By: Janet Borchardt
High school is a very unique environment. Even though we all read the same textbooks, are assigned the same papers and worksheets, and walk the same halls, everyone’s experience is completely different from the person who sits to the right or left of them in class. There are unique combinations of characteristics like being high-achieving, careless, athletic, musically gifted, artistic, mechanically inclined, employed, introverted, extroverted, anxious, happy, and depressed all within this building. I think that the level of involvement, employment, and amount of academic ambition are the key factors to define how a high school student’s experience will pan out to be.
Involvement is something that really separates people in this 4 year experience. Whether it’s athletics, choir, band, student council, mentoring, or national honors society, it makes an impact on who you’re around and how much time you’re giving up. Being a part of something helps establish relationships with the teachers and coaches involved, as well as creates friendships. People who are involved typically are the more social and organized people in school, because they have to manage the responsibilities of academics and extra curriculars as well as interact with more people in depth.
Along with involvement inside the school, those who are involved outside in the form of a job are a step up when it comes to time management and responsibilities. Having a job during the school year is a challenge, but also helps to teach a student additional skills and exposes them to more people than they would see just in school. I also believe that employed teenagers are more independent and educated as far as finances go, because they have paychecks coming in and learn how to manage them, and don’t always need to ask Mom or Dad to buy them something.
The amount of academic ambition is a huge role in how a high school experience will be. Even though every student goes through about the same amount of classes a day and takes the same required classes, the amount of success and challenge is a huge variable. There are those who don’t care, and know an efficient enough method to get by with a low GPA and a C or D just to complete requirements. There are also the people who take college classes, challenging non-required courses, and try their hardest to get every point on the rubric. Many students are in between these two. The student you choose to be can determine how much free time you’ll have or how much success and financial aid you’ll have in the next step of life. Which ever student you choose to be, just know that every choice, involvement, and attitude will create your path for the next 4 years.
Thursday, February 27, 2020
Why School Should Start Later
By Ainsley Lovrien
Starting school later will allow students to get more sleep, which would improve the student’s physical and mental health, attendance, and academic performance.
Students are recommended to get nine hours of sleep at night, but a number of external factors include interrupted sleep from homework, cellular devices, tv, etc - has degraded sleep quality and length so that students are only getting about six hours and fifty minutes of sleep per night. And because teens don’t produce melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone, until later at night, going to bed earlier doesn’t really help.
To help combat sleep deprivation, a growing number of school districts are delaying opening the doors by up to an hour.
Students starting later also helps students combat the symptoms of chronic sleep deprivation, such as fatigue, depression, and memory and cognition impairment.
Delayed start times may even lead to a decrease in the academic gap between students from low and high socioeconomic backgrounds, and also improve grades for the students that often have struggles in school.
This would also help student athletes if they are at an away game, match, competition if the start time was later in the morning. This would allow them to either stay up later and sleep in or go to bed right away and get up in the morning to do homework or study.
I think that schools in the U.S. should delay the start time for school to allow kids to sleep better and get their work done on time. This would also help students to not develop depression, anxiety, sleep deprivation, etc.
Starting school later will allow students to get more sleep, which would improve the student’s physical and mental health, attendance, and academic performance.
Students are recommended to get nine hours of sleep at night, but a number of external factors include interrupted sleep from homework, cellular devices, tv, etc - has degraded sleep quality and length so that students are only getting about six hours and fifty minutes of sleep per night. And because teens don’t produce melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone, until later at night, going to bed earlier doesn’t really help.
To help combat sleep deprivation, a growing number of school districts are delaying opening the doors by up to an hour.
Students starting later also helps students combat the symptoms of chronic sleep deprivation, such as fatigue, depression, and memory and cognition impairment.
Delayed start times may even lead to a decrease in the academic gap between students from low and high socioeconomic backgrounds, and also improve grades for the students that often have struggles in school.
This would also help student athletes if they are at an away game, match, competition if the start time was later in the morning. This would allow them to either stay up later and sleep in or go to bed right away and get up in the morning to do homework or study.
I think that schools in the U.S. should delay the start time for school to allow kids to sleep better and get their work done on time. This would also help students to not develop depression, anxiety, sleep deprivation, etc.
2020 NFL Draft Prospects: Wide Receivers
By: Cole Negen
I’m taking at players for each position who will be selected in the upcoming NFL draft. Today, I am taking a look at wide receivers
Ceedee Lamb - Oklahoma
Lamb is probably the best WR I’ve seen come out of college, for sure in the last 5 years, and maybe last 10 years. He has no obvious weak spots in his game, outside of his tall, skinny body frame. He is maybe the best WR I’ve seen after the catch since Sammy Watkins. He is super nimble, able to wiggle his way out of a lot of tackles, and more often than not turns minimal plays into big plays pretty effortlessly. His route running is very good, he has great hands, he can make contested catches, and he is an absolute nightmare of a deep threat. He is a freak of nature with insane leaping ability and top end speed. There really isn’t much to say about him, and the only thing that is going to keep him from being selected is going to be the stigma of drafting a WR with an early draft pick.
Jerry Jeudy - Alabama
So I have Jeudy below Lamb here, but it is completely personal preference. In fact, most people would put Jeudy above Lamb. All of what I said above on how Lamb is one of the best WRs I’ve seen enter the draft in a while, applies in the exact same fashion for Jeudy. Jeudy trumps Lamb in the speed and route running departments. While Lamb’s speed and route running are very good, no doubt, Jeudy’s ability in both categories is something I’ve never seen before. I’ve never seen a receiver that is A) fast enough to pull away from literally everyone on the field, and B) still has the ability to stop and start his route in the blink of an eye. His feet are a wonder to look at. There is no way that you will be able to guard him straight up at the next level, you are going to have to rotate a safety to his side. He, like Lamb, is also very tall, and very skinny. Unlike Lamb, however, I think this affects Jeudy’s game more. He doesn’t often make tough catches with a defender on him, and he isn’t much of a red-zone threat with the ball. But, that is absolutely no reason to take away from his hands, which are great, and his athletic ability. He should go right around where Lamb is taken.
Tee Higgins - Clemson
Higgins reminds me a lot of AJ Green. Super tall and long athlete, who doesn’t sacrifice speed. Higgins is a straight up deep threat. He doesn’t have great agility to be a super great route runner, but if you get him running downfield, he is dangerous. First of all, he can is fast enough to at least gain separation from slower corners. Second, he is tall and long enough to use his body and make contested jump-ball catches. He also caught a lot of balls at Clemson, so he clearly has a play style that works. The biggest bugger with him is, like I said above, agility and coming out of breaks. He has a slow first step, which really hurts his ability to gain separation on timing routes. But he should be a great receiver at the next level.
Laviska Shenault - Colorado
Shenault is one of the more peculiar prospects I’ve seen at the position in a while. He has the size of a running back, with a tight end mentality, while playing the WR position. He is great after the catch, tough to tackle and loves contact. He is a big body receiver, able to make big body catches in traffic on all levels of the field. He isn’t very quick, but he has surprising breakaway speed in open field. Major concern is a lack of games played. He hasn’t played a full season at Colorado, and he has just 1 year of major production. I think that DK Metcalf should be a testimate, however, that you don’t need to play a lot of games in college, you just need to look good in the games you play in, and Shenault definitely passes the eye test.
Henry Ruggs III - Alabama
Ruggs is a future star from the slot position. He has speed to get in and out of breaks, and an attacking mentality after the catch. There was also a stat I saw that said he ran over 24 mph in a game this year. So that just tells you what you need to know about his speed. He isn’t super tall, under 6 feet, but it doesn’t really matter. He is a good route runner and can work in space. Essentially, he is an addition to your running game with how he can work after the catch, and of course is always a threat to burn you deep. My major concern is his hands. They are definitely toward the average side of the spectrum. He also has never been in a position where he is the go-to receiver, which garners concerns about his potential when you factor in his play style.
I’m taking at players for each position who will be selected in the upcoming NFL draft. Today, I am taking a look at wide receivers
Ceedee Lamb - Oklahoma
Lamb is probably the best WR I’ve seen come out of college, for sure in the last 5 years, and maybe last 10 years. He has no obvious weak spots in his game, outside of his tall, skinny body frame. He is maybe the best WR I’ve seen after the catch since Sammy Watkins. He is super nimble, able to wiggle his way out of a lot of tackles, and more often than not turns minimal plays into big plays pretty effortlessly. His route running is very good, he has great hands, he can make contested catches, and he is an absolute nightmare of a deep threat. He is a freak of nature with insane leaping ability and top end speed. There really isn’t much to say about him, and the only thing that is going to keep him from being selected is going to be the stigma of drafting a WR with an early draft pick.
Jerry Jeudy - Alabama
So I have Jeudy below Lamb here, but it is completely personal preference. In fact, most people would put Jeudy above Lamb. All of what I said above on how Lamb is one of the best WRs I’ve seen enter the draft in a while, applies in the exact same fashion for Jeudy. Jeudy trumps Lamb in the speed and route running departments. While Lamb’s speed and route running are very good, no doubt, Jeudy’s ability in both categories is something I’ve never seen before. I’ve never seen a receiver that is A) fast enough to pull away from literally everyone on the field, and B) still has the ability to stop and start his route in the blink of an eye. His feet are a wonder to look at. There is no way that you will be able to guard him straight up at the next level, you are going to have to rotate a safety to his side. He, like Lamb, is also very tall, and very skinny. Unlike Lamb, however, I think this affects Jeudy’s game more. He doesn’t often make tough catches with a defender on him, and he isn’t much of a red-zone threat with the ball. But, that is absolutely no reason to take away from his hands, which are great, and his athletic ability. He should go right around where Lamb is taken.
Tee Higgins - Clemson
Higgins reminds me a lot of AJ Green. Super tall and long athlete, who doesn’t sacrifice speed. Higgins is a straight up deep threat. He doesn’t have great agility to be a super great route runner, but if you get him running downfield, he is dangerous. First of all, he can is fast enough to at least gain separation from slower corners. Second, he is tall and long enough to use his body and make contested jump-ball catches. He also caught a lot of balls at Clemson, so he clearly has a play style that works. The biggest bugger with him is, like I said above, agility and coming out of breaks. He has a slow first step, which really hurts his ability to gain separation on timing routes. But he should be a great receiver at the next level.
Laviska Shenault - Colorado
Shenault is one of the more peculiar prospects I’ve seen at the position in a while. He has the size of a running back, with a tight end mentality, while playing the WR position. He is great after the catch, tough to tackle and loves contact. He is a big body receiver, able to make big body catches in traffic on all levels of the field. He isn’t very quick, but he has surprising breakaway speed in open field. Major concern is a lack of games played. He hasn’t played a full season at Colorado, and he has just 1 year of major production. I think that DK Metcalf should be a testimate, however, that you don’t need to play a lot of games in college, you just need to look good in the games you play in, and Shenault definitely passes the eye test.
Henry Ruggs III - Alabama
Ruggs is a future star from the slot position. He has speed to get in and out of breaks, and an attacking mentality after the catch. There was also a stat I saw that said he ran over 24 mph in a game this year. So that just tells you what you need to know about his speed. He isn’t super tall, under 6 feet, but it doesn’t really matter. He is a good route runner and can work in space. Essentially, he is an addition to your running game with how he can work after the catch, and of course is always a threat to burn you deep. My major concern is his hands. They are definitely toward the average side of the spectrum. He also has never been in a position where he is the go-to receiver, which garners concerns about his potential when you factor in his play style.
The Bachelor Part 2
By: Kelton Kluiter
This week on the bachelor…. This week was fantasy week and the final three are Hannah, Madison, and Victoria. Madison starts off the episode talking to Peter and telling him that if he sleeps with another one of the girls in the fantasy sweet she will not be able to continue. What Peter doesn’t know yet is that Madison is saving herself for marriage but she is so afraid to tell him that. Throughout the week the girls stayed in the same room as each other which is super awkward.
The first date was Hannah. They went and rode jetskis and then stayed in a nice penthouse. They showed lots of scenes of them kissing but we didn’t really know if he listened to Madison or not. The next morning came and they were both very happy with how the previous day went. It looks like Hannah is an emerging favorite.
The next day was Victoria’s date. They went on a helicopter ride and sat by a waterfall and had a picnic. They both joked about how they haven’t argued yet throughout the whole date because Victoria and Peter are known to get into an argument every time they’re on a date. They also didn’t really let out any secrets on if he listened to Madison or not in the fantasy sweet with Victoria.
Next came Madison’s date. They started off by a beach and Peter pointed to a tall building and said they were going to climb it. They looked like they had a lot of fun. At Madison and Peter’s supper Madison told Peter about how she was saving herself for marriage that is why she did not want Peter to sleep with other girls that week. He says he understands and then admits that he did sleep with the other girls. Madison then starts crying and walks outside.
Peter comes out to comfort her after awhile because he really does not want her to leave. In the end they never really say if she leaves or not she kind of just walked away after they were done talking. Next week we will find out what Madison did. She is the only girl that he did not spend the night with.
This week on the bachelor…. This week was fantasy week and the final three are Hannah, Madison, and Victoria. Madison starts off the episode talking to Peter and telling him that if he sleeps with another one of the girls in the fantasy sweet she will not be able to continue. What Peter doesn’t know yet is that Madison is saving herself for marriage but she is so afraid to tell him that. Throughout the week the girls stayed in the same room as each other which is super awkward.
The first date was Hannah. They went and rode jetskis and then stayed in a nice penthouse. They showed lots of scenes of them kissing but we didn’t really know if he listened to Madison or not. The next morning came and they were both very happy with how the previous day went. It looks like Hannah is an emerging favorite.
The next day was Victoria’s date. They went on a helicopter ride and sat by a waterfall and had a picnic. They both joked about how they haven’t argued yet throughout the whole date because Victoria and Peter are known to get into an argument every time they’re on a date. They also didn’t really let out any secrets on if he listened to Madison or not in the fantasy sweet with Victoria.
Next came Madison’s date. They started off by a beach and Peter pointed to a tall building and said they were going to climb it. They looked like they had a lot of fun. At Madison and Peter’s supper Madison told Peter about how she was saving herself for marriage that is why she did not want Peter to sleep with other girls that week. He says he understands and then admits that he did sleep with the other girls. Madison then starts crying and walks outside.
Peter comes out to comfort her after awhile because he really does not want her to leave. In the end they never really say if she leaves or not she kind of just walked away after they were done talking. Next week we will find out what Madison did. She is the only girl that he did not spend the night with.
Types of Writers
By: Katie Stirling
People write papers in many different ways. Some have to sharpen their pencil every 2 minutes while others zone everyone out the whole class period. These things depend on what you’re writing with, what your topic is, etc.
The first type of writer is the pencil sharpener. These people use the classic #2 pencil and refuse to use mechanical ones. They get very annoying with all the noise they make. They barely have enough time to get their thoughts onto paper because of their inconvenient pencil. Some of these people only do this so they don’t have to do their work.
Another type of writer is the gripper. This person grips their pencil so hard that you can hear it from across the room. The sound of their lead hitting their paper can sometimes distract you from writing yours. They don’t even realize that they have a death grip on their pencil. By the end of the class period they have an indent on their finger that holds the pencil.
The zoned in person is another type of writer. These people get in the zone when they start to write. They know exactly what their topic is and what they want to write about it. They spend the whole time getting their thoughts on paper. They don’t waste any time and don’t listen to anyone during work days. They might put in headphones to zone out everyone, or even ask to go into the hallway to focus.
The last type of writer is the question-asker. These people might get confused and not know how to start or how to continue their paper. They’re always raising their hand to ask for the teacher’s help.
These are only some of the types of writers. These can vary from person to person and there are many more types.
People write papers in many different ways. Some have to sharpen their pencil every 2 minutes while others zone everyone out the whole class period. These things depend on what you’re writing with, what your topic is, etc.
The first type of writer is the pencil sharpener. These people use the classic #2 pencil and refuse to use mechanical ones. They get very annoying with all the noise they make. They barely have enough time to get their thoughts onto paper because of their inconvenient pencil. Some of these people only do this so they don’t have to do their work.
Another type of writer is the gripper. This person grips their pencil so hard that you can hear it from across the room. The sound of their lead hitting their paper can sometimes distract you from writing yours. They don’t even realize that they have a death grip on their pencil. By the end of the class period they have an indent on their finger that holds the pencil.
The zoned in person is another type of writer. These people get in the zone when they start to write. They know exactly what their topic is and what they want to write about it. They spend the whole time getting their thoughts on paper. They don’t waste any time and don’t listen to anyone during work days. They might put in headphones to zone out everyone, or even ask to go into the hallway to focus.
The last type of writer is the question-asker. These people might get confused and not know how to start or how to continue their paper. They’re always raising their hand to ask for the teacher’s help.
These are only some of the types of writers. These can vary from person to person and there are many more types.
Types of People in a Study Hall
By: Grace Litterer
I am going to be honest. I am running out of ideas. I have done every “Types of” article that I can think of. This is the only thing I have left. However, considering that I have plenty of study halls, this seems like a good topic. Anyways, enough background. It’s time to start this list.
The first type of person is, unsurprisingly, the Procrastinator. Yes, this person is a classic in all aspects of school. Procrastinators are in their prime during study halls. Yes, when is a better time to procrastinate than during a free period of complete silence? These people can often be identified by the pile of homework sitting in front of them and the blank look on their face. Yes, this person stares around, at the walls, at the floor, at the people around them, at anything. This person will often distract the people around them as well. They will talk about anything and everything. All they need is a distraction and they are not above providing it themselves.
The next type of person is the Moviegoer. This person only uses study halls for movie watching time. They take advantage of the free wifi and complete silence. This person has it all. They have accounts for Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Youtube, and any other streaming service available. Moviegoers use their school time for things they can actually use in life, or so they say. Yes, they won’t know about the Pythagorean Theorem or compound sentences, but they will have seen every movie ever made. I mean, really, do these people not experience stress about classes or have any motivation to do well in school? Honestly, how do they do it? If I could get just an ounce of this “I don’t care” attitude, it would be such a peaceful life. Message to all those Moviegoers out there: I am envious of you.
Well, I have a lot more to say on this topic, but I have reached my writing limit. I will have to continue this series another time. Tune in next week for another “thrilling” installment of Types of People in a Study Hall.
I am going to be honest. I am running out of ideas. I have done every “Types of” article that I can think of. This is the only thing I have left. However, considering that I have plenty of study halls, this seems like a good topic. Anyways, enough background. It’s time to start this list.
The first type of person is, unsurprisingly, the Procrastinator. Yes, this person is a classic in all aspects of school. Procrastinators are in their prime during study halls. Yes, when is a better time to procrastinate than during a free period of complete silence? These people can often be identified by the pile of homework sitting in front of them and the blank look on their face. Yes, this person stares around, at the walls, at the floor, at the people around them, at anything. This person will often distract the people around them as well. They will talk about anything and everything. All they need is a distraction and they are not above providing it themselves.
The next type of person is the Moviegoer. This person only uses study halls for movie watching time. They take advantage of the free wifi and complete silence. This person has it all. They have accounts for Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Youtube, and any other streaming service available. Moviegoers use their school time for things they can actually use in life, or so they say. Yes, they won’t know about the Pythagorean Theorem or compound sentences, but they will have seen every movie ever made. I mean, really, do these people not experience stress about classes or have any motivation to do well in school? Honestly, how do they do it? If I could get just an ounce of this “I don’t care” attitude, it would be such a peaceful life. Message to all those Moviegoers out there: I am envious of you.
Well, I have a lot more to say on this topic, but I have reached my writing limit. I will have to continue this series another time. Tune in next week for another “thrilling” installment of Types of People in a Study Hall.
Summer Olympics
By: Ethan Schmidt
It's that time again. The time that happens every four years. The 2020 summer olympics is taking place in Japan's capital Tokyo. This is Tokyo’s second time hosting the summer olympics. The last time they had it was 56 years ago. There are a few more sports taking place this time such as skateboarding, karate, surfing, and sport climbing. There will be plenty of classics to watch as well.
The summer olympics will start July 24 and go until August 9. The opening ceremony is July 24, and the closing is August 9. Most of the big swimming events will take place the first week and the track and field will take place the second week.
This time Tokyo is looking to many of its pre existing facilities to stage the summer events. They have been renovating and rebuilding wherever they can. Or 43 venues, 25 were already standing, while 8 are new. The Nippon Budokan is getting fixed up as the sight of judo competition and karate.
The decision to host the 2020 summer Olympics at Tokyo was determined back in 2013 in Argentina. The three final contenders were Istanbull, Madrid, and Tokyo. Tokyo ended with the most votes 60 to 36 when it was narrowed down to Istanbull and Tokyo. Hosting the Olympics is a complex proposition for any city. It offers potential economic upsides, thanks to increased construction, investment, and tourism. Many cities struggle to make use of all the buildings after.
In 1964, Tokyo was the first Asian city to host the games. They were initially supposed to host it in 1960, but the geopolitics of the area needed a shift. The 1964 games were actually held in October due to Japan’s midsummer heat and September typhoon season.
It's that time again. The time that happens every four years. The 2020 summer olympics is taking place in Japan's capital Tokyo. This is Tokyo’s second time hosting the summer olympics. The last time they had it was 56 years ago. There are a few more sports taking place this time such as skateboarding, karate, surfing, and sport climbing. There will be plenty of classics to watch as well.
The summer olympics will start July 24 and go until August 9. The opening ceremony is July 24, and the closing is August 9. Most of the big swimming events will take place the first week and the track and field will take place the second week.
This time Tokyo is looking to many of its pre existing facilities to stage the summer events. They have been renovating and rebuilding wherever they can. Or 43 venues, 25 were already standing, while 8 are new. The Nippon Budokan is getting fixed up as the sight of judo competition and karate.
The decision to host the 2020 summer Olympics at Tokyo was determined back in 2013 in Argentina. The three final contenders were Istanbull, Madrid, and Tokyo. Tokyo ended with the most votes 60 to 36 when it was narrowed down to Istanbull and Tokyo. Hosting the Olympics is a complex proposition for any city. It offers potential economic upsides, thanks to increased construction, investment, and tourism. Many cities struggle to make use of all the buildings after.
In 1964, Tokyo was the first Asian city to host the games. They were initially supposed to host it in 1960, but the geopolitics of the area needed a shift. The 1964 games were actually held in October due to Japan’s midsummer heat and September typhoon season.
Metal
By: Dianna Schild
Metal is a very known thing in our world. It makes up mostly everything that we use on a daily basis. Besides the fact that that metal is a very well known thing in this world, there are many different types of metal not just one kind. According to the reading in the article that someone has posted “Metal is a material that, when freshly prepared, polished, or fractured, shows a lustrous appearance, and conducts electricity and heat relatively well. Metals are typically malleable. They can be hammered into thin sheets or ductile can be drawn into wires.
“A metal is a material that, when freshly prepared, polished, or fractured, shows a lustrous appearance, and conducts electricity and heat relatively well. Metals are typically malleable or ductile.
The next time you hold something that is made of metal or that you think is metal, think about how many people touched it and how many different metals there are.
“A metal is a material that, when freshly prepared, polished, or fractured, shows a lustrous appearance, and conducts electricity and heat relatively well. Metals are typically malleable or ductile.
The next time you hold something that is made of metal or that you think is metal, think about how many people touched it and how many different metals there are.
Tuesday, February 25, 2020
The Bachelor
By: Kelton Kluiter
Last week on the bachelor…. Last week was hometown week and it was full of drama to say the least. Peter started off with Hannah and Madison which seem like the two front runners. Their visits go quite well but Madison has something that she needs to tell Peter and she can’t work up the courage to tell him yet. Hannah’s visit goes just about perfect. Peter really likes her parents and he tells her dad that he is falling in love with her.
Kelsey’s date comes and it goes quite well too. I was surprised at how well it went. Peter really liked her parents and her parents really seemed to like him as well. They made sure to tell him how evident it is that she is in love with him and he better not break her heart… (Spoiler alert) he sends her home later in the episode. It seemed to have caught everyone off guard cause everyone was expecting him to send Victoria home after their awful experience.
On Peter and Victoria’s hometown date it started off really well. They seemed super happy but with their history of always finding a way to argue you knew something was bound to happen. One of Peter’s ex girlfriends came up to Peter and warned him about Victoria. How she isn’t a good person and he just needs to be careful. He doesn’t know what to think and he is shocked.
When Peter gets to Victoria’s house he asks to talk before going into the house and that is where it all went downhill. Victoria is stunned by the fact that Peter even tried believing his ex. She storms off and is so frustrated. She comes back and they talk it over and both apologize. In the end he still doesn’t meet her parents and everyone is expecting Victoria to be sent home…. But nope, Peter keeps it interesting and keeps Victoria. Stay tuned for next weeks summary.
Last week on the bachelor…. Last week was hometown week and it was full of drama to say the least. Peter started off with Hannah and Madison which seem like the two front runners. Their visits go quite well but Madison has something that she needs to tell Peter and she can’t work up the courage to tell him yet. Hannah’s visit goes just about perfect. Peter really likes her parents and he tells her dad that he is falling in love with her.
Kelsey’s date comes and it goes quite well too. I was surprised at how well it went. Peter really liked her parents and her parents really seemed to like him as well. They made sure to tell him how evident it is that she is in love with him and he better not break her heart… (Spoiler alert) he sends her home later in the episode. It seemed to have caught everyone off guard cause everyone was expecting him to send Victoria home after their awful experience.
On Peter and Victoria’s hometown date it started off really well. They seemed super happy but with their history of always finding a way to argue you knew something was bound to happen. One of Peter’s ex girlfriends came up to Peter and warned him about Victoria. How she isn’t a good person and he just needs to be careful. He doesn’t know what to think and he is shocked.
When Peter gets to Victoria’s house he asks to talk before going into the house and that is where it all went downhill. Victoria is stunned by the fact that Peter even tried believing his ex. She storms off and is so frustrated. She comes back and they talk it over and both apologize. In the end he still doesn’t meet her parents and everyone is expecting Victoria to be sent home…. But nope, Peter keeps it interesting and keeps Victoria. Stay tuned for next weeks summary.
Thursday, February 20, 2020
Types of Grandparents
By: Katie Stirling
There are many different types of grandparents. Some spoil their grandchildren while others aren’t the nicest. It depends how much time you spend with them and how involved they are in your life. Many people aren’t in contact with some of their grandparents, while others see them daily.
The first type is the nice grandparent. These are typically the grandmas. These grandmas spoil their grandchildren every time they see them. They buy them things, big or small, they give them money for food, shopping, or whatever they want to spend it on. They always make them food and sent it home with them every time they come over. They try to make you as happy as you can be.
The next type is the mean grandparent. These could be the grandpas, but also grandmas too. These grandparents still love their grandkids, but don’t show it very well. They might criticize them sometimes, but don’t realize it. These grandparents don’t buy you things very often and don’t give you food or anything.
Another type of grandparent is the one that always tries to teach you a lesson. They think they know what you’re thinking all the time, and even if they’re right it can get annoying. They pick out your mistakes and try to tell you how to fix them. They love you a lot, but get a little caught up in solving your problems.
These are just some types of grandparents. Of course, there are many more. Each grandparent is different and can be many types.
There are many different types of grandparents. Some spoil their grandchildren while others aren’t the nicest. It depends how much time you spend with them and how involved they are in your life. Many people aren’t in contact with some of their grandparents, while others see them daily.
The first type is the nice grandparent. These are typically the grandmas. These grandmas spoil their grandchildren every time they see them. They buy them things, big or small, they give them money for food, shopping, or whatever they want to spend it on. They always make them food and sent it home with them every time they come over. They try to make you as happy as you can be.
The next type is the mean grandparent. These could be the grandpas, but also grandmas too. These grandparents still love their grandkids, but don’t show it very well. They might criticize them sometimes, but don’t realize it. These grandparents don’t buy you things very often and don’t give you food or anything.
Another type of grandparent is the one that always tries to teach you a lesson. They think they know what you’re thinking all the time, and even if they’re right it can get annoying. They pick out your mistakes and try to tell you how to fix them. They love you a lot, but get a little caught up in solving your problems.
These are just some types of grandparents. Of course, there are many more. Each grandparent is different and can be many types.
2020 NFL Draft Prospects: Wide Receivers
By: Cole Negen
I’m taking at players for each position who will be selected in the upcoming NFL draft. Today, I am taking a look at wide receivers
Ceedee Lamb - Oklahoma
Lamb is probably the best WR I’ve seen come out of college, for sure in the last 5 years, and maybe last 10 years. He has no obvious weak spots in his game, outside of his tall, skinny body frame. He is maybe the best WR I’ve seen after the catch since Sammy Watkins. He is super nimble, able to wiggle his way out of a lot of tackles, and more often than not turns minimal plays into big plays pretty effortlessly. His route running is very good, he has great hands, he can make contested catches, and he is an absolute nightmare of a deep threat. He is a freak of nature with insane leaping ability and top end speed. There really isn’t much to say about him, and the only thing that is going to keep him from being selected is going to be the stigma of drafting a WR with an early draft pick.
Jerry Jeudy - Alabama
So I have Jeudy below Lamb here, but it is completely personal preference. In fact, most people would put Jeudy above Lamb. All of what I said above on how Lamb is one of the best WRs I’ve seen enter the draft in a while, applies in the exact same fashion for Jeudy. Jeudy trumps Lamb in the speed and route running departments. While Lamb’s speed and route running are very good, no doubt, Jeudy’s ability in both categories is something I’ve never seen before. I’ve never seen a receiver that is A) fast enough to pull away from literally everyone on the field, and B) still has the ability to stop and start his route in the blink of an eye. His feet are a wonder to look at. There is no way that you will be able to guard him straight up at the next level, you are going to have to rotate a safety to his side. He, like Lamb, is also very tall, and very skinny. Unlike Lamb, however, I think this affects Jeudy’s game more. He doesn’t often make tough catches with a defender on him, and he isn’t much of a red-zone threat with the ball. But, that is absolutely no reason to take away from his hands, which are great, and his athletic ability. He should go right around where Lamb is taken.
Types of Studiers (Part 2)
By: Grace Litterer
As promised, I am going to write a sequel, or perhaps a continuation, of last week’s blog. Now, I addressed the important, well-known studiers last week, but there are some high school classics that have yet to be addressed. Yes, we have to pay homage to two more studiers. However, we have to remember the Distracted Ditz and the Quizlet god. They are important.
The first is, of course, the We-Have-A-Test-Today studier. Now, you have probably already figured out what I am talking about, but I need to clarify. Every class has this person. I’ve been this person in a few classes. This student, of course, forgets that there is a test. They spend the night in blissful ignorance. They have no idea that their grade is about to tank. Then, in the morning, when they realize that there is a test, what a feeling! The plummeting feeling of realizing you are going to spend the next 45 minutes in complete and total confusion can’t be replicated by anything. What a horrible feeling. This person spends whatever amount of time they have left cramming. Studying 1 minute for a chapter test you have been going over for weeks doesn’t really cut it.
The other classic studier is the Couldn’t-Care-Less studier. I want to clarify. This person doesn’t actually study. No, they completely ignore the fact that the next day is anything but a normal class period. This is the person that has given up on the test, given up on the class, and given up on school. Frankly, this person couldn’t care less. I often experience these people in math classes. Yes, this person knows there is a math test over trig functions, but they just don’t care. Instead of trying to make up for what they didn’t learn, or weren’t taught, in class, they just don’t try. (Honestly, who hasn’t been there though?)
In conclusion to this lovely two-part series, I would like to say that studiers come in all shapes, sizes, and levels of procrastination. Yes, these people are an important part of what makes the school system work. And next time you have a test, I urge you to study, instead of laying on your textbook and trying to learn through osmosis as I am sure some We-Have-A-Test-Today studiers have done in the past.
As promised, I am going to write a sequel, or perhaps a continuation, of last week’s blog. Now, I addressed the important, well-known studiers last week, but there are some high school classics that have yet to be addressed. Yes, we have to pay homage to two more studiers. However, we have to remember the Distracted Ditz and the Quizlet god. They are important.
The first is, of course, the We-Have-A-Test-Today studier. Now, you have probably already figured out what I am talking about, but I need to clarify. Every class has this person. I’ve been this person in a few classes. This student, of course, forgets that there is a test. They spend the night in blissful ignorance. They have no idea that their grade is about to tank. Then, in the morning, when they realize that there is a test, what a feeling! The plummeting feeling of realizing you are going to spend the next 45 minutes in complete and total confusion can’t be replicated by anything. What a horrible feeling. This person spends whatever amount of time they have left cramming. Studying 1 minute for a chapter test you have been going over for weeks doesn’t really cut it.
The other classic studier is the Couldn’t-Care-Less studier. I want to clarify. This person doesn’t actually study. No, they completely ignore the fact that the next day is anything but a normal class period. This is the person that has given up on the test, given up on the class, and given up on school. Frankly, this person couldn’t care less. I often experience these people in math classes. Yes, this person knows there is a math test over trig functions, but they just don’t care. Instead of trying to make up for what they didn’t learn, or weren’t taught, in class, they just don’t try. (Honestly, who hasn’t been there though?)
In conclusion to this lovely two-part series, I would like to say that studiers come in all shapes, sizes, and levels of procrastination. Yes, these people are an important part of what makes the school system work. And next time you have a test, I urge you to study, instead of laying on your textbook and trying to learn through osmosis as I am sure some We-Have-A-Test-Today studiers have done in the past.
Summer
By: Janet Borchardt
I walked out my back door, and instantly was hit by the humidity of the summer morning. The air was thick with smells of freshly mowed grass, blooming flowers, and morning dew. The low sun streamed across our yard, rising slowly through the thick haze of morning air. I walked through the grass, towards our prairie. My sandaled feet got pretty wet and grassy, as I patiently made my way through our lawn.
In my hand, there was a clear, washed out old peanut butter jar with a monarch butterfly, delicately designed with an intriguing mix of orange, black, and white, weakly climbing around and fluttering about inside. It had just become a butterfly. For as long as I can remember, my sister, Rachel, and I found little yellow, black, and white striped monarch caterpillars and raised them in a bright and safe sitting room in our house. To feed them, we placed butterfly milkweed leaves, oozing at breaks in the stem with nature’s white sticky milk, inside the jars with holes punched in the lid, so they can breathe. My dad has worked all his life doing all he can to keep pollinators, including the monarch butterfly, alive, because they truly fuel everything in this world. Rachel and I spent our young summers looking all over the expanse of our prairie for these little caterpillars, just so we could do our part to help out the Earth. This was belief I grew up hearing Dad talk about and spend his weeks working to help, and that I would develop too.
I walked the long, mowed grassy trails until I found a green, tall milkweed plant, its’ leaves cupped and shaped like an eye, to release the butterfly on. Before I opened the jar, I started to worry about whether or not this small creature would survive, or whether it would end up victim to a car or bird, like I had seen so many end up as before. I decided to move past this fear, because releasing it can make a small, but meaningful impact on the environment. I carefully unscrewed the yellow lid of the jar, and tilted it slightly until the monarch made its way outside onto the leaves of the milkweed plant. As I watched it crawl up the stem, I looked out to see hundreds of butterflies, bees, and dragonflies flying above the prairie grasses. The butterfly was no longer one, for it had joined this amazing population of all the creatures that sustain our plants and Earth. I had helped it through its weak and vulnerable stages in life, so it could make it to this important stage of its existence. The wind rustled through the golden and green native grasses and bright flowers, in their yellows and purples. Then and there, I gained an appreciation for how beautiful and special this place we call home is. The Earth has given us so much and I took on the belief that I would do everything in my power to fight to keep the Earth as remarkable as it was through my eyes at this moment.
I walked out my back door, and instantly was hit by the humidity of the summer morning. The air was thick with smells of freshly mowed grass, blooming flowers, and morning dew. The low sun streamed across our yard, rising slowly through the thick haze of morning air. I walked through the grass, towards our prairie. My sandaled feet got pretty wet and grassy, as I patiently made my way through our lawn.
In my hand, there was a clear, washed out old peanut butter jar with a monarch butterfly, delicately designed with an intriguing mix of orange, black, and white, weakly climbing around and fluttering about inside. It had just become a butterfly. For as long as I can remember, my sister, Rachel, and I found little yellow, black, and white striped monarch caterpillars and raised them in a bright and safe sitting room in our house. To feed them, we placed butterfly milkweed leaves, oozing at breaks in the stem with nature’s white sticky milk, inside the jars with holes punched in the lid, so they can breathe. My dad has worked all his life doing all he can to keep pollinators, including the monarch butterfly, alive, because they truly fuel everything in this world. Rachel and I spent our young summers looking all over the expanse of our prairie for these little caterpillars, just so we could do our part to help out the Earth. This was belief I grew up hearing Dad talk about and spend his weeks working to help, and that I would develop too.
I walked the long, mowed grassy trails until I found a green, tall milkweed plant, its’ leaves cupped and shaped like an eye, to release the butterfly on. Before I opened the jar, I started to worry about whether or not this small creature would survive, or whether it would end up victim to a car or bird, like I had seen so many end up as before. I decided to move past this fear, because releasing it can make a small, but meaningful impact on the environment. I carefully unscrewed the yellow lid of the jar, and tilted it slightly until the monarch made its way outside onto the leaves of the milkweed plant. As I watched it crawl up the stem, I looked out to see hundreds of butterflies, bees, and dragonflies flying above the prairie grasses. The butterfly was no longer one, for it had joined this amazing population of all the creatures that sustain our plants and Earth. I had helped it through its weak and vulnerable stages in life, so it could make it to this important stage of its existence. The wind rustled through the golden and green native grasses and bright flowers, in their yellows and purples. Then and there, I gained an appreciation for how beautiful and special this place we call home is. The Earth has given us so much and I took on the belief that I would do everything in my power to fight to keep the Earth as remarkable as it was through my eyes at this moment.
CDC
By: Ethan Schmidt
The CDC is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a new coronavirus which was first detected in China. Chinese health officials have reported tens of thousands of cases in China. Some person to person spread of the virus has been detected outside of China. The US reported the first person to person spread with the virus on January 30, 2020. The International Health Regulations Emergency Committee of the World Health Organization declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern. The coronaviruses are a large family or viruses that are commonly found in many species of animals like camels, cattle, cats, and bats. It is rare for the coronavirus to infect people.
It has been detected in the US from travelers. But at this time it is not currently spreading in the US. The US has taken steps related to travel in response to the growing public health threat. It has suspended entry of foreign nationals who have visited China within the past two weeks.
The CDC recommends getting a flu vaccine and taking everyday preventative actions to help stop the spread of germs. If you are a healthcare provider, be on the lookout for people who have recently from China and have respiratory systems. If you are a healthcare provider caring for a Coronavirus patient, take care of yourself and follow recommended procedures.
The CDC is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a new coronavirus which was first detected in China. Chinese health officials have reported tens of thousands of cases in China. Some person to person spread of the virus has been detected outside of China. The US reported the first person to person spread with the virus on January 30, 2020. The International Health Regulations Emergency Committee of the World Health Organization declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern. The coronaviruses are a large family or viruses that are commonly found in many species of animals like camels, cattle, cats, and bats. It is rare for the coronavirus to infect people.
It has been detected in the US from travelers. But at this time it is not currently spreading in the US. The US has taken steps related to travel in response to the growing public health threat. It has suspended entry of foreign nationals who have visited China within the past two weeks.
The CDC recommends getting a flu vaccine and taking everyday preventative actions to help stop the spread of germs. If you are a healthcare provider, be on the lookout for people who have recently from China and have respiratory systems. If you are a healthcare provider caring for a Coronavirus patient, take care of yourself and follow recommended procedures.
Friday, February 14, 2020
Why Should We Recycle?
By: Ainsley Lovrien
Recycling is the process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects. Recycling is easy to do and really makes a difference to the environment.
Recycling conserves resources. When we recycle, materials are converted into new products, reducing the need to consume natural resources which help to protect natural habitats for the future. Extracting these raw materials from the earth’s core releases harmful gases into the atmosphere. Recycling scrap metal and reusing plastic, for example, reduces the need for natural resources.
Recycling saves energy. Using recycled materials in the manufacturing process uses less energy than that is required for producing new products from raw materials. Recycling helps protect the environment.
Recycling reduces the need for refining, processing, and extracting raw materials that creates air and water pollution. Along with saving energy, recycling also reduces greenhouse gas emissions, which helps to prevent climate change.
Recycling reduces landfill. When we recycle, recyclable materials are reprocessed into new products, and as a result the amount of garbage sent to landfill sites decreases which reduces emissions of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.
Recycling is the process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects. Recycling is easy to do and really makes a difference to the environment.
Recycling conserves resources. When we recycle, materials are converted into new products, reducing the need to consume natural resources which help to protect natural habitats for the future. Extracting these raw materials from the earth’s core releases harmful gases into the atmosphere. Recycling scrap metal and reusing plastic, for example, reduces the need for natural resources.
Recycling saves energy. Using recycled materials in the manufacturing process uses less energy than that is required for producing new products from raw materials. Recycling helps protect the environment.
Recycling reduces the need for refining, processing, and extracting raw materials that creates air and water pollution. Along with saving energy, recycling also reduces greenhouse gas emissions, which helps to prevent climate change.
Recycling reduces landfill. When we recycle, recyclable materials are reprocessed into new products, and as a result the amount of garbage sent to landfill sites decreases which reduces emissions of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.
Pep Rally
By: Katie Stirling
During the school year, we have many pep rallies. These are held for different occasions. Whether it’s homecoming, Veteran’s Day, a holiday, or a special occasion, many different things happen throughout the school year.
We recently had a pep rally for the winter sports. This was held on February 10th. Everyone got together in the gym during tribe time. We recognized those who dedicate their time to a certain sport during the winter season. These sports included wrestling, girls’ basketball, and boys’ basketball.
The publications class is in charge of these pep rallies. We had a fun introduction and threw out glow sticks to the students. The cheerleaders then did a cheer to involve the crowd a little bit. We moved to wrestling after this.
The wrestlers came down and were introduced. Cole told a little about their season and their upcoming dates. After this, they had a competition and split into teams. Each person had to spin and make a layup at the opposite hoop. They then showed the hype video made by publication students. We moved on to girls’ basketball.
The team was introduced by Chloe and Emma. They talked about our season so far and our upcoming dates. We showed our hype video after this and moved on to the boys’ team.
They were introduced by Cooper and he talked a little about how the season is going. They also had a hype video.
After this was done, the boys and girls basketball teams came down to play a game. They had to be the fastest to pop balloons with each others’ help in order to win.
These pep rallies help students stay involved in our extracurricular activities. We let them know what goes on in our seasons and dates of events in the future.
During the school year, we have many pep rallies. These are held for different occasions. Whether it’s homecoming, Veteran’s Day, a holiday, or a special occasion, many different things happen throughout the school year.
We recently had a pep rally for the winter sports. This was held on February 10th. Everyone got together in the gym during tribe time. We recognized those who dedicate their time to a certain sport during the winter season. These sports included wrestling, girls’ basketball, and boys’ basketball.
The publications class is in charge of these pep rallies. We had a fun introduction and threw out glow sticks to the students. The cheerleaders then did a cheer to involve the crowd a little bit. We moved to wrestling after this.
The wrestlers came down and were introduced. Cole told a little about their season and their upcoming dates. After this, they had a competition and split into teams. Each person had to spin and make a layup at the opposite hoop. They then showed the hype video made by publication students. We moved on to girls’ basketball.
The team was introduced by Chloe and Emma. They talked about our season so far and our upcoming dates. We showed our hype video after this and moved on to the boys’ team.
They were introduced by Cooper and he talked a little about how the season is going. They also had a hype video.
After this was done, the boys and girls basketball teams came down to play a game. They had to be the fastest to pop balloons with each others’ help in order to win.
These pep rallies help students stay involved in our extracurricular activities. We let them know what goes on in our seasons and dates of events in the future.
2020 NFL Draft Prospects: Running Backs
By: Cole Negen
Today, I am continuing my look at this year’s upcoming NFL draft prospects. The next position I will talk about, is running backs.
Jonathon Taylor - Wisconsin
For sure, there is not a more productive RB in the draft. It is easy to see why. Taylor is constantly gaining positive yards. He has tremendous vision, and is able to squeak his way in and out of tight spaces. His hips are extremely powerful and slippery. I don't remember one guy bringing him down single-handedly around his legs. His receiving ability was also a focal point for Wisconsin this last year. The only problem people have with Taylor, is that his game is maybe too old-school. Taylor isn’t incredibly fast or elusive, so he really isn’t much of a big play threat. While some guys seem to take handoffs with the endzone in mind, Taylor takes handoffs with first downs in mind. Often times, he will opt to plunge his way for 3 or 4 yards up the middle instead of bouncing it outside for a potential 20+ yard gain. It is this mentality that makes him hard to stop. He is hard to wrap up, and he uses that to methodically slice his way through a defense. Because of this running style, he isn’t really an injury risk. So what’s the problem? Offenses today look for more versatility in their RBs. Guys like Christian McCaffery, Alvin Kamara, and Saquon Barkley are more favorable to NFL teams, as big play RBs are favored more over RBs who can control the pace of the game and take over over the course of the game. Taylor needs to go to an offense that wants to establish the running game first. If he is used in a shotgun offense that is built around speed and versatility, Taylor will get lost in the shuffle. An old-school, slow, methodical system is what he needs to be a superstar.
D’Andre Swift
Swift is a complete RB. His super strong between the tackles, he is incredibly bouncy in open field, and he catches the ball well. He fits into any scheme you want him to, and can do it at a high level. He is a super slippery runner, usually going for a few yards after contact, and in open space he is a constant threat to take it to the house. My major concern with Swift is that he hasn’t really ever been in the elite tier of RBs at the college level. He always seemed to cap off just below the best-of-the-best level. Whether it’s because he had to give up carries to a handcuff back, or that he really isn’t suited to be the focal point of an offense. Perhaps inconsistency is something that he will battle his whole career? I guess we’ll see. I don’t have any doubt, however, that he will be great in the NFL.
JK Dobbins - Ohio St
Dobbins, in my opinion, is being slept on too much. In terms of production, he vastly outdoes Swift. He is also much more of a big play threat than Taylor. Dobbins is a downhill bruiser with shiftiness to spare. He is a nice receiver of the football and a more than willing pass protector. The big drawback for Dobbins is the athletic potential. As it stands, Dobbins is close to, if not a finished product. His attributes as a runner are good, even great in some areas, but I wouldn’t anticipate Dobbins getting a whole lot better as he adjusts to NFL competition, unlike guys like Taylor and Swift who will only continue to improve their skill set as they get to the next level. Despite this, it still isn’t much of an issue, because as it stands, Dobbins would immediately be one of the best RBs in the league. Ideally, he’ll go to an already developed team where he can get a lot of carries and help push that team over the edge and be a contender.
Eno Benjamin - Arizona State
Benjamin is another RB who I believe is being slept on too much. In my opinion, people are ranking Benjamin lower than he should because of the dropoff in production. In 2018, Benjamin looked like a bouncy all-purpose back with the balance to run between the tackles consistently. In 2019, he had a dip off in production, making him look more like a high tier scat-back at best. I believe that the 2018 version of Benjamin is the one we will see more going forward. He was stuck with a much younger team, with a much younger QB. Add in the fact that teams were already keying in on him because of his successful 2018 season, and the drop in production begins to become a little more justified. Going forward, I think Benjamin is going to be a real star in the NFL. He has the strength and moxy to run in between the tackles. He also has no problem being in a spread formation and working in space. Any way you want it, Benjamin can do it. It is going to be interesting to see what his weight is at the combine, as I believe this could be one of the more important factors in Benjamins sustainability as a bellcow back. I’d love to see him weigh in at around 210, but more than likely he will weigh in around 205. I’d like to see him add weight so he can continue to run in between the tackles at the next level.
AJ Dillon - Boston College
Now, a lot of people will disagree with this placement. Personally, however, I don’t see why. Dillon is a super productive back with balance, size, and vision. A lot of people look at his size and immediately limit him to being a goal line back. I can partially see why. Dillon is what he is. He is a 6’1” RB who will weigh in around 250 at the combine. He doesn’t really have much shake to him, he isn’t a big play threat, and he isn’t a receiving threat. What he is is a straight ahead bowling ball. Again, because of those factors, people minimize Dillon’s potential. But the dude was a star at Boston College. He’s big, but that doesn’t make him unathletic, like some other RBs his size. The dude has incredibly slippery hips, and tackling him straight on is a nightmare. It literally takes about 2 or 3 guys to bring this guy down. Like Taylor, if you wanna spread the ball out, and be a team that is defined by QB play, then Dillon isn’t for you. But, I think Derrick Henry has proven that there is still a place in the league for teams who want to have a modern approach to old-school power run football. I really hope someone gives Dillon a chance.
Zach Moss - Utah
Moss is a fun watch for someone like me, who loves seeing power run football, but doesn’t like people who try to live in the past. Moss is another big boy running back, with balance, vision, and power. He is a consistent runner of the ball, usually always getting positive yards. He also has a knack for breaking off big runs thanks to his vision and commitment to breaking tackles. He is definitely not very elusive. Cut backs take a longer time for Moss than they do for other people. But, that doesn’t mean he doesn’t try. The dude is a gamer. He doesn’t care what he needs to do, he is going to get yards. I love watching this guy play, and there is no doubt he can be a great RB in the NFL. I don’t know if he will ever be an elite RB, but for sure he can be an upper level RB.
Cam Akers - Florida State
have mixed feelings about Cam Akers. On one hand, I see him as an incredibly talented RB who can run in between tackles while simultaneously having pretty good elusiveness and tremendous speed. Then there is the part of me that wonders why someone as talented as him wasn’t any better than what he turned out to be. Don’t get me wrong, the dude is a consistently good RB. He’s produced two 1,000 yard seasons, and has pretty consistently ripped off highlight worthy TD runs. The thing is, why isn’t a guy as talented as he is producing at the highest level? There isn’t really limitation to his game, so whay gives? Perhaps it is the lack of great talent and production he had around him. Perhaps he wasn’t given enough of an opportunity to fully dominate the way he potentially could. Or maybe he just isn’t cut out to be a #1 RB in the NFL. I am rooting for this kid to take the next step, because he will be in the league for a long time if he can.
Today, I am continuing my look at this year’s upcoming NFL draft prospects. The next position I will talk about, is running backs.
Jonathon Taylor - Wisconsin
For sure, there is not a more productive RB in the draft. It is easy to see why. Taylor is constantly gaining positive yards. He has tremendous vision, and is able to squeak his way in and out of tight spaces. His hips are extremely powerful and slippery. I don't remember one guy bringing him down single-handedly around his legs. His receiving ability was also a focal point for Wisconsin this last year. The only problem people have with Taylor, is that his game is maybe too old-school. Taylor isn’t incredibly fast or elusive, so he really isn’t much of a big play threat. While some guys seem to take handoffs with the endzone in mind, Taylor takes handoffs with first downs in mind. Often times, he will opt to plunge his way for 3 or 4 yards up the middle instead of bouncing it outside for a potential 20+ yard gain. It is this mentality that makes him hard to stop. He is hard to wrap up, and he uses that to methodically slice his way through a defense. Because of this running style, he isn’t really an injury risk. So what’s the problem? Offenses today look for more versatility in their RBs. Guys like Christian McCaffery, Alvin Kamara, and Saquon Barkley are more favorable to NFL teams, as big play RBs are favored more over RBs who can control the pace of the game and take over over the course of the game. Taylor needs to go to an offense that wants to establish the running game first. If he is used in a shotgun offense that is built around speed and versatility, Taylor will get lost in the shuffle. An old-school, slow, methodical system is what he needs to be a superstar.
D’Andre Swift
Swift is a complete RB. His super strong between the tackles, he is incredibly bouncy in open field, and he catches the ball well. He fits into any scheme you want him to, and can do it at a high level. He is a super slippery runner, usually going for a few yards after contact, and in open space he is a constant threat to take it to the house. My major concern with Swift is that he hasn’t really ever been in the elite tier of RBs at the college level. He always seemed to cap off just below the best-of-the-best level. Whether it’s because he had to give up carries to a handcuff back, or that he really isn’t suited to be the focal point of an offense. Perhaps inconsistency is something that he will battle his whole career? I guess we’ll see. I don’t have any doubt, however, that he will be great in the NFL.
JK Dobbins - Ohio St
Dobbins, in my opinion, is being slept on too much. In terms of production, he vastly outdoes Swift. He is also much more of a big play threat than Taylor. Dobbins is a downhill bruiser with shiftiness to spare. He is a nice receiver of the football and a more than willing pass protector. The big drawback for Dobbins is the athletic potential. As it stands, Dobbins is close to, if not a finished product. His attributes as a runner are good, even great in some areas, but I wouldn’t anticipate Dobbins getting a whole lot better as he adjusts to NFL competition, unlike guys like Taylor and Swift who will only continue to improve their skill set as they get to the next level. Despite this, it still isn’t much of an issue, because as it stands, Dobbins would immediately be one of the best RBs in the league. Ideally, he’ll go to an already developed team where he can get a lot of carries and help push that team over the edge and be a contender.
Eno Benjamin - Arizona State
Benjamin is another RB who I believe is being slept on too much. In my opinion, people are ranking Benjamin lower than he should because of the dropoff in production. In 2018, Benjamin looked like a bouncy all-purpose back with the balance to run between the tackles consistently. In 2019, he had a dip off in production, making him look more like a high tier scat-back at best. I believe that the 2018 version of Benjamin is the one we will see more going forward. He was stuck with a much younger team, with a much younger QB. Add in the fact that teams were already keying in on him because of his successful 2018 season, and the drop in production begins to become a little more justified. Going forward, I think Benjamin is going to be a real star in the NFL. He has the strength and moxy to run in between the tackles. He also has no problem being in a spread formation and working in space. Any way you want it, Benjamin can do it. It is going to be interesting to see what his weight is at the combine, as I believe this could be one of the more important factors in Benjamins sustainability as a bellcow back. I’d love to see him weigh in at around 210, but more than likely he will weigh in around 205. I’d like to see him add weight so he can continue to run in between the tackles at the next level.
AJ Dillon - Boston College
Now, a lot of people will disagree with this placement. Personally, however, I don’t see why. Dillon is a super productive back with balance, size, and vision. A lot of people look at his size and immediately limit him to being a goal line back. I can partially see why. Dillon is what he is. He is a 6’1” RB who will weigh in around 250 at the combine. He doesn’t really have much shake to him, he isn’t a big play threat, and he isn’t a receiving threat. What he is is a straight ahead bowling ball. Again, because of those factors, people minimize Dillon’s potential. But the dude was a star at Boston College. He’s big, but that doesn’t make him unathletic, like some other RBs his size. The dude has incredibly slippery hips, and tackling him straight on is a nightmare. It literally takes about 2 or 3 guys to bring this guy down. Like Taylor, if you wanna spread the ball out, and be a team that is defined by QB play, then Dillon isn’t for you. But, I think Derrick Henry has proven that there is still a place in the league for teams who want to have a modern approach to old-school power run football. I really hope someone gives Dillon a chance.
Zach Moss - Utah
Moss is a fun watch for someone like me, who loves seeing power run football, but doesn’t like people who try to live in the past. Moss is another big boy running back, with balance, vision, and power. He is a consistent runner of the ball, usually always getting positive yards. He also has a knack for breaking off big runs thanks to his vision and commitment to breaking tackles. He is definitely not very elusive. Cut backs take a longer time for Moss than they do for other people. But, that doesn’t mean he doesn’t try. The dude is a gamer. He doesn’t care what he needs to do, he is going to get yards. I love watching this guy play, and there is no doubt he can be a great RB in the NFL. I don’t know if he will ever be an elite RB, but for sure he can be an upper level RB.
Cam Akers - Florida State
have mixed feelings about Cam Akers. On one hand, I see him as an incredibly talented RB who can run in between tackles while simultaneously having pretty good elusiveness and tremendous speed. Then there is the part of me that wonders why someone as talented as him wasn’t any better than what he turned out to be. Don’t get me wrong, the dude is a consistently good RB. He’s produced two 1,000 yard seasons, and has pretty consistently ripped off highlight worthy TD runs. The thing is, why isn’t a guy as talented as he is producing at the highest level? There isn’t really limitation to his game, so whay gives? Perhaps it is the lack of great talent and production he had around him. Perhaps he wasn’t given enough of an opportunity to fully dominate the way he potentially could. Or maybe he just isn’t cut out to be a #1 RB in the NFL. I am rooting for this kid to take the next step, because he will be in the league for a long time if he can.
Types of Studies
By: Grace Litterer
Well, instead of telling you about how I decided to stick with the whole school series yet again, I will be honest with you. I have a few tests coming up, but instead of actually studying for them, I am going to write this blog. Doesn’t it count that I am thinking about studying? Maybe that’ll help. Anyways, I am going to sum it all up to the fact that I draw from life. Just call me creative because I had the genius idea of telling you about my stress-induced page of complaining about studying. Anyways, I start with the types of studiers.
The first type is the Districtracted Ditz. This person is the person that is infamous for procrastinating. This person could be alone in a room with nothing but their study materials and still find some way to avoid actually studying for the test. When I say that Netflix has revolutionized procrastination attempts for Ditz’s around the world, I speak from experience. Yes, all the tests and textbooks are a little bit easier to ignore when you have Dwight Schrute talking in the background. All in all, who hasn’t been the Distracted Ditz at least once in their life? It’s almost a rite of passage to spend hours stressfully watching TV and thinking about how you have a lot to do. (I know my science textbook has put me in this position too many times.)
The next type is the Quizlet god. Not only does this person take the time to make a 200 term study set on Quizlet, but they share it with the entire class. The Quizlet god spends two hours making the study set and really only studies it for half an hour. Somehow, this person still does good on the tests. Quizlets gods have been improving class average since the start of computers in the classroom. Although a Quizlet is not hard to make, it’s even easier to share it with the rest of the class in hopes that you can teach yourselves and your class what the teacher didn’t or wouldn’t teach. Yes, this person is a very important person in every class. To all the Quizlet gods out there: keep being you. You make everyone’s lives better. You are absolutely appreciated. Keep making grade points higher and the world better.
Well, instead of telling you about how I decided to stick with the whole school series yet again, I will be honest with you. I have a few tests coming up, but instead of actually studying for them, I am going to write this blog. Doesn’t it count that I am thinking about studying? Maybe that’ll help. Anyways, I am going to sum it all up to the fact that I draw from life. Just call me creative because I had the genius idea of telling you about my stress-induced page of complaining about studying. Anyways, I start with the types of studiers.
The first type is the Districtracted Ditz. This person is the person that is infamous for procrastinating. This person could be alone in a room with nothing but their study materials and still find some way to avoid actually studying for the test. When I say that Netflix has revolutionized procrastination attempts for Ditz’s around the world, I speak from experience. Yes, all the tests and textbooks are a little bit easier to ignore when you have Dwight Schrute talking in the background. All in all, who hasn’t been the Distracted Ditz at least once in their life? It’s almost a rite of passage to spend hours stressfully watching TV and thinking about how you have a lot to do. (I know my science textbook has put me in this position too many times.)
The next type is the Quizlet god. Not only does this person take the time to make a 200 term study set on Quizlet, but they share it with the entire class. The Quizlet god spends two hours making the study set and really only studies it for half an hour. Somehow, this person still does good on the tests. Quizlets gods have been improving class average since the start of computers in the classroom. Although a Quizlet is not hard to make, it’s even easier to share it with the rest of the class in hopes that you can teach yourselves and your class what the teacher didn’t or wouldn’t teach. Yes, this person is a very important person in every class. To all the Quizlet gods out there: keep being you. You make everyone’s lives better. You are absolutely appreciated. Keep making grade points higher and the world better.
I’ve reached a page, but I have quite a bit more to say. I think maybe I will make this a two-part series. I have yet to even talk about the We-Have-A-Test-Today Students. Stay tuned for next week’s rendition of Types of Studiers.
Young Athletes
By: Janet Borchardt
There are many guidelines and recommendations made by experts as to how young athletes should be participating in athletics. The one that pertains most to this paper is that most say that specializing isn’t bad, as long as it isn’t started until the athlete has finished puberty, which is typically around 16 and during their high school career. It’s recommended that youth shouldn’t participate “In a single sport for more than eight months per year, in more hours of organized sports per week than their age, or in multiple leagues of the same sport at the same time” (McGuine, et al). These guidelines have been studied and proven by many to provide youth with a more positive athletic experience if followed.
Additionally, each age group of athletes has their own tweaks to these rules that they should be following. For those twelve and under, they should spend 80% of their active time playing rather than intensively focusing on a sport. From ages 13-15, there should be a 50/50 split between the athlete’s chosen sport and other sports. Once the athlete is 16, they are typically developed enough so that specialization won’t take the toll that it does on younger kids. However, they should still spend 20% of their training time on a different sport or casually playing. This information is vital for parents and coaches to know, however, it’s been found that only about 20% are aware of these guidelines.
There are many guidelines and recommendations made by experts as to how young athletes should be participating in athletics. The one that pertains most to this paper is that most say that specializing isn’t bad, as long as it isn’t started until the athlete has finished puberty, which is typically around 16 and during their high school career. It’s recommended that youth shouldn’t participate “In a single sport for more than eight months per year, in more hours of organized sports per week than their age, or in multiple leagues of the same sport at the same time” (McGuine, et al). These guidelines have been studied and proven by many to provide youth with a more positive athletic experience if followed.
Additionally, each age group of athletes has their own tweaks to these rules that they should be following. For those twelve and under, they should spend 80% of their active time playing rather than intensively focusing on a sport. From ages 13-15, there should be a 50/50 split between the athlete’s chosen sport and other sports. Once the athlete is 16, they are typically developed enough so that specialization won’t take the toll that it does on younger kids. However, they should still spend 20% of their training time on a different sport or casually playing. This information is vital for parents and coaches to know, however, it’s been found that only about 20% are aware of these guidelines.
Different Types of Therapy & Why They Are Important
By: Tess Lampe
The definition of therapy says that it is “treatment intended to relieve or heal a disorder; the treatment of mental or psychological disorders by psychological means.” Even though therapy is a great source for treating mental illness, those who don’t struggle from mental illness and are just going through some hardships also tend to go to therapy. Therapy, coming from the words “therapeuein” and “therapeia” meaning “minister treatment medically; healing” has become a very important part of many lives in today’s day, even though the word has been used since the 1950s.
People usually think of “normal” therapy and physical therapy, but there are many more specific types than that. Behavior therapy, for example, is a form of therapy that is focused on learning and understanding one’s normal and abnormal behaviors. Cognitive therapy focuses on what people think rather than what they do, aka emphasising thoughts over actions. Integrative/holistic therapy is where a therapist tailors or changes their approaches and treatment based on the needs of their client. Humanistic therapy focuses on one’s ability to make rational or logical decisions and develops one’s “maximum potential.”
Under humanistic therapy, there’s client-centered, gestalt, and existential therapy. Client-centered, similar to integrative, is when the treatment a therapist uses requires the client to actively involve themselves in it without the therapist being “non-directive and supportive.” Gestalt therapy essentially focuses on the significance of being in the present & accepting responsibility. Finally, existential therapy emphasizes self-determination, the search for meaning, and one’s free will. Psychotherapy basically encompasses all of these, being the discovery of one’s condition, their moods, feelings, thoughts, behaviors, etc.
This all holds such significance because therapy is a safe place for one to explore themselves and their mental state. It offers people a greater understanding of their emotions, feelings, etc. and allows them more confidence, which is why anybody and everybody possible should at the very least consider therapy as an option.
https://www.goodtherapy.org/benefits-of-therapy.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/psychotherapy/about/pac-20384616
https://study.com/academy/lesson/client-centered-therapy-by-rogers-techniques-definition-quiz.html
https://www.apa.org/topics/therapy/psychotherapy-approaches
The definition of therapy says that it is “treatment intended to relieve or heal a disorder; the treatment of mental or psychological disorders by psychological means.” Even though therapy is a great source for treating mental illness, those who don’t struggle from mental illness and are just going through some hardships also tend to go to therapy. Therapy, coming from the words “therapeuein” and “therapeia” meaning “minister treatment medically; healing” has become a very important part of many lives in today’s day, even though the word has been used since the 1950s.
People usually think of “normal” therapy and physical therapy, but there are many more specific types than that. Behavior therapy, for example, is a form of therapy that is focused on learning and understanding one’s normal and abnormal behaviors. Cognitive therapy focuses on what people think rather than what they do, aka emphasising thoughts over actions. Integrative/holistic therapy is where a therapist tailors or changes their approaches and treatment based on the needs of their client. Humanistic therapy focuses on one’s ability to make rational or logical decisions and develops one’s “maximum potential.”
Under humanistic therapy, there’s client-centered, gestalt, and existential therapy. Client-centered, similar to integrative, is when the treatment a therapist uses requires the client to actively involve themselves in it without the therapist being “non-directive and supportive.” Gestalt therapy essentially focuses on the significance of being in the present & accepting responsibility. Finally, existential therapy emphasizes self-determination, the search for meaning, and one’s free will. Psychotherapy basically encompasses all of these, being the discovery of one’s condition, their moods, feelings, thoughts, behaviors, etc.
This all holds such significance because therapy is a safe place for one to explore themselves and their mental state. It offers people a greater understanding of their emotions, feelings, etc. and allows them more confidence, which is why anybody and everybody possible should at the very least consider therapy as an option.
https://www.goodtherapy.org/benefits-of-therapy.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/psychotherapy/about/pac-20384616
https://study.com/academy/lesson/client-centered-therapy-by-rogers-techniques-definition-quiz.html
https://www.apa.org/topics/therapy/psychotherapy-approaches
Manufacturing Industry
By: Ethan Schmidt
The manufacturing industry has hundreds of thousands of unfilled positions. There is a shortage of labor that needs to be filled. At the height of the housing crisis from 2007 to 2009, employment in the skilled trades has decreased by 13%. The industry eventually rebounded 6% from 2010 to 2012. The demand was projected to increase drastically in the next 15 years as over 77 million baby boomers retire from the workforce. Workers between the age of 45 and 54 make up 23% of the workforce.
Of course, times have changed drastically since the 1950s when unskilled workers performed over half of all manufacturing jobs. This dropped to 15 % in 2005. While the percentage reflects an evolving economy, it doesn't show the more important issues at hand. A talent shortage survey conducted in 2009 revealed the nation’s most sought-after workers. The top three slots went into electricians, carpenters, and welders.
Many people can begin a rewarding career in the skilled trades in a fraction of the time it takes to earn a traditional degree from a four-year university. You don't have to go to college as long. You will have less debt to pay off and you can start working more earlier. The opportunity is ripe to take advantage of trade school programs. An estimate of 3 million jobs in the US remains vacant, including over a half-million in manufacturing.
The manufacturing industry has hundreds of thousands of unfilled positions. There is a shortage of labor that needs to be filled. At the height of the housing crisis from 2007 to 2009, employment in the skilled trades has decreased by 13%. The industry eventually rebounded 6% from 2010 to 2012. The demand was projected to increase drastically in the next 15 years as over 77 million baby boomers retire from the workforce. Workers between the age of 45 and 54 make up 23% of the workforce.
Of course, times have changed drastically since the 1950s when unskilled workers performed over half of all manufacturing jobs. This dropped to 15 % in 2005. While the percentage reflects an evolving economy, it doesn't show the more important issues at hand. A talent shortage survey conducted in 2009 revealed the nation’s most sought-after workers. The top three slots went into electricians, carpenters, and welders.
Many people can begin a rewarding career in the skilled trades in a fraction of the time it takes to earn a traditional degree from a four-year university. You don't have to go to college as long. You will have less debt to pay off and you can start working more earlier. The opportunity is ripe to take advantage of trade school programs. An estimate of 3 million jobs in the US remains vacant, including over a half-million in manufacturing.
Friday, February 7, 2020
Sports
By: Kelton Kluiter
The top 5 sports with the most fans are soccer, cricket, basketball, field hockey, and tennis. Soccer has the most fans in Europe, Africa, Asia, and America. People enjoy soccer because it is an action packed sport with lots of crazy plays. Soccer's most popular players are Christiano Rinaldo, and Lionel Messi.
The second most popular sport in the world is cricket. Cricket has the most fans in Asia, Australia and the UK. People like watching cricket because it is very suspenseful and challenging. Crickets most popular players are Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and MS Dohni.
Basketball has the most fans in the US, Canada, China, and the Philippines. People enjoy basketball because it is a very fast high paced game with a lot of scoring. Basketball’s most popular players are Lebron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and James Harden.
Field hockey is most popular in Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Field hockey is popular in many countries because it is cheap and you can play it wherever. Field hockey’s most popular players are Luciana Aymar and Jamie Dwyer.
Tennis is most popular in Europe, America, and Asia. Tennis is popular because it is an exhilarating, challenging sport. Tennis’s most popular athletes are Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Jokavic.
The top 5 sports with the most fans are soccer, cricket, basketball, field hockey, and tennis. Soccer has the most fans in Europe, Africa, Asia, and America. People enjoy soccer because it is an action packed sport with lots of crazy plays. Soccer's most popular players are Christiano Rinaldo, and Lionel Messi.
The second most popular sport in the world is cricket. Cricket has the most fans in Asia, Australia and the UK. People like watching cricket because it is very suspenseful and challenging. Crickets most popular players are Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and MS Dohni.
Basketball has the most fans in the US, Canada, China, and the Philippines. People enjoy basketball because it is a very fast high paced game with a lot of scoring. Basketball’s most popular players are Lebron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and James Harden.
Field hockey is most popular in Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Field hockey is popular in many countries because it is cheap and you can play it wherever. Field hockey’s most popular players are Luciana Aymar and Jamie Dwyer.
Tennis is most popular in Europe, America, and Asia. Tennis is popular because it is an exhilarating, challenging sport. Tennis’s most popular athletes are Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Jokavic.
Malaysia
By: Conner Freerks
In the 18th century, Great Britain made colonies on current day Malaysia. Malaysia became its own country in 1963. In this paper, I will be talking about the location and place, economy, culture, environment, and physical features of Malaysia.
Malaysia is located in the southeastern part of Asia. It is made up of two peninsulas and some small islands. Malaysia is mostly surrounded by water. Malaysia takes up a total of 329, 847 sq. km and are 68 in the world for total area. Malaysia is slightly larger than New Mexico and has a tropical climate. They have many natural resources like tin, petroleum, timber, copper, iron, natural gas, and bauxite. The population across the land is spread out very unevenly. They have to worry about major flooding and tropical storms.
The culture of Malaysia is very diverse. The common ethnicity is Bumiputera (60.2%). The most common religion is Muslim (61.3%). The official language of Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysia. The population of Malaysia is 31,809,660. There are about five different cultures combined into the Malaysian culture. The Chinese had some influence like they lead the people in the middle part of Malaysia to live a more consumer society.
In the 18th century, Great Britain made colonies on current day Malaysia. Malaysia became its own country in 1963. In this paper, I will be talking about the location and place, economy, culture, environment, and physical features of Malaysia.
Malaysia is located in the southeastern part of Asia. It is made up of two peninsulas and some small islands. Malaysia is mostly surrounded by water. Malaysia takes up a total of 329, 847 sq. km and are 68 in the world for total area. Malaysia is slightly larger than New Mexico and has a tropical climate. They have many natural resources like tin, petroleum, timber, copper, iron, natural gas, and bauxite. The population across the land is spread out very unevenly. They have to worry about major flooding and tropical storms.
The culture of Malaysia is very diverse. The common ethnicity is Bumiputera (60.2%). The most common religion is Muslim (61.3%). The official language of Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysia. The population of Malaysia is 31,809,660. There are about five different cultures combined into the Malaysian culture. The Chinese had some influence like they lead the people in the middle part of Malaysia to live a more consumer society.
Thursday, February 6, 2020
The Iowa Caucuses & Why They’re Important
By: Tess Lampe
The Iowa Democratic Caucuses that took place on February 3rd, 2020 have gotten much attention from the media. These caucuses are very significant, which is why many candidates visit our state so often during the election season. First, politics can be quite complex, especially around this time of year, so I’ll explain what a caucus is.
A caucus, similar to an election, is where political candidates are chosen for presidential elections which later leads to a certain candidate from each party being chosen as well. It is necessary for a candidate being voted on in a caucus to have at least 15% of the votes in a precinct, or district, to move on to the second and final voting. The final vote determines the amount of delegates, or elected representatives, a candidate will have. In simple terms, a caucus chooses a political party’s leaders and possible candidates for office.
The Iowa Caucuses are what start off the election season, which is why they are held with such significance. Many factors have gone into what has increased or decreased the amount of votes for a candidate in the Iowa Caucuses in the past, so it is never exactly sure what will or what will not ensure a win for a certain candidate. Because the Iowa Caucuses are the first step in gaining votes and victories in the season, winning for your political party could possibly make it an easier road ahead. The next main caucuses are in New Hampshire. Therefore, winning in Iowa can easily put you in the running for more votes elsewhere.
Many results of the Iowa Caucuses have not yet been published or released, but the results that are viewable now tell us the amount of delegates some candidates will receive. The top two Democratic candidates who will receive the most delegates include Pete Buttigieg and Bernie Sanders. Based on the amount of votes for each Democratic candidate, Pete Buttigieg has approximately a 95% chance of winning the Iowa Caucuses. Bernie Sanders, having a very close amount of votes to Pete Buttigieg, is close behind and leads in first & final votes.
The Iowa Democratic Caucuses have historically proven to be very important to the election season. This year’s caucuses, even though not all results are out yet, have also proven that there is a tight race between many Democratic candidates. As mentioned before, politics around this time can be confusing to the common people, so make sure to stay updated if you’re interested and vote when the time comes!
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/02/04/us/elections/results-iowa-caucus.html
https://www.thestreet.com/politics/what-is-a-caucus
https://www.cnn.com/2020/02/03/politics/why-iowa-caucuses-are-important/index.html
The Iowa Democratic Caucuses that took place on February 3rd, 2020 have gotten much attention from the media. These caucuses are very significant, which is why many candidates visit our state so often during the election season. First, politics can be quite complex, especially around this time of year, so I’ll explain what a caucus is.
A caucus, similar to an election, is where political candidates are chosen for presidential elections which later leads to a certain candidate from each party being chosen as well. It is necessary for a candidate being voted on in a caucus to have at least 15% of the votes in a precinct, or district, to move on to the second and final voting. The final vote determines the amount of delegates, or elected representatives, a candidate will have. In simple terms, a caucus chooses a political party’s leaders and possible candidates for office.
The Iowa Caucuses are what start off the election season, which is why they are held with such significance. Many factors have gone into what has increased or decreased the amount of votes for a candidate in the Iowa Caucuses in the past, so it is never exactly sure what will or what will not ensure a win for a certain candidate. Because the Iowa Caucuses are the first step in gaining votes and victories in the season, winning for your political party could possibly make it an easier road ahead. The next main caucuses are in New Hampshire. Therefore, winning in Iowa can easily put you in the running for more votes elsewhere.
Many results of the Iowa Caucuses have not yet been published or released, but the results that are viewable now tell us the amount of delegates some candidates will receive. The top two Democratic candidates who will receive the most delegates include Pete Buttigieg and Bernie Sanders. Based on the amount of votes for each Democratic candidate, Pete Buttigieg has approximately a 95% chance of winning the Iowa Caucuses. Bernie Sanders, having a very close amount of votes to Pete Buttigieg, is close behind and leads in first & final votes.
The Iowa Democratic Caucuses have historically proven to be very important to the election season. This year’s caucuses, even though not all results are out yet, have also proven that there is a tight race between many Democratic candidates. As mentioned before, politics around this time can be confusing to the common people, so make sure to stay updated if you’re interested and vote when the time comes!
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/02/04/us/elections/results-iowa-caucus.html
https://www.thestreet.com/politics/what-is-a-caucus
https://www.cnn.com/2020/02/03/politics/why-iowa-caucuses-are-important/index.html
Types of Reading Aloud
By: Brandi Garretson
Types of Reading Aloud
There comes a time in everyone’s high school career when they are asked to read aloud. It happens often enough that there are certain members of the class that distinguish themselves. This time is always made more fun by the fact that you can choose who you want to read. (We always called it popcorn.) Whether you are a bad reader, a good reader, or somewhere in between, you are inevitably called on to read.
The first is, of course, the Actor. This person is almost always involved in theater or spring play. They are dramatic. The person that comes to mind is the person that always insists on being either Romeo or Juliet. The Actor is intense. They aren’t just reading the play. They are living it, breathing it. The Actor is Romeo or Juliet. They are only capable of a dramatic rendition. You know, no matter what I say about the Actor, it wouldn’t be freshman-year English class without an argument about Romeo and Juliet and a cry from the Actor that the class is butchering the dialogue.
Next, is Tongue-Tied Timmy. Now, I have to say it. There is always that student that just cannot read out loud. It doesn’t matter if this person is the smartest person in the school. If they can’t read aloud, they can’t read aloud. There is no question. This person almost always happens to be the victim of a cruel popcorn reading joke. This person gets picked on when the class wants to slow the reading down to avoid homework. (Although it usually doesn’t work.)
This brings me to my final type of reader, the Bully. This person is the one who picks on not-so-great readers. This person picks on the terrible readers, the dramatic retellers, and even the kids that are good at reading. In retrospect, popcorn reading is never really a good time. It’s cruel to make students read aloud, especially when there is a Bully. However, it’s a rite of passage. Everyone’s got to get picked on by the Bully at least once. And to all the Bullies out there: please be patient. Everyone knows that Tongue-Tied Timmy is a bad reader. Even he knows, but there is no excuse to pick on someone who can’t help how they read out loud.
All in all, reading out loud is just an unfortunate time for everyone. (I was always an advocate for reading alone.) It’s unfortunate for the kid that dramatically “performs” the play, it’s unfortunate for those of us who are tongue-tied and can’t even talk during a normal conversation, and it’s unfortunate for the teacher, who has to put up with the class moving at a glacial pace. Next time, just tell your teacher to look up a free Audiobook. It really does save everyone.
Types of Reading Aloud
There comes a time in everyone’s high school career when they are asked to read aloud. It happens often enough that there are certain members of the class that distinguish themselves. This time is always made more fun by the fact that you can choose who you want to read. (We always called it popcorn.) Whether you are a bad reader, a good reader, or somewhere in between, you are inevitably called on to read.
The first is, of course, the Actor. This person is almost always involved in theater or spring play. They are dramatic. The person that comes to mind is the person that always insists on being either Romeo or Juliet. The Actor is intense. They aren’t just reading the play. They are living it, breathing it. The Actor is Romeo or Juliet. They are only capable of a dramatic rendition. You know, no matter what I say about the Actor, it wouldn’t be freshman-year English class without an argument about Romeo and Juliet and a cry from the Actor that the class is butchering the dialogue.
Next, is Tongue-Tied Timmy. Now, I have to say it. There is always that student that just cannot read out loud. It doesn’t matter if this person is the smartest person in the school. If they can’t read aloud, they can’t read aloud. There is no question. This person almost always happens to be the victim of a cruel popcorn reading joke. This person gets picked on when the class wants to slow the reading down to avoid homework. (Although it usually doesn’t work.)
This brings me to my final type of reader, the Bully. This person is the one who picks on not-so-great readers. This person picks on the terrible readers, the dramatic retellers, and even the kids that are good at reading. In retrospect, popcorn reading is never really a good time. It’s cruel to make students read aloud, especially when there is a Bully. However, it’s a rite of passage. Everyone’s got to get picked on by the Bully at least once. And to all the Bullies out there: please be patient. Everyone knows that Tongue-Tied Timmy is a bad reader. Even he knows, but there is no excuse to pick on someone who can’t help how they read out loud.
All in all, reading out loud is just an unfortunate time for everyone. (I was always an advocate for reading alone.) It’s unfortunate for the kid that dramatically “performs” the play, it’s unfortunate for those of us who are tongue-tied and can’t even talk during a normal conversation, and it’s unfortunate for the teacher, who has to put up with the class moving at a glacial pace. Next time, just tell your teacher to look up a free Audiobook. It really does save everyone.
Types of Math Teachers
By: Katie Stirling
There’s a different type of teacher for every classroom, especially in math classes. Some may run into all these types or just one. It affects how much you like math class and how well you know the material. Some teachers are better for certain students, while others are worse.
The first type is the involved. These math teachers have notes everyday on what needs to be learned that day. They assign homework almost everyday to make sure their students know the material. They are typically very organized and are good at getting grades in the grade book. Most students will learn the best from these teachers.
Another type is the non-involved teacher. They are about the opposite of the involved type. They give you the material and tell you what needs to be known. However, they don’t teach their students what needs to be learned. They expect them to learn it themselves. Sometimes they will show videos for the students to learn that way. They may assign homework once in a while, but rarely. They aren’t very organized and check up on their students the least amount as possible.
Students typically don’t learn very well with these teachers.
The third type is the in-between teacher. They are involved to an extent. They will sometimes show videos instead of teaching it. They may think the video does well at involving all of the material. They usually have teaching notes, but let the students work independently. They give homework everyday, but give time in class to get it done. Some students may prefer this while others will not.
These are just some of the math teachers you will run into. There are definitely more specific ones people may encounter.
There’s a different type of teacher for every classroom, especially in math classes. Some may run into all these types or just one. It affects how much you like math class and how well you know the material. Some teachers are better for certain students, while others are worse.
The first type is the involved. These math teachers have notes everyday on what needs to be learned that day. They assign homework almost everyday to make sure their students know the material. They are typically very organized and are good at getting grades in the grade book. Most students will learn the best from these teachers.
Another type is the non-involved teacher. They are about the opposite of the involved type. They give you the material and tell you what needs to be known. However, they don’t teach their students what needs to be learned. They expect them to learn it themselves. Sometimes they will show videos for the students to learn that way. They may assign homework once in a while, but rarely. They aren’t very organized and check up on their students the least amount as possible.
Students typically don’t learn very well with these teachers.
The third type is the in-between teacher. They are involved to an extent. They will sometimes show videos instead of teaching it. They may think the video does well at involving all of the material. They usually have teaching notes, but let the students work independently. They give homework everyday, but give time in class to get it done. Some students may prefer this while others will not.
These are just some of the math teachers you will run into. There are definitely more specific ones people may encounter.
2020 NFL Draft Prospects: Quarterbacks
By: Cole Negen
Now that the Super Bowl is over, the casual football fans will begin make way for football geeks such as myself. The NFL draft is in about 2 ½ months. Until then, I get to look at each player individually, and project where I see them ending up, and how good of an NFL prospect they will end up. I plan on taking a look at each position for this upcoming draft, starting with quarterbacks.
Joe Burrow
Starting at the top, Burrow is the clear favorite to go first overall. The Bengals are looking to move on at the QB position and Burrow is an Ohio native, it’s just too perfect a fit. There’s no doubt he’s the best QB in the draft. He is extremely accurate, as he set the NCAA record for completion percentage this last year. His arm strength is good, but not great. An ideal situation for Burrow would be a West Coast offense, where he can let his quick decision making and accuracy be the feature of his game. Unlike some West Coast QBs, however, who get stuck being a “game-manager”, Burrow has decent mobility and an ability to extend plays that really make him stand out in that department. He is like a more athletic Tom Brady, and he should be starting for Cincinnati on week 1.
Tua Tagovailoa
Another Hawaiian QB! Hopefully Tua is in for a much better NFL experience than Marcus Mariota is though. Tagovailoa is a slicer. He moves the ball down the field in big chunks, whether it’s with his feet, extending the play, or throwing the ball down the field. He makes really quick decisions, not usually spending a lot of time sitting in the pocket. His mechanics are very polished for someone with not very much experience. He has great accuracy. Very rarely do you see one of his receivers have to make a wild catch to make up for him being off the mark. His throwing ability doesn’t have a ton of upside. In fact, I don’t see how he can much more he can improve his game in that area. His arm doesn’t have a ton of juice, and I could see a really good defense frustrating him by making him throw the ball into spaces that good secondaries will eat him alive in. Nevertheless, Tua is a very good pick for a team looking to reestablish who they are.
Justin Herbert
Unlike the 2 above him, Herbert still has a little ways to go.
Now that the Super Bowl is over, the casual football fans will begin make way for football geeks such as myself. The NFL draft is in about 2 ½ months. Until then, I get to look at each player individually, and project where I see them ending up, and how good of an NFL prospect they will end up. I plan on taking a look at each position for this upcoming draft, starting with quarterbacks.
Joe Burrow
Starting at the top, Burrow is the clear favorite to go first overall. The Bengals are looking to move on at the QB position and Burrow is an Ohio native, it’s just too perfect a fit. There’s no doubt he’s the best QB in the draft. He is extremely accurate, as he set the NCAA record for completion percentage this last year. His arm strength is good, but not great. An ideal situation for Burrow would be a West Coast offense, where he can let his quick decision making and accuracy be the feature of his game. Unlike some West Coast QBs, however, who get stuck being a “game-manager”, Burrow has decent mobility and an ability to extend plays that really make him stand out in that department. He is like a more athletic Tom Brady, and he should be starting for Cincinnati on week 1.
Tua Tagovailoa
Another Hawaiian QB! Hopefully Tua is in for a much better NFL experience than Marcus Mariota is though. Tagovailoa is a slicer. He moves the ball down the field in big chunks, whether it’s with his feet, extending the play, or throwing the ball down the field. He makes really quick decisions, not usually spending a lot of time sitting in the pocket. His mechanics are very polished for someone with not very much experience. He has great accuracy. Very rarely do you see one of his receivers have to make a wild catch to make up for him being off the mark. His throwing ability doesn’t have a ton of upside. In fact, I don’t see how he can much more he can improve his game in that area. His arm doesn’t have a ton of juice, and I could see a really good defense frustrating him by making him throw the ball into spaces that good secondaries will eat him alive in. Nevertheless, Tua is a very good pick for a team looking to reestablish who they are.
Justin Herbert
Unlike the 2 above him, Herbert still has a little ways to go.
Athletics in High School
By: Ethan Schmidt
Athletics have been a big thing in high school for a long time now. Many get involved in high school sports just because they love playing the game, but there are other reasons other people play them. There are significant benefits of extracurricular activities. One is community representation. Students who participate in high school sports learn the benefit of representing their community.
Other reasons to play are fitness and improved athletics. Students who go out for athletics lower their weight and body mass. Students said that they are less likely to participate in unhealthy or risky behavior when they are playing sports. The Department or Education found that students who don't go out for sports in high school are 49% more likely to use drugs. A study found out that students who played sports tended to have a higher GPA than those who don't go out for sports.
Extracurricular activities improve your social relationships, leadership skills, and time management. Students who go out often create close relationships with others on the team. These relationships are beneficial to your mental, emotional, and physical health in your high school years. As you advance through the ranks of a high school team, you learn more leadership skills. You set examples and often provide guidance on and off the field. Practice and games take up a lot of player’s time. Athletes must learn time management skills to get their homework and stuff finished.
Athletics have been a big thing in high school for a long time now. Many get involved in high school sports just because they love playing the game, but there are other reasons other people play them. There are significant benefits of extracurricular activities. One is community representation. Students who participate in high school sports learn the benefit of representing their community.
Other reasons to play are fitness and improved athletics. Students who go out for athletics lower their weight and body mass. Students said that they are less likely to participate in unhealthy or risky behavior when they are playing sports. The Department or Education found that students who don't go out for sports in high school are 49% more likely to use drugs. A study found out that students who played sports tended to have a higher GPA than those who don't go out for sports.
Extracurricular activities improve your social relationships, leadership skills, and time management. Students who go out often create close relationships with others on the team. These relationships are beneficial to your mental, emotional, and physical health in your high school years. As you advance through the ranks of a high school team, you learn more leadership skills. You set examples and often provide guidance on and off the field. Practice and games take up a lot of player’s time. Athletes must learn time management skills to get their homework and stuff finished.
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