Erika's Portfolio

Erika’s Portfolio

Reflection One This semester the most significant thing I’ve learned is timeliness. In the paper process it’s critical to have your interviews and papers ready for production day, and I will definitely need to use this skill to keep myself organized in the future. I think this is also the skill I need to improve on most. I need to work on getting my papers in on time because I realized if I don’t have my things done, no one can get their things done and it sets everyone back. With deadlines, I didn’t realize if you turned a story in too late then that story most likely wouldn’t get put in the paper. I would get my interviews done sooner, if not on time in order for me to actually get my story in on time. I think I worked pretty well with the others, but I would try to communicate more. It’s important to work as a team because if one person doesn’t do their part it sets everyone else back. I think with our situation this year, we did work very well collectively to get the paper done. But I do also think with everything that has happened this year we could have tried to be kinder to each other. Telling the truth is the most important thing to do in the paper because if you give people false information your respect and credibility will go down. Telling the truth is important in everyday life, it creates stronger bonds and connections and allows us to learn from our mistakes.

This semester I think I stepped in more than I did last semester, I tried to take stories that others didn’t want. I came in on production day one day this semester as a staff member to help out and get more insight on how those days worked. I had trouble getting along with people in the class this semester. I think this taught me how to deal with people I don’t necessarily get along with in the future. There’s always going to be people you won’t like but I think being in the newspaper and having to talk to people made it so I can overlook our differences and just get the job done. I believe my biggest weakness is communication because if I didn’t like someone or got too nervous I would just keep to myself and not reach out for help. I think to overcome this weakness I could try to reach out for help to people I’m comfortable with and then eventually build that confidence up to ask anyone for help that I need it from.

Reflection Two I believe my most significant piece this semester was my story on the Royal family drama. I got assigned this article because I wasn’t there the day we were assigning stories, I had no knowledge of this topic. I couldn’t have even told you who the queen was married to, I tried really hard to do my research and get my facts straight. It was difficult to pick which latest royal drama to fixate on since there was so much going on and I wasn’t sure which would be the most appealing to the audience. I couldn’t find anyone who knew anything about the royal family so it was difficult to get the interviews I needed. I liked how my story turned out well in the end. I think I touched on the latest, most significant drama that had been going on with the right amount of detail.

Reflection Three

Salutatorian - My last story I’m most proud of would have to be Salutatorian. I’m not very involved in school so I honestly didn’t know what a salutatorian was. I had to do research on what it exactly is and I didn’t know how to write a fluff piece. During this process, my editors were not the most helpful and understanding so I got really frustrated because I wasn’t sure what information

to add.

THE CSPRESS

Punk is coming back Erika Potter Staff writer

Punk Fashion - I was proud of this story because I think I got the real view of punk fashion, real punk is a lifestyle not just a look. I thought this topic was interesting, even after I was finished with the article, I kept diving in because I couldn’t get enough of the history and meaning behind the fashion.

Az Art Expo - With this story, I had to go out my way to get interviews from the artists at this expo. I had never had to go beyond the schoolyard to get my interviews so it was a little nerve racking, having Livia and Max there helped me a lot. Although, I think at this point I’d be confident to get the interviews on my own. The expo itself was astounding. I would go back there to talk to the artist and view their work even if I didn’t have to write a story. The artist’s backstories and process of their art was so interesting to hear about, I’m proud of the knowledge I gained from this article and I hope to be able to tell more artist stories even if they aren’t published in the school paper.

Style

10 ● MARCH 19, 2021

KICKIN’ IT IN HER PUNK FIT, Natalie Persyn, a senior,

shows off her signature style with a plaid skirt, layered big shirts, and chunky boots. “I like punk fashion because a lot of the people in fashion I look up to dress punk,” said Persyn.

Punk rock first emerged in the 1970s in London as an anarchic and aggressive movement. It grew out of the angst of the working class, who were unhappy with perceived injustices in the world.

Coming after the free-spirit era of the sixties, punk rock was decidedly urban. In a story he wrote for Brittanica, writer Jon Savage credits the Sex Pistols band with establishing punk as a national style that “combined confrontational fashions with sped-up hard rock and allusive, socially aware lyrics that addressed the reduced expectations of 1970s teens.”

“Punk fashion grew out of the punk rock scene,” said Elissa Ericson, dance teacher.

“The music of Black Flag, Bad Brains, the Clash and so many others really influenced the style of clothing and hairstyles like mohawks in bright colors.”

Many young people defined themselves as an anti-fashion urban youth street culture.

They railed against traditional concepts of gender, family and hierarchy, with punk being the strongest symbol of this.

“I think being punk is the hardest thing to call someone because there aren’t a lot of real punks anymore,” said Lexi Horner, a senior.

“I don’t even call myself a punk because I’m really not. I guess you can tell if someone’s really punk if they shower. Real punks don’t shower, the “punk attitude” comes naturally to the punks definitely, but all the punks I’ve ever met are stuck up and call everyone posers.”

Punk exemplified a “do it yourself” attitude to fashion as a reaction against the consumerism of 70s postmodernism. Punk ideologies are often left-wing based, they hate capital-

ism and money in general. A lot of punks grew up poor or in lower class areas, buying cheap clothing is a major part of the lifestyle “I live a punk lifestyle by being poor, I think.

I wear some gross clothes and listen to my heavy music in the car screaming about how I don’t want to work at my stupid job,” said Horner.

Older punk fashion usually contained a lot of leather, patches, studs; while modern punk fashion expands on that with denim and more accessories such as earrings and chains.

“Being punk is just being yourself and not letting society’s norms hold you down, it’s a cheesy definition but it’s the closest you can really get to it. The lifestyle of punk is just not really caring about what other people think and doing what you want to do, living like you want to live,” said Jo Breese, a senior.

Punk fashion is usually just whatever you can find at the local thrift store or anything you can make by yourself.

“Being punk is very subjective, some people think you just need the attitude, but personally I think you have to listen to the music and interact with the scene to be punk. Punk is more of a subculture than a lifestyle in my opinion,” said Breese.

The punk style of today is similar to the original eighties look, but there are some notable differences. The entire look is more toned-down. The over the top hair styles of foot-long mohawks gelled to be standing up pointed and dyed bright colors are non-existent, and the aggressive, in your face language of tattoos and t-shirts is also less prevalent.

“I think the punk rockers of the past would not appreciate the very idea of ‘punk fashion,’” said Ericson. “The whole movement was really anti-everything, including fashion.”

4Max Sotelo

bleach

Bleached hair is a style trend that is the go-to for those with adventurous tastes.

Max Sotelo

online editor in chief

Seen on celebrities from Zayn Malik to Tana Mongeau, this style is one that can be done on both men and women.

Every personal style concept begins with an idea. Before bleaching hair, one should set a realistic goal. The reality is, darker hair will take longer to bleach. The best results come from bleaching an already light hair color. Look at pictures online to get inspiration for the specific shade of blonde you wish to achieve.

Also, if looking to go platinum blonde, simply putting bleach on hair will not get that ultra light shade of blonde. You will need to also utilize toner.

It is important to note that hair bleach is not actually bleach. The main ingredient is hydrogen peroxide and comes in powder form.

Professional bleach job Getting hair bleached at a salon will often produce the best results and can be best for getting more personalized advice on how to get to your desired goals. This option, however, is more expensive. Prices at professional salons can range from $60 - $300.

DIY bleaching Bleaching at home is a more cost effective option if only looking to bleach a small area of hair or shorter hair. Sally Beauty Supply offers a wide range of hair bleaching products.

“I knew if I did enough research I’d be able to do it the right way,” said Megan Hinsberg, a senior.

You will need bleach, developer, and a hair conditioning treatment to limit the damage done on your hair. Hair bleach can be dangerous to work with, so use gloves to keep

it off your hands and make sure it does not come into contact with your skin to avoid a chemical burn.

“I bleach it myself because I don’t trust a salon to do my hair.

They messed it up last time,” said Max Toscano, a sophomore.

Developer comes in several levels of volume: 10, 20, 30, and 40. 40 volume developers will lift hair the most and is recommended for darker brown and black hair colors.

12 ● MAY 14, 2021

THE CSPRESS

THE SENIORS

Jessica Brashear is this year’s ....

front runner Max Hancock

global news editor

“

HARD AT WORK, Jessica Brashear keeps busy both

I have been dyeing my hair for about two years now.”

Megan Hinsberg, a senior.

torian has to fight for good grades in some classes.

“AP calculus was the hardest class for me because some things come naturally but I had to work harder for it than any other class,” said Brashear.

However, Brashear’s hard work to become valedictorian is more than a title. Countless scholarships and opportunities can be a result of holding the highest GPA in one’s school for all four years. Valedictorians even get access to some of the most selective and difficult entry universities in the world.

“I’m picking between UCLA, Pepperdine, and ASU for college. Right now I am studying pre-law with a political science major because I want to study something with foreign relations,” said Brashear.

Not only is Brashear one to exceed in schooling, but she is able to offer insight to underclassmen who may be going for the same position next year.

“If I had to give one tip to a future valedictorian, I would tell them to use it as motivation to work hard. Don’t see it as something that defines you, but use it as a goal to push yourself harder,” added Brashear.

As the school year comes to an end, Brashear will continue her quest for near perfection as she finishes the last of her high school hurdles.

on and off campus as president of NHS, the Falcon Foundation, and a member of Spanish Honors Society. a Miah T hirion

Alicia Rifkin has every reason to ...

salute her success Erika Potter staff writer

A

LICIA RIFKIN DID not always dream about

being salutatorian, but with hard work and determination, it quickly became one of her primary goals for this school year.

“It wasn’t a long term goal, I just sort of thought about wanting the title at the beginning of this year,” said Rifkin.

While Rifkin never initially intended to get the title, she has always naturally done well in school.

She worked hard to maintain strong grades by taking AP, Honors, and IB classes.

“My favorite memory from Cactus Shadows is junior year when my IB class went to the biosphere on a field trip for two days,” said Rifkin.

With the knowledge that these classes can be overwhelming, she maintained a level head and accomplished her goal of being accepted into UC Berkeley.

Rifkin has always done well academically, although her real passion lies within marine biology.

aMiah Thirion

Holding the highest GPA across the senior class, Cactus Shadows class of 2021 has brought forth its newest valedictorian, Jessica Brashear.

“I was really excited and kind of shocked when the results were finalized,” said Brashear.

Not only does Brashear hold the highest GPA across her entire senior class, but as a traditional valedictorian, she has had the highest GPA across all four years. In addition to being one of the most prestigious titles high school can offer, Brashear is also president of National Honors Society, president of the Falcon Foundation (a non-profit charitable organization that she created sophomore year), and a member of Spanish Honors Society.

It goes without saying that the 2020-2021 school year was a year unlike any other. Due to the first month being online, students competing for the title of valedictorian had to adapt to a new online curriculum in order to achieve the highest GPA in their class.

In order to reach such a high GPA throughout all four years of Brashear’s high school career, she had to take advanced classes that varied from IB, AP, and Honors programs.

Contrary to popular belief, even the valedic-

“I’m passionate about science, the natural world, and how it works,” said Rifkin.

After being accepted to Berkeley, she was excited to start her new journey and take new, interesting classes that have more to do with her passion.

“I’m majoring in molecular environmental biology, which will cover everything from biology at the molecular level to the ecological level, and also about environmental problems and their solutions,“ said Rifkin.

Rifkin’s advice to underclassmen striving to accomplish as much as her is to maintain focus but more importantly, not to let the little things get to you in the meantime.

“You need to get As, but also take weighted classes, so I’d recommend doing the IB program or take as many AP classes as possible, but don’t take classes that you’re not interested in or it’ll suck,“ said Rifkin.

Rifkin believes her determination has prepared her for the future and hopes she’s inspired her peers along the way.

THINKING AHEAD, Salutatorian Alicia Rifkin did not always intend on going for the title, but it quickly became one of her goals. She encourages underclassmen to take classes that interest them. a Miah T hirion

Creeker

12 ● FEBRUARY 12, 2021

THE CSPRESS

Local artists show off their creativity in Scottsdale expo

Finding scenic views in the Creek RODMAN LEISURE This

the lookout

local artist is one of the many that is showing their pieces at the art expo. 4Max Sotelo

The lookout is a popular scenic view for its view of Cave Creek and the mountains During the day the mountain view is the main attraction, while at night the town of Cave Creek lights up. It is located right before you enter frontier town and old town Cave Creek

Black Mountain

The top of Black mountain has a popular view of Cave Creek and all the little shops in the town. When at the top of the mountain there are scenic views all around and Cactus Shadows is actually visible.

tonto forest

Erika Potter staff writer

Artists from around the world come together and make Scottsdale their home for ten weeks as they create original pieces of fine art. A worldclass annual art event, the Arizona art expo, is a unique opportunity to meet artists in their studios and to experience the creation of fine art. There is much to explore, discover, engage and collect original works of art directly from renowned artists.

“The expo is really fun and there was a lot of different kinds of art there,” said Livia Lowe, a junior.

The expo is dedicated to the improvement of art appreciation and education. Whether there’s a committed art collector or a new patron to the arts, the Arizona fine art expo combines the characteristics of a juried art festival, the elements of a gallery and the inner-workings of an artist’s studio. There are about 124 Artist

“

His choice of ink studios featuring a painting subjects wide range of differhave to be rooted in ent art mediums like his construction and sculptures, metal art, mechanical backpaintings, watercolor, ground, some of his oil, acrylic, contempo- I draw like a child, pieces go from steam rary, realism, modern, fearlessly and bridges, impressionism, ceramwithout a care for engines, buildings to other ics, wood carving, and judgement vehicles. He used to more. do a lot of tight pen “My work is inspired R odman Leisure and ink techniques, by everyday people,” an artist at the expo the ability to do tiny said Ans Taylor, an artdetails with so much ist at the expo. control is what got this artist into his The expo is a great place to wander artistic journey. around, there’s diverse art everywhere The annual Arizona art expo is proyou look and it’s easy to converse with duced by award-winning Thunderbird the artists as they create more artArtists. This year the event will run from work on site. An artist was working on mid-January everyday through March his first sculpture, he had much to say 28 and is 10 dollars for daily access, about his work. it’s located off of North Scottsdale and “I draw like a child, fearlessly and Jomax Road. It goes from 10 a.m. to without a care for judgement,” said 6.pm., seven days a week.

Rodman Leisure, an artist presenting his work at the expo.

Tonto forest is another one of the great spots in Cave Creek. There are a lot of wildlife opportunities and some views of the mountains surrounding Cave Creek. If you drive all the way through old town Cave Creek a sign will pop up for Tonto.

pinnacle peak

Pinnacle Peak has a great scenic view.

It is also a good spot to get a bit of exercise. The hike is not too difficult and is easy for beginners to do. It is a 4 mile hike there and back.

apache wash

Apache wash is a great spot to look at the sunset or sunrise. There is a nice hiking trail to view the wildlife and plant life that Cave Creek has to offer.

It also has a shaded picnic area. It is not very popular and is known for its lack of people.

3 Kolton O’Connor

Celebrating love in the Creek Owen Taylor staff writer

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, many are planning a fun day around the Creek with their significant other.

Many students plan to go to breakfast at The Grotto, Local Jonnys, First Watch, and other local businesses. All are popular places to eat a nice breakfast for Valentine’s Day. “I plan to take a girl out to Big Earls and have a nice burger to enjoy as a couple, and then after we will go to a nice shop to pick out gifts,” said Dylan Lies, a junior.

Big Earls is a popular hotspot for students and is known for their greasy burgers. They have a wide menu of diner-themed foods. They serve breakfast, burgers, and shakes in a former gas station.

“For Valentine’s Day, me and my friends are going to exchange gifts and take a hike up Black Mountain, after we will go to a cute place to eat in Cave Creek,” said Kelsey Morris, a junior.

Hiking to spend time with their significant other, and Cave Creek has many scenic locations to hike at. Black mountain is a popular location due to it being so close to the center of town

and near lots of restaurants and diners.

Another option is Jewel of the Creek, which is another mountain with a scenic hiking trail.

“Me and my wife are going to go out around lunch time and walk around all the stores in Cave Creek, after that we are going to go on a sunset horseback ride. Valentine’s Day is always one of my favorites, especially in Cave Creek,” said Jason Arnett, a parent.

Around Cave Creek there are many different deals and specials being made for Valentine’s Day or around that day.

THE VIEW OF CAVE CREEK FROM BLACK MOUNTAIN Many residents every year take tne hike up the mountain ot see this view.

4Gianna Lazzaro

Creeker

12 ● FEBRUARY 12, 2021

THE CSPRESS

Local artists show off their creativity in Scottsdale expo

February

Finding scenic views in the Creek RODMAN LEISURE This

the lookout

local artist is one of the many that is showing their pieces at the art expo. 4Max Sotelo

The lookout is a popular scenic view for its view of Cave Creek and the mountains During the day the mountain view is the main attraction, while at night the town of Cave Creek lights up. It is located right before you enter frontier town and old town Cave Creek

Black Mountain

The top of Black mountain has a popular view of Cave Creek and all the little shops in the town. When at the top of the mountain there are scenic views all around and Cactus Shadows is actually visible.

tonto forest

Erika Potter staff writer

Artists from around the world come together and make Scottsdale their home for ten weeks as they create original pieces of fine art. A worldclass annual art event, the Arizona art expo, is a unique opportunity to meet artists in their studios and to experience the creation of fine art. There is much to explore, discover, engage and collect original works of art directly from renowned artists.

“The expo is really fun and there was a lot of different kinds of art there,” said Livia Lowe, a junior.

The expo is dedicated to the improvement of art appreciation and education. Whether there’s a committed art collector or a new patron to the arts, the Arizona fine art expo combines the characteristics of a juried art festival, the elements of a gallery and the inner-workings of an artist’s studio. There are about 124 Artist

“

His choice of ink studios featuring a painting subjects wide range of differhave to be rooted in ent art mediums like his construction and sculptures, metal art, mechanical backpaintings, watercolor, ground, some of his oil, acrylic, contempo- I draw like a child, pieces go from steam rary, realism, modern, fearlessly and engines, bridges, impressionism, ceramwithout a care for buildings to other ics, wood carving, and judgement vehicles. He used to more. do a lot of tight pen “My work is inspired R odman Leisure and ink techniques, by everyday people,” an artist at the expo the ability to do tiny said Ans Taylor, an artdetails with so much ist at the expo. control is what got this artist into his The expo is a great place to wander artistic journey. around, there’s diverse art everywhere The annual Arizona art expo is proyou look and it’s easy to converse with duced by award-winning Thunderbird the artists as they create more artArtists. This year the event will run from work on site. An artist was working on mid-January everyday through March his first sculpture, he had much to say 28 and is 10 dollars for daily access, about his work. it’s located off of North Scottsdale and “I draw like a child, fearlessly and Jomax Road. It goes from 10 a.m. to without a care for judgement,” said 6.pm., seven days a week.

Rodman Leisure, an artist presenting his work at the expo.

Tonto forest is another one of the great spots in Cave Creek. There are a lot of wildlife opportunities and some views of the mountains surrounding Cave Creek. If you drive all the way through old town Cave Creek a sign will pop up for Tonto.

staff writer

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, many are planning a fun day around the Creek with their significant other.

Many students plan to go to breakfast at The Grotto, Local Jonnys, First Watch, and other local businesses. All are popular places to eat a nice breakfast for Valentine’s Day. “I plan to take a girl out to Big Earls and have a nice burger to enjoy as a couple, and then after we will go to a nice shop to pick out gifts,” said Dylan Lies, a junior.

Big Earls is a popular hotspot for students and is known for their greasy burgers. They have a wide menu of diner-themed foods. They serve breakfast, burgers, and shakes in a former gas station.

“For Valentine’s Day, me and my friends are going to exchange gifts and take a hike up Black Mountain, after we will go to a cute place to eat in Cave Creek,” said Kelsey Morris, a junior.

Hiking to spend time with their significant other, and Cave Creek has many scenic locations to hike at. Black mountain is a popular location due to it being so close to the center of town

and near lots of restaurants and diners.

Another option is Jewel of the Creek, which is another mountain with a scenic hiking trail.

“Me and my wife are going to go out around lunch time and walk around all the stores in Cave Creek, after that we are going to go on a sunset horseback ride. Valentine’s Day is always one of my favorites, especially in Cave Creek,” said Jason Arnett, a parent.

Around Cave Creek there are many different deals and specials being made for Valentine’s Day or around that day.

MOD’s Pizza and Blaze Pizza compete in a "Speedy" service food smackdown of sauce, dough, and toppings news editor

Pinnacle Peak has a great scenic view.

It is also a good spot to get a bit of exercise. The hike is not too difficult and is easy for beginners to do. It is a 4 mile hike there and back.

apache wash

Apache wash is a great spot to look at the sunset or sunrise. There is a nice hiking trail to view the wildlife and plant life that Cave Creek has to offer.

It also has a shaded picnic area. It is not very popular and is known for its lack of people.

3 Kolton O’Connor

THE CSPRESS

MOD vs Blaze: best pizza in the valley food smackdown Michael Kaegi

pinnacle peak

Celebrating love in the Creek Owen Taylor

Foodie

16 ● FEBRUARY 12, 2021

B

LAZE

AND

MOD

Pizza are both over the counter style pizza places offering a different kind of pizza that reduces wait times. MOD Pizza has been peaking interest in Cave Creek ever since it opened earlier this year.

Still, it’s “Superfast” model may be affecting the quality of their pizza and turning people away.

“It’s not somewhere where you feel like you could sit down for a while since their brand is all about getting a pizza fast and easy,” said Gina Kaegi, a customer who recently tried MOD pizza.

At MOD, they serve various specialty pizzas and offer an option to create your own similar to how Subway or other buffetstyle restaurants work, by having a selection of toppings and sauces to choose from. While they do have an area to sit down and eat, people going to MOD are usually looking for some-

thing fast and easy. This kind of deters people from looking for a place to sit down and enjoy their meal rather than take it to go.

“Usually, people order pizzas to take home from MOD because there are not a lot of places to eat inside,” said Kristie Carlo, an empolyee at MOD's.

Blaze has a larger variety of pizzas that come in more sizes than MOD’s standard 11” inch pizza. They also offer a variety of sides and salads similar to MOD, as well as gluten-friendly options like a cauliflower crust.

A lot of the problems come from the pizza being made superfast. For instance, the dough is not crispy enough, which is very different from other places that do wood fire pizzas. Even MOD’s most popular pizzas, the Maddy, Maddog, Caspian, and the Jasper, are only made on one size fits all dough, which helps to cook the pizza faster. Because of that, they don’t put many toppings on each pizza,

leaving some bites empty without lots of flavor.

“It was ok. I think the place is just inconsistent because you may go there and one day get a great pizza while some days it’s terrible,” said Brandon Hurley, a customer who recently tried MOD. Blaze has a similar issue with the limited toppings but cooks more evenly and offers more flavor than some of MODs specialty pizzas. Even though most of their specialty pizzas are the same as MOD’s, like the Meat Eater, BBQ Chicken, and the Veg Out, they overall taste more fresh and offer more with the larger size options.

Overall, Blaze and MOD are both very similar and somewhat average, offering a wide selection of specialty pizzas and sides, but disappoint since the quality can be inconsistent. However, with larger sizes and better consistency, Blaze is the better of the two.

IBRANDION HURLEY and Sara Kell, both seniors. enjoy The Maddy at MOD’s Pizza off Carefree Hwy. and Cave Creek

4 Micheal Kaegi

TikTok's new food trends Ericka Potter staff writer

Sweet Burrito

THE VIEW OF CAVE CREEK FROM BLACK MOUNTAIN Many residents every year take tne hike up the mountain ot see this view.

This burrito is perfect for someone with a sweet tooth. It consists of candies, sprinkles and ice cream wrapped in fairy floss. Although it may be too sweet for some people, sweet burrito is heaven for the sweet tooth.

4Gianna Lazzaro

MAKE A BATCH of cotton candy per Flossugar

KLUKHA THIRION a freshman, on the right, and Bella Maldonado also a freshman, on the left, join in on the TikTok food trend, Cake in a Cup 4 Miah Thirion

packaging instructions FLATTEN THE COTTON candy into tortilla-like shape, making sure it is at least ½ inch thick COVER with SPRINKLES/MARSHMALLOWS to form a barrier between cotton candy and ice cream SCOOP ice CREAM onto sprinkled cotton candy COVER ice CREAM with more sprinkles and roll like a burrito then slice in half to serve.

Avocado Toast Consists of toast with mashed avocado, salt, black pepper, and citrus juice. If people are looking for a little additional

enhancement to the flavor try adding olive oil, hummus, red pepper flakes, feta, dukkah, tomato, or get crazy and start experimenting by trying other ingredients.

IN A SMALL BOWL, combine avocado, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Gently mash with the back of a fork.

TOP toasted bread with mashed avocado mixture DRIZZLE with olive il and sprinkle over desired topings.

Cake in a Cup With this trend, all anyone does is get a few friends, a few cups, and then one big cake. Place the glass straight down into the cake and scoop out a piece.

Tortilla Trend

CUT A SLIT through half of the tortilla DIVIDE ingredients into quarters.

FOLD over three times to get the perfect

bite. Tip: heat up on panni press or stove, to get a crunchy exterior tortilla.

March

THE CSPRESS

THE NEWS MARCH 19, 2021 ● 3

DECA teaches necessary skills Club prepares students for the real world after high school Erika Potter staff writer

D Style

10 ● MARCH 19, 2021

THE CSPRESS

Punk is coming back Erika Potter Staff writer

KICKIN’ IT IN HER PUNK FIT, Natalie Persyn, a senior,

shows off her signature style with a plaid skirt, layered big shirts, and chunky boots. “I like punk fashion because a lot of the people in fashion I look up to dress punk,” said Persyn.

Punk rock first emerged in the 1970s in London as an anarchic and aggressive movement. It grew out of the angst of the working class, who were unhappy with perceived injustices in the world.

Coming after the free-spirit era of the sixties, punk rock was decidedly urban. In a story he wrote for Brittanica, writer Jon Savage credits the Sex Pistols band with establishing punk as a national style that “combined confrontational fashions with sped-up hard rock and allusive, socially aware lyrics that addressed the reduced expectations of 1970s teens.”

“Punk fashion grew out of the punk rock scene,” said Elissa Ericson, dance teacher.

“The music of Black Flag, Bad Brains, the Clash and so many others really influenced the style of clothing and hairstyles like mohawks in bright colors.”

Many young people defined themselves as an anti-fashion urban youth street culture.

They railed against traditional concepts of gender, family and hierarchy, with punk being the strongest symbol of this.

“I think being punk is the hardest thing to call someone because there aren’t a lot of real punks anymore,” said Lexi Horner, a senior.

“I don’t even call myself a punk because I’m really not. I guess you can tell if someone’s really punk if they shower. Real punks don’t shower, the “punk attitude” comes naturally to the punks definitely, but all the punks I’ve ever met are stuck up and call everyone posers.”

Punk exemplified a “do it yourself” attitude to fashion as a reaction against the consumerism of 70s postmodernism. Punk ideologies are often left-wing based, they hate capital-

4Max Sotelo

bleach

Bleached hair is a style trend that is the go-to for those with adventurous tastes.

Max Sotelo

online editor in chief

Seen on celebrities from Zayn Malik to Tana Mongeau, this style is one that can be done on both men and women.

Every personal style concept begins with an idea. Before bleaching hair, one should set a realistic goal. The reality is, darker hair will take longer to bleach. The best results come from bleaching an already light hair color. Look at pictures online to get inspiration for the specific shade of blonde you wish to achieve.

Also, if looking to go platinum blonde, simply putting bleach on hair will not get that ultra light shade of blonde. You will need to also utilize toner.

It is important to note that hair bleach is not actually bleach. The main ingredient is hydrogen peroxide and comes in powder form.

Professional bleach job Getting hair bleached at a salon will often produce the best results and can be best for getting more personalized advice on how to get to your desired goals. This option, however, is more expensive. Prices at professional salons can range from $60 - $300.

DIY bleaching Bleaching at home is a more cost effective option if only looking to bleach a small area of hair or shorter hair. Sally Beauty Supply offers a wide range of hair bleaching products.

“I knew if I did enough research I’d be able to do it the right way,” said Megan Hinsberg, a senior.

You will need bleach, developer, and a hair conditioning treatment to limit the damage done on your hair. Hair bleach can be dangerous to work with, so use gloves to keep

it off your hands and make sure it does not come into contact with your skin to avoid a chemical burn.

“I bleach it myself because I don’t trust a salon to do my hair.

They messed it up last time,” said Max Toscano, a sophomore.

Developer comes in several levels of volume: 10, 20, 30, and 40. 40 volume developers will lift hair the most and is recommended for darker brown and black hair colors.

aMiah Thirion

ism and money in general. A lot of punks grew up poor or in lower class areas, buying cheap clothing is a major part of the lifestyle “I live a punk lifestyle by being poor, I think.

I wear some gross clothes and listen to my heavy music in the car screaming about how I don’t want to work at my stupid job,” said Horner.

Older punk fashion usually contained a lot of leather, patches, studs; while modern punk fashion expands on that with denim and more accessories such as earrings and chains.

“Being punk is just being yourself and not letting society’s norms hold you down, it’s a cheesy definition but it’s the closest you can really get to it. The lifestyle of punk is just not really caring about what other people think and doing what you want to do, living like you want to live,” said Jo Breese, a senior.

Punk fashion is usually just whatever you can find at the local thrift store or anything you can make by yourself.

“Being punk is very subjective, some people think you just need the attitude, but personally I think you have to listen to the music and interact with the scene to be punk. Punk is more of a subculture than a lifestyle in my opinion,” said Breese.

The punk style of today is similar to the original eighties look, but there are some notable differences. The entire look is more toned-down. The over the top hair styles of foot-long mohawks gelled to be standing up pointed and dyed bright colors are non-existent, and the aggressive, in your face language of tattoos and t-shirts is also less prevalent.

“I think the punk rockers of the past would not appreciate the very idea of ‘punk fashion,’” said Ericson. “The whole movement was really anti-everything, including fashion.”

“

I have been dyeing my hair for about two years now.”

Megan Hinsberg, a senior.

GAINING EXPERIENCE DECA encourages leadership and experience in order for students to gain important life skills which will prepare them for the real world. 4 Miah Thirion

ECA,

OR

DISTRIBUTIVE

Education Clubs of America, is a club on campus where students learn business and marketing skills. The club teaches necessary life skills, helps create real connections within the state, country, and even the world.

DECA prepares students for the real world by giving them applicable life skills, and it strives to help members get into colleges and universities. This club is for any and all people, DECA runs on integrity, competence, teamwork, and innovation. The DECA officer team consists of: VP of Leadership, Competition, Marketing, Finance, of the Student Store, of Hospitality, and DECA president, Chance Taskey.

Dr. Cynthia Bezard, who teaches marketing, is the advisor.

She believes that she pushes students to the edge, and guides students to grow and expand their horizons. DECA prepares members for their future careers in marketing, business management and administration, finance, and hospitality and tourism.

“My job as advisor is to support the members in their development as they participate in all of the amazing opportunities DECA has to offer,” said Bezard.

Members of DECA can apply the skills and knowledge they have learned within the organization and competition, and apply it to the outside world including in jobs and college life.

“I think every high school student should be a member of DECA because you really can’t pass up all of the amazing things you get with it,” said Chance Taskey, the president of the club.

Through the student store, students gain work experience and through competitions, and you can get recognized for scholarships within the organization for your accomplishments as well.

“DECA is truly one of the best things I have ever come across, and I’m so glad I met so many amazing people within this organization,” said Alaina Rosas, a sophomore.

In addition to meetings and running the student store, the club members participate in competitions throughout the year.

Students compete by coming up

STUCO brings students together Livia Lowe

News Briefs Universities plan to be in-person

staff writer

Student Council, also known as STUCO, is a group of elected students who, along with an adult supervisor, practice leadership roles as well as work to improve life at school.

“Our door is open to anyone with leadership in their heart who wants to make a difference at Cactus Shadows and in our greater community,“ said Cameron Bender, STUCO advisor.

STUCO helps put together pep rallies, homecomings, prom and just about every student orientated event at school.

COVID-19 hit the U.S. hard about close to a year ago and because of the restrictions, many events could not happen and not as much could be done. Prom was cancelled for 2020, and even after a year of COVID-19, STUCO’s abilities to showcase their work have still been restricted.

“We haven’t been able to do much, we usually do a lot during homecoming but we didn’t do anything for that this year,” said Brooklyn Wilcox, a junior.

Despite the restrictions, STUCO has still found ways to bring students together.

“It’s all about putting together events and showcasing them to where the student body can enjoy and to serve the community,” said Lily Hagan, a junior.

Student Council hopes to promote leadership and collaboration between students to express themselves through the school. It creates opportunities for students to become strong leaders, which then influences a positive school environment.

with ideas for businesses, marketing plans, and other businessrelated activities.

“Competitions play a very important role in DECA,” said Taskey.

There are two primary competitions, the State Career Development Conference (SCDC) and the International Career Development Conference (ICDC).

“The judges then judge you on how well you gave an answer, and if that answer could potentially be correct,” said Rosas.

If students place high enough in the state competition, they are invited to compete internationally.

When competition is ending, there is a closing session where they find out who is going to ICDC, new state officers and more.

Although, due to COVID- 19, all of the competitions and meetings have been virtual this year. The officers and their advisor, Bezard, have worked to ensure that DECA runs smoothly. Without them, the student store would not have been able to open this year.

With COVID-19 cases continuing to trend downward in Arizona, all of the major universities are planning to return to in-person classes this upcoming fall. University of Arizona is currently the only major university who is planning an in-person commencement ceremony for it’s students. GCU is also planning to have in-person graduation, while NAU is strictly virtual, and ASU is still

One year anniversary of COVID-19 On March 11, President Biden held his first primetime speech commemorating the one year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic. During his speech, he mourned the loss of the 500,000+ lives that have been lost from the virus, but also celebrated the mass distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. Biden promised that by May 1st, every adult in America will be eligible for a vaccine, and also said that gathering in small groups may be possible by the fourth of July.

In-person graduation for seniors Cactus Shadows plans to have an in-person graduation ceremony this year, following all COVID-19 guidelines.

Similarly to last year, there will be multiple smaller ceremonies, and students will be able to choose who they want to graduate with. The ceremony will take place on the football field on May 19th.

MOVIE NIGHT Riley Blackwell and Grace Hunter, seniors, promote Movie Night, the first STUCO event since the pandemic bgan 4 Miah Thirion

April THE CSPRESS

Health

APRIL 16, 2021 ● 17

5 ● APRIL 16, 2021

Erika Potter staff writer

ARIZONA IS KNOWN for it’s “dry

heat” climate, and it is hard to go outside in this state without being exposed to the sun. While the sun provides important vitamin D, too much exposure can lead to skin cancer. The best way to prevent skin cancer is to protect skin from UV rays.

Some claim that getting a “base layer tan” helps prevent damage done to the skin while out in the sun; however, this claim is not true, according to Naiara Barbosa, director of Mohs Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology.

The safest way to tan is to use self-tanning products or get a spray tan. Most self tanning products and sprays are safe and FDA approved.

These products do not cause harm to the skin like UV rays, but instead, just coat the outer layer of skin. Using tanning products with SPF will also help to minimize

skin damage.

“I prefer tanning on the sun because spray tans honestly scare me. I feel like I would mess up,” said Kayla Witzig, a senior Tanning beds should be avoided. The UV rays are too close to a person’s body, whereas outside, there are more barriers protecting from the UV rays, according to Barbosa.

“If you want to spend time outside, protect your skin. When I was younger, my friends and I would just slather oil on and that did a lot of damage to me later on in life,” says Heather Nickel, a long time tanner.

The good news is that with the right protection, you can safely spend time in the sun, and then get your “tan” from a bottle. Spending less time in the sun will also help prevent sunburn and other adverse effects of UV exposure.

“Wearing sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher,

Royal family tensions cause a shake up of the Crown

and reapplying it at least every 2 hours is one of the best things you can do to protect your skin. Hats, sunprotective clothing, and umbrellas can help as well,” said Adeline Kikam, specialist in dermatology.

Covering all exposed areas, including the ears, lips, face, and back of your hands and avoiding the sun during its peak hours, usually from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., is helpful while avoiding harmful sun exposure.

Application of sunscreen will determine how much protection your skin will get.

The most common mistakes when applying sunscreen are not applying enough and not applying it evenly. Sunscreen should be applied 20 to 30 minutes before sun exposure for the most effective protection.

People with sensitive skin and people who burn easily should take extra precautions to ensure the protection of their skin.

Justin Wong staff writer

I

N THE STATE of Arizona, those ages 16+ are now

eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine.

Teens across Arizona were waiting in lines for hours in order to be some of the first in the age group to get the newly available vaccines. Vaccines have been long awaited as the key to the end of the pandemic.

“I recently got the Pfizer vaccine, and it feels nice to be able to do what I want now, without having to worry about getting COVID,” said Thomas Gray, a junior.

Many other students like Gray are able to get the vaccine since it has been made available. It will help with their peace of mind and allow them to go out if they have elderly or susceptible family members living with them.

Many people believe that the vaccine being available to teens is a great thing and that most teenagers should get it. However, there are still people who oppose it and believe that it should not be given to younger children or even teens for that matter. This would be because it has not been tested on them, and the vaccine was made in a very short time, compared to vaccines that have been made before.

The only available vaccine for teenagers currently is the Pfizer vaccine. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine along with the Moderna vaccine is only available for people that are at least 18 years and older. As of now, there are no approved vaccines for use on people

under the age of 16.

“I personally would not take the vaccine, because I do not think there has been enough research done on it yet, but I am not against others taking it,” said Declan Hill, a sophomore.

On the contrary, a lot of people think that everyone should get the vaccine no matter what.

“I think that teens should be able to get the vaccine if approved for their age group. I do not believe in a requirement, but would hope enough people have confidence in our doctors and science experts that they would want their families vaccinated so that we could stop the circulation of COVID-19,” said Kristina Bootz, a teacher.

Different circumstances prohibit different responses to how someone deals with COVID-19, thus why some people choose to opt-out of taking the vaccine.

This divide in beliefs is a large problem in getting everyone together to fight against COVID-19. Even though everyone may not get the vaccine, teenagers getting it is an important part of fighting against the virus. This is because a certain percentage of people need to get the vaccine in order to gain herd immunity from COVID-19.

Once this is achieved the cases will gradually continue to lessen, until almost all the cases are completely gone. This is the most likely way that COVID-19 will become almost completely obsolete, and teenagers getting the vaccines will play a large part in achieving that goal.

Will you get the vaccine when it isyes available fornoyou?

60

53 45

30

23

0

HARRY AND MEGHAN

moved to Cananda last year in order to escape the drama of the Buckingham Palace.

4Creative Commons Erika Potter staff writer

T undecided

HE 99 YEAR old Duke of Edinburgh came home from

the hospital in London mid March after a 28 day stay. He was admitted as a “precautionary measure” in February, a bit before a palace official confirmed that Philip had been battling an infection.

“While the Duke was in the hospital, people watched as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle came forward with allegations involving their experience with the British Royal Family during an interview on CBS,” said Marideth Mardino, a journalist for US Weekly’s.

During their CBS interview, the prince and his wife explained their decision to leave, claiming that they felt “a lack of support and understanding” from their relatives and had also experienced instances of racism.

Allegations that a member of the royal family had raised concerns about the skin color of the couple’s son, Archie, and that Meghan had contemplated suicide was brought to the surace during the interview with Oprah Winfrey. Winfrey indicated after the interview that Harry had asked her to let the public know that it was neither Queen Elizabeth II, or her husband, Prince Philip who made the racist comment towards Archie.

On Tuesday, the day after the interview with Winfrey, Piers Morgan, the co-host of “Good Morning Britain” on ITV news, who came under attack for saying he “didn’t believe a word” of the interview, resigned, the network said. Britain’s communications regulator received

For the first few weeks of Biden’s presidency, North Korea remained quiet as it had for several months. However, things soon escalated when Kim Jong Un, said, “If [The United States] wants to sleep in peace for [the] coming four years, it had better refrain from causing a stink at its first step."

yes

no

undecided

From a poll of 100 students taken on April 7, 2021.

This was the first message from North Korea directed towards the U.S. since 2019 when both nations held their last conference to attempt lower tensions. Negotiations, however, broke down after one day, leading to deterioration of relations.

3 Jaden Lea

well as Congo in Central Africa and Thailand in Asia have stalled their rollouts of the AstraZeneca coronavirus causing problems vaccine.

“I have some family memaround the world and is even being banned in bers that have taken the AstraZeneca vaccine and various nations.

“I feel like banning some- they didn’t have any probthing that could be life sav- lems or blood-clot symping like that isn’t right,” said toms, but I have heard some people’s family members Ethan Aldefer, a junior.

The Oxford-AstraZeneca dying right after taking the vaccine was, as the name vaccine like weeks or so,” said implies, chiefly funded Ryan Hughes, a junior.

However, according to a by the university and the pharmaceutical company. recent Miami Herald article, The research also received an American daily newspaper, £65.5 million in funding some top tier health officials from the UK government. still support the use of the According to KHN, an vaccine. Including the World American non-profit Health Organization and the organization, in February, the European Medicines Agency, World Health Organization both of which say there’s greenlighted emergency no available evidence that use of AstraZeneca vaccine, suggest the vaccine caused following in the steps of the conditions that may have taken the United the lives of Kingdom, The at least two European Union people in and others, I have heard of Italy and one who are already some people’s person in injecting it as quickly as family members Denmark.

In a recent possible into the dying right report, masses. after taking the BBC officials Out of an vaccine stated that abundance about 32 of caution, R yan Hughes million Germany, people in Italy, and junior Europe have France issued temporary bans on the taken at least one dose of a AstraZeneca vaccine coronavirus vaccine. Those following reports of some aged under the age of 30 people getting blood clots are to be offered a different shortly after getting the vaccine that replaces the vaccine. According to Miami Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine Herald, a handful of people due to reported blood clots. have died after receiving The name of the replacement the shot, which is not yet vaccine is either the Moderna the Pfizer-BioNTech authorized for emergency or use in the U.S. It is unclear if vaccine. The campaign to the blood clots caused their reach as many people as deaths. Even though there is quickly as possible was not enough evidence to show boosted by a shift in policy that the vaccine caused those in early January to prioritise deaths, dozens of countries the first dose of a vaccine, see it as a risk that they can with a second dose up to 12 not take. So far, Norway, weeks later, a bigger gap than Iceland, Bulgaria, Estonia, originally planned.

Latvia, Denmark, Austria, Ireland, the Netherlands, Lithuania, Luxembourg, as

T

As the Presidents changed hands from Donald Trump to Joe Biden in January, the North Korean government has grown increasingly aggressive towards the US.

15

European nations ban AstraZeneca vaccine staff writer

more than 41,000 complaints about his comment it said.

The two developments completed nearly a day of uninterrupted coverage around the interview, which was described by one British outlet as a “velvet-covered knife into the heart of the modern monarchy” and which observers say may have damaging and long-lasting consequences for the reputation of the royal family, according to The New York Times.

Harry, who blames the press coverage of his mother, Diana, for her death in a car crash in Paris in the late 90s, described an “invisible contract” between the family and the journalists. “If you as a family member are willing to wine, dine and give full access to these reporters, then you will get better press” said Harry. The prince said his father and other family members were afraid that the reporters would turn on them. ”The monarchy’s survival hinged on maintaining a certain image with the British people, one that is propagated by the mass-market tabloids,” he continued.

In addition, On April 9, Prince Phillip passed away atage 99 from natrual causes.

Like the White House, the palace gives access to a rotation of royal reporters, who document the queen’s meetings and ceremonies. “There is a level of control by fear that has existed for generations,” Harry said. Buckingham Palace said that the issues raised by the couple were concerning. It didn’t deny the allegations, and expressed that while some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately.

North Korea threatens United States as Presidents Change

24

THE CSPRESS

Zach Valentine

APPLYING SUNSCREEN at least 15 minutes before going outside makes it most effective. Mikki Warriner, a senior, catches some rays, but not without the protection of sunscreen. 4 Miah Thirion

Vaccines available for teenagers

Global News

Tensions have only increased after North Korea’s ballistic weapons tests in the Yellow Sea in late March. Both Japan and South Korea have condemned the attack. The US Pacific Command, the military division that oversees military forces in the region, said that the test showed "the threat that North Korea's illicit weapons program poses to its neighbours and the international community".

The Sanctions Committee within the United Nations Security Council will meet in response to the missile launches, as the international community weighs its counteraction.

3 David Lane

HE ASTRAZENECA VACCINE has been

“

May

12 ● MAY 14, 2021

THE CSPRESS

THE SENIORS

Jessica Brashear is this year’s ....

front runner Max Hancock

global news editor

4 ● MAY 14, 2021

LIT MAGS ARE HERE!

Come to the Lit Mag release party!

WHEN: Friday, May 14th 3 to 5 pm WHERE: Janey's Coffee House

WHAT: Join members of literary magazine for an afternoon of coffee, literature, art, and fun. $5 cover charge goes towards purchase of a magazine.

Holding the highest GPA across the senior class, Cactus Shadows class of 2021 has brought forth its newest valedictorian, Jessica Brashear.

“I was really excited and kind of shocked when the results were finalized,” said Brashear.

Not only does Brashear hold the highest GPA across her entire senior class, but as a traditional valedictorian, she has had the highest GPA across all four years. In addition to being one of the most prestigious titles high school can offer, Brashear is also president of National Honors Society, president of the Falcon Foundation (a non-profit charitable organization that she created sophomore year), and a member of Spanish Honors Society.

It goes without saying that the 2020-2021 school year was a year unlike any other. Due to the first month being online, students competing for the title of valedictorian had to adapt to a new online curriculum in order to achieve the highest GPA in their class.

In order to reach such a high GPA throughout all four years of Brashear’s high school career, she had to take advanced classes that varied from IB, AP, and Honors programs.

Contrary to popular belief, even the valedic-

THE NEWS THE CSPRESS

FREEZE continued from page 1 An Officer’s Perspective

While it is true that there are always bad people in any profession, there are specific challenges to policing. Officers are trained to handle life and death situations and make split second decisions that are often covered by the mass media. But every call is different and requires distinct approaches, some that work better than others.

Detective Larry Biffen with the City of Buckeye’s Special Victims Unit, has been directly involved in two officer-involved shootings. The first was on June 25, 2016, when he received a call for a welfare check on a woman from her relatives in California, towards the end of his shift. The woman’s husband had posted on Facebook that he killed his wife and, when talking to family members, had indicated he intended to go to a Mosque and kill as many people as he could.

When responding to the call, Detective Biffen and other Buckeye police offiThese last cers decided to block the couple of years street, and, a moment later, the suspect pulled up and have been opened fire on them. He was emotional for armed with an AR-15, an lots of reasons, AK-47, two handguns, body armor, and several hundred and actions or rounds of ammo. After mulwords based tiple rounds of exchanging solely off fire, the suspect was injured and eventually took his own emotion often life. lead to division “Staying calm is usually my first thought,” said Biffen. and violence.

“Sometimes a situation and a We all need suspect’s actions may require to remember an immediate reaction.

Keeping calm and thinking to that it is okay my training and experience to disagree, to guide me to the best outbut remain come for everyone involved.”

The second shooting open-minded occurred on December 25, enough to have 2018. Biffen responded meaningful to a domestic violence call where the male suspect had discussions.” fired a weapon inside the Larry Biffen home during a fight with his wife. Upon police arrival, he Detective with the City of retreated into the house.

Buckeye’s Special Victims After officers were able to Unit get the kids and grandparents out of the house, the suspect made suicidal comments and exited the house firing an AR-15 and was armed with two handguns and more ammo. Returning fire, the suspect retreated into the house to reload and came back outside shooting more. Eventually, the suspect was killed. On both occasions, Biffen’s body camera footage was posted on YouTube and other news agencies.

“I want to be safe, I want to resolve the situation peacefully, and I want to go home to my family. When things went bad, there wasn’t a lot of time left for thinking. Someone was actively trying to kill me and other officers and civilians, and I needed to stop the threat,” said Biffen.

“

SHS appreciates Spanish culture Erika Potter staff writer

L

A

SOCIEDAD

HONORARIA

Hispánica is a national honor society started by the American Association of the Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (AATSP). The main goal of the club is to learn about and share the Spanish language and the many Hispanic cultures with others. This is through helping others by tutoring along with sponsoring activities.

Generally, the students tutor on Tuesday and Thursday after school and Wednsesdays at lunch. A member can choose to sponsor students in this organization for recognition of their dedication and performance

in the Spanish.

“This year, we have been only doing after school due to the pandemic. We also sponsor presentations, or hold films, food tasting events. This year we did a display of cultural icons for people to check out in our hallway,” said Jocelyn Raught, the advisor for The National Spanish Honors Society.

In the past, the club has given back by working at the Ronald McDonald house, sponsored Hispanic Families in need at the holidays, and working at Feed my Starving Children. Students who maintain an unweighted GPA in Spanish of 3.5 and have completed 3 semesters and at least one semester beyond 3/4 and are enrolled in the Spanish program are invited every

spring to apply. There is a short application, and upon completion, the individual is initiated.

“Those who have demonstrated excellence in the language and those who have a great passion for the language and culture. And most importantly, those who want to share a good time with others are welcome to join. We all like to have fun,” said Raught.

The skills learned that will be used later in students lives are of course, Spanish, as well as the skills of organization, dedication, as well as an appreciation for those who may be different from oneself. This club includes benefits towards the local and global community and increases awareness of Spanish culture.

Looking Forward - Okay to Disagree

Roughly 15 million to 26 million people in the United States have participated in demonstrations over the death of George Floyd. Still, with the recent conviction of his killer, the movements have considered it a victory.

They are now turning their focus to the others that have unfortunately died in police-involved actions.

HARD AT WORK, Jessica Brashear keeps busy both on and off campus as president of NHS, the Falcon Foundation, and a member of Spanish Honors Society. a Miah T hirion

torian has to fight for good grades in some classes.

“AP calculus was the hardest class for me because some things come naturally but I had to work harder for it than any other class,” said Brashear.

However, Brashear’s hard work to become valedictorian is more than a title. Countless scholarships and opportunities can be a result of holding the highest GPA in one’s school for all four years. Valedictorians even get access to some of the most selective and difficult entry universities in the world.

“I’m picking between UCLA, Pepperdine, and ASU for college. Right now I am studying pre-law with a political science major because I want to study something with foreign relations,” said Brashear.

Not only is Brashear one to exceed in schooling, but she is able to offer insight to underclassmen who may be going for the same position next year.

“If I had to give one tip to a future valedictorian, I would tell them to use it as motivation to work hard. Don’t see it as something that defines you, but use it as a goal to push yourself harder,” added Brashear.

As the school year comes to an end, Brashear will continue her quest for near perfection as she finishes the last of her high school hurdles.

Alicia Rifkin has every reason to ...

salute her success Erika Potter staff writer

A

LICIA RIFKIN DID not always dream about

being salutatorian, but with hard work and determination, it quickly became one of her primary goals for this school year.

“It wasn’t a long term goal, I just sort of thought about wanting the title at the beginning of this year,” said Rifkin.

While Rifkin never initially intended to get the title, she has always naturally done well in school.

She worked hard to maintain strong grades by taking AP, Honors, and IB classes.

“My favorite memory from Cactus Shadows is junior year when my IB class went to the biosphere on a field trip for two days,” said Rifkin.

With the knowledge that these classes can be overwhelming, she maintained a level head and accomplished her goal of being accepted into UC Berkeley.

Rifkin has always done well academically, although her real passion lies within marine biology.

“I’m passionate about science, the natural world, and how it works,” said Rifkin.

After being accepted to Berkeley, she was excited to start her new journey and take new, interesting classes that have more to do with her passion.

“I’m majoring in molecular environmental biology, which will cover everything from biology at the molecular level to the ecological level, and also about environmental problems and their solutions,“ said Rifkin.

Rifkin’s advice to underclassmen striving to accomplish as much as her is to maintain focus but more importantly, not to let the little things get to you in the meantime.

“You need to get As, but also take weighted classes, so I’d recommend doing the IB program or take as many AP classes as possible, but don’t take classes that you’re not interested in or it’ll suck,“ said Rifkin.

Rifkin believes her determination has prepared her for the future and hopes she’s inspired her peers along the way.

THINKING AHEAD, Salutatorian Alicia Rifkin did not always intend on going for the title, but it quickly became one of her goals. She encourages underclassmen to take classes that interest them. a Miah T hirion