Mental Health

by Olive, 10th grade

Mental health, while just as important as physical health, is often overlooked. Close friends and family members may often be silently struggling with their mental health. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 1 in 5 people experience mental health issues, and untreated mental health problems can affect school, work, relationships and so much more.

Mental Illness Awareness Week was October 5-11, and World Mental Health Day just happened on October 10. This issue, however, still warrants continuous attention; it is important to break the stigma and encourage everyone to open conversations up about mental health, in order to normalize the struggles many face.

Remember that struggles with mental health are not isolated cases; in fact, everyone faces battles that may not be visible. The National Alliance on Mental Illness encourages individuals to raise their voices and change the conversation around mental health. Some suggested steps are: reach out for support by talking to a close friend or a family member, consider contacting a professional and getting a therapist to help lighten the weight of their struggles. No one should struggle with their mental health by themselves.

Lastly, it is important to remember that individuals are stronger than they think they are. It greatly helps to take one step at a time, to celebrate the victories, big or small and to realize that everyone has their ups and downs. These collective experiences are what ultimately shape one’s identity.

Always Smile

by Declan, 10th grade

From ancient documents like The Bible and The Epic of Gilgamesh to modern science, the one universal expression of warmth has been prominent in human history: the smile. Representing peace, friendliness and joy, the smile has been utilized as a uniting symbol in many cultures including the popular yellow smiling emoji. Other than its figurative importance, smiling is an important experience that allows our mental health and body to maintain a healthy state while improving our relationships with others.

The psychological and physical aspects of the human body are heavily influenced by our ability to smile. Smiling allows the production of our dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins neurotransmitters which increase the mood of pleasure and feelings of well-being while suppressing cortisol and adrenaline hormones that associate stress and anxiety. Not only does one feel relieved, higher frequency of smiling lowers the human body’s average blood pressure, reduces heart-related catastrophes like strokes and strengthens the immune system.

According to the Harvard Medical School, smiling significantly contributes to optimism, resulting in an increase in longevity. From a research study that observed around 70,000 individuals, optimistic individuals lengthened their lifespan to ages of 85 years and higher. Forming a smile takes less energy and activates less facial muscles than other negative expressions like frowning and is an effective process that helps individuals live long, healthy lives.

A smiling expression is able to expand social relationships and resolve conflicts quickly. As an individual smiles, people perceive them as trustworthy and approachable, resulting in new friends being found or existing bonds being reinforced.

Most of the population are willing to return a smile and smile at others, contributing to a healthy society of well-being. Regarding conflicts, a smiling friend or individual offers comfort to others which increases the likelihood that they share their feelings and thoughts.

Smiles are also often found in work settings in successful businesses especially during discussions and meetings. Flexibility, respect, and alertness are traits that are associated with smiling, fostering productive collaboration. Every smile is able to unite groups of people and ease tensions.

The Best Pumpkin Foods for Fall

by Alicia, 11th grade

As the air turns crisp and leaves begin to fall, menus everywhere are overtaken by one flavor: pumpkin. This bright orange squash is not just a decoration for Halloween. It is also one of the most delicious and versatile ingredients of the season.

Here are some of the best pumpkin foods to enjoy this autumn.
One of the most popular pumpkin treats is pumpkin pie. This classic dessert has been a fall favorite for generations, especially during Thanksgiving. With its smooth, creamy filling made from pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves, pumpkin pie perfectly captures the warm flavors of the season. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top, and it is a dessert that feels like home.

Next on the list is the pumpkin spice latte, a drink that has become a fall tradition for many. Made with espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin flavoring and spices, it is the perfect blend of comfort and caffeine. Even people who do not usually like coffee often look forward to this seasonal favorite. For a twist, one can also enjoy pumpkin-flavored hot chocolate or tea.

For fans of baked goods, pumpkin bread and muffins are cozy, delicious choices. They are soft, moist and often filled with spices that make one’s kitchen smell amazing while baking. Some versions even include chocolate chips or cream cheese filling for an extra treat. These are perfect for breakfast, a snack or dessert. For those with an adventurous palette, pumpkin pancakes, cookies and cheesecakes are must-tries. Pumpkin adds moisture and a natural sweetness that make these treats extra special. Plus, the color makes them look as good as they taste!

Pumpkin brings warmth and joy to fall. Its unique flavor and bright color remind us of everything we love about the season, including cozy sweaters, family gatherings and the smell of cinnamon in the air. So this fall, grab a favorite pumpkin treat and enjoy the taste of autumn!

Legal Insights: Marbury v. Madison

by Kate, 9th grade

The actions of the legislative and executive branches of the government are kept in check with the Constitution due to the power of a court called judicial review. Judicial review aims to interpret the U.S. Constitution and determine how it applies to government actions and ensure that all government laws and actions adhere to the constitution. This concept was first established by Chief Justice John Marshall in his decision in Marbury v. Madison.

The question at hand in the case of Marbury v. Madison was whether the judiciary had the power to strike down legislation that violates the Constitution. While courts rarely used this power before the U.S. Civil War, it soon became an important concept in U.S. history due to its role in the interpretation of the constitution.

This case was brought up during 1801 as a legal conflict between Jefferson’s administration and the judiciary arising from the Judiciary Act of 1801. This act allowed President John Adams to create new judicial positions and appoint judges, William Marbury being among those appointed. However, once Jefferson took office, he ordered his Secretary of State to withhold delivery of the commission. This resulted in Marbury’s petition to the Supreme Court for a writ of mandamus to force Madison to deliver the commission.

In this case, Chief Justice John Marshall established that Marbury had a right to the commission after it was signed and sealed, and withholding it violated his rights. Marshall also affirmed that under the principle that every right must have a remedy,

Marbury was able to petition the court for relief. However, in a unanimous decision, Marshall concluded that while Marbury had a legal right to his commission, the Supreme Court did not hold the authority to grant it in this case. This decision led to Marshall striking out Section 13 of the Judiciary Act of 1789 because it expanded the Court’s original jurisdiction beyond what Article 3 of the Constitution allowed. Marbury v. Madison remains a critical case in lawmaking and the legal system today. It continues to shape landmark legal cases and ensures that laws remain in accordance with the Constitution.

This case emphasizes the judiciary’s ability to define its own role within the American government and serves as a reminder that the Constitution is the ultimate decider of legality, not political will.
The assertion of judicial power in Marbury v. Madison resulted in a verdict that shapes our society and ensures that the Constitution remains the ultimate safeguard of justice today.