The Tiger's Eye 3.1 Fall 2024

FREMONT HIGH SCHOOL

CONT 02 · ABOUT

Fremont Senior High School · 1750 N Lincoln Ave, Fremont NE · (402) 727-3050

STAFF MEMBERS

The staff of Fremont High’s Tiger’s Eye Newspaper is proud to deliver quality content that represents the student body, to be the voice of FHS and to provide the truth to our community.

Annabelle Bignell - Editor-in-Chief

Darline Alvarez Payes - Staff Writer

Aidan Eberspacher - Creative Editor

Ava Placek - Staff Writer

Thalia Gonzalez - Broadcast Editor

Nuray Mamedzade - Staff Writer

MJ Ideus - Copy Editor

Sandro Rusia - Staff Writer

David Stevens - Advisor

Skylar Woodside - Staff Writer

Chase Fowler - Staff Writer & Designer

EDITORIAL POLICY

The Tiger’s Eye is a student-run publication of the Fremont High School Journalism Department. The purpose of this publication is to inform the students of FHS, their families and the community of Fremont. The content and opinions of The Tiger’s Eye do not necessarily represent the student body, faculty, administration, adviser or Fremont Public Schools district. The Tiger’s Eye encourages letters to the editors, but reserves the right to reject them for reasons including but not limited to lack of space, multiple letters of the same topic and personal attacks contained in the letter. Letters should be emailed to david.stevens@fpsmail.org.

Editors Statement The role of an editor encompasses the oversight of journalistic pieces. It is notably disconcerting how readers gravitate towards editors and advisors upon the discovery of any minor error in a publication. It is important to acknowledge that individuals involved in creating and producing these journalistic works invest time and effort in scrutinizing the same text and images over an extended period. Redesigning the same thing repeatedly can often lead to missing some mistakes, as familiarity with the content may call for errors.

There is a double standard within the treatment of student artists/journalists versus student-athletes, particularly when it comes to addressing and acknowledging mistakes. While a football player’s failure to catch a critical pass at a state tournament may be accepted with support and understanding, the same leniency is not often extended to students in these creative programs. There seems to be a pervasive expectation of perfectionism in high school arts, which creates pressure on student-run publications and discourages my acceptance and my staff’s acceptance of mistakes. This double standard requires a critical shift towards a more supportive and understanding approach in the student arts community.

TENTS ABOUT · 03

04 06 08 10 12 14 16 18 20 22

- Deer Pointe Elementary: unveiling a new chapter of safety

- FHS welcomes new SRO: Officer McKenzie offers secured presence - Fremont High School helps teens thrive - What’s the fuss?

- Political playground: TikTok tactics in the 2024 presidential race - Finding the facts & El voto del futuro de América - Planting political seeds: influence of parental beliefs on adolescent political ideologies - Your vote, America’s future - A&E - Short n’ Sweet: A brief album that’s nothing short of brilliant

Spreads designed by: Aidan Eberspacher, Annabelle Bignell, Thalia Gonzales and Chase Fowler.

04 · NEWS

Deer Pointe ElEMENTARY: unveiling a new chapter of safety ANNABELLE BIGNELL

D

eer Pointe Elementary, the newest addition to the Fremont Public School system, had its grand opening on Monday, Aug., 14, along with the other FPS schools. Parents, students and alumni of Clarmar Elementary, the previous name of Deer Pointe before the construction and relocation, gathered for open house and back-to-school events.

Deer Pointe was previously located on E 19th and N Clarmar Ave., but it’s now located at 2943 Elkhorn Drive – a location close to Fremont’s retail district and major roads.

Superintendent Mark Shepard explains the reasoning behind the relocation of Deer Pointe.

“The original design had Clarmar moving to 16th and Clarmar Ave. – flipping the site similar to Howard Elementary and Washington Elementary,” Shepard stated.

The administration assembled a committee to analyze the unique components and challenges that led to Clarmar’s relocation.

“The 60-member Citizens Committee stated that Fremont High School needed its own site – not shared with an elementary school.”

There are three major connecting streets and three highways (within walking distance) located near Deer Pointe. These streets are 23rd Street, Luther Road, Diers Parkway/Jones Road, Highway 275, 30 and 77.

After reviewing the premises and layout of Deer Pointe, some parents and community members voiced worries about child safety.

A community much like Fremont has children with different educational backgrounds and requirements that need to be met. Teachers and parents know that young children can be unpredictable whether it’s from a verbal outburst in a classroom or an explosive tantrum leading the child to dart off school property during recess.

Currently, Deer Pointe does not have a fenced-in playground.

Other elementary schools within FPS do, which allows for further protection and safety precautions to be held in place. With the new location, there is a mutual fear of an increase in children being involved in automobile accidents due to the lack of protective infrastructure along the busy roadsides.

While these conditions may seem

daunting, Sheppard assures that the school district and community have prioritized student well-being in response to the community’s concern for safety.

“The city commissioned a traffic safety/infrastructure study conducted by a traffic safety engineer prior to approval of the amendments to the subdivision,” Shepard said. “The study identified traffic counts and a series of safety measures to deal with safe speeds, student crossing, traffic flow etc. The safety/infrastructure measures were identified on a continuum of care – as the school enrollment and the internal lots are built out more infrastructure will need to be installed.”

With construction still underway for the landscape and playground, school administration continues to install fences around the playground and recess areas for added safety and security.

“There will be a fence installed around Deer Pointe, just as there is at Howard and Washington,” Shepard mentioned.

NEWS · 05

In addition, the community has identified a need to enhance the visibility of stop signs by installing stop lights instead of a four-way stop.

The installation of a crosswalk with buttons, similar to the old ones on Clarmar Ave. has been suggested to be placed on Luther Road.

With limited space, FPS had to strive for a new location to help improve the education of local children. No matter the school district or location, all administrators, educators and parents should continuously read up on local safety concerns and communicate genuine concerns with local administration.

06 · FEATURE

Chase Fowler

F

remont High School (FHS) has prioritized safety, especially in light of growing concerns over violence and vandalism. In response, the school has welcomed a new School Resource Officer (SRO) this year to ensure a secure environment for students and staff.

A SRO is assigned to monitor school grounds, maintain order and ensure that students and staff are safe.

FHS did everything they could to fill the SRO vacancy, but due to staffing shortages at the Fremont Police Department, the position remained vacant until officer Hunter McKenzie accepted the position.

Before joining the Fremont Police Department, McKenzie gained valuable experience working in logistics with Maverick Distribution LLC. In March 2019, he transitioned into law enforcement, where he has served for over four years.

Students and staff have expressed their appreciation for officer McKenzie’s presence.

“I have not met him as a person, but I have heard great things about him,” science teacher Bailie LetzringHansen said. “I think it is

great for us to have an SRO, and I appreciate how good of a job he does watching and monitoring the hallways during the day and after school.”

thing due to it [SRO] being a deterrent for school shootings and drug use because now we do have a resource officer in the building,” junior Landon Mcgee said.

Making a difference in people’s lives, one person at a time.

McKenzie’s transition into his role as an SRO was driven by a desire to serve the community in a meaningful way and to contribute to public service.

“I’ve always had a passion for law enforcement,” McKenzie said. “I’ve always had plans to be an SRO at some point in my career, so I figured, why not now.”

- SRO Hunter McKenzie

Music teacher Mark Harman agrees about the positive effect of officer McKenzie in the hallways.

“It’s very nice to have someone in the building,” Harman said. “It is also nice to know that we have an SRO in the building after so long.

It is very hard to take on the role of a teacher and having to watch the halls at the same time, so I love that we have an SRO to help us out.”

While teachers express their appreciation of the added support in maintaining a secure environment, students also recognize the importance of having an SRO in school.

“I think it is a very good

Reflecting on his start of the school year, he shared, “FHS has been great so far.

Students, staff, and the administration have been super helpful,” McKenzie said.

FEATURE · 07

Q: Is carrying all your equipment tiring?

A: After a while you get used to it, but if you have a week or so without it, it becomes heavy again.

Q: Did you get tased during your training?

A: It’s optional. I did get tased and it did not feel good.

08 · FEATURE

FREMONT HIGH SCHOOL HELPS TEENS THRIVE

Thalia Gonzalez Barrios

FEATURE · 09 Supporting Student Mental Health In today's world, focusing on the mental health of teenagers has a significant impact on their academic performances and well-being.

Ally Ibsen, the school's new social worker, and Ainslee Kroenke, a school counselor, prioritize mental health. Both professionals play crucial roles in helping students navigate their mental health challenges, particularly when it comes to coming back into the school environment after absences due to mental health issues. They work closely with local mental health programs to ensure that students have access to essential resources.

Ibsen provided information on how the school handles mental health; students who are feeling down or need someone to talk to can go to the school social worker, a psychology teacher or a guidance counselor. Fremont High School offers therapy sessions during school hours.This makes it easier for students to get help whenever they need it, without worrying about transportation to the therapist's office.

Fremont High School provides program training for teachers every year before the start of the school year. Teachers are required to complete an online course covering various models and including questions aimed at helping them recognize signs of suicide and understand what steps to take if they are concerned about a student. The course also ensures that everyone knows about resources such as the Safe2Help hotline, which allows students, staff, and parents to report concerning behavior anonymously. Additionally, the school provides information about the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. Hotline details are even included on the back of student IDs and displayed around the school, making it easy and anonymous for students to seek help or report anything they perceive as unusual.

Fremont High School has teamed up with local groups like Lotus Behavioral Health and Lutheran Family Services to offer therapy and other support for students at school. Fremont is helping to normalize discussions about mental health and making it more convenient for students to access support by offering therapy sessions during school hours.

In addition to offering in-school therapy sessions, the FHS district has a plan to help students come back to school after being out for mental health reasons. This plan involves organizing a meeting to ensure that students can seamlessly transition back to school, make up for any missed work, and identify any additional support they may require. During this meeting, students collaborate with staff to create a personalized plan that highlights potential challenges, outlines the ways in which staff can offer assistance, and develops strategies for coping with difficult situations. Through this collaborative effort, the goal is to ensure that students feel supported and valued as they reintegrate into the school environment.

Fremont High School is dedicated to improve and promote student well-being by offering in-school therapy, preventive programs, and reintegration support to ensure that students have the resources and care they need to thrive both academically and emotionally.

Fremont High School Students' Opinions on Local Resources: Are you aware of the mental health resources offered by our school?

NO: 58%

YES: 42%

19 votes

14 votes

How comfortable do you feel talking to a school counselor about mental health?

3%

28%

VERY COMFORTABLE

34%

SOMEWHAT COMFORTABLE

VERY COMFORTABLE

Do you know where to find mental health resources at school?

NO: 61%

YES: 39%

20 votes

13 votes

If you are struggling, how likely are you to seek help from a school counselor?

11%

VERY LIKELY

13%

38%

SOMEWHAT LIKELY

VERY UNLIKELY

What is your biggest concern about talking to a professional?

None 8.2% Judgement 12.4%

Lack of Privacy 54.6% Interference of personal life 24.8%

What’s the fuss?

10 · IN-DEPTH

EDITORIAL STATEMENT

In this issue’s in-depth coverage of politics, we aim not only to inform but also to cultivate thoughtful and critical discussions among our readers.

It’s essential for our candidates to exemplify professionalism, as their conduct sets the tone for political discourse and public engagement.

We encourage our readers, particularly high school students, to think critically and independently—free from the

finding information from credible sources. We provide a platform for exploring a variety of ideas without seeking to persuade or impose any Opinions can often be swayed by trending topics or viral posts, particular viewpoint. Instead, we empower our readers to which can undermine genuine draw their own conclusions understanding and thoughtful consideration. By stepping back based on the information and from these influences, students insights shared. By fostering an environment of open dialogue can develop a more nuanced and independent thought, we perspective on political issues. hope to encourage a generation Our coverage seeks to highlight of informed citizens who can contribute meaningfully to the importance of engaging current political events. with diverse viewpoints and pervasive influences of social media and new technological advancements.

IN-DEPTH · 11

Poli t ical 12 · IN-DEPTH

T

a pl yground

ikTok tactics

20

in Race

the 24

Presidential ANNABELLE BIGNELL

(Note: The following information was taken on September 24, 2024, and the order of posts may have changed since).

Consider the analogy of the current political landscape being compared to a group of teenage girls on Snapchat.

In such a scenario, the pervasive bullying and interpersonal conflict would prompt widespread concern and shock.

The question then arises: why is it deemed acceptable for the individuals holding influential and powerful positions in our nation to engage in behavior that would be deemed unacceptable among those with common decency?

People following the 2024 Presidential Election have heard alarming rumors about immigrants

and household pets in Ohio, even outrageous allegations against Donald Trump involving women and children. Every week, TikTok content creators seem to bring a fresh political topic for avid social media users to hyper-fixate on.

Social media has rapidly evolved into a tumultuous battleground, capturing the attention of young voters through increasingly aggressive instances of cyberbullying.

The campaigns for the 2024 Presidential Election have adopted tactics that often mirror the actions and rhetoric of high school bullies, employing cynical strategies designed to provoke and polarize.

Within just 10 seconds of scrolling through “Kamala HQ, (@kamalahq)” the official account of Vice President Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign, five videos target opposing candidate and former President Donald Trump.

These videos feature satire and mockery approaches that attack his physical appearance, lack of business administration education and his past controversial statements.

While it is known that these posts were not directly published by Harris herself, they are nevertheless associated with her name and personal brand.

It is reasonable to assume that she agrees with and has no objections to the graphic and sardonic, or mocking, nature of these posts.

Voters should realize that personal moral beliefs about the promoted content should not delay the implementation of preventative measures and actions.

Suppose Harris disagreed with the content of these TikTok posts. In that case, she should have likely issued a statement expressing this sentiment, asserting that she does not condone the message conveyed in these posts, particularly regarding bullying.

Harris owns multiple accounts, one of which is @teamkamala, focused on promoting her campaign. With about 230,000 followers, this account highlights Harris’s genuine concerns and plans if she’s elected.

It’s a more traditional campaigning approach. KamalaHQ has around 4,600,000 followers and attracts more “Gen Z” TikTok users.

This difference in popularity could create an impression that the larger account is more humorous and popular due to its high amount of likes, shares and comments. Voters need to consider the impression they want to convey - do you want your next leader to be a cyberbully?

On the flip side of the political coin, Donald Trump has employed a verbal onslaught against Harris, primarily through the spread of exaggerated videos aimed at boosting his popularity and appealing to a younger male demographic which many call “hype edits,” basically

idolizing content. While Trump’s social media posts on his campaign account, “Make America Great Again, (@maga)” have targeted Harris, the majority of his remarks and criticisms have been delivered directly by him during debates, interviews and rallies.

In these instances, Trump has resorted to name-calling and derogatory language, targeting Harris’s political positions, personal attributes, gender and even her seasonal allergies.

At a rally in Erie, Pennsylvania Trump referred to Harris as “mentally impaired.” During a press conference at a golf course in New Jersey, Trump stated “I think I’m entitled to personal attacks. I don’t have a lot of respect for her.”

These harsh remarks not only reflect a lack of propriety but also create a hostile and divided political environment. The same can be said for candidate Harris.

The actions of a prominent public figure raise deep concerns for American citizens regarding the approach to problem-solving in politics. Instead of focusing on the critical issues at hand, both voters and politicians are increasingly preoccupied with trivial matters and personal attacks.

This troubling trend threatens to undermine the very foundation of our democratic system and erode the trust of the American people in their government. The presidency is not a platform for personal vendettas or viral TikTok moments; it is a position that demands vision, policy-driven solutions and a commitment to the welfare of all citizens.

Rather than acting like two teenage girls fighting over a boy, our leaders need to fight for America. Politicians should prioritize the formulation of policies grounded in real situations and the concerns of the American people.

IN-DEPTH · 13

Check out our instagram, @tigerseyenews, for Visual examples.

This association suggests that an individual within her team, possibly occupying a lower position and not necessarily affiliated with the White House, is responsible for devising these contemporary marketing strategies. Therefore Harris is deemed guilty by association. Harris is aware of these posts and has repeatedly referred to them during interviews.

14 · IN-DEPTH

finding the facts:

your guide to find unbiased news AIDAN EBERSPACHER

4 Common bias indicators 1. Lack of Sources

2. One-Sided Storytelling

3. Misleading Headlines

4. Charged Language

The following information was recieved from PeerVPN.com

top reliable sources for political news

Associated Press

Reuters

National Public Radio

British Broadcasting Corporation

PBS NewsHour

CBS News

The Guardian

The New York Times

CNN

NBC News

fact checking TOols FactCheck.org

Snopes.com

Politifact.com

Reuters Fact Check

Associated Press Fact Check

These tools are helpful for detecting biased news and debunking misinformation, making it easy to verify facts and discern credible sources from fake news.

IN-DEPTH · 15

El Futuro del Voto de América MJ IDEUS · TRANSLATED BY THALIA GONZALEZ Me faltan solo siete días. Una semana que me separa del poder a mi derecho al voto en las próximas elecciones, yo cumpliré 18 años el 12 de noviembre. Como joven de 17 años que está a punto de alcanzar la mayoría de edad, registrarse para votar tiene un significado profundo para mi. Creo firmemente que cada voto cuenta, por pequeño que parezca.

Cada contribución individual tiene el potencial de dar forma al futuro colectivo de los Estadounidenses.

Lo que más me frustra de no poder votar en estas elecciones es que mis opiniones no cambiarán en una semana. No tendré una revelación repentina sobre por quién votar cuando cumpla 18 años. Tener una opinión sobre el voto no es una decisión que se toma a la ligera; se necesitan años para tomar esta decisión.

El voto es un aspecto fundamental de cualquier democracia; es el mecanismo a través del cual se logra la reforma y se produce el cambio.

El cambio significativo sólo puede ocurrir si los ciudadanos contribuyen con sus votos.

La mayoría de los jóvenes adultos consideramos que los funcionarios públicos y las políticas están desactualizados o necesitan reformas.

Según el Centro de Información e Investigación sobre Aprendizaje y Participación Cívica (CIRCLE), las principales preocupaciones de los jóvenes incluyen el costo de vida, los empleos con salarios dignos, el control de armas y el cambio climático. Yo también quiero ver cambios

en estas áreas y otras. Me preocupa la economía, mi educación y el nivel de vida, pero mi fecha de nacimiento me impide tener voz en estos asuntos cívicos.

El voto es crucial para influir en las políticas gubernamentales y cambiar las leyes. Elegir representantes que se alineen con nuestros valores es esencial para introducir nueva legislación. Estos cambios no ocurren espontáneamente; se producen a través del proceso electoral.

iparon en la elección.

Muchos jóvenes adultos perciben sus votos como insignificantes o sin importancia. Sin embargo, como señala APIA Vote, “La victoria de un candidato puede estar determinada por solo unos pocos votos más que el otro. Tu decisión de votar podría inclinar una elección de un candidato que no tiene tus mejores intereses en mente a uno que sí los tiene”.

Tener un electorado más joven permite abordar temas más relevantes y que vote una amplia gama de personas. Muchas comunidades han sido históricamente marginadas del proceso electoral, pero ahora tienen la oportunidad, más que nunca, de ejercer su derecho al voto.

Votar es importante para cada persona porque demuestra que tienes un lugar en este país y una opinión que merece ser escuchada. No solo estás votando por ti mismo, estás votando por aquellos menos afortunados que tú. Estás votando por la niña que quiere ser presidenta, por los inmigrantes y por cualquier estadounidense sin ese privilegio.

Estados Unidos es un hermoso crisol de culturas, y es esencial que el electorado estadounidense refleje esta diversidad. No hacerlo es fundamentalmente injusto para las personas que llaman hogar a Estados Unidos.

Esto no es una batalla entre candidatos. Votar no tiene que ser una batalla; se trata de priorizar tus necesidades e intereses y los de los demás. ¿Qué cambios quieres ver? ¿Quién crees que traerá esos cambios?

Según la Oficina del Censo de los Estados Unidos, la elección presidencial de 2020 registró la mayor participación electoral del siglo XXI, con un 66.8% de los ciudadanos mayores de 18 años emitiendo sus votos. Si bien es alentador que los jóvenes adultos se tomen el voto en serio y se estén convirtiendo en votantes más informados que nunca, es importante señalar que casi la mitad de los jóvenes de 18 a 21 años elegibles para registrarse para votar no partic-

No importa a quién elijas o con qué lado te identifiques más, registrarte para votar es una de las cosas más importantes que puedes hacer como joven adulto. Votar demuestra que valoras tus propias opiniones y las de los demás. Como alguien que busca ser un catalizador del cambio pero a menudo se le niega la oportunidad, es crucial expresar tus opiniones y abogar por aquellos que están marginados.

Planting Politcal Seeds: 16 · IN-DEPTH

Influnce of Parental Beliefs on Adolescent Political Ideologies EMILY SWANDA

Politics has been woven into the fabric of American society since its founding, with parents often seeking to instill their beliefs in the younger generation. As children, we absorb everything from our parents like sponges, and this includes their political views.

Parents serve as our first and most significant role models, shaping our understanding of the world.

According to a Pew Research Center study, approximately 38% of parents believe it is essential for their children to share their political beliefs.

Further surveys conducted by the Center focused on adolescents aged 13 to 17, revealing that only one or two out of ten children diverge from their parents’ political ideologies.

Another study from Penn State found that 51.2% of

adolescents distanced themselves from their mothers’ views, with 53.5% rejecting their mothers’ perspectives and 54.2% rejecting their fathers’.

While parental influence is undeniable, young adults should have the space to carve their own paths and narratives.

The younger generation is indeed more inclined to echo their parents’ sentiments, yet the advent of social media has transformed how they explore diverse political ideologies, allowing them to engage with different perspectives beyond parental influence.

In today’s culture, politics is a hot topic, especially when celebrities weigh in on political matters. For instance, on September 10th, Taylor Swift took to Instagram to announce her support for Kamala Harris, prompting over 330,000 individuals to visit the voting registration link she shared, as reported by ABC News.

This phenomenon raises questions about the extent to which celebrity opinions shape the political decisions of young voters. Can a fondness for Taylor Swift’s music truly sway one’s political choices?

Ultimately, it’s crucial for every voter to seek accurate information and make informed decisions when it comes to voting. Despite the pressures that parents may exert—through discussions, media, or social platforms—adolescents are increasingly finding their voices in the political arena.

Parents should embrace love and understanding towards their children, regardless of differing opinions. It’s essential for them to acknowledge that children are entitled to develop their own beliefs.

I understand that it can be daunting to challenge parental views, as it may feel like disappointment. But remember: you have the right to grow and think independently.

As easy as...

IN-DEPTH · 17

1 2 3

Register Online at Vote.gov By mail At the DMV or local courthouse

Vote

On November 5, 2024 at your designated voting poll

change Your city, county and country with your vote

How Nebraskans Voted in 2020

1.9m 1.3m

49% Republicans

Nebraska citizens

Registered voters

29% Democrats 19% Unaffiliated

Only

966,920

Citizens Actually Voted

3% Third Party Data received from Offical Report of The Nebraska Board of State Canvassers and independentvoterproject.org.

Your vote America’s fu

18 · IN-DEPTH

MJ IDEUS

YOU. YES, you. Have you registered to vote?

As a 17-year-old who falls just a week short of voter qualifications, I won’t be allowed to vote in this year’s election, even though I’ll turn 18 on November 12th. Registering to vote is of great significance to me as I firmly believe that every vote counts, no matter how small it may seem.

Each individual contribution has the potential to shape the collective future of Americans.

What frustrates me the most about not qualifying to vote is that my opinions will not change within a week. I will not have a sudden epiphany on who to vote for when I turn 18 years old.

Having an opinion on who to vote for is not a briefly made decision, it takes years to form.

on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE), young adults’ primary concerns include the cost of living, jobs that pay a living wage, gun control and climate change. I also want to see change in these areas and others. I’m concerned about the economy, my education and living standards, yet my birthday prevents me from having a voice in these critical matters.

Voting is crucial for influencing

Having a younger electorate allows for more relevant issues to be addressed and for a wide array of people to vote. Many communities have been historically marginalized from the electoral process, but they now have the opportunity, more than ever, to exercise their right to vote.

America is a beautiful melting pot, and it’s essential that the American Electorate reflects this diversity.

Failing to do so is unfair to the people who call America home.

You aren’t just voting for yourself, you to the United States are voting for those less fortunate According Census Bureau, the 2020 than you. You are voting for the little presidential election recorded the voter turnout of the 21st girl who wants to be president, the highest century, with 66.8% of citizens immigrants who have built the American aged 18 and older casting their While it’s reassuring that economy and for any American not old votes. young adults are taking voting enough to have a vote. seriously and are becoming more

Voting is a fundamental aspect of any democracy; it is the mechanism through which reform is achieved so change can occur.

Meaningful change can happen only if citizens contribute with their votes.

Many young adults view government officials and policies as outdated or in need of reform. According to the Center for Information & Research

government policies and changing laws. Electing representatives who align with our values is essential for bringing in new legislation.

These changes do not happen spontaneously; they are brought about through the electoral process.

informed voters than ever, it’s important to note that almost half of the 18-21-year-olds who are eligible to register to vote did not participate in the election.

Many young adults perceive their votes as insignificant or unimportant. However, as APIA Vote notes, “A victory for one candidate

IN-DEPTH · 19

uture may be determined by just a few more votes than the other. Your decision to vote could sway an election from a candidate who does not have your best interests at heart to one who does.”

Voting is important for every person because it shows people that you have a place in this country and an opinion that deserves to be heard.

You aren’t just voting for yourself, you are voting for those less fortunate than you. You are voting for the little girl who wants to be president, the immigrants and for any American without the privilege.

This is not a battle between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. Voting doesn’t have to be a battle; it’s about prioritizing your and others’ needs and interests. What changes do you want to see? Who do you believe will bring about those changes?

No matter who you choose, or what side one may identify with the most, registering to vote is one of the most important things you can do as a young adult. Voting demonstrates that you value your own opinions and those of others. As someone who seeks to be a catalyst for change but is often denied the opportunity, it is crucial to vocalize your opinions and advocate for those who are marginalized.

“I don’t think this (politics) should be brought up in the school,” - jade McManus (12) & Sydney Carpenter (12).

Well, heres why they should be talked about.

You are affected by presidential policies Presidential policies significantly impact young people, making their participation in voting essential. Decisions on education funding, healthcare access, climate change, and job creation directly influence their futures. For example, policies promoting affordable education and student loan relief can ease financial burdens, while climate change initiatives are crucial for long-term environmental sustainability.

Additionally, young voters can shape discussions around social justice and equality, holding elected officials accountable for their decisions.

By voting, they assert their voices and priorities, ensuring their needs are represented in the policymaking process. Thus, voting is not only a right but a vital responsibility that empowers young people to shape their futures.

Advocacy without persuasion This approach allows students to express their ideas and feelings without the pressure to convince others, promoting respect and understanding. It empowers diverse voices, ensuring that all students feel heard and valued, while reducing conflict and creating a more harmonious atmosphere. By focusing on sharing experiences rather than persuading, this method encourages personal growth and prepares students to navigate a complicated world, enhancing their social and emotional development.

20 · A&E

Arts & Entertainment

Podcasts

Music

Freshmen's Picks

Junior's Picks

Me and Your Mama "Awaken, My Love!"

Genre: R&B/Soul

Freshmen’s Pick

Jonathan Linares

Serena Bignell

Travis Scott

Childish Gambino

Mya Fiscus

Talk Tuah Haliey Welch

Skeletons Astroworld Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap

Sophmore’s Pick

Don Toliver

Tyler, The Creator

Davis Jones

GONE, GONE / THANK YOU IGOR Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap

ICE AGE HARDSTONE PSYCHO Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap

Sophmore’s Picks

Senior’s Picks

fantasmas fantasmas Genre: Pop

Junior’s Pick

Ava Rassmussen

Kimberly Lopez

Kanye West

Humbe

Liover Suarez

Choir Corner Mark Harman

Roses Late Registration Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap

Suelta La Lengua Con Itati Itati and Doña Silvia

Senior’s Pick

Patadas de Ahogado Patadas de Ahogado Genre: Pop

Bruno Mars

LATIN MAFIA

Ainsley Johnson

Moonshine Unorthodox Jukebox Genre: Pop

The Broski Report Brittany Broski

A&E · 21 Tiger's Eye News staff surveyed students and asked for their current music, books and movie favorites.

Books

Movies

Lowerclassmen's Pick

Freshmen's Pick

Sophmore's Pick

Reminders Of Him

Deadpool & Wolverine

Despicable Me 4

Upperclassmen's Pick

Junior's Pick Clair Hughes

Megan Samson

Every Last Word

Twisters Lee Isaac Chung

Call Me By your Name Luca Guadagnino

India Haedicke

Kaleb Harder

Collen Hoover

Shawn Levy

Ester Martinez

Tamara Ireland Stone

INTERESTING WHAT IS THE MOST

THING IN YOUR BAG

Senior:

“A six pack of Celsius.”

-Mattie Dalton

Sophmore: “A bald cap.”

-Charlotte Thomsen

Freshman:

“Five dollars in change.”

-Colton Hassick

Junior:

“Electrical tape.”

-Zoë Kenney

Do you prefer functionality or appearance?

59% 41%

Liva Peralta

Chris Renaud

Senior's Pick

22 · A&E

Short n’ Sweet: A brief album that’s nothing short of brilliant

Ava Placek

S

abrina Carpenter has been steadily rising in the pop music scene.

Listeners have caught themselves humming and singing along to her hit songs “Espresso,” “Please Please Please” and “Feather” which are commonly heard on the radio and on many popular social media platforms. Ever since Sabrina announced her upcoming album in the beginning of June, fans have anxiously awaited for “Short n’ Sweet” to be released on August 23.

The album contains 12 songs and is 36 minutes long. Many fans speculated that the album name was a reference to her height, which she mentions in her song “Taste”; “Oh I leave quite an impression, Five feet to be exact.” In an interview, Carpenter clarified that “Short n’ Sweet” does not refer to her height, but to her relationships. She said that

it was named Short n’ Sweet because some of her shortest relationships were the ones who affected her the most.

Short n’ Sweet’s songs convey a range of emotions, from happy, sad and disappointed.

The album offers a mix of upbeat tracks like “Bed Chem,” “Good Graces” and “Espresso,” alongside slower, more emotional songs like “Dumb and Poetic,” “Sharpest Tool” and “Don’t Smile.”

Many of her songs are rumored to be about her love triangle with ex boyfriend Shawn Mendes and his on and off girlfriend Camilla Cabello.

Songs such as “Taste” and “Coincidence” talk about how her unstable relationship with Mendes, and that Carpenter and Cabello were silently fighting over him. “Taste” has a cheery rhythm that makes the song fun and makes you want to sing along. It is definitely one of my favorites.

The internet went crazy over the “Please Please Please” music video, which was released before Short n’ Sweet.

This is because Carpenter was rumored to have written the song about her boyfriend and actor Barry Keoghan, whom she started dating in late 2023.

She included him in the music video and many fans were ecstatic.

My personal favorite is “Good Graces” for its upbeat energy and catchy lyrics.

Another standout is “Slim Pickins,” where she conveys the difficulty of finding love despite her fame. This song invites listeners and her fans to step into her shoes. The songs are easy to love because of Sabrina’s creative and catchy lyrics.

Overall, I really enjoyed “Short n’ Sweet” and I look forward to Carpenter’s new releases.

A&E · 23

Photo Credit: Island Records