Raha Times Issue #23

Vol. 23| Nov 2023

The Raha Times Made by Students, for Students

IN THIS ISSUE:

To New Beginnings

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As the seasons change and the temperature drops, we’re all looking forward to the end of a year new and a start of a new beginning. Though we’ve faced many hardships and struggles, we have all come out as better people at the end of it all.

In this way, we dedicate this issue to the seniors of 2024, as they make plans to venture out into their own. However not before their own trials of deadlines and applications. These next few months mark the start of our journey to completing our time in the Diploma Program.

So, as busy as you may be, we hope you take the time to take care of yourself this semester, grab a cup of warm coffee, indulge in our movie recommendations or even try out new recipes.

With this new season comes new changes to the Raha Times Leadership as well, as we look forward to selecting new editors that carry the same passion and care for Raha Times as we did.

As always, thank you so much for tuning in to another publication and we hope you can sit back, relax and enjoy our curated articles picked just for you!

The Raha Times

therahatimes2020@gmail.com

SCIENCE A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

By Seojin Park

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COZY RECIPES!

PAGE 9 WORLD EVENTS TITLE 42 Lili Gyurkan

http://gg.gg/ristimes

The Raha Times

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RAHA’s RECOMENDATIONS

The Golden Compass "One of the all-time greatest novels."

Entertainment Weekly

A children's book classic that is also highly appropriate for adults, meets fantasy with excellent storytelling. In this dream world of daemons that Pullman creates, Lyra and her own daemon, Pantalaimon, have to grapple with a fast-changing adult world. After she escapes from Oxford (in Brytain), a nerve-wracking adventure full of close calls and betrayals begins as she travels from place to place, dodging the nimble hands of Lyra's divorced parents.

Marisa Coulter and Lord Asriel, are both renowned scientists who wish to change the world, permanently, and not necessarily in the best way. Meet Lyra's soonto-be, most-loyal friends, Iorek Byrnison and Lee Scoresby who help her navigate the realms of strange new worlds. Enter the incredible world of the series (His Dark Materials) and a prophecy that may very well endanger this world's mere existence.

Part of His Dark Materials Series

By Philip Pullman Recommended for: Grade 7-8 Genre: Adventure Fantasy

EMILIAN ROSER

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The Raha Times

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Science

To a Sustainable Future

Global warming is one of the most pressing and pressing issues facing the world today.

Ocean acidification, the endangerment of many polar species, and habitat degradation are just a few of the consequences.

Renewable energy is derived from natural resources that can be produced more quickly than it can be used and is a major solution for the struggle to cope with global warming.

Autumn is often associated with the fall of leaves, but it’s also a time of year when renewable energy sources are at their peak.

Wind and solar power are at their highest, while carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere drop as the leaves fall. Lower CO2 emissions help to reduce global warming and protect biodiversity and human health.

Solar power comes in is at the forefront of the clean energy revolution. It turns solar energy into electricity. Not only does this help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but it is also accessible to individual households, enabling people to act towards sustainability.

Wind is another powerful source of the renewable energy revolution. The wind rotates the rotor blades of the turbine, and it converts kinetic energy into electrical energy through the generator. Wind has become one of the most cost-effective renewable sources of energy in the long run.

Renewable energy is a solution to endless issues regarding climate change, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing our greenhouse gasses.

SEOJIN PARK

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COZY RECIPES

APPLE ENCHILADA INGREDIENTS (21 ounce) can apple pie filling 6 (8 inch) flour tortillas 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, or more to taste ½ cup white sugar ½ cup packed brown sugar ½ cup water ⅓ cup margarine

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

2. Spoon fruit evenly onto all tortillas and sprinkle with cinnamon. Roll up tortillas and place seam side down on a lightly greased 8x8-inch baking pan.

3. Bring white sugar, brown sugar, water, and margarine to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes.

4. Pour sauce evenly over tortillas; sprinkle with extra cinnamon on top to taste.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

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The Raha Times

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COZY RECIPES CHOCOLATE CRANBERRY COOKIES INGREDIENTS ½ cup packed brown sugar ½ cup white sugar ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 1 large egg 1 tablespoon brandy 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon baking soda 1 cup dried cranberries ¾ cup white chocolate chips

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease 2 cookie sheets.

2. Beat brown sugar, white sugar, and butter with an electric mixer in a large bowl until creamy. Add egg and brandy and beat until incorporated.

3. Combine flour and baking soda in a separate bowl. Stir flour mixture into the butter mixture until just combined. Fold in cranberries and white chocolate chips.

4. Drop spoonfuls of dough 2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheets.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, switching racks halfway through; cookies will still appear slightly doughy.

6. Remove from the oven and let cool briefly on the cookie sheets before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

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CAELEY JAMES

CAS: Mandatory but Masterful!

It's Debatable: Does CAS compromise Moral Integrity? To what extent does CAS trivialize the nature of good deeds?

The IB is always advertised as a curriculum with a more well-rounded approach to learning due to its strong emphasis on having a varied approach to learning, ensuring critical thinking as well as community involvement. The community aspect is what I will be focusing on today; CAS ( Creativity, Action, and Service) requires students to engage in community service for them to pass the IB. Though some have concerns, I am here to argue that CAS is extremely beneficial, not just for the individual but for the global community.

To start, is critical to emphasize the significant benefits that genuine and voluntary community engagement can provide for students. When approached with sincerity and a desire to make a positive difference, community service can be a powerful educational tool that fosters not only personal growth but also qualities like empathy, social responsibility, and a deep appreciation for the value of giving back to the community. This dedication to community service goes beyond the immediate academic context; it becomes a lifelong lesson that molds individuals into responsible, compassionate citizens which is beneficial for all of us in the future Also, when considering the long-term effects of instilling a sense of citizenship, it is clear that the advantages are there and important; Students who are exposed to community service as part of their education are more likely to carry this sense of responsibility into adulthood.

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This consistency in cultivating a commitment to community service ensures that individuals remain engaged with their communities and societies as a whole.

Students develop a profound understanding of their role in creating positive change, and contributing to a harmonious and socially conscious society, by cultivating a sense of civic responsibility from a young age.

Moreover, the enduring impact of community service should not be underestimated. When approached with a genuine desire to help rather than harm, community service initiatives have the potential to generate lasting benefits for both individuals and communities. By actively participating in community service from a young age, students become agents of positive change, instilling values and principles that are fundamentally beneficial to society. This ripple effect can lead to a community that places a high value on social responsibility and actively works towards addressing the challenges it faces. By arguing that community service being forced isn't good, it completely disregards the benefits that service has on the community; community service is community service, no matter what form it is in and this should not be ignored.

Overall, the concerns about the sincerity and genuine nature of the IB requiring mandatory community service are not that strong;, it is critical to recognize that when approached with sincerity and a genuine desire to make a difference, community service can be a valuable experience for both students and their communities. Community service itself is positive, and the values that it helps young individuals develop are extremely beneficial

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THE RAHA TIMES

WORLD EVENTS

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Title 42: What does this mean for Migrants going to the United States?

Former President of the United States implemented Title 42 in March 2020, citing the need to control the spread of COVID-19. Title 42 refers to a section of the United States Code that encompasses numerous rules and regulations vital to public health and safety. It was primarily used as a tool to prevent the spread of COVID-19 across the southern border.

The policy resulted in the immediate expulsion of over 2.8 million individuals, without providing them the opportunity to apply for asylum. This led to a significant increase in the number of people trying to cross the border illegally, as they could not apply for asylum legally. The policy also faced criticism from human rights organizations, who claimed that it violated the international principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the return of refugees to a country where they may face persecution.

However,

some

conservative

politicians

and

groups

the border and prevent the spread of COVID-19. They argued that allowing large numbers of migrants into the country during a pandemic could have a detrimental effect on public health and safety. They also believed that the policy was an effective deterrent to illegal immigration, and that it would help to reduce the burden on border communities.

concerned about the potential influx of migrants seeking

opposed the policy, arguing that it was inhumane and violated the rights of migrants. They claimed that it was a violation of the international refugee law and the U.S. guarantees

due

process

for

all

individuals, including non-citizens. They also argued that the policy was discriminatory, as it disproportionately affected individuals from marginalized communities.

In January 2023, the Biden administration announced the end of all declared national emergencies linked to COVID-19, including Title 42. As of May 12, 2023, Title 42 has been lifted, and the United States will revert back to its previous immigration policies under Title 8, which allows for more time to process and file asylum claims, in contrast to the immediate expulsion allowed under Title 42.

the increased workload. They believe that ending Title 42 could result in a significant increase in illegal immigration and could harm public health and safety. They also argue that the policy is necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Liberals, on the other hand, criticize the Biden administration for adopting harsher rules to manage the situation. They believe that the policy violates the human rights of migrants and that it is an ineffective tool to prevent illegal immigration.

On the other hand, many liberal politicians and groups

which

from both conservatives and liberals. Conservatives are asylum, and whether the border patrol is equipped to handle

supported the policy, arguing that it was necessary to secure

Constitution,

However, the decision to end Title 42 has received criticism

They argue that the policy is discriminatory, as it disproportionately affects marginalized communities.

To counter the increased processing time under Title 8, the Biden administration has adopted a new rule denying entry to migrants passing through another country before arriving at the Mexican border. Although the screening process will be faster, those denied entry will be barred from re-entering the country for five years.

In conclusion, the end of Title 42 has been a contentious issue that has divided the United States. While conservatives argue that it is necessary to secure the border and prevent the spread of COVID-19, liberals believe that it violates the rights of migrants and is an ineffective tool to prevent illegal immigration. The Biden administration must handle the situation with sensitivity and care, while balancing the interests of both groups.

Lili Gyurkan

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THE RAHA TIMES

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ENTERTAINMENT

ENTIRELY DIFFERENT

Sofia Coppola’s “Priscilla” The 2022 drama biopic ‘Elvis’, directed by Baz Luhrmann, details the life and rise to stardom for the ‘King of Rock’n’roll’. The focus of ‘Elvis’ was the complex relationship between Elvis and his manager, who led him to many controversies but also led him to his status as a supposed pioneer of glamorous rock performance. However, Sofia Coppola, director of Lost in Translation, Marie Antoinette, and other critically acclaimed films, takes a new approach to the portrayal of Elvis’ story- with the nuanced focus on the perspective of his wife, Priscilla Presley-née Beaulieu.

In the film, Coppola aims to lead viewers through the turmoil faced by Priscilla Presley while struggling to deal with life as a married woman wedded to such an infamous figure at such a young age - clearly, another side to Elvis’ life is emphasized through the story of his romance with Priscilla.

The film is certainly one to look out for, as it will be an entirely different and female-led perspective on the life of the King of Rock’n’roll.

The film is inspired by Priscilla’s memoir, Elvis and Me, written by Priscilla after the couple divorced. Coppola is a director known for handling complex themes of womanhood in her films with sensitivity, yet an overwhelming bluntnessshe does not shy away from her depictions of the struggles young women face in a society that is not always kind to them.

MYTHILI KARTHIKEYAN

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The Raha Times

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Advice

CLASS OF 2024 Interview with the Raha Seniors of 2024!

The Raha Times interviewed the Seniors of the Class Of 2024 on their thoughts and hopes staked against this academic year along with advice for their younger peers in this exciting interview publication!

1 What are you most looking forward to this year?

“Probably graduating, personally I think it's going to be a fun event, and I’m excited” - Yahya “Finishing my IB exams and getting that over with so I don’t have any more academic school pressure but I have university pressure, but just not any academic school pressure” - Aafreen “Final exams” - Anonymous ‘I’m really looking forward to everyone completing their finals and getting all their IA’s done and having a feeling of accomplishment that comes with finishing IB” - Maddie

“Senior trip day” - Wesely “Graduating” - Anonymous “Getting to do all the last everything like our last sports day, and our last dress down day” - Mythili “I gotta say handing in all those final IA’s and EE and the TOK essay... all those big documents I want them sent and gone out of my hair for good” - Adrian “I’m looking forward to graduation. I think it’ll be a very fun, exciting day, where we get to wear gowns and take photos on stage” - Raahil

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Advice

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2 Thoughts on senior fright night?

“I think its super fun and we should do more stuff like that. I think Hiba’s baking is the best in the entire school” - Saif “The fright night was an interesting event that brought the grade together.

We all enjoyed it a lot by having pizza and cookies and other things that other people bought” - Aafreen “I think it was a good experience! I think we were able to get everyone’s minds off of the workload that we have for this week and overall, it was fun, lighthearted!”

- Hiba

“Fright night was very fun, I think it was pretty well organized with the food and movie. I had a great time; it was good for me to socialize with friends and watch the movie together.”

- Raahil “It was a once in a lifetime experience to have! We all enjoyed together and we came together as a grade, we socialized, had amazing food and watching the horror movie was quite thrilling!”

- Zara B. “I really like when we watch movies in the auditorium, it’s such a wonderful resource.

-Nikki

What is one thing that you are going to miss 3 about being a senior?

“Being superior to everyone else”

“I think the sense of having a place

- Aafreen

everyday to go, and have a routine, and missing your friends when everyone goes off to university will definitely be something that I’ll miss!”

- Maddie

“Having status as a senior” - Yahya “Mostly the people in school, I have some really good friends here, and also the teachers.”

- Wesely

“Just being with my friends and making memories” - Zara B

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Advice

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“I’m going to miss my friends, a lot of “I’m going to miss the encouraged socialization” - Mythili “I'm definitely going to miss a lot of my friends, that I won’t be able to see for a while, and the teachers. I've built a strong connection with the school so I’m really gonna miss the people that are here, it's gonna be the people for me”

the people here and I’m going to miss the experiences I have with my teachers” - Anonymous “The freedom we have in school is awesome” - Raahil “School in general. I think the atmosphere the environment, its nice,

- Adrian

not as serious as I think uni might be.

“Routine, I thrive on routine!”

teachers, that’s great : )”

- Anonymous

The relationship I have with my - Hiba

What is one thing on your to do bucket list, 4 before we graduate?

Day out with the grade. We all should

“Getting our whole grade together in

go out, anywhere, it doesn’t matter.

tutorials and having fun competitions,

- Aafreen

and activities like that where we can all bond as collective would be good”

“I think I want to go camping with my

- Maddie

friends” - Wesely

“Finish off the booklist I’ve been keeping for 3 years now”

“Personally, I am excited for senior

- Anonymous

prank day, hopefully, it’ll be enjoyable” - Yahya

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“Biggest thing up there is senior prank day. I have some very very revengeful things planned for some teachers” - Adrian

Advice

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“I want to go to Dubai with my friends on a trip” - Raahil “Get voted best hair” - Hiba

What is one piece of advice you would give to 5 our younger grades?

“Be prepared for DP, and start strong so

“For MYP grades, its enjoy the MYP

you don’t suffer later”

years because it does get tougher but

- Wesely

you have to remember when it gets tough, let it be tough and enjoy the

“Keep working hard, and never give up

challenge. For PYP, honestly don’t let

or never back down.”

school be a task, not something you

- Yahya

don’t want to do, make it something you want to do, make it fun.

“I would say take subjects that you find

Start building a portfolio and get

most fulfillment and joy in, rather than

involved in extracurriculars (art,

what necessarily you need for uni

sports) and start developing some

requirements. I guess its important to

skills. When it comes to university

fulfill those but taking subjects that

applications, having those qualities

interest you would really help motivate

that make you stand out help a lot.”

you stop study and complete your grade

– Raahil

12” - Maddie

“Don’t slack but at the same time, don’t overwork yourself because

“Don’t stress too much, there’s only 4

you’ll have opportunities to make up

years of your life that you’re never

for it in grade 12.”

getting back so enjoy it while you can!”

– Hiba

- Anonymous

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Advice

“Do your work as soon as you get it don’t let it pile up”

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“Just keep running, think of it as a marathon, and not like a sprint ~ every exam is just a tiny part of the long run”

- Wassila

- Anonymous

“Make a routine for it, because if you can get everything down to specific times, you will never get stressed out” - Saif

“Please please please make a schedule and stick to it. Make sure you do the most you can. Time is precious.”

-Nikki

What are you planning to do with your IB 6 diploma?

“Study urban planning and get a job back here in the future hopefully” - Wesely

“Use it for uni and get a good job and become rich hopefully inshallah” - Anonymous

“Stash it inside somewhere and not look at it”

“A lot of people are gonna come at me for this but I’m going to take my

- Hiba

IB diploma and go into the military”

“I am going to study law and take history and psychology papers... hopefully that works out”

- Adrian “Frame it on the wall” - Raahil

- Maddie “Shove it into my cousin’s and brother's face” - Anonymous

Raya Al-Imam and Samia Shariff

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Challenges and Comics

THE RAHA TIMES

CHALLENGE

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ANIKA AHMED

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This publication wouldn't be possible without the following individuals.

A huge thank you to.....

HEAD EDITORS ENTERTAINMENT ADVICE ZARAH ABRAHAM PRAGYA BHARATH SAMIA SHARIFF ANIKA AHMED MYTHILI RAYA AL-IMAM ADITHI POTTY KARTHIKEYAN PRAGYA PHOTOGRAPHY BHARATH DEBATE GEORGE SAMIA SHARIFF ZARAH ABRAHAM ANTHONY YUTHIKA ADITHI POTTY ETTIREDDI SELIM SERIFF SCIENCE ANIKA AHMED CAELEY JAMES ADITHI POTTY SEOJIN PARK WORLD EVENTS CREATIVE YUTHIKA WRITING STAFF ETTIREDDI AAFREEN ADVISORS LILI GYURKAN AURIFULLAH AOIFE WILLIAMS EMILIAN ROSER CARTOONS/ PRAGYA BHARATH GAMES YUTHIKA DUAA SIDDIQUI ETTIREDDI ANIKA AHMED PRAGYA GRAPHIC BHARATH EDITORS DARWIN KECK PRAGYA BHARATH ZARAH ABRAHAM ANIKA AHMED MARVIN GUINTO FOUNDED BY: Eman Almuti '22 Haya Abusafieh '22 Jiho Youn '22 Alisha Idrus '22 Jannah El-Agroudy '22 Mr. Andrew Cole

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The Raha Times Thank you for checking out our twentyfirst issue of The Raha Times! See you soon for another freshly-baked newspaper!

- The Raha Times team