AI or Artificial Intelligence is a major problem in modern-day schooling. Recent developments in AI enable chatbots such as ChatGPT to help with simple tasks. Although most schools and teachers see AI as a problem because it can hinder students' learning process, there are many ways for students to use AI as a learning tool.

AI can be classified into three main categories: generative, conversational, and predictive. Chatbots such as the previously mentioned ChatGPT are considered conversational AI, whereas others, like generative AI, can make drawings or new pieces of work based on previous training. While not necessarily helpful for schoolwork, predictive AI looks for patterns and attempts to anticipate outcomes.

The main issue with AI in school is students copying information from AI sources, plagiarizing work. Students mainly use AI for writing and research. For example, AI is often used for essays, research projects, and short answer questions. Although AI can be used to aid the learning process, students often use these tools to complete entire assignments, removing the learning component of work.

One idea shared by a student is a custom conversational AI created by the school. This tool could be designed to support learning while preventing plagiarism by following specific rules or being limited to certain subjects. For example, if a student wants feedback on an essay they wrote, the AI could give small tips like fixing grammar or adding missing parts like a hook. Another example is in math—if a student wants help reviewing their work or understanding a topic they missed, the AI could explain how to solve a similar problem it creates on its own.

While AI presents challenges in education, particularly when students misuse it to avoid learning, AI can also offer valuable opportunities as a learning tool. When used appropriately, AI can help with research, improve understanding, and improve the quality of student work. The solution is guiding students to use AI as a tool for learning rather than a shortcut to avoid it.

According to Earth.org, about 92 million tons of fast-fashion garments end up in landfills each year due to the over 100 billion garments that are produced each year. To put this into perspective, that's about a garbage truck full of clothes ending up in landfills every second. 

Fast fashion is the business practice that replicates new looks from the runway and mass produces garments for a cheap price using cheap, low-quality synthetic fabrics. According to a study done at clevelandclinic.org, buying clothes can trigger a dopamine rush, creating a cycle of continuous shopping. 

Lastly, according to Earthday.org, they found that many people, including influencers such as Chiara Ferragni and Emma Chamberlain, prefer quantity over quality. This mindset contributes to the growing issue of overconsumption, leading to increased waste and environmental harm.

Since these fast fashion garments aren't meant to be worn repeatedly, these clothing items are recycled after a couple of wears. This habit is why landfills are filling up so quickly. Fast fashion brands like Shein, ZARA, and Temu appeal to many because of their cheap prices and their new, aesthetic looks. 

The fast fashion industry continues to fuel overconsumption and environmental damage through production and low-quality materials. The constant cycle of buying and quickly discarding clothes not only harms the environment but also encourages unsuitable shopping habits. To reduce waste, consumers should prioritize quality over quantity and support more sustainable fashion choices. 

As 2024 comes to an end, there is a debate on the most influential album of the year. Charli xcx was most known for her hit single “Boom Clap,” which was released in 2014. With this becoming popular, Charli had a few months of real recognition but this newfound popularity quickly faded. 

Before Brat, Charli had seven albums that had never gotten people’s attention. When she released Brat, she had no hopes of it becoming extremely popular. This album was a big change compared to her previous albums because she finally opened up about not feeling successful, the fear of missing out, friendships, jealousy, and difficulty with family.

 Before Brat was released, Charli released a music video for her single “360” which included all of the most popular “it girls.” This grabbed people's attention and 360 started to go viral on social media. 

About a month later, Charli released a remix of her single “Von dutch” featuring the famous TikTok star Addison Rae. With Addison, Charli gained more and more attention. On June 7, 2024, Brat was finally released, and songs like “Apple” and “Girl, so confusing” had became her most popular songs on the album. The album gained so much success that many people called summer “brat summer” celebrities mentioned it, it was all over social media, and Charli had gained about 30 million more listeners compared to her listeners before Brat was released. With Brat, Charli had the success she had been wanting since the start of her career. She went on tour with her best friend Troye Sivan,  she earned Collins Dictionary's 2024 Word of the Year with"brat”, It promptly debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, and is now her highest-selling U.S. album ever!

Laughter is the universal experience of joy that can be felt beyond cultural boundaries. In recent years, scientists have studied this common sensation to unravel the intricacies of laughter. 

A singular laugh can, “enhance your intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulating your heart, lungs and muscles, and increasing the endorphins released by your brain.” (Mayo Clinic). Endorphins are the neurotransmitters located in the pituitary gland and hypothalamus within the brain which are responsible for sending signals throughout your nervous system. Essentially, laughter serves as a great form of relaxation and stress relief.

The art of laughter plays a fundamental role in developing relationships between people. Shared laughter, also known as comedy, allows multiple people to see through a common perspective which in return brings people together. Traditional comedy was developed by famous playwright and comedy writer, Aristophanes, often referred to as “The Father of Comedy”. According to Britannica “Aristophanes began his dramatic career in 427 BC with a play, the Daitaleis (The Banqueters), which appears, from surviving fragments, to have been a satire on his contemporaries' educational and moral theories.” The significance of this lies within the foundation of Aristophanes' satire and mocking jokes that have now evolved into modern comedy.

You are never too old to have a good laugh, in fact, you should laugh more as you age. “Researchers find that these positive emotions experienced with humor and laughter correlate with appreciating the meaning of life and help older adults hold a benign view of difficulties they’ve faced over a lifetime.” as mentioned by Professor of Cognitive Psychology, Janet M. Gibson in the article titled “The Science of Laughter and Its Physical, Cognitive, and Emotional Power”. 

In the end, laughing brings nothing but positive benefits to one's overall health. The joy of being able to share an uplifting feeling with others is scarce and unmatched, so if you haven't yet, be sure to laugh, it's contagious.

Hidden in the sea of mountain peaks that make up the daunting North Cascades stands the elusive Dakobed - better known as Glacier Peak. The stratovolcano is only 70 miles northeast of Seattle but is inaccessible by road. Its summit stands at 10,525 feet above sea level, making it the fourth-highest peak in Washington. Despite being one of the tallest mountains in the Cascade Range, Glacier Peak is notorious for its rugged, isolated terrain and little-traversed natural beauty. Join the Viking Voice and explore this enigmatic piece of PNW culture.

The geologic history that makes up Glacier Peak is a story tens of thousands of years in the making. Nearby river valleys showcase remnants of numerous lava flows all dating relatively 10,000 years old. Both the summit and false summit are likely made up of lava domes - a volcanic feature formed by the slow extrusion of highly viscous lava from a volcano. Mudflows called lahars are seen both on the mountain and in its subsequent river valleys. The Cascade Range is volcanically active and has been for the past 36 million years, but Glacier Peak’s most recent eruption was in the early 18th century.

Glacier Peak offers 450 miles of hiking on a staggering 100 different trails. These trails vary from relatively easy hiking on maintained footpaths to strenuous and seldom-used old animal trails. The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (PCT) follows the crest through the area for about 60 miles. The easiest hike at Glacier Peak is the North Fork Sauk River Trail. This trail is relatively flat and offers great views without having to hike for hours and climb massive elevations. One of the most popular hikes at Glacier Peak is the Highline Trail. This is a hike for people with more experience who are willing to go the extra mile for the best views near the summit.

From over a dozen stunning glaciers to rivers meandering through old-growth forests, Glacier Peak and its surrounding wilderness remain evasive toward the swaths of visitors that nearby natural wonders receive. This isolation gives Glacier Peak a unique charm that attracts only the most extreme hikers, mountaineers, and naturalists alike. For those who venture into its rugged embrace, Glacier Peak reveals an untouched wilderness, a true paradise for the intrepid explorer.

“Glacier Peak Wilderness on Trailforks.” Trail Fork, www.trailforks.com/region/glacier-peak-wilderness/. Accessed 17 Apr. 2024. 

“Glacier Peak.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 25 Feb. 2024, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glacier_Peak. 

Rational thoughts are based on logic and facts, yet our mind goes beyond that. Irrational thinking is based on emotions and assumptions. Irrational thinking can either be positive or negative. An example of positive irrational thinking could be someone thinking they are destined for success after overcoming challenges. Negative irrational thoughts could be someone overthinking a simple mistake even though it didn't cause harm. Though both of these thoughts aren't promised to be true, people will likely believe them.

 Having a fear of getting hurt by a dangerous animal, such as a venomous snake or a dog with rabies, is a rational fear. On the other hand, irrational fears and phobias are exaggerated relative to the actual threat of the situation. With phobias being more intense irrational fears, the question is: what prompts people to have these irrational fears?

While there are many causes of phobias, according to mind.org.uk, the most common ways for people to form phobias are ”Past incidents or traumas, learned responses from early life, reactions and responses to panic or fear, experiencing long-term stress, and genetic traumas.” For example, if someone was on a plane with a lot of turbulence as a child, they could develop an irrational fear or phobia of flying. Another common way people can develop these fears is from other people's reactions to the situation, which is learned from early life. If someone sees their whole family panicking over having a small creature such as a mouse or spider, they will react the same way as they grow up. 

Though these fears usually start early in life, most can be overcome. Whether it be from growing out of it or simply getting accustomed to it. On the other hand, phobias need more intensive treatment. Spanning from simple talking treatments to immersive hypnotherapy. Though phobias may not seem to be that common, they are amongst some of the most frequent anxiety disorders. One Selah High School student said to have an irrational apprehension of cockroaches. Further questioning revealed that the fear stemmed from their childhood, ever since they stepped on a cockroach only to find out it survived, they have been avoiding any more that they happen to come across.

 According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 12.5 percent of U.S. adults were affected by phobias at least once in their lives. Though 12.5 percent doesn't seem like a lot, It's still approximately 3,240,249 people, which is a substantial amount. After a test done by the National Library of Medicine, where they assessed perceived treatment helpfulness for specific phobias, only 23 percent of respondents said they received helpful treatment from the first professional. Though they were meant to see nine professionals, only 14 percent persisted in seeing them, which resulted in only 47.5 percent reporting having helpful treatment.

Not all phobias can be treated the same way. Each individual's fears and phobias are unique and need different forms of care to treat them. Though they cannot always be treated, it is good to overcome any irrational fears since they pose no real threat. Even though they may seem confusing, facing them will allow the ability to strengthen courage and discover the mind.

How does living in an urban environment affect your mental and physical well-being compared to living in a rural environment? For thousands of years, humans have lived in nature separate from large groups, but how have humans forming urban societies such as cities changed how we operate physically and mentally? 

According to studies done by the University of Oregon, living in a rural environment increases the absorption of natural vitamins. They also discovered that people who live in rural environments also have a lifestyle that relies on more physical activities relative to city dwellers. This promotes weight loss and has many benefits such as reduced anxiety, and stress, and an improved mentality due to having more physically straining tasks than people in urban environments. Overall, the University of Oregon discovered that living close to nature is very healthy for the human body and mind and that people who live in rural environments are generally mentally and physically more capable than most people who live in urban environments such as large cities. 

On the other hand, research done by citiesforum.org shows that living in an urban environment has benefits as well. Benefits include more access to things like education, healthcare, and job opportunities, urban environments also support more of a social aspect as more people means more socialization. And they state that you would have more access to utility services such as plumbing, electricity, clean water, and transportation. 

Citiesforum.org also quoted, “City dwellers generally have better financial situations. The highest educational achievement is among city dwellers, followed by those in towns and semi-dense locations. Cities, towns, and semi-dense areas (TSAs) perform better than rural areas in various aspects of health.”.

The evidence that has been provided has demonstrated the benefits of both urban and rural environments. The information seems to concur that rural environments are much more beneficial for the human body and mind than urban environments. The evidence clearly shows that in terms of mental and physical health, living in a rural environment is vastly more beneficial than living in an urban environment. Living closer to nature can lead to a stronger and healthier physical body and an improved mentality. 

This essentially means that people who live in rural environments have lower depression rates, a stronger immune system, more energy, and are generally healthier than people who live in urban environments.

Living in a rural environment seems to be more beneficial in terms of bodily health while urban areas are more beneficial regarding economic opportunity. The argument between urban and rural could go on forever as both have specific benefits and whichever one is better seems to purely depend on one's perspective and goals. But even despite this, both rural and urban environments have their place in the world, and people should be able to live in whichever is their preference despite the pros and cons.

What is fentanyl? Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid drug that is very dangerous if it's not prescribed by a physician. Just two milligrams of fentanyl which is about 15 grains of table salt is considered lethal. Illegally manufactured fentanyl is found in many drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and counterfeit pills. This is one of the leading causes of drug overdose in the United States. In 2023, statistics say that 112,000 people died from overdose from fentanyl.

Narcan is an opioid antagonist to reverse an overdose. Narcan is good to have if and when there is an overdose and should be quickly administered. 

In 2021, 98 people in Yakima County died from overdose specifically fentanyl. This is an increase of 34% increase from the year before with 73 reported deaths from fentanyl, according to the Yakima Health District.

Quick facts: (From Yakima Health District)

Drug trafficking organizations distribute fentanyl by the kilogram. One kilogram of fentanyl can kill roughly 500,000 people.

42% of pills tested for fentanyl contain 2 milligrams or more which is considered a lethal dose.

Fentanyl is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin.

Short-term effects of fentanyl 

           Mental effects 

Dizziness

Confusion

In and out of consciousness

            Physical effects

Drowsiness

Slow breathing

Vomiting 

Constricted pupils

Itching or warm hot sensation on the skin

Compulsive gambling, also called gambling disorder, is the uncontrollable urge to keep gambling despite the toll it takes on your life. When you gamble, you are putting money on the line to win something more valuable. Though it’s not entirely clear what exactly triggers compulsive gambling, contributing factors could be biological, genetic, and environmental.

Gambling stimulates a “thrill” which triggers the reward system to release ten times more than the normal amount of dopamine and endorphins. After prolonged gambling, a person may eventually grow tolerant. At this point, the brain stops producing the same "thrill" it once did due to dopamine acclimatization. When the brain becomes overstimulated by compulsive gambling, it increases the brain's defensive response and weakens the reward system, ultimately lowering the amount of "pleasure" that a person feels.

For those of you who may not know what endorphins are, “Endorphins are peptides produced in the brain that block the perception of pain and increase feelings of well-being. They are produced and stored in the pituitary gland of the brain. Endorphins are endogenous painkillers often produced in the brain and adrenal medulla during physical exercise or orgasm and inhibit pain, muscle cramps, and relieve stress.” Whether gambling online or in person, gambling offers excitement, a chance to win, and socialization. However, to prevent addiction and possible financial loss, it's crucial to gamble sensibly.

Sources:

Wikimedia Foundation. (2024, April 11). Endorphins. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endorphins 

Preserving Paradise: Mount Rainier's Conservation Measures and Your Visit

Mount Rainier is an icon of Washington and the Pacific Northwest. For decades, the Cascade peak and the national park surrounding it have been a mainstay of recreation for locals and tourists alike. The area’s stunning beauty, impressive collection of outdoor activities, and proximity to the Seattle metro area have all contributed to a 50% increase in annual visitors from 2013 to 2022.

Due to this recent influx, the park has taken after Arches, Yosemite, Glacier, and Rocky Mountain National Parks and imposed a timed-entry system. Visitors entering the Paradise Corridor (SW or SE entrance) will need a $2 reservation from May 24 to September 2. A separate reservation is required for the Sunrise Corridor (NE entrance) from July 4 to September 2. The reservation is required to enter between these dates from 7 am to 3 pm along with the previously required park pass or entry fee.

Conservation is the driving force behind the park’s decision to implement these restrictions. Rainier’s slopes are home to alpine and sub-alpine meadows criss-crossed by a network of beloved trails. Limiting the crowds on these narrow paths sustains the fragile meadow ecosystems and makes the mountain’s popular destinations more enjoyable for all.

Despite these new constraints, Mt. Rainier is still a haven for outdoor adventurers. Hike the Skyline Trail to witness panoramic views of glaciers and wildflower meadows, or trek through the ancient forests along the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail. For a challenging adventure, the Wonderland Trail offers a 93-mile loop around the entire mountain, showcasing diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Ohanapecosh Campground offers a peaceful night under the stars, surrounded by old-growth forest. Take advantage of the opportunity to visit Paradise, a renowned spot for its stunning vistas, hiking trails, and the historic Paradise Inn. Keep in mind the new restrictions while planning for another memorable summer at Mount Rainier National Park.

Leavenworth, In December, is filled with joy and it gives off the spirit of Christmas. The town is decorated with more than 500,000 lights and decorations. There are carolers, bands, and a choir. You can go feed and ride a sleigh with the reindeer. For the kiddos, they can get their photo taken with Santa. They also have crafts, story corners, letters to Santa, Gingerbread houses, and more for the kids. There are boutiques, craft shops, candy stores, coffee shops, and many nice restaurants.

Around 200,000 people visit Leavenworth around Christmas time. So get ready for the crowd! There are cabins and hotels in Leavenworth, so if you don't live close, you can stay the night. Make sure to book in advance for hotels and if you want a parking spot for free get there early. Parking spots can be pricey and cost up to $30 if you don't get there early.

The weather there is cold this time of the year and there will be plenty of snow so you would need a good car to drive in the snow. If you don't want to drive there, there are other options like taking the train. Or if you just want to go for a day you can consider going with a tour group. Make sure to come with the right clothing because it gets chilly. 

This Magical Town is the best place to go, make sure to plan your trip before everything gets booked so you can enjoy seeing the lights and all the activities with your family.

How does addiction occur? According to YaleMedicine.org, addiction occurs when a substance provides chemicals that provide splashes of dopamine in the brain which leaves the brain craving more of that substance. However, at the same time, your body builds up a tolerance to that substance which causes the user to ingest more of the substance to get that same initial satisfaction.

What are the impacts of addiction on society? In 2020 over 91,800 individuals died because of an unhealthy drug addiction. However, drugs are not the only addiction tool; individuals can also become addicted to entertainment devices such as TV or their phones. The increase in phone use is believed to account for depression rates climbing by 25% according to YaleMedicine.org.

Being addicted to harmful substances can have some physical effects such as cardiovascular problems, stroke, respiratory problems, and several types of cancer. Drug abuse dealing with syringes can also spread diseases such as HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis. 

However, physical detriment is only half the battle. Addiction also causes mental health issues such as anxiety, paranoia, depression, delusion, hallucinations, violent behavior, insomnia, and learning/memory problems, or worsens the course of an existing mental illness. These are issues that many American citizens deal with every day of their lives whether or not it's an addiction to a drug or entertainment device, these effects will only be accelerated by prolonged abuse. 

There are some misconceptions about addiction here are a few of the most common. One misconception is that only hard drugs such as heroin and cocaine are addictive; When in reality, anything can be addicting. Another misconception is that all addictions are bad; however, some addictions are positive such as exercise, reading, meditation, healthy cooking, nature connection, learning, volunteering, journaling, and self-care. However, with anything, these activities can have adverse effects.

How does someone recover from an addiction? According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, common ways to recover from drug abuse are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in which institutes help people realize and avoid certain situations they put themselves in which cause them to take the drugs they are addicted to. Contingency management is when the drug user is awarded as compensation for not taking the drug they are addicted to. Family therapy is a common therapy for young people in which the family of the drug abuser(s) is brought together for therapy to help them get closer together. 

Addiction is a serious and ongoing problem in today's society. While innovations such as cell phones and computers should make it easier to get help, they have only become platforms for mocking and often facilitating the addiction itself. It is time society moves beyond misconceptions that drugs are the only addictive activity and embraces comprehensive efforts that aim to protect youth and teach them to traverse addiction. 

The Poetry Out Loud regional event took place at the Yakima Valley College on Saturday, February 3rd. Selah High School sent the top two Selah performers to show their talent - Elise Ozanich and Kaylin Warner.  

  They performed their rehearsed poems in front of a panel of four judges and an audience of 70 individuals, including family and community members. Ozanich recited "The Bloody Sire" by Robinson Jeffers, and "Love Song" by Dorothy Parker.  Warner recited “What Horror to Awake at Night” by Lorine Niedecker, and “The Farmer” by W.D. Ehrhart.  

Kaylin Warner was one of the two top contestants and will be advancing to the state finals on Saturday, March 9th at the Tacoma Little Theatre. The champion of the state competition is awarded a scholarship and a trip to Washington DC to compete in the national competition.  

Riley Maier is a math teacher at Selah High School, with a degree in secondary mathematics. Mr. Maier, a former SHS alumni, later attended CWU and attained a degree in secondary mathematics. Before education, he worked as a plumber in the summers.

 In Mr. Maier's free time, he said, “Oh, I love all sorts of stuff, hunting, fishing, skiing, golfing, dirt bike riding, virtual hiking, camping. Also watching my hobbies on YouTube, mowing the yard, watching people build things, buying/shopping on Craigslist and Facebook marketplace, etc” He added that he doesn't do karaoke often, but when he does, his go-to song is anything by Taylor Swift. 

Mr. Maier's favorite place to eat is, “Literally everywhere, unless it's expensive!” On his bucket list, he hopes to go on a bull elk hunting trip. Mr. Maier claimed he hasn't discovered his hidden talent yet, but added, “I have a pair of webbed toes. Do I swim faster? Maybe?” 

Selah High School's principal, Colton Monti, says, “Mr. Maier is cool as ice! He is funny and personable yet extremely knowledgeable! Students love him and he is great at connecting and supporting them. Grateful to have a guy like him at SHS.” 

Students at Selah High School also have some remarks. Sophia Ehlis, a junior at SHS stated, “He's really funny and makes sure that his students understand what's going on during class.”  

A SHS freshman, Avery Baker added, “I think he is really cool. He is super relaxed but makes sure everyone is caught up and doing well. He relates to students and understands what they need to learn better.”

Mr. Maier is an all-around great educator and person. He is appreciated by all students and staff and is a true asset to the SHS community.  

With its varied landscapes, including towering mountains and rocky coastlines, Washington State is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. There are countless beautiful hikes to choose from on the hundreds of miles of trails. Washington has something to offer everyone whether it be a peaceful stroll or a difficult hike. These are some of the top hikes in the Evergreen State:

1. Mount Rainier National Park

Skyline Trail: This iconic trail offers unique views of Mount Rainier, wildflower-filled meadows, and cascading waterfalls. It's a moderately challenging hike with options for shorter or longer loops.

Panorama Point: For a shorter but equally rewarding hike, Panorama Point provides sweeping 

vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Source: National Park Service - Mount Rainier

2. Olympic National Park

Hoh River Trail: Located in the lush Hoh Rainforest, this trail meanders along the Hoh River, passing through moss-draped trees and offering glimpses of wildlife.

Hurricane Ridge: Accessible year-round, Hurricane Ridge boasts panoramic views of The Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Multiple trails cater to varying skill levels.

Source: National Park Service - Olympic

3. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Lake Serene Trail: A favorite among locals, this trail leads to the serene Lake Serene nestled below towering cliffs. The hike is strenuous but worth it for the postcard-worthy scenery.

Heather-Maple Pass Loop: Another gem in the North Cascades, this loop features alpine lakes, meadows bursting with wildflowers, and panoramic views of Mount Baker.

Source: U.S. Forest Service - Mount Baker-Snoqualmie

4. Columbia River Gorge

Dog Mountain Trail: Known for its stunning wildflower displays in the spring, Dog Mountain offers panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood.

Angel's Rest: Just a short drive from Portland, Oregon, this trail rewards hikers with sweeping views of the gorge and several cascading waterfalls along the way.

Source: Washington Trails Association - Dog Mountain

5. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Harry's Ridge Trail: Experience the raw beauty of Mount St. Helens as you hike along ridgelines with views of the volcano's crater, Spirit Lake, and the surrounding blast zone.

Loowit Trail: For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Loowit Trail circumnavigates Mount St. Helens, offering unparalleled views of the volcanic landscape.

Source: U.S. Forest Service - Mount St. Helens

Whether you're an experienced hiker or love nature, Washington's diverse landscapes offer incredible adventures. Be sure to check trail conditions, get permits as needed, and protect these beautiful places by cleaning up after yourself. Enjoy your hike!

Precaution is key when driving in the winter months. Keeping a safe distance between you and the cars around you is one way you can promote safety. When driving in snow, you should be aware of the vehicle's tires. You should have the appropriate tires while driving in the snow because it allows for better traction and more control in winter conditions. There are several appropriate types of tires to choose from. Making tire selection a priority can improve your safety and the safety of others. 

We went around Selah High School asking students how their experience has been driving in the snow. We also went around asking teachers for any safety tips they had for teenage drivers driving in the snow. Noel, a custodian here at Selah High School said “Get good tires. Having good tires is like having good shoes. Never slam the brakes. That can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.”

Another factor that you should consider for driving in snow is the time of day. Avoid driving at night when it's snowing because it can be more difficult for you to see cars around you. Lines on the road may be covered by snow and that can cause car accidents. Temperatures tend to drop at night causing ice on the road and making the roads more dangerous. During the day it can be hard to drive in snow but at night it is much more difficult. Pellman’s Automotive states, “Car safety experts all agree, if you can avoid driving at night while it’s snowing, do it. The light reflecting properties of snow cause your headlights to reflect light back at you. Low visibility and driving don’t mix. Check the weather forecast before you go. If you have to drive, slow way down, be alert and stop as soon as you can.” 

These tips on driving in the snow are just some of the things you should think about as the winter weather approaches us. Be sure to check the weather forecast so that when it does snow it doesn’t catch you by surprise and you can prepare yourself. 

Instead of venturing to the world's most common tourist destinations, why not try something new and travel to these hidden gems that will provide an experience like no other? From warm beaches to quiet mountains, these locations will pique interest and curiosity, while offering surprises.

If an amazing environment with mesmerizing landscapes is what people are looking for, Bhutan might be the right place. Located in southern Asia, Bhutan offers many different landscapes from steep beautiful mountains to deep dark valleys. It's a very calm and peaceful place, perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape from work. While Bhutan might not offer the typical environment of a bustling city, it gets its unique charm from the richness and beauty of its nature. It's a place where the crime rate is low, and the amount of peace is high. The warmth of its people makes the country amazing. Which is what the country is mostly known for. In Bhutan most will find enjoyment in the undisturbed environment.

For those craving a change of pace from the chilly mountains of Bhutan to a warmer environment. Rather than going to the common tourist locations of Greece such as Athens or Santorini, Halkidiki has some of the most inviting beaches with crystal-clear water, perfect for a coastal getaway. Though the beaches are the signature attraction, there are many things to do besides exploring the pristine beaches. Wander through the beautiful town of Kassandra, try new delicious foods, and get immersed in water sports. All of these things in addition to the amazing sights make the trip to Halkidiki worth it.

If Asia and Europe are too far, there are always national parks. An underrated national park is the Great Basin National Park in Nevada. Stargazing is the most popular thing to do during the night, due to it having the darkest skies in the lower 48 states. Don't let that be a distraction from the plenty of things to do during the day. Discovering the beautiful nature of this national park is an experience not to be missed. The wildlife to be seen on the trails adds an extra layer of fascination to the overall experience of this amazing national park.

From the chilly mountains of Bhutan to the warm beaches of Halkidiki, there's always something for everyone. With each of these locations having its unique characteristics, the world offers many more options to travel than the usual tourist locations.

Over the last 7 years, electric cars have been on a consistent uprise in the vehicle market. Today, almost all major car manufacturers, from Nissan to Ford, manufacture at least one electric car model. Even a few exclusively electric car companies have taken shape, the most popular of which is Tesla. For those living under a rock, Tesla is an exclusively electric vehicle manufacturer founded by Elon Musk. Now, one of Tesla’s car models, the Model Y, is the best-selling car in America, the first fully electric vehicle to achieve such a title. Being that they are marketed as  “Zero-Emission,” many have switched from their gas-guzzling cars to what they perceive as an Eco-Friendly vehicle. That, however, is not entirely the case.

Offset emissions: 

Since the first lightbulb was installed, electricity has been produced primarily by burning fossil fuels. Modern electricity production is no different. According to the  

EIA, fossil fuels generated 2,554 billion kilowatts of electricity or 60.2% of all electricity generated in 2022. In comparison, renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric, only generated 21.5% of the electricity used.     

With this in mind, it's apparent that running an electric car still produces a carbon footprint, they just don’t come from the tailpipe. Another offset emission is the production of the electric car. Damien Erst, a researcher for Liege Universite, says, “The manufacture of the battery therefore emits 0.236 [kg / kWh] x 43022 [kWh] = 10153 kg of CO2, a little more than ten tons.”(Ernst 11). In comparison, Russel Campbell says, a gasoline vehicle produces, “ Around 5.6 tones of CO2 are released during a petrol or diesel car's manufacture on average, around three quarters of which are released during production of the steel body in white.”(Campbell 7). The electric car produces almost double the carbon emissions in the battery alone. This is the primary dilemma surrounding electric vehicles. The batteries have an extremely heavy carbon footprint, both in the electricity used to charge them and the production of the battery itself.

Consumer cost:

Another factor is the initial price of an electric car. A base model Tesla Model 3 will run about $38,990. That gets you rear-wheel drive and 272 miles of range. In comparison, and Toyota Camry, with all-wheel drive and 510 miles of range will cost the buyer $30,991. $8,000 less, but double the range and AWD included. From the consumer's perspective, the Camry is the best deal, at least upfront. Furthermore, brand reputation plays a crucial role in a consumer's purchasing decision. Toyota’s reputation for producing extremely reliable vehicles. In Motor 1’s list of 12 vehicles most likely to last longer than 250,000 miles, Toyota has 6 vehicles on it, and with longer-lasting cars, consumers need to buy less often, therefore, reducing cost. 

Charging infrastructure:

Another major factor to take into account is the potential issues it may cause in regard to the power grid. From 2012 to 2022, power usage in the US increased by roughly 5%. By 2030, it's projected that power usage will increase by 18%. The US power grid, for the last 25 years, hasn't seen any major surges in consumption. So upgrades are limited and largely implemented as needed. However electric car charging puts stress on an outdated power grid designed for joint usage with fossil fuels. Solutions are expensive and take time, Kevala, a Grid analytics company, conducted a study on how much a modernized grid would cost. For California, it would cost $50 billion. While this may not seem like a lot relative to California's massive GDP, however, over the last 10 years, California has only spent $100 billion on infrastructure, or about $10 billion annually. Furthermore, adopting a better power grid would contribute to the already staggering $33 trillion national debt.

In the distant future, electric cars could see more widespread adoption. They’re fast, quiet, and safe vehicles. Right now, however, there are several major issues with the vehicles themselves, and the power grid supporting them. Until these problems are addressed, they will only cause more harm than the standard ICE(Internal combustion engine) cars society has relied on for the last 137 years.