Feature

Love Is Cute; Bad Date Spots Are Not

By Ekam Judge

2/11/2026

Looking for a place to go with your Valentine? Before settling for the bare minimum, it’s worth thinking about which date spots actually work—and which ones tend to flop. Not every outing needs to be over-the-top, but some locations can make things more awkward than they need to be, especially when the goal is to spend quality time together. Here’s a breakdown of some popular student date spots and whether they’re worth your time.

Coffee shops are a low-pressure and easy option. They’re affordable, simple to plan, and perfect for conversation and a few cute pictures. However, they can sometimes feel more like a study session than a date. Conversations may stall, and since drinks don’t last long, the outing can feel rushed. Nearby options include Koffee Paradise, The Morning Ritual, Casa Cacao, Gara Magica Café and Lounge, and Axum Cafe. Overall, a coffee shop can be a cute stop, but it works best if you plan a second location so the date doesn’t end too quickly.

Movie theaters are a classic choice. They take the pressure off conversation and are easy to pair with dinner or dessert afterward. That said, movies don’t leave much room for interaction, which can make first dates especially awkward. They can also be a bit pricey. Local options include Marcus Theaters and AMC at Easton. While a movie might not be ideal for a first date, it can be a good option if you’re still getting comfortable and don’t want the pressure of constant conversation.

The shopping mall is another popular choice and, for many, a strong contender. It’s easy to start conversations when you’re walking through stores, and there’s always something to do. With plenty of food and entertainment options, you won’t run out of ideas. On the downside, it’s easy to get distracted, the walking can get tiring, and the number of choices can feel overwhelming. Easton Town Center and Polaris Fashion Place are nearby favorites. Overall, the mall offers variety and can even give you clues about what your date might like as a future gift.

Arcades are often a hidden gem for date nights. They provide just enough activity to prevent awkward silence while still allowing time to talk. A little friendly competition can make the experience even more fun. However, arcades can get loud and pricey, and you might run into younger kids running around. Popular spots include Scene 75, Magic Mountain, Activate, Game Grounds, and Dave & Buster’s. For many, arcades strike the perfect balance between fun and conversation.

At the end of the day, the best date spot isn’t the fanciest or most expensive location. It’s the one that makes it easiest to enjoy each other’s company. Choose a place that works for you, not against you, and remember that the real focus should always be the person you’re spending time with.

New Year, New Buzz

By Ekam Judge

1/10/2026

Every January, the calendar resets and expectations skyrocket. Social media fills with bold declarations of “new year, new me,” while gym memberships spike and planners suddenly feel full of promise. New Year’s resolutions are often treated like contracts we’re supposed to sign with our future selves—but what actually happens after the confetti settles? To explore whether resolutions are about perfection or progress, I surveyed students about their past goals, current intentions, and what growth really looks like as the year begins.

It sounds easy on paper—but how many of these resolutions will actually come to fruition? To answer this burning question, I decided to survey some students about their past and present resolutions.

Past

Looking back at last year, students didn’t describe success as an all-or-nothing proposition. Instead, success manifested as growth, which was expressed in a multitude of ways: seeking therapy, adjusting routines, learning to manage procrastination, trying again after setbacks, and staying committed to passions such as music and art. For some, progress was as simple as putting more vegetables on their plate in an effort to eat healthier. Even when some goals weren’t met perfectly, students still moved forward and grew. I couldn’t help but feel like a proud mother after reading about their personal progress.

Present

Rather than focusing on unrealistic promises or impossible routine changes, students set their goals on something honest and personal. One student simply said they’re aiming for a 3.0. No dramatic life overhaul, no delusions of perfection. Just effort. Others talked about staying motivated in art, learning how to drive, continuing to grow as a person, or speaking more kindly to others. Students weren’t trying to become someone else; they were figuring out who they are and how to grow into that more confidently.

When asked how they plan to reach their goals this year, students talked about consistency, patience, and actually putting in the work. Students plan to educate themselves, build a new and consistent routine, and reflect on themselves to achieve their goals for this year. It truly is moving to see how motivated they are and I hope to see that they achieve their resolutions for 2026.

Personal

As for my resolutions, I plan to focus more on my education as well as improve my knowledge on my culture and heritage. To put these goals into fruition, I plan to focus more in school, participate in summer programs, and take out time each week to research my culture. My advice for 2026, for both myself and everyone reading, is simpler than it sounds: stop being afraid of becoming who you already are. As Robin explains in Stranger Things, “I would finally be able to be myself, you know? All of myself.” She later admits, “I just needed to stop being so goddamn scared. Scared of… who I really was.” Once that fear was gone, she was free. Looking at these resolutions, it’s clear students are already taking that first step towards their own personal freedom. Knowing that students already recognize what growth looks like makes me believe that this year is off to a strong start.

Taken together, these reflections reveal something powerful: New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be extreme to be meaningful. Students aren’t chasing unrealistic transformations; they’re aiming for honesty, consistency, and self-understanding. Whether it’s improving academically, nurturing creativity, or learning to be kinder—to themselves and others—these goals reflect a deeper awareness of what growth truly means. As 2026 unfolds, success may not be measured by checklists or perfect follow-through, but by the courage to keep trying, learning, and becoming more comfortable in one’s own skin. If this survey shows anything, it’s that this generation isn’t afraid of growth—they’re already doing the work.

A Season of Traditions: How Licking Heights Students Celebrate the Holidays
By Anonymous Inscriber

12/10/2025

As the holiday season approaches, students and families at Licking Heights High School prepare for a wide array of cultural celebrations. With one of the most diverse student populations in Central Ohio, LHHS reflects a global mix of traditions that extend far beyond the typical winter break festivities. From colorful lights and symbolic foods to family rituals passed down through generations, these celebrations highlight the richness of the school community.

Diwali: A Bright Start to the Season
For many families at Licking Heights, the holiday season began weeks earlier with Diwali, the Festival of Lights celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists. Students who observe Diwali say the holiday is a major moment for family connection. Homes are decorated with diyas, vibrant rangoli designs fill entryways, and celebrations often include gatherings throughout the Columbus area

“Diwali feels like the whole community comes alive,” said one LHHS junior. “It’s one of the holidays where you really feel connected to your culture.”

In recent years, staff and students have made efforts to raise awareness about Diwali through classroom discussions and student-led cultural clubs.

Hanukkah: Eight Nights of Tradition
Jewish students at Licking Heights mark Hanukkah with nightly menorah lightings, family meals, and traditions that have been carried on for centuries. Many bring in classroom treats like gelt or share the meaning behind their traditions during school activities. Although Hanukkah is not one of Judaism’s major religious holidays, its themes of resilience and community resonate with many students.

Christmas: A Mix of Cultural and Religious Customs
Christmas remains the most widely celebrated holiday among LHHS students, though how families observe it varies significantly. Some families attend midnight church services, while others focus on traditions like decorating trees, exchanging gifts, or participating in local service projects. For many students, Christmas is less about religion and more about spending time with loved ones and enjoying a break from school before the new semester begins.

Kwanzaa: Celebrating Identity and Community
From December 26 to January 1, some families at Licking Heights celebrate Kwanzaa, a holiday that honors African American heritage and the values of unity, purpose, and creativity. Community events in nearby Columbus offer opportunities for families to participate in performances, learn about the holiday’s seven principles, and take part in the final Karamu feast.

Lunar New Year: Looking Ahead With Tradition
Lunar New Year, celebrated in January or February, is observed by students with Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and other East and Southeast Asian backgrounds. While the holiday takes place after winter break, its significance is well recognized among the LHHS student body. Traditions may include giving red envelopes, preparing symbolic foods, and gathering with extended family. In the Columbus area, cultural organizations host public events, and many LHHS families participate.

A Diverse School With Diverse Traditions
Licking Heights is known for its multicultural student population, and the variety of holiday celebrations reflects that identity. Teachers increasingly integrate cultural moments into lessons, and student organizations such as the Diversity Club regularly highlight holidays from around the world.

“Learning about other people’s traditions helps our school feel more connected,” said a senior involved in cultural programming. “It shows that everyone’s background matters.”

A Season of Understanding
While each holiday has unique traditions, they all share common themes: family, reflection, and community. At Licking Heights High School, these celebrations serve as a reminder that the winter season is not defined by a single holiday—but by the many cultures and stories that make up the school community.

The Thinking Machine’s Ripple Effect

By Naomi Gyimah

11/5/2025

You open up your browser with a question in mind and are briefly met with the bold white letters of the word “Google”. You turn to the internet, hoping to find at least a somewhat reliable answer, and quickly skim over the first thing you see. Instead of your typical Wikipedia blurb, you’re met with an “AI Overview”, courtesy of Google Gemini. You don’t think too much of it and go about your day, but could that little change be evidence of something greater on the horizon?

Google Gemini is one of many new AI features popping up everywhere nowadays. While some can be helpful and others quite the opposite, the rapid rise of AI begs the question of how much is too much? Can AI, as such a prominent part of students’ lives, actually prove beneficial? Or will we be doomed to dwell in the robot-controlled society all of our childhood movies warned us about?

As students, the increasing prevalence of AI has brought forth numerous new policies: some classes allow AI use, while others are strictly against it. There are compelling reasons for both sides, but can AI really help students academically? What about psychologically? A global survey done by the Digital Education Council showed that 86% of students utilize AI for academic purposes, with 54% doing so weekly and one in four students using it daily. These numbers make sense, as AI can help students improve their writing, generate ideas, and simplify complex topics. In addition, the personalized learning assistance that AI provides to its student users can prove beneficial as well. This newfound ease in completing schoolwork has not only led to an improvement in academic performance but also in the emotional well-being of students. However, the continual use of AI for academic purposes introduces the possibility of an increased dependence on these systems. If students repeatedly use AI to do their work and find that it makes things easier, it is not likely that they will randomly decide to stop using it; they may even decide to take things further and start prompting the AI to do their work for them. A dependence on AI doesn’t just have ramifications in the academic sphere: it deeply affects the physical health of students as well. According to an article published by the National Library of Medicine, “excessive screen time can contribute to issues, such as digital fatigue, isolation, anxiety, and poor mental health”. It’s also equally important to consider the long-term effects AI may have on students. While it provides a platform for students to receive continual feedback and assistance academically and a break from the stress recreationally, continuous use of AI may affect students’ ability to create and maintain social relationships, maintain a balance between academics and social life, and relax without a screen or other form of digital stimulation.

So where do students fall within all of this? Within this debate, one thing remains certain: AI is not going anywhere. As the prevalence of platforms such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini rapidly grows, the question isn’t whether or not they are here to stay, but how we are going to implement them (or not implement them) into our everyday lives.

Have an opinion of your own? Email thebuzz@lhschools.org or zdouglas@lhschools.org to send in your own views!

Buzz kill? State Bans Cell Phones in School

By Ekam Judge

9/26/2025

One of the newest and most controversial debate topics is the phone ban. Teachers call it focus; students call it punishment. Which one is it?

The Student Perspective

Our phones were crucial for communication, checking answers, and keeping us entertained when there’s nothing else to do in class. Now, the only hope we have for screen time is during passing periods, but even that is soon to be taken away when the "Ohio Cell Phone Law" goes into effect on January 1, 2026.

Some students agree with the phone ban, saying it helps them stay focused. But even those same students admit they get bored in class because there’s nothing else to do. They also mentioned they can’t talk to friends outside of class or take pictures to capture memories. Other students argue the ban does more harm than good, since they can’t focus without music. It’s also made little things harder; bathroom passes are now a struggle because Chromebooks take forever to load EHallpass before the 10-10 rule kicks in. Seniors are especially outraged, since the school keeps getting stricter during their last year. They want to enjoy it, take pictures, and make memories without being punished.

I do agree that it lowers the chances of cheating on exams and in-class assignments. Instead of banning phones completely, they should just be put away during those times. If phones were put up during lectures and tests but allowed during downtime, it wouldn’t be as miserable for students. Phones are also the most efficient way for students to communicate and spread information. Clubs rely on QR codes, and it’s easier to scan one with a phone than hunt it down on a slow Chromebook. At the end of the day, we should be moving forward with technology, not finding ways to avoid it. There are concerns around students finding new distractions, like playing games on Chromebooks, doing homework for other classes, sleeping, or talking. Plus, without phones, it’s harder to remember important dates like homecoming or to sign up for such events.

The Teacher Perspective

Teachers are split. Some hate the new rule, while others are enjoying the benefits. I’ve heard teachers say it’s tough to adjust since they used to tell students to take pictures of notes or scan QR codes. Others say that without phones, students are more attentive and turn in more work.

Many teachers support the ban, arguing it cuts down on cheating and drama. One staff member pointed out that the government shouldn’t place all the responsibility on schools, since phones are addictive and addiction can’t be solved without proper support. More face-to-face social activity has also been reported. Mr. Douglas is in support of the law and says, "...it deals with the big problem I had in my class. Student engagement and completion of work have increased." Many teachers share this view as they are heard talking to students that they like it and see similar positive consequences.

On the flip side, some teachers say students aren’t even turning their phones in, but since they’re not pulling them out during class, the ban still feels effective. Another teacher argued it’s unrealistic to keep phones in the front of the room, saying that it can actually be more distracting than letting students keep them. There are also concerns about later in the year when students won’t even be allowed to use phones in the halls and during lunch. Some teachers fear that they won’t know how to enforce the new law when they haven’t ever built a relationship with the student.

At the end of the day, the phone ban isn’t just about discipline or distraction; it’s about trust. Students want freedom, teachers want focus, and right now nobody’s fully winning. The thing is, you can’t just take away something people are used to and expect everything to improve right away. Sometimes that makes it harder, not easier, because students will just find other ways to distract themselves. Instead of completely removing phones, schools could look for a middle ground that supports both learning and balance. Phones aren’t disappearing anytime soon, so finding a way to use them responsibly might work out better for everyone.

LH Theater Club: ‘The Spongebob Musical’

By Naomi Gyimah

3/28/2025

The Licking Heights Theatre Club is returning to the stage with its second (and final) show of the year. The group has had countless successful performances over the past few years, such as Catch Me If You Can, Newsies, The Wedding Singer, Urinetown, and so many others. Not only that, but the group has won numerous CAPA Marquee Awards Nominations in categories such as Best Musical Production, Outstanding Dance Execution, and many more. This musical’s lead actors include Jayden Cochran (SpongeBob), Giada Ferrell (Patrick), Kaylee Vance (Sandy), Christian Scheiderer (Squidward), Issac Moutoux (Krabs), Anaya Espinosa (Pearl), and Issac Russell (Plankton). After watching the preview performance of the upcoming production, I can confidently say that the SpongeBob musical was worth clearing my calendar for; Here’s an in-depth look at my experience:

Upon arrival, I was not surprised to find that the stage was decorated in a way that you would expect the stage of a SpongeBob musical to be. The stage was adorned with blue and yellow LEDs and multicolored Hula hoops. The pink, yellow, orange, and blue hues perfectly set the scene. In a few moments, the lights dimmed and the curtains slightly opened, revealing SpongeBob, with Gary following close behind. The opening song begins with SpongeBob singing about a typical day in Bikini Bottom. A few minutes into the song, the curtain opens further to reveal an intricately detailed set of Bikini Bottom. The beauty of the painted background was hard to miss and made sure to highlight the vibrance and buoyancy of the underwater town. The song continued on and ultimately ended with a lively scene in which all the citizens of Bikini Bottom came together to sing about their fantastic town.

It’s not long before the conflict of the show is revealed: Bikini Bottom is having a problem with a nearby volcano that is about to erupt and destroy the entire town. This scary realization has the people of Bikini Bottom panicking and trying to figure out what to do. The skillful acting portrayed within the show truly puts the viewers into each scene and beautifully paints a picture of the situation at hand. Moreover, the musical was littered with exquisite melodies and entrancing vocals. From lyrical, introspective pieces to upbeat, energetic songs, the SpongeBob Musical truly has something for everyone - even a little bit of rap! However, it isn’t just a cheery, upbeat show packed to the brim with songs about how the residents of the town will overcome their impending doom. Matter of fact, there are plenty of intriguing and captivating storylines highlighted throughout the songs. For starters, there’s the seemingly unbreakable friendship between Spongebob and Patrick that’s showcased in the lively and dynamic number titled: “BFF”, the interesting relationship between Spongebob and his boss, Mr. Krabs, in the song “Simple Sponge”, the father daughter relationship between Mr. Krabs and Pearl, highlighted in the song “Daddy Knows Best”, and many others.

Not only that, but the smaller components that detailed the performance added so much as well. The choreography that accompanied almost every song was highly entertaining, along with the melodious tunes that arose from the pit throughout the performance. Each part played a significant role in making this act the delightful success that it turned out to be.

Act One alone was loaded with song after song that left the audience amazed. Tunes such as “Daddy Knows Best” and “When the Going Gets Tough” were met with thunderous applause. After plenty of hits, Act One ended with an enthralling piece titled “Tomorrow Is” in which the characters sing about the next day and what it will entail. The final moments of the act resembled the beginning; every person was on stage, dancing and singing. Although it was left on a cliffhanger, it is safe to say that watching Act One of the SpongeBob Musical was a great experience. Not only were it the big things that made it enjoyable, but also the small funny moments or when the actors came down into the audience as well. On a personal note, it was great to see the hard work of some people I knew pay off during the performance. The seamless acting, enthralling music, and perfectly casted characters definitely make the show worth going to see for yourself.

Stay tuned for Licking Heights Theater Club's next performance, "Cabaret" on May 5th, 2025

Celebrating Black History Month: Honoring Legacy, Recognizing Progress, and Inspiring Change

By Alexander Irving

2/7/2025

February marks the beginning of Black History Month, a time to reflect on the vital contributions of Black Americans throughout history, celebrate the richness of Black culture, and recognize the ongoing struggle for equality. This month-long observance serves not only to remember the past but also to inspire action for a more inclusive future.

Originally proposed by historian Carter G. Woodson in 1926 as "Negro History Week," it was expanded to a month in 1976 as part of the nation's bicentennial celebrations. Black History Month has since evolved into an annual tradition, celebrated in schools, communities, and workplaces across the United States. It’s a time to honor the achievements of influential figures, acknowledge systemic barriers, and engage in meaningful discussions about race and identity.

Historical Milestones and Figures

Throughout history, Black Americans have made indelible marks in virtually every field. From the arts to politics, science to sports, their contributions have helped shape the American landscape. Icons like Harriet Tubman, who led countless enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose advocacy for nonviolent resistance left an enduring legacy of civil rights progress, are central to the story of Black resilience and strength.

In the arts, figures such as Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Maya Angelou continue to inspire generations with their literary works. In music, jazz legends like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Nina Simone revolutionized the soundscape of the 20th century. Meanwhile, athletes like Jackie Robinson and Muhammad Ali not only broke barriers in sports but also used their platforms to address racial injustices.

A Time for Reflection and Action

While Black History Month is a time for celebration, it is also a time for reflection. Despite the progress made, the fight for racial justice continues. Systemic inequalities in education, housing, healthcare, and criminal justice remain pressing issues for the Black community. The Black Lives Matter movement, born out of the urgency to address police violence and racial inequality, serves as a powerful reminder of the work still to be done.

Black History Month encourages all people, regardless of race, to engage in conversations about how they can be active participants in dismantling these barriers. Whether it's through learning about the history and contributions of Black individuals, supporting Black-owned businesses, or advocating for policies that promote equity, the month provides an opportunity for individuals and communities to reflect on their role in the ongoing fight for justice.

Looking Ahead: Celebrating Black Futures

As we celebrate the past, we also look to the future. The next generation of Black leaders, innovators, and thinkers is already making waves across various fields. From the political arena with figures like Kamala Harris, the first Black and South Asian Vice President of the United States, to emerging voices in science, technology, and business, Black Americans continue to shape and define the future of this nation.

Black History Month is a reminder that history is still being made. It is not only about remembering the struggles of the past but also celebrating the resilience, talent, and brilliance of Black individuals today. As we honor their legacy, we are reminded that the pursuit of equality and justice is an ongoing journey, one that requires action and dedication year-round.

Join the Celebration

Throughout February, events, exhibitions, performances, and educational programs take place nationwide to honor Black history and culture. Whether through attending a local celebration, reading a book by a Black author, or learning more about the trailblazers who shaped the past, Black History Month offers an important opportunity for growth, unity, and remembrance.

President Donald J. Trump Taking Oath as the 47th United States President

Inauguration of President Donald J. Trump

By Srada Acharia

2/7/2025

On Monday January 20th, the nation witnessed President elect Donald Trump being sworn into office. The newly re-elected President claims that the “Golden Age of America starts right now” in his second inauguration address. The President spoke about his plans for his second presidential term as he swiftly takes over the executive branch. The President, among many things, has promised immense national success, and pledging an end to foreign wars. He is also guaranteeing expansion of US territory, he has pitched ideas such as taking Greenland from Denmark to ensure national security of the United States. The President’s big ideas do not just stop there as he rescinded 78 of former president Biden’s orders and actions. This is not uncommon practice when a different political party takes office.

Shortly after taking over, President Trump set out various executive orders. Executive orders are a very common practice when a new president takes over office because it is the easiest and fastest tool to change policies. Signing executive orders allows the president's ideas to take action without any approval from congress. The president has sent out about a dozen executive orders to take effect immediately, setting back a vast amount of democratic policies on immigration, energy, trade, and diversity policies. Trump starts off his plethora of orders with pardoning all protestors who rioted, damaged the Capitol building and attacked police officers on January 6th, 2021. Trump also plans to withdraw from the Paris Climate Change Act, and the World Health Organization.

This inauguration was a very peaceful transfer of power. We saw many powerful democratic leaders in attendance, such as the Clintons, Kamala Harris, Barack Obama and Joe Biden. A class act from the democratic party and republican party both. There were various powerful wealthy billionaires present for the president's big day, such as META: CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, Shou Zi Chew and Elon Musk.

Fortunately this time around, there was no riot at the Capitol Building. However, it still had its contentious moments. Viewed through many media lenses was CEO of Tesla and Administrator of the Department of Government Efficiency, Elon Musk, doing the straight arm salute, also known as the “heil Hitler salute” infamously known to be the commonly used gesture by the Nazis. The billionaire’s friendship with President Trump has been very evident since the beginning of Trump’s campaign the second time around. He repeated the gesture twice. Many supporters coming to Musk's defense claim that it was a “Roman Salute” whereas others are criticizing the gesture and pledging that it indubitably symbolized his support for the racist cult. What was Elon really trying to do? Only Musk will know.

The controversies with this inauguration does not just end with Elon. President Trump is also receiving heavy backlash for not completely having his hand on the bible while taking the oath. This is a traditional ceremony performed at the inauguration of a new president. On the bright side, a vast majority of the younger generation is celebrating President’s Trump’s potential hand in unbanning TikTok, hence the presence of TikTok CEO at the president's ceremony.

After President Trump's address ended, President Trump met American Idol winner and platinum musician Carrie Underwood. She took to the stage and went a cappella as she sang her version of “America the Beautiful.” The performance did consist of technical difficulties, cutting off the back up music just before she was to perform. The music did not seem to want to cooperate, so in response Underwood ushered the crowd to help her out. The crowd joined in on the singing and the performance ended in loud cheers.

Later in the evening the inauguration ball also went very smoothly. They first attended the Commander-in Chief's ball, walking out onto the stage and dancing to “An American Trilogy” by Elvis Presley. During which, the president loudly thanked all his supporters and his family for being by his side. The event had singers such as Parker Collum and Rascal Flatts performing. Next Stop for the president was the Liberty Ball, where the headliner was Jason Aldean. The President, along with his family, ended their big night with the Starlight Ball, where the big performer was country singer, Gavin Degraw.

Inauguration Day marks the day a new era begins in the United States. Let us give cheers to a peaceful, prosperous and progressive four years. God Bless America.

Past Features

Thanksgiving and Cultures

By Brooklyn Fink

11/25/2024

Ah yes, Thanksgiving, also known as turkey day!

Many Americans love to eat, and Thanksgiving is the perfect time to stuff your face with tender turkey, buttery potatoes, roasted green beans, stuffing and sweet potatoes and a variety of pies, cakes and sweets for dessert. Sounds delicious right? Food is a huge part of Thanksgiving and it’s a great way to get people together. But there’s also much more to this holiday than stuffing your face full of food. Thanksgiving is a day to give thanks to everyone and everything in your life. It is thought of and celebrated in so many different ways including, families having meals together, visiting places, and other traditions that they love doing.

How did it come about?

Three extra days off of school? I think yes. Every high schooler looks forward to Thanksgiving break because we get three days off of school to do whatever we please, but do we even realize the purpose of it, or the history behind it? This holiday is celebrated every fourth Thursday of November, but it all started in 1621 when there was a harvest feast shared between the Wompoanag people and the English people known as the pilgrims. This was a reward for all of their labors after a year of sickness and scarcity. On this day, they gave their thanks. From that November forward, Thanksgiving was celebrated. However, the day was not a government recognized holiday until October 1941 when Congress declared the fourth Thursday in November as a national holiday

What’s your tradition?

As we all know, most people sit down with their friends and family for a big meal on Thanksgiving. But there are also many different traditions that people partake in that most don't know about. I went around our school and asked a couple different students about what a normal Thanksgiving looks like to them.

Valeria Lemus, “We gather for a prayer, then eat our meal together. Once everyone is finished eating we proceed to mingle and play games.” Her Thanksgiving sounds pretty common compared to MJ Meidls who said that he, “Wakes up bright and early and my family and I do the Turkey Trot.”. That is a tradition that is normal for his family every year, but to others, is a very different morning. Not only do families have different traditions, but also completely different days. Some families don’t even celebrate Thanksgiving, and so for them it might just be a normal day, just with everything closed. In Mrs. Murali’s Nepali family, “Everyone takes part in the cooking from toddlers up,even if it's just adding chocolate chips to a cookie.” In her family, the husbands and sons dislike it the most because rarely are they involved in food preparation. Like many families in the US, the day is used to give thanks to what we have in our lives. Regardless of what we believe in or where we came from, Thanksgiving is a day for all to enjoy.

Upcoming Features

Page updated

Report abuse