Science Central: Somewhere Over the Rainbow

by Erin, 9th grade

Part of Irish legend, leprechauns were small mischievous creatures that hid and protected their gold at the end of rainbows. Unfortunately, there is both no gold and no end to the rainbow. Rainbows, according to National Geographic, are, in fact, a full circle, but the horizon blocks our view from experiencing this.

A rainbow is just an illusion of how we perceive light. After it rains, a ray of colors comes together to create a rainbow. The raindrops are the ones at work behind this scene.

A rainbow is created when the sun hits the raindrops, and some light is reflected. A prism can create a similar effect: White light is bent or refracted to create different wavelengths and colors. The sun is also a major factor in making rainbows possible.

The position of the sun determines how small or big the arch will be. Sunlight must hit the raindrops at the angle at which it has enough space to refract. The view of the rainbow is seen at a constant angle and distance by you, the observer. But no matter what angle you see the rainbow, it will be a golden moment.

Viewpoint: Haggling with Style

by Irene, 12th grade

I recently stumbled upon a TikTok video detailing the principles of haggling. From salary to car dealership negotiations, for the next half hour, I found myself engrossed by content surrounding the practice of bargaining. This exploration, however, led me to my new finding — the social stigma of negotiating prices in the United States.

In our country, the art of haggling is often considered more scandalous than inquiring about one’s political orientation. But in contrast to America’s dull business practices, the vibrant markets of Korea explode with laughter and conversations, in which bartering acts as the cornerstone for building relationships.

In Asian culture, establishing rapport with the community is done best through price tag negotiations. So, in homage to my haggling DNA, I propose a shift in cultural attitude where negotiating becomes celebrated, not frowned upon. It’s worth noting that our society often perceives foreign practices as inherently inferior or faulty without recognizing the cultural significance of acts as simple as bartering.

These misconceptions distort our perception of vibrant cultures and diminish the value of diverse practices. In the new year, let’s bid adieu to this taboo and establish healthy consumerism and communication abilities. Bargaining breathes life into the markets and enthusiasm for shopping. So, don’t haggle with me on this; let’s make 2024 the year of practical negotiations and friendly exchanges.

Did You Know?: Koi Nation Recognition

by Declan, 8th grade

For over 17,000 years, the Native American Koi Nation of Southeastern Pomo people lived on islands in Clear Lake, Lake County, California. However, in the 20th century, members migrated to Sonoma County, California, after their population diminished because of murder, relocation, and enslavement. The US government signed two treaties with Pomos in 1851–1852, which defined Pomo territory. However, Congress never ratified these treaties.

In 1856, the settlers and government started to pressure and enslave the Pomo people. After attending the Ghost Dance of 1870-1872, the Koi people found their homes burned down and their land taken by settlers. The Koi Nation exhibited remarkable resourcefulness and resilience, utilizing materials like manufactured tule bulrush, obsidian, magnesite, and clamshell beads for trade with distant tribes. Tule Bulrush could be used to make boats or substitute cloth, while the other materials could be crafted into tools or jewelry.

Additionally, the five springtime fish species supplied protein-rich nutrients, and abundant acorns and pine nuts could be harvested from local trees. These resources, along with the abundant natural offerings of the Clear Lake Basin, sustained the Koi people, who were known as the wealthiest community in California and the controllers of trade. Their language, rooted in the Hokan language, which is one of the oldest languages spoken in California, reflects their deep historical roots, with their name derived from the Koi village on Clear Lake.

In 2012, the Koi Nation visited the University of Davis in order to relearn the native language and basketry traditions and restore some of their valuable culture. Despite advocacy efforts to secure protection for Native Americans, many tribes, including the Koi Nation, have yet to receive reparations for their suffering and continue to struggle with the loss of ancestral lands. The story of the Koi Nation serves as a testament to the enduring resilience and cultural heritage of Native American communities, whose struggles and triumphs serve as key foundations of American history.

National Observances: National Pistachio Day, February 26

by Mateo, 10th grade

Pistachios are one of the most heavily endorsed food items in the world. From Hall of Fame athletes to popular music artists and even internet memes, pistachios have been featured in hilarious skits and commercials that never fail to entertain viewers. But what exactly makes pistachios so marketable?

As it turns out, they are not only delicious but also rich in history and beneficial for the human body. National Pistachio Day, which happens to be today, is the perfect time to appreciate the tasty nuts and learn more about their past. Originating from Western Asia and Asia Minor, which includes countries like Turkey, Lebanon, and Syria, pistachios are presumed to be some of the oldest nuts in the world, dating back to around 500 BC. Remarkably, they are one of just two nuts mentioned in the Old Testament, highlighting their significance throughout history.

In the first century AD, Emperor Vitellius and the Romans brought pistachios to Europe for the first time, and they instantly became a hit in the region, especially among royal families. Some royal figures loved the nuts so much that they banned commoners from consuming them, thus leaving more for them. Pistachios did not arrive in the Americas until the 1800s when Americans of Middle Eastern descent requested the treats to be imported to the relatively new country.

To make them look more appetizing to new American consumers, pistachio producers and importers dyed the nuts red. Although the strategy worked well, the dye left red stains on people’s fingers and faces, and as a result, the dye was put to rest in the 1980s. Pistachios are not just good for your taste buds. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, pistachios offer numerous nutritional benefits, particularly for heart health. They contain lots of unsaturated fat, which is much healthier than its saturated alternative and gives the green nuts their incredible taste.

Additionally, pistachios are packed with antioxidants, which can help lower the risk of cancer, heart disease, and cardiovascular issues. Furthermore, their high fiber content aids in regulating blood pressure, making them a wholesome choice for overall well-being. Since their consumption thousands of years ago, pistachios have spread rapidly around the world, captivating people with their exotic taste, unique appearance, and immense health benefits. The green nuts have found their way into sweet dishes such as ice creams and pastries, as well as into savory dishes like salads and pasta. So, on this National Pistachio Day, take a moment to indulge in a handful of these tasty snacks and appreciate the versatility that makes them unique.

Poetry

by Lukas, 8th grade

Tales of Toys

There once was a chubby baby boy,

Who yearned for a cheap plastic toy.

His mother said no, so his fist raised, ready to throw

His pacifier across the aisle, oh boy!

Ducks

Howard the duck got stuck in the mud;

Snails began to pass Howard quickly.

An insect crawled by

While a buzzing fly

Landed on Howard, dancing on his back;

Howard, screeching in anger, quacked, “Oh my!”

School Days

School is a cesspool of anger and pain;

Cramming for tests and homework- all in vain

Annoying subjects- Math and Bio (such pain!)

causes students to work for straight A’s

Algebra is not fun, brah- such PAIN.