News

Fun-filled holiday activities for friends and family

by Seferino Valdez
published December 2023

Are you bored and don’t have anything to do this festive season? Don't you worry there are many things you can do around the region, for example if you are in a really festive mood you could go visit Peteyville. 

If you do not know what Peteyville is, it is a whole block of houses that decorate their houses to make it look like a winter wonderland. It is a great spot to visit if you feel in a very festive mood. This spot is great to visit with family or even alone. They let people go around and take pictures between 5 pm  to 10 pm. For those who are interested it is located at 3033 Crane Pl, Hammond, IN 

If Peteyville is not up to your speed and you are thinking of going to more of a large park filled with lights and animals, you should most definitely go to either Lincoln Park zoo or the  Brookfield zoo. Both parks feature many unique sights and festive cheer. Lincoln park zoo has many strong points of interest and fun events for families to attend, like the upcoming Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve. You can go and watch the countdown with your family while still enjoying the holiday spirit. The cost for visiting this park is $7-10 dollars per person and it lasts from 4:30 to 10 pm. 

Go and see all the amazing lights with friends and family for a wonderful time. Also be sure to get some souvenirs to remember how much fun you had. 

HC's annual community dinner postponed until further notice

by Dayshah Jones
published December 2023

For years, Hammond High, and now Hammond Central, have hosted an annual community dinner for all stakeholders. If you were wondering what happened to the Annual Community Dinner, have no fear; It’s still in the works.

According to National Honors Society sponsor Shanda Collins-Alexander, the event has just been pushed back until next semester. 

Originally, the Community Dinner was a tradition that began at Hammond High School. It is hosted every year with the exception of COVID and the school consolidation to ensure that the community has the opportunity to get together and enjoy a meal together. 

Planning an event this huge is very stressful but rewarding, Alexander claims. NHS depends on donations and fundraising to help provide a meal fit for an entire community. Not only do they have to gather all of the supplies, but they also have to prepare everything that is provided for the meal. 

“It takes a couple of months; putting out emails for donations, talking to staff and community members for donations, and buying anything we are missing from donations. Like for example, going to the store, then you have to prepare the food, which you can not at the school. Taking multiple stops is just overall tiring,” Alexander said. 

Alexander stated her favorite part of the entire event, as stressful as it can be, is seeing everyone come together and enjoy a nice meal. Co-sponsor Jessica Castillo also agrees it is stressful preparing for this event. 

“It is stressful trying to get donations and people in place to make the dinner successful. It is an event that takes a while to plan as we need to ensure we have workers, venue, sponsors, and all the food necessary to feed community members. It is tiring as to prepare for it, you have to prepare all the food, set up, and tear down plus ensure everything goes great during the dinner. It is definitely a lot of work but also very much worth it, “ Castillo said.

NHS students help prepare the food along with our wonderful kitchen staff. In previous years, the turkeys were prepared by NHS sponsors as well as staff members who volunteered. All of the sides were prepared by students with the assistance and support from sponsors. 

According to Castillo, most of the money comes from donations from staff and outside businesses. NHS sends out donation letters in hopes that they can get enough donated. If donations do not cover all supplies needed, the NHS sponsors come out of their own pockets to help with funding. Fundraising is also an option for the event. Castillo stated that the biggest outside donors are Councilman Barry Tyler Jr. and Calumet College of St. Joseph. 

As Collins-Alexander stated, there is a lot of preparation that goes into this event. Castillo said that it takes a few months to get everything in place with respect to donors, collecting food, and putting the event schedule together.

“We typically ask students to donate canned goods and whatever the difference needed, we go to the store and purchase. Same with turkeys and hams in previous years. The real preparation comes the week of the event when we have to prepare the food,” Castillo said. 

Not only do the staff and NHS members have to prepare 20-25 turkeys, but they also have to cook all of the sides and set up the venue. Once the event is over, it is also their responsibility to clean up the venue. Extra food is donated to students and community members.

“We are waiting to hear back from a venue that is easily accessible to our community and is cost effective for NHS. We are hoping to have something in January,” Castillo said.

NHS is looking for donations from anyone who is willing to help. For any questions on how to donate, you can contact Jessica Castillo at jmcastillo2@hammond.k12.in.us or Shanda Collins-Alexander at smalexander@hammond.k12.in.us 

The war between Israel and Hamas

an overview by Jordan White
published December 2023

The war between Israel and Hamas has been a long standing conflict that has garnered international attention. It is a complex and  multifaceted issue rooted in political, historical and social factors. It is important to understand the origins of the conflict, the key players involved and the impact it has had on the region. 

The conflict between Israel and Hamas can be traced back to the ongoing territorial disputes and differing political ideologies in the region. Israel, a sovereign state established in 1948, claims its right to exist and protect its citizens from attacks. On the other hand, Hamas, a Palestinian political and military organization, contests Israel's legitimacy and advocates for the rights of Palestinians. 

The conflict has been characterized by sporadic outbreaks of violence, including rocket attacks, airstrikes, and ground incursions, resulting in casualties and destruction on both sides. It has also had far-reaching consequences for the people living in the affected areas, leading to displacement, humanitarian crisis, and strained relations between Israel and neighboring countries. 

The complexities of this conflict make it a challenging issue to resolve, and it continues to be a source of concern for the international community. The conflict started with tensions in Jerusalem, particularly around the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and then escalated into rocket attacks from Gaza and airstrikes from Israel.

The violence resulted in numerous casualties and widespread destruction in both Gaza and Israel. International efforts were made to broker a ceasefire, with Egypt playing a crucial role in facilitating negotiations between Israel and Hamas The Ceasefire agreement aimed to bring an end to the hostilities and address the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

The conflict has highlighted the complex political and historical dynamics between Israel and Palestine, with deep-rooted issues that need to be addressed for a lasting peace. The situation has drawn international attention and calls for a peaceful resolution from various countries and organizations.

The impact of the conflict goes beyond the immediate violence, affecting the lives and well-being of civilians, especially children, who bear the brunt of the conflict's consequences.

Rebuilding efforts are now underway in Gaza, with the international community pledging support to help restore infrastructure and provide humanitarian aid. Combat engineers fighting in Gaza are destroying the enemy's weapons and are locating, exposing and detonating tunnel shafts. 

“With the expansion of the ground operation in the Gaza Strip, the soldiers are thwarting Hamas’ terrorist infrastructure," the IDF said in a press release on Wednesday November 8 (CNN.com).

The IDF said it had destroyed 130 tunnel shafts since the start of the fighting and its soldiers were still working to expose and destroy more tunnels.

It added that Hamas' "preparation for a prolonged stay in the tunnels can be seen based on water and oxygen means found in the tunnels. The path to a long-term resolution remains challenging, requiring dialogue, compromise, and a commitment to addressing the underlying issues that fuel the conflict.

Displaced persons in Democratic Republic of the Congo

by Amairany Gonzalez
published December 2023

Right now the people of Congo are being displaced. There are about 7 million people who have already been both displaced or killed due to the violence and the conflicts that keep rising. These conflicts in Congo have been ongoing since 1996, when the first Congo War happened. 

According to www.democracynow.org, “In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a record nearly 7 million people have been displaced due to ongoing conflict and violence. That’s according to the International Organization for Migration, which warns it’s one of the largest internal displacement and humanitarian crises in the world.”

Since then more and more conflicts have arisen. Congo is home to some of the worlds largest resources of the metal Cobalt and other minerals. Due to our modern technology the whole world is in demand for more of the metals in Congo’s territory. Western nations who are in need of these metals have funded militia groups from Rwanda and Uganda to invade Congo and force labor. The Congolese citizens including people of all ages and physical disorders are forced to work at the Cobalt mines or be killed. 

According to www.cfr.org, “As the world has become more reliant than ever on cobalt, copper, zinc, and other minerals, local and external groups have become more incentivized to get involved in the Congolese conflict.”

Due to all of the conflicts and violence the health of the country altogether has declined. The country is suffering from disease without the proper tools or care. 

According to peoplesdispatch.org, “The ongoing fighting has also had a severe impact on the health and disease response, with the DRC reporting the highest number of suspected cholera cases and deaths in the West and Central Africa region. The country alone accounts for almost 80% of disease transmissions and approximately 60% of all deaths, as per a report released by UNICEF last month. The provinces of North and South Kivu alone accounted for 80% of all cases in the country and 33% of all deaths.”

People from all over the world are gathering together and trying their best to bring attention and awareness to Congo’s situation. Using every form of media they are getting the information spread throughout anyone who has the desire to help. 

The History of National Native American History Month

by Julie Ortiz
published November 2023

November is recognized as National Native American History Month. The efforts to acknowledge the numerous contributions and achievements of Native peoples has been present as early as 1916 when New York became the first state to declare an “American Indian Day.” 

Despite being celebrated by several states since 1916, it took several more years before it became a national legal holiday. Since then, this observance has gone through several changes to become what it is today. 

National Native American History Month had its official origins in 1986 when congress passed a proclamation authorizing an “American Indian Week.” Later in 1990, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November of that year “National American Indian Heritage Month.” 

From 1990 onward, presidential proclamations have been made annually to recognize the sacrifices and contributions of Native Americans, in addition to celebrating their vibrant cultural heritage. 


There are many ways that you can participate in this important holiday. Community gatherings, festivals, government and educational activities are all ways to take part in this holiday. 

During this month, we commemorate the history, heritage, and culture of Native Americans and Alaskan Natives. Their contributions are present in all areas of American life. 

From the foods we eat to the medicines and remedies we use. This is why it’s important for people to learn and appreciate the culture of Native Americans not only in the month of November, but every month.

Hammond Central celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

published October 2023
by Amairany Gonzalez

Hammond Central students and teachers alike are going hard to represent the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. 

Hispanic Heritage Month is the month when we celebrate and recognize every Latino in the United States. We celebrate history, achievements, journeys, and hardships. It is also a time when cultures are celebrated and shown gratitude. 

Spanish teacher Veronica Garcia stated that it is essential to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. 

“Often times we are led to believe that everyone of Hispanic descent must look a certain way or have a particular accent, or second and third generation American Latinos are chastised for not being fluent in Spanish. These divisive practices hinder our community. Hispanic Heritage Month reminds us of our rich history, the diversity of our community, and the many ways Latinos have influenced society in more ways than just music,” Garcia said. 

ENL coach and LDP, Sarah Darwish, stated that the HC community has been celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in various ways. From Principal Harrison reading Hispanic Heritage Month facts during the daily announcements, to hosting a guest speaker, Gabriel Salazar from USHLI, the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute, HC has not fallen short of the celebration of the culture. 

“Hammond Central also hosted a Hispanic Heritage Month program on October 13 for students and their families after school. In my classes, we have studied songs, poems, and short stories by Latinos as well as making papel picado and researching famous Latinos,” Darwish said. 

Sophomore, Jessica Hernandez expressed how she feels when celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. 

“When celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, I feel a sense of gratitude and admiration towards the many Hispanic cultures and for what they have done and been through,” Hernandez said. 

Everyone is welcome to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. It is a special time for students and families to celebrate and honor their roots and traditions. 

Suicide Prevention Awareness

published October 2023
by Alexi Cook

With the month of September behind us, it is important to bring to light that September is marked as National Suicide Prevention Month. Although suicide is a touchy subject for many, we want to acknowledge those who are survivors and those who have prevented anyone from attempting, and those that we have lost to suicide. You are loved.

For those who don't really fully understand, a person could be driven to commit or even attempting to commit suicide or self harm due to things such as cyber bullying, depression, or just personal issues in general.

Signs and Symptoms: 

A troubling pattern is on the rise in adolescents across the country. There have been increasing rates of suicide, with youth of color and LGBTQ+ youth most affected. Most teens have been suffering from high levels of hopelessness, sadness, and suicidal ideation (suicidal thoughts).

Mental health conditions can develop at an early age. So because some people are so young and are still trying to figure out how to express their thoughts and emotions, most of the symptoms show up in their behavior. According to nami.org symptoms may include:

According to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), they have looked over mental health and suicidal behaviors from 2011 to 2021 shows that 13% of high school girls had attempted suicide and 30% have seriously considered it. That number eventually reached more than 20% for LGBTQ+ teens and 45% have seriously considered suicide.

Part of the reason that suicide rates are at an all time high is because the world that we live in does not focus on individuality. Sometimes you have to take time out of your day to check in on those you love and not only adults but children as well.

For those who are struggling with depression or any type of mental health issues, we understand what you are going through and we are here for you. Never be scared to reach out to someone when you feel helpless or sad.

Where to get help:

Cited Sources:
https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Warning-Signs-and-Symptoms 

https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/07/psychologists-preventing-teen-suicide  

https://988lifeline.org/help-yourself/youth/  

Domestic Violence Awareness

published October 2023
by Abram Hurtado

Many may not know, but the month of October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic violence is not really talked about but we all know it is not a good thing. This month recognizes it and ensures those who have experienced domestic violence have resources available to them. 

Domestic violence is any physical, sexual, or psychological abuse that people use against a former or current intimate partner, family member, or friend. It refers to a number of criminal behaviors: assault and battery; sexual assault; stalking; harassment; violation of a civil restraining order; homicide; and other offenses that occur in the course of a domestic violence incident, such as arson, robbery, malicious destruction of property, and endangering a minor. No person can validly consent to a breach of the peace or a battery that may result in serious injury or death. 

Suspension Expulsion Interventionist Jermaine Boyette had lots of words to say for this touchy subject, giving suggestions of help, giving words on why victims of domestic violence are in that situation, and even some words on maybe why the abuser does these types of violence.

“They have hotlines, counseling, you could talk to a therapist, especially if you have no one to talk to. These could help, menators, or someone who has been through, or reaching out through social media for people who have been through it,” Boyette said. 

He stated that victims may stay with their abusers because they are in love, and they make them feel a certain way. Sometimes people go back because there is nowhere to go, and they are so tied up with that person that the pain does not even hurt any longer. He also stated that some choose to stay out of fear or mental instability.

English teacher Julio Vega has experience with abusive situations due to witnessing family and friends going through hard times. 

“I think there are so many different reasons why victims stay with their abuser, whether it's due to financial dependency, or something greater, like mental disorders for example, Stockholm syndrome. There are so many reasons in between those categories as well. Sometimes you think that the person will change, and the promise is always given but unfortunately never fulfilled. Also maybe there are kids in the mix and the victim thinks they're better staying with the abuser to have a 'complete' family, (both parents in the house),” Vega said. 

Vega stated that he has seen his share of domestic violence throughout his lifetime. The mental effects it has on people can be huge, so If you know someone who is a victim of domestic violence, he urges to call it out or report to someone that can better assist you in reporting it.

If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic violence, the following are sources if you are unsure on who to reach out to: 

Breast Cancer Awareness 

published October 2023
by Isaly Goshen

Breast Cancer Awareness Month started on October 13, 1985. This event started in 1985 as a week-long journey campaign by the American Cancer Society with partnership of imperial chemical industries. It eventually extended into a month-long journey event in 1992, the pink ribbon came into play and after so long. Every single year of the year, Breast Cancer month would begin on October 13.

Breast Cancer occurs in many different ways to be diagnosed, the most common way to get breast cancer is being diagnosed with carcinoma, which is a cell. It can also begin in your lobes.

Breast Cancer Awareness month is also referred to as NBCM or ¨Pink October¨. The month of October for Breast Cancer first started as National Breast Cancer Awareness month for a week-long journey, then after so long it finally developed into a month-long event.

This was a partnership between the American Cancer Society, it was created as a collaborative effect because of the American Academy of family. As far as the Pink ribbon, a color focus group had discussed that the Pink ribbon for Breast Cancer Awareness Month means soothing, healing, strength, and comfort. 

About 1.8 million cancer cases have been reported or talked about around the world in 2020 prevention, and cancer is one of the most significant public health challenges in the 21st century. Due to all of the cases being talked about or discovered, Breast Cancer month became a month to support all of the survivors with breast cancer and give them all of our moral support to make them feel appreciated.

Wearing pink on Breast Cancer awareness month gives moral support and symbolizes a huge community about Breast Cancer and gives a huge impact on the month-long event. This month also gives hope and respect for the people who currently have or had breast cancer and who also survived before battling breast cancer once more.

Sources:

Related Sites