Search this site

By Addie Vanlandingham You might have heard photographers or models say that “lighting is everything,” but for humans, lighting really is everything. Since we are light-sensitive beings, the type of lighting that we are exposed to every day can affect our mood, health, and ability to focus. Children typically spend around seven hours a day in school under artificial lighting, and most adults work eight to ten hours in similar conditions. Beyond school and work, people shop in large stores with artificial lighting or spend hours on their phones and laptops, increasing their daily exposure. If we add up all the time that we are under this lighting, it can be surprising and concerning to us. (BlockBlueLight). So what is artificial lighting? Artificial lighting refers to any human-made lighting created to replace or supplement sunlight or moonlight. This includes fluorescence, LEDS, neon signs, and incandescent bulbs. In modern society, fluorescence and LED lighting are the most commonly used, due to their efficiency and long lifespan. (Fiveable). So what is the downside to these lights? Spending day after day under these lights can negatively trigger our nervous system in that it increases stress-related brain activity and disrupts the circadian rhythm (Newsroom, NCBI). Additionally, such time plays a role in the rising level of learning, attention, and behavioral issues among children. The intensity and color of fluorescence and LED lighting can also impact our emotional mood and overall health (BlockBlueLight). Both types of lighting may produce flickering bulbs, which could irritate the nervous system. This flickering light could cause someone to experience the following symptoms: eyestrain, double vision, headaches or migraines, stress, reduced concentration, and fatigue. (BlockBlueLight). Lighting color can also play a role in humans’ sleep. A study found that a color temperature of 6700K or higher, a cool white to bl ue light produced by these lights signals to our brain that it is daytime and stops the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. (NCBI). In addition, research has found that both fluorescent and LED lighting can have a major impact on humans’ eye health. Fluorescent above 4000K is dangerous for the eye and exposure above 6000K can potentially damage the retina. High-intensity blue light LEDs have also been linked to retina damage, which is increasingly dangerous as more and more people are spending time in front of LED-lit screens. (BlockBlueLight). So what type of lighting is good for humans? When choosing lighting appropriate for the greatest health and sleep quality, bulbs on the lower end of the color temperature scale, or with less blue light, reduce the negative impact on humans’ nervous system and help them focus and relax (NCBI). During the daytime, green light can be very good for humans, as it calms the nervous system, reduces eye strain, and can reduce the pain from migraines. However, excessive green light exposure in the evening can also impact humans’ melatonin production, and reduce our quality of sleep. (NCBI). In addition, flicker-free lights are the best for humans, however, they might not be accessible or affordable for large buildings. Using blue-light glasses when utilizing devices with blue-light screens can also reduce the many negative side effects that this lighting causes on humans (BlockBlueLight). As schools and workplaces continue to rely on artificial lighting, understanding its impact on human health is an important step toward creating healthier learning and working environments. Works Cited https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov https://www.blockbluelight.com https://fiveable.me https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov https://newsroom.heart.org

By Izzy Orpurt Valentine’s Day is not just for those in relationships. It is a day for everyone to express appreciation, share kindness, and celebrate connections, regardless of relationship status. Many people celebrate their friendships in a version of the holiday, calling it “Galentine’s Day” or “Palentine’s Day.” Others spend the day taking time to themselves, practicing self-love by pampering oneself and focusing on self-care. I’ve even heard of some using the day to practice their love for humanity by helping those in need. Love comes in many forms, so take the day to celebrate it! Here are some Valentine-themed events in our local area: Celebrate 'Anti-Valentine's Day' at Ball State's David Owsley Museum of Art on February 13 from 5-8 pm “This event is free of charge and open to everyone. It will feature art-making activities, games, refreshments, and a live storytelling competition.” If you’re a bit of a cynic of Valentine’s Day, this event is probably for you. ‘Anti-Valentine’s Day’ can have a different meaning for many. It could mean rejecting the traditional sense of the holiday, which typically consists of celebrating romantic relationships rather than other forms of love. It could also mean rejection of the commercialism that comes with the holiday, such as mass-marketed products, decor, and materialistic displays of affection. Personally, I’m very interested to see how Ball State's David Owsley Museum of Art represents ‘Anti-Valentine’s Day.’ Valentine’s Day at the Greenhouse on February 8 from 10 am-3 pm The Rinard Orchid Greenhouse will be offering an orchid-themed scavenger hunt, which sounds both entertaining and educational. They will also offer the opportunity to create nature-themed cards. Even if you do not want to participate in these activities, the greenhouse is a wonderful place with a variety of plants, animals, and useful information. Adoring flowers is a regular Valentine’s Day ritual, so I definitely encourage you to visit and enjoy the romantic beauty of nature! Glass Guild Valentine's Sale on February 13-14 from 10 am-4 pm “Looking for a unique and heartfelt Valentine’s Day gift? The Ball State Glass Guild is holding a small Valentine’s Day Sale in AJ, right in front of the bookstore!” There are a variety of handmade creations including jewelry, ornaments, and more. If you’d like to keep up with the Glass Guild, they often host sales at Minnetrista Museum & Gardens, sharing their creative glasswork with the community. Also, the Glick Center for Glass, located on campus, is open to the public and showcases a variety of beautiful, unique glass art. Valentine's Day at the Planetarium On February 14 Charles W. Brown Planetarium will be offering a variety of shows on Valentine’s Day. They are showing "Accidental Astronauts" at 3:30pm, "Big Astronomy" at 5pm, and "The Universe Overhead" at 6:30pm. I personally went to “The Universe Overhead” and enjoyed all of the interesting celestial facts. For Valentine’s Day, there was a focus on the constellations and their partners, such as Orion and Scorpius. If you do not have anyone to spend the day with or would just rather spend it alone, there are still many ways you can romanticize and enjoy the day. Here’s a short list of things you can do to practice more self-love: Go on a solo date: intentionally take yourself out to do enjoyable activities, treat yourself with the same care as you would a partner, and enjoy your own company. Go on a picnic, frequent your favorite restaurant, make way to the movies, or visit an art gallery. Spend time with your pet (if you do not have any pets, try to find a nearby animal and just enjoy its company - volunteering at a local animal shelter is a great way to benefit yourself and the community). Buy something for yourself (I recommend flowers because they are a staple for Valentine’s Day. They are also pretty and fragrant). Have a nice spa day: buy some face masks, take a bubble bath, get cozy, maybe even get a massage. Have a movie marathon of all the movies you love. Send cards to friends and family - remind those you love that you appreciate them. Listen to your favorite songs and spend time outdoors - take in the fresh air and the surrounding world. Read a book to immerse yourself in a good story, and cook a comfort meal for relaxation.

By Dannicka Sorensen With the upcoming Super Bowl, many have been outraged by Bad Bunny’s being featured as the performer for the half-time show. Of the multitude of reasons why people are outraged, the complaint I’d like to address is the common lament that “he doesn’t even sing in English.” To that, I say: good. Why? Because I think a different language will be eye-opening for Americans. With the controversies surrounding ICE, the president’s massive changes to foreign policy, and the seeming reawakening of the Monroe Doctrine, to say that politics was not a factor for the choice of Bad Bunny would be ignorant. The Super Bowl has been a stage for political agendas in the past as well. For example, Kendrick Lamar’s politically heated performance last year served as a prime example. ( You can read more in staff writer Uma Cormier-Marri's article. ) I think we’re on track for greater unity with the rest of the continent. I see Spanish being an essential language that next generations will be taught in school, along with English. Almost every other country teaches children an additional language in primary school, so why not us? English being an international language is a fact that many of us know, but many do not understand. For us, it is often not necessary to learn another language. We already were born into knowing a highly beneficial language. We won’t have to worry about our career or traveling abroad. If we need to leave the country, it’s okay because usually someone, somewhere, knows English. Immigrants from non-English speaking countries often do not have that privilege in America. They frequently have to rely on whatever foundation of English they have. They can’t just switch to their native language when their English fails them. For the many of you who are distraught over not being able to understand the performance, I am glad that you are. The twenty to thirty minutes you must be confused is only a taste of the reality that many immigrants in America face today. More and more, students, specifically those from Latin America, are put into English-speaking schools with little knowledge of English. It doesn’t help that a lot of times the only person at the school who “knows” Spanish is the Spanish teacher, with the thickest gringo accent, who did a semester abroad twenty years ago and hasn’t used it since. These kids face culture shock in their new environment. With the countries these kids are coming from, and the economic position most are in, they often do not have the means or resources to learn English like we have the resources to learn Spanish. To help us with translation, we have classes at school, access to public libraries, phones with millions of resources, and the list goes on. I believe it is our responsibility to adapt to our new New World. Let your frustration with Bad Bunny inspire you to turn over a new leaf and grow a new opportunity for learning.

By Uma Cormier-Marri Bad Bunny’s upcoming Super Bowl halftime show has sparked a lot of discourse surrounding the politics of performance, specifically Super Bowl performances. While everyone is paying attention to the controversy, let’s look at the history. Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX Apple Music Halftime Show was infused with countless references and acknowledgements to his audience, which made it clear what he wanted us to “hear.” In between the songs he performed, “Uncle Sam,” played by Samuel L. Jackson, who interjected with provocative lines that carried the storyline of the performance. The backup dancers, all dressed in red, white, and blue to resemble an American flag, enhanced the messaging of the performance. Thus, Lamar’s performance in the Super Bowl LIX utilized the rhetorical tradition of Black Language to connect with many members of his audience, Black Americans. Across his music, but especially during that performance, Lamar uses specific aspects of Black Language, embodying a neglected past and layered meaning, to strengthen his connection to listeners. The use of these two aspects successfully united Lamar and his audience on an emotional level and ensured that his audience was captivated by his performance. One aspect of Black Language that is extremely evident in Lamar’s past works and performances is layered meaning. In a 2025 interview with the NFL, held specifically for his upcoming Super Bowl performance, Lamar tells Timothée Chalamet, “With my projects it always be that one record I feel like that I want everyone to hear …. in order to push the narrative or just the message and tone that I want to get across” (NFL, 2025). With this statement, Lamar effectively communicates the intention of his performances and suggests that interpretations of his works are not exaggerated and unlikely. We can see his thoughtfulness in the way that Lamar acknowledges his taking into consideration, “narrative,” “message,” and “tone.” The deliberate planning of his performances indicates a clear desire for connection with his audience, and results in performances that go beyond just music, performances that are intertwined with layers upon layers of meaning. The entire character of “Uncle Sam” in this halftime show serves as an ironic reminder of how people commonly view the history of the United States. T. Clark calls him, “patriotism personified: the military recruitment propaganda character” (Clark, 2025, para 7). The popularity of “Uncle Sam” as an American personality and character connects the audience to the performance, while also representing the past of this country. The character himself may not necessarily serve as a reminder of the mistreatment and neglect of African Americans in the United States, but his role in the show certainly does. Uncle Sam’s interruptions and introductions carry a tone of instigation and condescension. After beginning the performance by telling Lamar he was playing, “The great American Game,” he then interrupts Lamar’s performance with “No no no no / too loud / too reckless / too ghetto!!!” The term “ghetto” is often used to describe “dirty,” “poor,” and “dangerous” neighborhoods. “Uncle Sam” speaking this line to Lamar, while also interrupting Lamar’s performance as he is surrounded by people of color, reflects the way that African Americans have often been spoken to and treated throughout American history. “Ghetto” is by no means an outdated term, and Lamar acknowledges oppression by using it in his performance, as he is aware that the term “ghetto” is frequently used to marginalize African Americans. In a moment of high suspense, before Lamar transitions into his most anticipated song of the night – “They Not Like Us” – he throws in the line “40 acres and a mule / this is bigger than the music.” The phrase “40 acres” is a reference to Field Order No. 15, where black citizens were promised around 400,000 acres of land previously owned by Confederates. The promise was not fulfilled. These lines are not a lyric in any of Lamar’s music, so including them before his most awaited song in the performance caught people’s attention. The phrase “bigger than the music” has a uniting tone, almost directly implying community. By explicitly calling out a way that the country has failed Black citizens, and then calling to unite them, Lamar forms an emotional tie based on history and support. My analysis of Kendrick Lamar’s performances, specifically his rhetoric and use of rhetorical traditions, is not the only perspective available. However, scholars and students whom choose to study Lamar’s performances and music tend to agree with my perspective more often than not. In fact, many responses have indirectly looked at his performances through the same lens as I have, without the label. When analyzing a performance of Lamar’s, N. Lowman (2022) states, “Lamar uses the opportunity to perform to huge audiences to initiate and participate in a rhetorical exchange that is informed by and contributes to ongoing debates about state-sanctioned killings of Black Americans, violence within Black communities, the role of hip hop, and American history” (Lowman, 2022, p. 66). Lowman’s assertion reflects on how Lamar embodies a neglected past, specifically how he “contributes” to debates, indicating a layer of connection while also mentioning the ways in which black communities have been mistreated and oppressed. This author can see how Kendrick Lamar connects with his audience through advocating for Black Americans and educating his audience about their history. Kendrick Lamar put on an incredible show for almost all of America to watch. At the time of his performance, the stakes were high. He was involved in a public feud with another celebrity, and a new president had just been elected. Nevertheless, his halftime show managed to connect with millions of Americans around the country. Lamar did not shy away from saying what he wanted to say, in order to make sure that the people he wanted to listen were the people who heard him. References Clark, T. (February 14, 2025). Kendrick Lamar’s Halftime Show Was Radically Political, if You Knew Where to Look. New York Times, https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/14/opinion/kendrick-lamar-halftime-art.html NFL. (Feburary 7, 2025) Kendrick Lamar and Timotheé Chalamet’s Exclusive Interview Ahead of #AppleMusicHalftime. #SBLIX. [Video] Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdOxSAVhGwQ Lowman, N. (2022). The Political Efficacy of Kendrick Lamar’s Performance Rhetoric. Journal of Contemporary Rhetoric, 12(2), 65-78 http://contemporaryrhetoric.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Lowman_12_2_3.pdf

As advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) continue to progress in society, more people are turning to AI-powered platforms like ChatGPT. Students turn to this software for help with their homework, tourists look for assistance for planning vacations, and companies look for aid in analyzing their data. However, these questions are causing damage that most people do not realize. Repeatedly asking these open AI platforms for help could cause harm to your learning and detrimentally impact your mental health. To delve into these issues, let’s consider a study conducted by the MIT Media Lab. The purpose of this study was to figure out how the use of AI assistants affects cognitive capabilities. Fifty-four participants were divided into three groups: AI assistance, Google’s search engine assistance, and brain power alone. They were then tasked with completing essays based on SAT essay prompts. Each group completed three sessions under identical conditions. During the fourth session, participants who used AI switched to primarily using their brain and brain-only participants would now use AI. The researchers used Electroencephalography (EEG), a technique that records electrical activity in the brain, to understand an essay writer’s cognitive ability and understand how AI impacts performance. Using human teachers and an AI judge, they evaluated and scored the essays. Their findings were not necessarily shocking, but the effect of AI was worse than many people might realize. Essays written solely by a human were strongest, search engine users fell to second with a somewhat moderate performance, and AI users had the weakest performance. Cognitive activity progressively worsened in relation to the specific external tool being used. By session four, AI to brain participants had lessened alpha and beta connectivity, which signaled under-engagement. AI users even had difficulty quoting their own work or recognizing ownership of their essays. Over the four-month period of the sessions, AI underperformed at lower rates on linguistic, neural, and behavioral levels. It is also important to understand the implications AI may have on our behavior and emotions. Another university, Stanford, conducted investigations with similar questions. Through two experiments, Stanford researchers found that AI “therapy” may result in harmful responses to the patient. When tasked with helping patients with conditions like alcohol dependence and schizophrenia, the chatbot reinforced social stigmas. Jared Moore, a PhD candidate at Stanford University, stated, “This kind of stigmatizing can be harmful to patients and may lead them to discontinue important mental health care.” In another instance, researchers tasked the AI with helping to deal with conversational topics related to harmful delusions or self-harm. In response to such prompts, the AI failed to assess the situation, instead inadvertently assisting in reinforcing the delusions or dangerous thoughts. Overall, the findings from both the MIT study and Stanford experiments raise questions about how the usage of artificial intelligence for long-term periods may inhibit advancements in cognitive, behavioral, and emotional abilities. Works Cited:  https://time.com/7295195/ai-chatgpt-google-learning-school/   https://www.media.mit.edu/publications/your-brain-on-chatgpt/   https://arxiv.org/abs/2506.08872   https://hai.stanford.edu/news/exploring-the-dangers-of-ai-in-mental-health-care

Every day, a commute through a city can leave a rigorous digital trace: an automated license plate reader captures a photo in a split second, a Wi-Fi “handshake” tracks the journey of a phone through a subway station, and a smart doorbell logs a face on a sidewalk. These data-collecting technologies offer benefits to society, such as the ability for emergency services to locate a 911 caller or for a suspect to be identified in a crowded public area. However, even without suspicion of a crime, an individual may have a record of activity. The truth is, modern surveillance thrives through accumulation, not confrontation. If a moment is captured, the digital footprint it leaves is accessible long after the moment has passed. On one hand, these technologies are able to provide efficiency and security, attributes of a society valuing liberty. On the other hand, the benefits of these technologies are paradoxical: as data-tracking and surveillance systems are questioned in regard to fairness and the scope of government power, the promise of their efficiency and security fractures. Efficiency is frequently treated as a proxy for public safety, yet this assumption remains disputed. For the last few decades, the early phases of the legal process identification and the preliminary assessment before formal investigation–have been influenced by surveillance technologies. With the development of AI, this influence has accelerated. Data aggregation tools have the ability to compile records of a person’s movements and interactions, while facial recognition systems compare images across large databases within seconds. The Department of Homeland Security claims the automation of identity verification during travel helps “travelers get through checkpoints more efficiently and securely” (Department of Homeland Security). However, an observational study complicates this claim. Patricia Haley, an academic researcher and author studying biometric surveillance technologies, notes that while some models report accuracy over 95%, “these findings often stem from controlled environments and do not necessarily translate into tangible reductions in violent crime rates” (Haley). Ultimately, if the “efficiency” of these tools has little increase in safety, privacy is surrendered for a perceived sense of security that does not exist. Still, efficiency has never been the only criterion used by the American legal system to define justice: it is based on the idea that governmental authority must be used carefully and within well-defined bounds. In 1967, the United States Supreme Court rejected a physical definition of privacy in Katz v. United States , ruling “the Fourth Amendment protects people, not places” ( Katz v. United States ). In United States v. Jones (2012), the Court held that the government’s long-term surveillance—in this case, the installation of a GPS device—on a vehicle to monitor its movements constitutes a search because the government “physically occupied private property for the purpose of obtaining information” ( United States v. Jones ). With these limitations, the Court concluded that technological developments do not give the state an exemption from the requirement for a warrant. The Supreme Court, in Carpenter v. United States (2018), held that law enforcement must obtain a warrant to access historical cell site location data because such information provides “an intimate window into a person’s life” ( Carpenter v. United States ). The Court distinguished digital surveillance from traditional human observation by noting that while physical stalking is limited by “the frailties of recollection” and the high cost of a surveillance team, digital tracking provides a “tireless and absolute” record ( Carpenter v. United States ). Legal scholars argue that facial recognition intensifies this problem. According to Andrew Ferguson, biometric identification systems create a “ubiquitous identification scheme” that erodes “practical obscurity” (Ferguson). These rulings stress that in order to maintain the core principles of a free society, the legal barriers to spying on citizens must remain deliberately high as the “cost” of doing so approaches zero. Surveillance technologies raise ongoing questions about equality, fairness, and legality. Scholarly research shows that the accuracy of facial recognition systems varies depending on the demographic group. These mistakes are not distributed fairly when these systems are used in law enforcement. Rather, they often perpetuate patterns of increased surveillance in areas where law enforcement is already more prevalent (“Facial Recognition Algorithms”). In State v. Loomis (2016), the Wisconsin Supreme Court acknowledged that the proprietary nature of the COMPAS algorithm prevents a defendant from “assessing its accuracy” or challenging “how the risk scores are determined or how the factors are weighed” ( State v. Loomis ). The lack of transparency in algorithmic risk-assessment tools, when incorporated into judicial decision making, constitutes a major structural flaw in a legal system grounded in due process. Nevertheless, those in favor of surveillance technologies have some legitimacy to their logic: modern threats call for usage of modern devices. Observers claim biometric surveillance may be helpful in investigations under the condition that it is applied sparingly and under human supervision (Haley). Still, the lack of clarity surrounding the usage of data, who regulates it, and how long it stays stored brings forth indubitable moral and constitutional concerns even when surveillance may prevent harm (“Algorithmic Fairness in Predictive Policing”). Nonetheless, an aspect of constitutional governance is skepticism toward concentrated power, whether used by the state or by private organizations working on its behalf. Surveillance systems are becoming increasingly reliant on private firms to create and manage proprietary algorithms, transferring important decision-making from courts to opaque technology (Gentzel). Moderation rather than technological zeal is needed to strike a balance between individual rights and public safety. Our judicial and legislative bodies need to shift from a reactive to a proactive stance, given that technology is evolving more quickly than case law. Legislators must create explicit legal restrictions on surveillance, such as warrant requirements for prolonged or aggregated monitoring, stringent data retention regulations, and impartial oversight procedures. The law must develop a structure that presumes online security is the default instead of waiting for the latest technology to be misused before taking action. Surveillance can serve justice if it is controlled by accountability and limitation. When it is not, justice becomes hampered, altering the meaning of freedom under the law. Works Cited “Algorithmic Fairness in Predictive Policing.” AI and Ethics, 2024, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s43681-024-00541-3 . “Carpenter v. United States, 585 U.S. 285 (2018).” Justia, https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/585/16-402 . Department of Homeland Security. “2024 Update on DHS’s Use of Facial Recognition and Face Capture Technologies.” DHS Archive, 16 Jan. 2025, https://www.dhs.gov/archive/news/2025/01/16/2024-update-dhss-use-face-recognition-face-capture-technologies . “Facial Recognition Algorithms: A Systematic Literature Review.” Journal of Imaging, vol. 11, no. 2, 2025, p. 58, https://www.mdpi.com/2313-433X/11/2/58 . Ferguson, Andrew Guthrie. “Facial Recognition and the Fourth Amendment.” Minnesota Law Review, 2021, https://minnesotalawreview.org/article/facial-recognition-and-the-fourth-amendment/ . Gentzel, Michael. “Biased Face Recognition Technology Used by Government.” Philosophy & Technology, 2021, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13347 021-00478-z . Haley, Patricia. “The Impact of Biometric Surveillance on Reducing Violent Crime.” Sensors, vol. 25, no. 10, 2025, p. 3160, https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/25/10/3160 . “Katz v. United States, 389 U.S. 347 (1967).” Justia, https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/389/347/ . “State v. Loomis, 881 N.W.2d 749 (Wis. 2016).” California Courts, https://courts.ca.gov/sites/default/files/courts/default/2024-12/btb24-2l-3.pdf . “United States v. Jones, 565 U.S. 400 (2012).” Justia, https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/565/400/ .

Love is a word that is often used loosely. “I love art,” “I love nature,” “I love him/her.” All of us have been told by someone that they love us, and we have all told someone that we love them. But what, really, is love? Is love the fuzzy feeling you get in your stomach when you see someone you're attracted to? Or is that lust? Is love how you feel toward a family member? Or is that an obligation? Is love the feeling of home and safety you get when hanging out with a friend? Or is that respect and loyalty? Society seems to agree that all of these feelings are versions of love, but that's for you to decide. I can tell you what love isn’t. Love isn’t pain. Love isn’t refusing to be there for someone. Love isn’t choosing yourself over someone else. Love sure isn’t harming others, and love sure isn’t judging others. When you use the word love, be careful who you are saying it to. Are you saying it to someone who you are disloyal to? Are you saying it because you feel like you have to? Or are you saying it because you truly do love that person?

Welcome to our new co-editor, Izzy Orpurt: Hi! I’m Izzy. I’m a junior at the academy. I love animals, reading and art (not good at it, but love to appreciate it.) I enjoy listening to all genres of music and learning new things. In the future, I hope to explore all of the opportunities that life brings me.

Welcome to our new co-editor, Dannicka Sorensen : Hello! I’m Dannicka Sorensen and I am in the class of 2026 at the Academy. I enjoy anything to do with language. I have loved to read and write (especially poetry) since I was young. Writing articles is something that I discovered I liked in a newspaper class in school. My current language fixation has been learning Spanish in my free time. Other than that I am busy making money or entertaining my whims.

After their extinction 10,000 years ago, the resurrection of dire wolves seemed impossible. Their existing DNA was fragmented and damaged, significantly reducing the possibility of bringing them back. Despite these challenges, on April 7, 2025, Colossal Biosciences announced the “de-extinction” of dire wolves. In order to achieve this, Colossal used gray wolf DNA as a foundation. The company edited specific genomes from the gray wolf to better align them with the genomes of dire wolves, but they were missing a lot of genes within the genome. Because of this, the process has sparked debate about whether these creations can truly be considered dire wolves.  At the beginning of the project, researchers at colossal searched for the closest living relative of the dire wolf and decided on the gray wolf. Due to their similar skeletal structures and other physical characteristics, it was previously believed that the two species were closely related. However, a 2021 study debunked this, discovering that dire wolves were not wolves at all, but rather the last of a dog lineage that evolved in North America. Approximately 5.7 million years ago, the dire wolf and gray wolf did share a common ancestor; however, over time, they became increasingly distanced from one another. Despite this divergence, the two species continued to share physical traits as a result of their similar hunting patterns.  Recognizing that wolves belong to different genera, Colossal proceeded with the experiment. After analyzing a 13,000-year-old tooth and a 72,000-year-old ear bone from dire wolves, scientists identified specific DNA sequences, although they were unable to recover the complete genome. Despite missing many genomic components, Colossal isolated the available genes to create a DNA sequence. They then obtained a blood sample from a gray wolf to determine its DNA sequence for comparison. Upon discovering some similarities, Colossal confirmed that the gray wolf is indeed the closest living relative of the dire wolf. With this confirmation, they used CRISPR technology to modify 0.3% of the gray wolf's DNA in a cell, leaving 99.7% of the original sequence. Colossal then implanted this cell into the embryo of a domesticated dog, which was then placed into a surrogate dog.  While Colossal Biosciences’ achievement marks a significant step forward in genetic engineering, they did not resurrect the dire wolf. What they have created is a genetically modified gray wolf that shares some visual and behavioral characteristics with the dire wolf, but lacks the complete genetic makeup that created dire wolves. While the achievement demonstrates the power of genetic engineering, it also highlights its limitations. The creature born from this experiment may look like a dire wolf, but genetically, it is still a gray wolf with minor edits. It will take much more evidence and time before humans will achieve “de-extinction.” Sources: Dire Wolf - Colossal Colossal.comhttps:// colossal.com › direwolf   Dire Wolves Were Not Really Wolves, New Genetic Clues ...Scientific  Americanhttps:// www.scientificamerican.com › article › dire-wolve…  BBCExperts dispute Colossal claim dire wolf back from extinction2 weeks ago  Science | AAASWhat’s the deal with dire wolves? Iconic predators may have been ‘the Neanderthals of the wolf world 2 days ago  Scientists say they have resurrected the dire wolfCNNhttps:// edition.cnn.com › 2025/04/07 › science › dire-w...

Welcome to our newest staff writer, Ella Southwick : Hello! I’m Ella Southwick and I am a sophomore here at the Academy. Writing is one of my many passions so I am excited to become a staff writer! During my time with the newspaper, I would like to write more about current events within science.

Hello fellow readers! I hope your year has been filled with great books. Personally, I haven’t been able to read as much as I’d like, I’ve been so busy! Still, it’s important to carve out time for yourself and the hobbies you love. And what better time to do that than this summer? Once school concludes and our schedules open up, there’s no better way to fill those long days than by diving into a good book. To help you get started, here are some great recommendations from a few of your favorite teachers!  Mr. Crowder: If you’re looking for a good book to get lost in this summer, Mr. Crowder has some stellar recommendations—especially if you’re a fan of fantasy and science fiction. He enjoys classic horror novels like Dracula , Frankenstein , and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde , but his favorite genre blends imaginative fantasy with futuristic science fiction concepts.  One series Mr. Crowder highly recommends is The Space Trilogy  by C.S. Lewis, one of his favorite authors. The trilogy follows a character’s interplanetary adventures to Mars, Venus, and, ultimately, Earth, using the alien landscapes to explore big questions about human nature, morality, and the universe. This unique mix of philosophy, science fiction, and adventure offers readers a lot to think about. Another book on Mr. Crowder’s list is  The War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells. This gripping novel tells the story of Earth under attack by Martians and remains one of the most influential works in science fiction literature. Mr. Crowder encourages all students to explore the imaginative worlds that science fiction has to offer. With summer right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to pick up a new book and travel to other worlds.  Dr. (Mark) Myers: Given that Dr. Myers is a history professor, it's no surprise that his reading list is filled with historical works. His passion for history extends well beyond the classroom, and it's clearly reflected in his choice of reading. He weaves the knowledge he gains from these books into his teaching, enriching his lessons with diverse perspectives and deeper insights. Currently, Dr. Myers is reading Reconsidering Southern Labor History: Race, Class, and Power , a thought-provoking look at labor movements in the American South. One of his favorite historical fiction works is titled Jefferson: A Novel by Max Byrd, which presents an imaginative and unique portrayal of Thomas Jefferson that challenges traditional views. His next read is called The Noir Forties: The American People from Victory to Cold War  by Richard Lingeman.   Interestingly, Dr. Myers is even featured in a book himself: The Road to Blair Mountain: Saving a Mine Wars Battlefield from King Coal . This work tells the story of a nine-year struggle to preserve a key site from the West Virginia Mine Wars, and Dr. Myers’ involvement highlights his commitment not only to studying history, but also to preserving it. For students looking to better understand the past and its relevance today, Dr. Myers’ reading recommendations offer a meaningful place to start. His passion proves that history isn’t just about dates and facts, it’s about stories worth telling and remembering. Mrs. Buczek: Mrs. Buczek enjoys reading across all genres, but she has a particular love for fiction and historical fiction. She finds that historical fiction has a special way of "making history come to life" by weaving compelling narratives around real events. She's especially drawn to heartfelt stories that offer comfort and warmth, often centered on themes like sisterhood and human connection. One of her favorite authors is Kristin Hannah, whose novels The Nightingale  and Winter Garden  are among her top picks. The Nightingale  is a perfect blend of Buczek’s favorite themes, following the lives of two sisters during World War II. The story is inspired by real resistance efforts and the struggles women faced during the war. In Winter Garden , Hannah explores another powerful family dynamic as two sisters reconnect with their distant mother after the death of their father. Every four to five years, Mrs. Buczek enjoys rereading the Harry Potter  series—a comforting tradition that many readers with a beloved book or series can relate to. Outside of her reading life, she loves crocheting while listening to murder mystery podcasts, blending creativity with a bit of suspense. Dr. Bertekap: Dr. Bertekap shared a variety of book recommendations, many of which she loved when she was younger, along with some timeless classics. During her teen years, she was especially drawn to fantasy, enjoying books like Shadow and Bone  by Leigh Bardugo and The Raven Cycle  series by Maggie Stiefvater. Shadow and Bone  is a gripping series that follows a 17-year-old orphan who discovers a magical power that could save her war-torn world. The series gained renewed popularity with the release of a Netflix adaptation in 2021. The Raven Cycle  blends fantasy with reality, following a close-knit group of friends on a mysterious quest to uncover the lost tomb of an ancient Welsh king. Along the way, the story explores themes of friendship, real-world struggles, and self-discovery. Dr. Bertekap is a fan of classic literature and enjoys the works of Oscar Wilde for their wit and depth. Among her favorite classic novels are  Anne of Green Gables  and Jane Eyre , both beloved for their rich storytelling and strong, memorable heroines. One of her all-time favorite books is Little Women  by Louisa May Alcott, a timeless coming-of-age story that she will be exploring in her upcoming May Term course. Make sure to read below for more of her recommendations! Mr. Mayfield: Mr. Mayfield believes that “favorite books change over time,” but he always seeks out books that teach him something. He enjoys a variety of genres, with a strong preference for historical fiction and works that blend storytelling with deeper knowledge. He admires Charles Beard for his political and historical insights, particularly Beard’s theory that the U.S. Constitution was designed to protect elite economic interests. With roots in the South, Mr. Mayfield feels a connection to William Faulkner’s southern topics. He also shares his family's love for murder mysteries, though he prefers those with a scientific edge, especially stories involving criminal or forensic anthropology. Authors like Aaron Elkins, who incorporates knowledge of the human skeleton, and Manning Cole, known for WWII-era detective fiction, are among his favorites. One book that profoundly influenced him is Microbe Hunters  by Paul de Kruif, which he says “changed his direction.” He also enjoys the works of Oliver Sacks, the British neurologist whose engaging case studies, like those behind the film Awakenings , make complex science both fascinating and accessible. Mr. Fetters: Mr. Fetters has a deep appreciation for Latin American mythology and legends, a passion he will be sharing in his May Term course. One book that captures these stories beautifully is Birds Have No Borders by Edna Iturralde, a collection of forty myths and legends drawn from the rich oral traditions of various Latin American countries. The book offers readers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s vibrant cultural heritage. In addition to mythology, Mr. Fetters enjoys reading stories that explore Latin American identity and history. He recommends Cuando era Puertorriqueña  ( When I Was Puerto Rican ) by Esmeralda Santiago, an autobiography that traces the author's journey from her childhood in Puerto Rico to her adulthood in the United States. Another favorite of his is In the Time of the Butterflies  by Julia Alvarez, a powerful work of historical fiction based on the true story of the Mirabal sisters, who bravely resisted the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo in the Dominican Republic. Dr. (Joshua) Myers: Like Mr. Mayfield, Dr. Myers enjoys the works of William Faulkner, especially during the summer. Faulkner’s vivid portrayals of the American South capture its humidity and rich landscapes creating a feeling that well suits the season. He is also considered progressive for his time, often addressing racial prejudice and its effects on Southern identity. Dr. Myers’s enjoyment of Faulkner highlights his interest in regionalism and historical fiction genres. He also deeply appreciates The Color Purple  by Alice Walker, particularly the line, “I think it pisses God off if you walk by the color purple in a field somewhere and don't notice it.” This quote reflects the novel’s message about recognizing beauty, resilience, and the human spirit. Another favorite of Dr. Myers is The Memoirs of Cleopatra  by Margaret George. His interest in Roman history makes Cleopatra’s story, told through her own voice, especially captivating. He’s also an admirer of Michael Chabon’s work, particularly The Mysteries of Pittsburgh . The novel’s setting holds personal resonance for him, reflecting his own connection to the city, while its coming-of-age themes and exploration of sexual identity strike a powerful chord. One line that lingers with him is “ No doubt all of this is not true remembrance but the ruinous work of nostalgia… ” (Chabon), a sentiment that captures the bittersweet nature of looking back. The emotion and mood of the novel, especially the prominent nostalgia, strongly connect to summer, a season that evokes youth, freedom, and the beauty of discovery.  When he was younger, Dr. Myers loved science fiction, especially Dune  by Frank Herbert, and the imaginative worlds of Ray Bradbury and Robert Heinlein. A family fondness for Star Trek  nurtured his love for the genre. Over time, his interests shifted toward the richness of real-world narratives, and historical fiction became a preferred genre. Thank you to Melissa Palackel for helping me conduct interviews. Here are some of her personal recommendations: Count of Monte Cristo  by Alexandre Dumas and Auguste Maquet Pride and Prejudice  by Jane Austen Legend  by Marie Lu Inkheart  by Cornelia Funke Tower of Dawn  by Sarah J. Maas Full List: Mr. Crowder: Dracula  by Bram Stoker Frankenstein  by Mary Shelley Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde  by Robert Louis Stevenson The War of the Worlds  by H.G. Wells The Space Trilogy  by C.S. Lewis Dr. (Mark) Myers: Reconsidering Southern Labor History: Race, Class, and Power Jefferson: A Novel  by Max Byrd The Road to Blair Mountain: Saving a Mine Wars Battlefield from King Coal by Charles Belmont Keeney Dr. Bertekap: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt Braiding Sweetgrass  by Robin Wall Kimmerer Brooklyn  by Colm Toibin Assassin’s Apprentice  by Robin Hobb Shadow and Bone  by Leigh Bardugo The Raven Cycle  by Maggie Stiefvater City of Bones by Cassandra Clare Little Women  by Louisa May Alcott The Secret History by Donna Tartt Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery Author: Tamora Pierce Author: V.E. Schwab Author: Oscar Wilde Author: Rainbow Rowell Mrs. Buczek: The Nightingale  by Kristin Hannah Winter Garden  by Kristin Hannah Mr. Fetters: Cuando era Puertorriqueña  por Esmeralda Santiago Las Crónicas de Narnia  por C.S. Lewis Birds Have No Borders by Edna Iturralde In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez Mr. Mayfield: Everything is Tuberculosis by John Green New Guinea Tape Worms and Jewish Grandmothers and The Malaria Capers by Robert S. Desowitz Author: Oliver Sacks Author: Manning Coles Author: Toni Morrison Author: Charles Beard Author: William Faulkner Author: Aaron Elkins Dr. (Joshua) Myers: The Color Purple by Alice Walker Dune by Frank Herbert The Memoirs of Cleopatra by Margaret George The Mysteries of Pittsburgh by Michael Chabon Author: Ray Bradbury Author: Robert Heinlein Author: Charles Chestnutt