworks.net, running or exercising in worn out shoes will lead to an increase in the rate of foot, knee and hip injuries.

When a shoe begins to break down, it creates an opportunity for injuries to happen such as plantar fasciitis, tendonitis and knee pain. According to Michigan State University Extension, running shoes should be replaced every 350 to 500 miles. That means people who run 20 miles a week should replace their shoes every 20 to 25 weeks.

Netwellness, an athletic website, advises against judging the wear of the shoes by the treads on the bottom. Instead, check the mid-sole of the shoe, which will show damage sooner. If the shoe is worn, the sole will have compression wrinkles. If the wrinkles aren’t visible, the push test is the next step. With the thumb, push on the outsole upward into the midsole. When the midsole shows heavy compression lines and the test reveals a minimal amount of compression, there is little or no cushioning left.

Purchasing the correct athletic shoes will preserve the structural integrity of the foot and allow athletes to perform to the top of their abilities. Fashion can’t be ignored, but buyers beware, support beats looks and price.

Jada BellStaff Writer

Dick’s Sporting Goods employee Valerie Anderson helps Blake Kuether (12) pick out shoes. Photo by Michael O’Leary

Kuether tries on different pairs of tennis shoes to determine which style works best for him.Photo by Michael O’Leary

Tennis ShoesFlexible thick soles to protect feet from quick side-to-side

movements.

Walking ShoesModerate tread gives good

traction on pavement and other flat surfaces.

Cross-TrainersAn all-around shoe that are

suitable for those who exercise and perform a number of sports

Running ShoesThick wedge shaped cushion

absorbs heel impact. Some have built in shock absorbers for joggers.

Sports14 April 29, 2016HHthe

Getting in shape by going to the gym can be challenging for people with busy

schedules. No need to worry; with a variety of fitness apps, working out is easier and more convenient than ever.

These apps allow users to workout and keep track of their progress by typing in basic information such as gender, weight and height. The apps will calculate how many minutes should be spent exercising per day. The best part is, they are free. Three popular fitness apps are Google Fit, Fitbit and Map My Fitness.

Google Fit tracks the number of steps a person takes during the day. It also calculates the number of calories burned. A detailed graph selection allows users to log their progress and show improvements. The app’s primary function is to track steps and weight by counting the amount of time a user is active during the day. The app’s activity detection, a setting that improves accuracy when tracking steps, can be used to help detect when a person is exercising. Users then log their weight in the graph selection to view their progress.

“I use Google Fit to stay in shape during the off season. I like that it keeps track of how many steps I take during the day. I can

base how much exercise I need to do at the end of the day by seeing how many steps I traveled,” Kira Greenfield (10) said.

Fitbit, another frequently used app, requires external technology in the form of a wristband. The app’s purpose is to help users become more active and improve their diets. The users set goals for themselves, and the app provides progress reports for motivation. The wristbands come in a variety of types

and colors to meet every user’s preference. Fitbit enthusiasts claim the app helps them find new ways to fit in more activities during the day.

“I like how convenient it is. You can hook up your phone to track your movement for that day. It is really simple to use,” Ben Rogotzke (9) said.

Critics find that the Fitbits excessive technology can get in the way.

“I wish the Fitbit tracker was a watch, since it’s where I normally wear my watch. Sometimes I have trouble with tapping the tracker on and off as well,” fitness app critiquer Suzie Jorgenson said.

Map My Fitness offers more variety in exercise activities including sprints, power walks and mountain biking, to name a few. It tracks the distance one travels by mapping the

Fitness becomes tech savvy

Photo by Michael O’LearyMs. Douglas checks how many steps she has taken throughout the day on her new FitBit.

Abby BornStaff Writer

route a user takes and how long it takes them to finish. All of

this can be done on a cellular device. Different from the previous apps, Map My Fitness offers a coaching feature, by turning it on, a virtual coach keeps users on

track with “real-time feedback”, and motivates them as the exercises become more challenging.

“I really like Map My Fitness. The virtual coach helps me push through tough exercises. Keeping track of my distance when I go on runs comes in handy. It lets me know if I need to go for a longer or shorter distance on my next run,” Pashia Scott (11) said.

Finding time to get in shape can be close to impossible for busy people. Fitness apps like

Google Fit, Fitbit and Map My Fitness help make it much easier to stay fit.

Sports 15April 29, 2016HHthe

The Columbia Heights softball team faces challenges, but that

doesn’t stop them from focusing on success.

Last year, three strong senior players graduted: Quincy Gross, Becca Leibelt, and Kaile Hagberg. Two are currently playing softball in college. Gross is pitching for the Rochester Community and Technical College Yellow Jackets, and Liebelt plays shortstop for Anoka Ramsey Community College.

Losing that leadership means new girls will need to step up to the plate.

“It’s challenging this year without them. It feels like a big part of the team is missing. Last year, relied on them a lot. We knew we would do well in games, since they were so strong in their positions. If a team did beat us, we knew they had to be really good,” captain Cassidy

Mason (11) said. Jo-Jo Liebelt (12), the

only senior on the team, will lead the team through the season.

“Jo-Jo has the most experience of all my players. I’ve coached her since she was 10 years old, and she has gotten better every year. On game day, she is always ready to go. That’s all a coach can ask for,” head coach Terry Olson said.

“Being the only senior on the team is difficult, because I have a large group of young players looking up to me. I try my best to set a good example each and every day. I try to use my experience to teach players all that I know. I hope we go far this year with solid wins. It’s also important to have fun while doing it,” Liebelt said.

Joining Liebelt as captains are juniors Adrienne Samuels and Cassidy Mason.

Hylander girls must adjust to change up

“My goal is to share my skills and knowledge of the game with my teammates. Being a captain as a junior gives me the opportunity to do it this year and next,” Samuels said.

Each captain brings unique qualities to the team and serves as an exceptional role model.

“Cassidy leads by example. Nobody works harder at getting better during the off-season than she does. A competitor who refuses to give up, I think she truly hates to lose, and that attitude should bleed off onto her teammates. Adrienne brings another quality to the team, her academic achievements. She finds the fine line where she can balance academics and athletics. She is an example that you can excel in the classroom and on the field if you just work a little harder at it,” Olson said.

Along with having strong players graduate,

the team has also moved up into a new section, but they’re not feeling intimidated. In the past, there were only three sections for softball. This year, the Minnesota State High School League inserted an additional one. Teams constantly move up or down sections, but the Columbia Heights girls moved up two sections, from 1A to 3A, due to their success over the last three

Michael O’LearySports Editor

Liebelt prepares to throw the ball to first to complete a play.Photo by Anahi Ordonez

seasons. They will be facing

teams they have played in the past, such as Fridley, St. Anthony, Totino Grace and Mahtomedi. This also means they will avoid teams like New Life Academy that have plagued them in the past. Olson isn’t worried.

“The section change shouldn’t be hard. We actually need to win fewer games to get to state,

because there are only 8 teams instead of 16. We were the only school in the state to move up two classes. I don’t think we should be intimidated by opponents, because we were put in this section due to our past success,” Olson said.

Change can be intimidating, but by all indications, the Heights softball team should emerge victorious.

Cassidy Mason (11) begins to wind up as she tries to strike out a St. Anthony opponent.Photo by Anahi Ordonez

Junior Jade Luttrell connects with a pitch for a base hit.Photo by Anahi Ordonez

Samuels (11) prepares to throw out a steal at second base.Photo by Anahi Ordonez

Sports16 April 29, 2016HHthe

Inevitably, athletes get injured. While some can recover quickly, others must take time to physically and mentally get

back into the game. According to Unitypoint Health, the

most common athletic injuries are sprains and strains which occur when ligaments, the tough bands connecting bones to a joint, are pulled and stretched beyond natural limits. With strains, muscle fiber or tendons that anchor muscles to bones are injured. Strains are commonly known as “pulled muscles.”

“After spraining my toe, it took a lot longer than I thought to actually recover. I had to ice it every day and let it rest until it was fully healed,” Mary Ortega (10) said.

People who participate in high level workouts often suffer from shin splints which cause acute pain in the shin and lower leg from prolonged running typically on hard surfaces.

Concussions can be very serious. They are brain injuries caused by a hit to the head or violent shaking of the head and body. Symptoms include headaches, memory loss, nausea and ringing of the ears. A concussion is generally treated with rest and restrict activity which allow the brain to recover.

“When I got a concussion in basketball, I had a lot of headaches. It was hard for me to stay focused in class,” Kira Greenfield (10) said.

According to BrainLine.org, every concussion is different. Some symptoms show up right away while others appear hours or even days after a hit to the skull. Every brain injury is different and so is every concussion recovery. Most people with mild injuries recover fully, but it can take time. Others, who have had concussions in the past, will have a longer road to recovery.

Other serious injuries athletes sustain torn ligaments and broken bones. Too complex to heal on their own, they must be repaired with surgery.

“I was nervous to have surgery on my arm after I broke it at gymnastics practice, but it turned out to be a good thing. It’s fully functining now and I can go back into

athletics and feel normal again,” Salena Abram (12) said.

Rehabilitation is necessary for athletes to come back from any injury. According to the Mayo Clinic, rehab helps restore movement and function. It also teaches interventions to optimize performance and reduce the risk of reinjury. Physical therapy clinics specialize in musculoskeletal injuries, which include injuries to a joint, muscle, tendon, bone or ligament. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, the length of treatment for an injured athlete depends on the diagnosis and individual prognoses. Some athletes may go to physical therapy for only one visit while others receive months of sessions to become fully active again.

“When I went to physical therapy the doctors taught me how to move my ankle after my sprain. I have confidence in running again,” Nate Workman (12) said.

An important decision is when it’s right to get back on the field. Athletes want to play, and pressure from teammates and fans can make them rush returning to the sport.

“I have seen athletes feel the need to come back into the sport as soon as possible

because of the fans, but it is important to pay attention to the injury and come back at the right time,” CHHS athletic trainer Tina Hackley said.

It is important to let an injury heal 100%, or the chance of reinjury increases. The decision about when a player can safely return to play must be made by a doctor and a team trainer.

Physically coming back from an injury isn’t the only thing an athlete must overcome. They must conquer the fear of being injured again. Most players have reservations returning to play.

“Coming back from an injury is hard, because you don’t want to go through the healing process all over again,” Bobby Maruska (12) said.

It’s important to allow the body to heal. Being physically strong will add to a player’s confidence.

“It is very important to let the muscle that has been injured to heal properly . If they go untreated, there will be more room for reinjury and the athlete will lose confidence playing the game,” Hackley said.

Athletes constantly face the possibility of injury, but with proper care and rest, they can return to competitive play.

Rest

Elevate

Compress

Ice

Coming back from injuryAbby LentzStaff Writer

Hackley assesses the injury sustained by Manyi Ayuk (11) after pulling a muscle in her leg.Photo by Anahi Ordonez

Columbia Heights athletic trainer Tina Hackley wraps sophomore Sami Dopperphul’s ankle before a lacrosse game.Photo by Anahi Ordonez

Graphic courtesy of Tribune News Service

Photos by Michael O’Leary

Heights Herald StaffCo-Editors-in-Chief

Editors

Staff Writers

Contact UsColumbia Heights High School1400 49 Ave. NEColumbia Heights, MN 55421(763)[email protected]

Memberships:

Articles are written by an Editor-in-Chief. Content reflects the opinion of the newspaper staff majority. Columns represent the opinions of the individuals who wrote them.

Letters to the Editor Policy:The Heights Herald welcomes and encourages input from readers. Opinions can be emailed to [email protected], dropped off in room 294 or given to a staff member of The Heights Herald. Letters may be edited for length, clarity, or appropriateness. Requests to withold a writer’s name will be considered by the editorial board.

Full Page................................. $200.00Half Page................................ $100.00Quarter Page............................ $60.00Double Business Card.............. $40.00Business Card.......................... $25.00

Business ManagerAbby Born

HHthe

Staff Editorials

Staff Writers

Awards:NSPA Pacemaker FinalistNSPA Pacemaker WinnerNumerous All-State Gold Medallion Awards

Stephanie Avalos, FeatureFatima Jeylani, NewsDomenica Llerena, OpinionTenzin Nyima, VarietyMichael O’Leary, Sports

Cailin KruegerJenessa Mohn

The Heights Herald is the official newspaper of Columbia Heights High School. The content reflects the student body, the school, the district and the community. The Heights Herald’s mission is to provide coverage of news and events with courage, passion and integrity.Lexi Dmytruk

Ridwan HusseinOwen Johnson Blake KuetherAbby LentzJade Luttrell

Shirwa AbdullahiJada Bell Farhiya Barqadle

Mariah NewellHaley NelsonEglantine Noel

Pajhoua Vang Sandra Yang

PhotographersAmber BeyerAnahi Ordonez

Support CHHS and promote your business 2015-2016 Ad Rates

PrinterLillie Suburban Newspapers

Jill JungersAdviser

Adrienne Samuels

Opinion 17April 29, 2016HHthe

Approximately 8.7 million species reside on earth; 1.7

of them are animals.According to World

Wildlife Fund (WWF) .01 to .1% or 10,000 of these animals will become extinct every year.

“The number of animals that will disappear is criminal. Actions need to be taken to protect them,” Kendra Kowal (9) said.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service watches over terrestrial animals, freshwater fish and plants. National Marine Fisheries Service is in charge of marine fish and wildlife. Each branch oversees a species and collects specific local, state and national data on the health of each one. This data indicates which animals, fish or plants should be added to the Endangered Species List.

To qualify for protection under the Endangered Species Act, scientists consider different factors. Is the habitat is unlivable? Has the species has been overused for educational,

Species face extinctionFishes, Terrestrial animals, and Plants need protectionJade luttrellStaff Writer

scientific or recreational purposes? Is the species threatened by a predator or disease? Are there any man-made factors that threaten the species? If research finds one or more of the factors, it falls under government protection. The goal is to prevent further damage to the species and to restore it to a healthy status so it can eventually be taken off the list.

Different factors lead to the endangerment of a species. Some are natural, and others are caused by humans. Climate change, like global warming, alters habitats. Humans alter areas by invading and changing the natural space. An example would be cutting down rainforests. According to www.rainforestconcern.org, rainforests in Central and South America have been burnt down to make areas for cattle farming, which will supply beef to different countries.

“The human species can be so selfish at times. We think that we’re improving the world by developing areas. We fail to realize that it’s actually harming

the world’s ecosystem,” Kira Greenfield (10) said.

According to The Humane Society of the United States, hunters legally kill millions of animals each year. Wildlife officials estimate that for each one those animals, another is illegally killed by poachers.

“I could never hunt an animal that’s not in season. It affects the way people view you and the earth, ” Kyle Miller (12) said.

Poaching is a crime against wildlife. Currently, a violator who kills an endangered or threatened species may be fined

The channel Islands fox, saved by theUS fish and wildlife service, has been taken off the endangered species list.

between $25,000 to $50,000 and sentenced six months to one year in prison.

Poachers should have stiffer punishments. Maybe then people would think twice before snuffing out a species.

“Animals benefit us in different ways. We should make efforts to keep them around,” Ben Rogotzke (9) said

Animals have a huge affect in the the ecosystem. Even If just one species goes extinct, it causes the world to suffers. Plants, animals and fish must be protected. Graphic courtesy of Tribune News Service

Photo courtesy of Tribune News Service

Only two Grease opportunites left:

tonight and tomorrow at 7:00Purchase tickets at

the doorBox office opens at

6:10

Opinion18 April 29, 2016HHthe

Staff Editorial

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember,

you have within you the strength, the patience and the passion to reach for the stars, to change the world,” Harriet Tubman said.

High school provides the perfect time and opportunity to explore activities and interests. Becoming passionate about something can help people excel at that particular activity, motivate them to work harder and be better or simply give them a reason to smile.

People who have a strong love or interest in something have a reason to get up in the morning. They are able to set goals and do what it takes to reach them. Passion is the energy that keeps one going, it fills a person with meaning and happiness, and excitement and anticipation. It can provide a powerful force in accomplising a task in experiencing work and life the fullest extent possible.

Ultimately, passion is the driving force behind success and happiness that allows us all to live better lives.

“It’s not hard to tell when a student has a passion to learn, There’s a level of excitement and it’s a joy guiding them,” English teacher Jill Jungers said.

It’s just as important to have passions outside of schoolwork. They can create a sense of well being and happiness.

“I’m passionate about drama and sound. I love learning new things about the sound board, it’s very interesting and fun knowing what everything does,” Amber Beyer (12), musical techie said.

“I am very passionate about dance. While I’m dancing, nothing else seems to matter. It’s all about that moment. I also love teaching dance classes to younger kids, I love watching them learn and grow and enjoy what they are doing. Hopefully, one day, they may be as pasionate about dance as I am,” Jenessa Mohn (12), co-editor-in-chief said.

Frustration can occur when others don’t share the same passion or sense of commitment. This is especially true working on group projects or with teams.

“It’s difficult to function as a team if everyone doesn’t feel the same way about winning. If success doesn’t matter to a player, they don’t try as hard, and it brings the whole team down,” senior lacrosse player Abby Born said.

Discovering one’s passions can be exhilarating. Being excited about something makes people to think positively about their futures. They work towards a goal which can lead to a sense of fulfillment.

The best way to go about finding a passion is to immerse oneself in new experiences and activities. You never know when one will resonate and become a lifelong love.

Passion is the key to a full and

successful life

As a student of color at Columbia Heights High School, I have noticed

the lack of racial diversity among the teachers. There are mostly caucasian teachers and administrators, but none of them are Somali, Moroccan or Indonesian.

I realize the racial gap between the staff and students is probably not intentional, but I notice it, and others probably do too.

All my life, I have had teachers of one particular race, and I can’t help wonder what it would feel like to have a teacher who looks more like me. I also feel that different teachers of different ethnic groups would help or encourage the learning process. It’s not that I care about race; it’s more that a teacher of my race would foster more engagement in my education.

This is not just a theory I have; I have done a little a research and found that others agree with me. Just think about how much time a child spends in school. That time surely would shape their

Diversity in teachers would create comfort

Sagla Ahmedjournalism 1 Writer

I am known by most as Zach Cooper, and I think we should start study hall for

everyone. It would be a serious benefit to me, as well as many other students. Schools love students with great grades, and this could only further this school to improve on academics.

Zach cooperJournalism 1 Writer

As of right now, many students struggle with homework and classwork. It would be benificial for them to have some time during the school day to get some work started or completed. Many people shut down about their homework at home -- maybe because they’re tired from sports or work.

There are also a lot more distractions at home, than there could be in a school study hall. Students need an environment that encourages them to be at their academic best for schoolwork.

I believe that Columbia Heights High School would be more respected if our GPAs went up overall; and the option to

spend one period or even half a period in a study hall would make a huge difference. Having a study hall on certain days or during certain times, could help students plan and prepare to do some serious work. Of course we’d need a staff member.

With friendly help, the students and I could succeed. A study hall would give students fewer excuses for not finishing work on time. Certain classrooms have more distractions than the library, so students can get more done if they are allowed to go to the library and work.

I’d like to start a petition to encourage the high school to consider the idea of a real, inspiring study hall.

Study halls would provide needed work time

personalities. It would not just foster engagement, but also confidence and hope. Don’t get me wrong; skin color does not make a teacher better or worse, but it does make a difference to students like me. Seeing a teacher from a similar background would make me feel more hopeful about my own future.

Honestly, I know that the editors of this paper do not have anything to do with teachers getting hired. Plus, people of color do need to apply first. This was just something that hit me one day, and I wanted to start a conversation about it. I wonder how many other students feel the same way. I wonder if an administrator will read this. I wonder if I’m right.

Sign Language option would benefit students

As a CODA (child of a deaf adult), I believe all students should learn sign

language. There is only one language that CHHS offers, and that is Spanish. Why not include another language that would be practical in the real world?

Learning a language helps you in a variety of ways. Not only do you get credit

for taking the class, but the information you gain can help you in the future. Becoming fluent in another language, like sign language, enhances your college application and could lead to possibly pursuing a career in interpreting.

When you get a job or even if you are just in a grocery store and come across a person who is deaf, you could help them by interpreting what they are saying. Knowing sign language is a useful skill to have and allows you to understand a deaf persons perspective. You can also meet new people, and learn about their lifestyle.

If the school doesn’t offer it, where else are students supposed to learn it? Some may have to wait until they graduate to

enroll in a sign language class, which can be very expensive. If we were able to learn the language now, it could help us when we go to college. Teaching us while we are young is more effective.

Wouldn’t offerring a sign language class at CHHS make our school much more unique? It could attract more students; deaf parents may enroll their children because they see a class taught about the language they speak.

Just as the recent AP award brought positive attention to our school, offering a sign language course would enhance our image. CHHS is very diverse in terms of races and languages, yet only one option is offered. Its time we change that.

Angela MillsJournalism 1Writer

Opinion 19April 29, 2016HHthe

Humans eat everyday, but they are generally unaware that they are consuming genetically modified

foods which can be dangerous. GMOs are genetically modified

organisms whose genetic material has been manipulated and processed into common food. According to nongmoproject.org, this relatively new science creates unstable combinations of plant, animal, bacteria and viral genes that do not happen naturally. GMOs are created with gene transfer technology where scientists cut out a gene from a bacterium or animal and insert it into a plant.

All commercial GMOs are engineered to withstand direct application of herbicide. Although this might seem beneficial, many GMOs cause more damage than generate benefits since their associated herbicides are harming birds, insects, amphibians, marine ecosystems and soil organisms.

More than 60 countries around the world have put restrictions on the sale and production of GMOs due to health concerns. The Non-GMO Project states that, unlike many nations worldwide, the US has approved GMOs based on studies conducted by the same corporations that created them and profit from them. For example, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), doesn’t require a safety study, nor does it mandate labeling GMOs. It allows companies to simply put their genetically modified (GM) foods in the market place.

“GMOs should not be allowed in the US. The genetic technology used to make a GMO is fairly new. Not even the most intelligent scientist can predict the long term results,” Abduallahi Abdi (12) said.

According to a 2013 CBS/New York Times Poll, 53% of consumers said

they would not buy food that has been genetically modified. Yet, many people still do and are unaware of the consequences. Studies conducted by the American Academy of Environmental Medicine (AAEM), show that genetically modified food can cause health problems such as toxic bacterium living inside the body. The percentage of Americans with chronic illnesses jumped from 7% to 13% after GMOs were introduced in 1996. According to AAEM, food allergies, autism and digestive problems have been on the rise ever since GMO introduction.

According to responsibletechnology.org, it is impossible to fully clean up the contaminated gene pool GMOs have left behind. This contamination leaves farmers struggling to keep crops pure and threatens the health of future generations, since it can outlast the effects of global warming and

nuclear waste. “Not many people are

aware the dangers they pose to people and the environment,” Destiny Moore (10) said.

According to The Journal Nature, a large number of scientists criticize anti-GMO research, impairing the advancement of knowledge. GMO’s exist purely to improve a plant or food product, but according to a report by the International Assessment of

Agricultural Knowledge, more than 400 scientists state that GM crop yields or the amount of product produced were “highly variable” and in some cases, “yields declined.” On the other hand, crops developed naturally, not using GMO agricultural methods, have shown in a 79% increase or higher in yields.

“Genetically modified foods and crops don’t increase yields but, have been linked to toxic allergic reactions, sick, sterile, and damage to virtually every organ studied in lab animals,” a group of anit-GMO activists from the Institute for Responsible Technology said.

GM crops and GMOs are causing social, health and environmental concerns. Therefore, the US should join Egypt, Italy, Norway, and other countries, to ban or strictly regulate the production of GMOs.

Genetic modification debatable

As the worldwide population continues to grow, so does the need for stronger more reliable

crops.Genetically Modified Organisms

(GMOs) are defined as any organism whose genes or genetic makeup has been altered through genetic engineering. The most common GMOs are those spliced together from animal, plant or bacterial genes. According to the National Geographic Society, humans have been modifying the genes of plants for nearly 200,000 years. The first GMO developed in a laboratory setting was created in 1976.

GMOs have become a controversial issue. While many of the arguments against GMOs are hypothetical, their benefits are concrete and a great achievement for science and humanity. According to the University of California San Diego, genetically modified fruits and vegetables are more resistant to insects and other pests. This means the amount of harmful pesticides and insecticides used on crops is reduced. They can also withstand extreme weather conditions, high salt or mineral levels in soils and other dangers that are often harmful to plants. “Genetics is the science of tomorrow, and the research our team is doing could lead to very big changes in the way food is grown and produced,” University of California San Diego Professor Monique Abril said.

Statistics provided by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2012 concluded if farmers used genetically modified seeds and crops, they could grow 25% more produce than their traditional counterparts and use significantly less water doing so.

“Globally, water use has tripled in the

last three decades. GM crops can help reduce water loss from agriculture and improve drought tolerance,” Stanford research geneticist Dr. Jennifer Alden said. Because they require less time and fewer resources to produce, GM crops could even reduce the price of food. Research done by the Coalition for Safe Affordable Food (CFSAF) concluded that GM technology has helped lower the price of corn, soybeans, sugar beets and rice by as much as 30%.

“With food prices growing higher than ever, genetically altered products could help alleviate the financial burdens many are facing,” economist at Duke University Daniel Goldstein said. On a larger scale, GMOs could help lessen worldwide hunger and malnutrition. According to the United Nations

Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), 750 million people around the world do not have enough food to lead a healthy life. Statistics provided by the Department of Agriculture have shown that GM crops have fed more than 300 million Americans since 2013.

“With the worldwide population expected to rise to 9 billion by 2050, agriculture will have to increase. GMOs are going to be critical in that spike of production,” Stanford

researcher Rebecca Randall said. The World Health Organization (WHO), the American Medical Association (AMA) and the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) have all declared that there is no factual evidence of GMOs being unsafe for human consumption. According to statistics from the American Association for the Advancement of Science, nearly 88% of scientists believe GM foods are safe. “There’s a lot we don’t understand about GMOs, but the idea that they’re harmful is utter fiction,” Rutgers University geneticist William Saletan said.

Humans develop technology to make life easier. GMOs are a stronger alternative to traditional crops and help people around the world get the nutrition they need.

Process creates more harm than potential Using technology

increases productionstephanie avalosfeature editor shirwa abdullahi

Staff Writer

“Food prices are growing higher,

GMO’s will help alleviate the finan-cial burdens many

are facing. ”-Daniel Goldstein

“People aren’t aware of the dan-gers they pose to people and the environment. ”-Destiny Moore

A large heirloom tomato, has as been genetically engineered by farmer to be it is rot-resistant.Photo courtesy of Tribune News Service

Crowd protest against genetically modified organisms in Washington D.C on March 30, 2014.Photo courtesy of Tribune News Service

Native American drums beat and colorful clothing swirls as traditional Native dancing

captivates the crowd. Powwows, originally called pauwaus, refer to any Native American social gathering. On Saturday, April 16, Columbia Heights Public Schools hosted its first powwow which included fun, tasty food and Native American education. The American Indian Education program, a partnership between Columbia Heights, Fridley and Spring Lake Park, sponsored the free event.

“I’m glad that we had the powwow here at our high school. It gives the local Natives a chance to participate since it is easily accessible to them,” Native American Ian McKay (12) said.

“This powwow will raise awareness of the Indian population in Columbia Heights and in the surrounding communities,” guest attendee Athena Renbeld said. “It will also emphasize that Natives are still very much part of this community.”

Some Native American events, such as Sundance are restricted to Natives, but powwow’s welcome everyone.

“A community event, powwows give us a chance to support and celebrate our Native American students,” EL & Family Engagement Coordinator Jane Riordan said.

The occasion started with a grand entry. Veterans carried Native American flags from Minnesota tribal nations. Clapping and singing, the energized crowd circled around the performers.

“It makes me feel very good to be part of this event and get Native culture back in the community,” dancer Adrian Ellis said.

Powwows feature different attractions depending on the area and the people.

“Other powwows have little shops where you can buy gifts such as jewelry or animal skins,” McKay said.

“It’s great to see how many came for this event. We hope more people attend powows. We would like to have bigger ones in the future,” announcer Jerry Deanly said.

The goal of the American Indian Education program is to provide Native Americans academic and cultural support and to increase their chance of success in college. According to the American Indian College Fund, American Indian/Alaska Natives are less likely to earn a bachelor’s degree or higher than their non-Native peers, accounting for less than one percent of those who have earned a bachelor’s degree. This is mainly due to lack of recognition and educational resources serving Native youth.

CHHS is taking steps to change that trend.

“American Indian students can see themselves reflected in our curriculum and the Native’s perspective of history. This is present in all of our subjects,” Riordan said.

In order to be a part of the American Indian Education program, students need to be enrolled as a member of a tribe, band or other organized group, including Alaskan and Hawaiian Natives, or have a parent or grandparent who is an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.

The April powwow was a step towards Native American education and recognition.

Powwow embraces cultureFatima Jeylaninews editor

Dressed in bright cultural clothing, Native American children line up to begin dancing.

Women begin moving in a traditional dance. Native America veterans carry in tribal flags.

Male singers begin drumming to initiate the festivities and honor the beat of Mother Earth.

Native Celebration20 April 29, 2016HHthe

Photos by Anahi Ordonez

AP program nationally recognized - Columbia Heights Public ...

Documents

Transcript of AP program nationally recognized - Columbia Heights Public ...