Deaf Man with Cerebral Palsy Beaten and Arrested by Phoenix Police

January 2025 Edition

Madison Moreno

News reporter 28’

 

The morning of August 19, 2024, Tyron McAlpin, a deaf Black man with cerebral palsy was beaten and tasered repeatedly by police, in Phoenix, Arizona. 

 The police were responding to a call from a Circle K store that an assault was happening. When the police got to the scene, they asked McAlpin to stay where he was and to sit down. When McAlpin didn’t follow the instructions, the officers proceeded to get out of the car, run to him and punch him. They then pushed him on the ground to get ahold of him. After punching McAlpin, Officer Benjamin said “I think I broke my hand,” then brought out his taser and tasered McAlpin four times while he was still being punched by Officer Kyle Sue and squirming in pain. 

According to an NPR article, minutes after the assault, a woman named Jessica Ulaszek came up and told the police officers that she was McAlpin’s wife. Ulaszek told the officers that her husband had cerebral palsy and was deaf. McAlpin's wife told the officers she was there to make him calm down, but Officer Harris reportedly said that he didn't "need to know.” After putting McAlpin in handcuffs and taking him to jail, he was charged with two felony counts one for assault and another for resisting arrest.  McAlpin’s bail was $7,500 and had to spend 24 days in jail. He was able to afford to get out of jail thanks to The Bail Project non profit organization. It was announced on Friday August 30 that McAlpin’s attorney, Rachel Mitchel said that all charges against McAlpin were dropped. 

Mitchel said that the case should be brought back up to dig deeper into what happened in the situation and Mitchel said ‘I promise I would personally review the case including a large volume of recordings, police reports, and any other materials forwarded to my office.” In court, McAlpin's attorney said that he never assaulted Derek Steven’s and that he was the one who assaulted McAlpin. The investigator that Mitchel hired interviewed the Circle K workers into what happened that day. The worker says that McAlpin didn’t commit the assault and that it was Steven who did it.  

A June report found  in the police documents that the Phoenix Police would assault and discriminate Black, Hispanic, and Native Americans. The Police would also detain homeless people and use excessive force to arrest them. Vanden High schooler Jasmine Harris asked about the arrest with McAlpin and what she thought about the situation. She stated she saw it on the news and said she 

felt bad for the man and didn’t deserve what the police did to him and didn’t think it was fair that he got charged with assault and resisting arrest.   

The court took the charges away from McAlpin with body cam footage being shown to his family. McAlpin was overjoyed to be able to go home with his family. Both Officers Benjamin and Sue were not charged with anything or had their badges taken away. Both are still working and for Steven he wasn't charged for anything or arrested for what he’s done.    

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Former One Direction Star Liam Payne Fell to his Death at Age 31 

January 2025 Edition

By: Kalia James 

News reporter '28 

 On October 16, 2024, One Direction's former star, Liam Payne traveled to Argentina and fell off his hotel balcony, killing him at 31.

 Payne and his girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, traveled to Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires and stayed at the Casa Palermo Hotel. It’s stated that Cassidy had returned to Florida two days before Payne’s accident according to the New York Post.

On the hotel CCTV footage, it’s shown that Payne originally fainted near the balcony, causing him to fall off the three stories onto the inner courtyard of the hotel. The autopsy reports revealed internal and external bleeding, as well as traces of pink cocaine, which is a powerful concoction of different drugs including: benzodiazepine, which is a depressant drug and cocaine.

Allison Johnson, health teacher and coach at Vanden states, “A lot of times pink cocaine doesn’t have actual cocaine in it. A lot of times it’s ketamine and MDMA. And Ketamine is a horse tranquillizer and a date rape drug. So ketamine makes it not just that you can’t remember but you can’t form memories”

The issue of drugs also seems to be a running issue among stars. Johnson states, “We’re seeing our youth, young kids, or teens, even young adults, but as soon as they’re getting into the Hollywood side of things or they're getting into the fame of their profession, right, they're a whole other side of things.” 

She uses Drew Barrymore’s story of how she was exposed to adult parties and drugs at a really young age for example. “These kids are getting exposed to so many things at such a young age.”

According to ABC News, police also reviewed CCTV footage of multiple exchanges between a drug dealer and a hotel employee. The employee is being investigated in case he had any involvement with Payne. Hours beforehand, emergency services were called to the hotel, as someone reported a guest trashing their room intoxicated by drugs and alcohol. When investigating the room after Payne’s death, an improvised aluminum pipe, meant to ingest drugs was also found in Payne's room.    

Furthermore, a Rolex that Payne had on his wrist in previous footage, was then missing. On CCTV footage, Payne is also seen twice sleeping with a bottle of whiskey in hand in the hotel lobby.  Following this, police identified two female escorts in the hotel lobby prior to his death, this all being found on ABC News.

Payne, prior to his death, had struggled with mental health and addictions. According to People.com, Payne explained that he used alcohol to cope with the “massive success” of One Direction. He compared going onstage to “putting the Disney costume on.”

Payne stated “I was drunk quite a lot of the time because there was no other way to get your head around what was going on, I mean it was fun. We had an absolute blast, but there were certain parts of it where it just got a bit toxic.” According to People.com Cassidy, Payne’s former girlfriend’s most recent post on Instagram, states, “My heart is shattered into ways I can’t put into words. I wish you could see the huge impact you’ve had on the world, even as it feels so dark right now. You brought so much happiness and positivity to everyone-millions of fans, your family, friends, and especially me.”

Grief and concern lingers in fans, even at Vanden. Freshman Adrianne Biol states, “My heart goes out to his family and friends and lovers.

Many fans across the globe share these sentiments as multiple memorials are honored in his name. The One Direction former members came out to share their grief too, stating, “We are devastated by the news of Liam's passing… Our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly.” Posted on their One Direction official Instagram page.

Even after death, Payne continues to inspire fans across the globe, and will be forever loved.

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Out with the Old and In With the New: Kamala Harris Takes on the Presidential Race

October 2025 Edition

by Tamia Reid

Co-editor-in-chief '25

 

On July 21st 2024 American president Joe Biden announced that he would be dropping out of the 2024 made history. In a social media post the 46th president election race and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to take on the role of the Democratic party's nominee. Never before in American history has a sitting president voluntarily stepped down from an active campaign; this historic first has led to several others, including Harris. Harris has now become the second woman, first Black woman, and first South Asian person to represent a major US political party.

Background                                                                                                

Kamala Harris was born on October 20th, 1964 making her 60 at the time of the 2024 election. She was born in Oakland, California to parents  Donald J. Harris and Shyamala Gopalan Harris. Her father was born in Jamaica and mother was born in India. Harris’s father is a prominent economist who served as a professor of economics at Stanford University from 1972 to 1998, and is now retired. He also served as an economic consultant to the government of Jamaica, and as an adviser to multiple prime ministers, according to his Stanford biography. 

Her mother Shyamala Gopalan Harris worked as a renowned breast cancer researcher and scientist. According to Breast Cancer Action, Gopalan received numerous honors for her work as a research scientist. Her discovery related to the hormone-responsiveness of breast tissue led to many important advances in research. Kamala herself graduated from Howard University and then attended the University of California Hastings College of Law in San Francisco. Harris stayed true to her roots and began her law career right where she started, in the Bay Area.

Career 

Kamala Harris’s legal career began in 1990 when she became a prosecutor with  the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office specializing in the prosecution of child sexual assault cases, according to The White House. After working for the city attorney, she would go on to run for district attorney in 2004 against Terence Hallinan. She would win the election, serving as San Francisco District Attorney until 2011. Harris then served as California Attorney General, becoming the first Black American, first woman, and first Asian American elected to be the attorney general of California from 2011-2016. From 2017-2021 Harris would serve on the senate representing California, until being selected as Biden’s running mate on August 11, 2020 in the 2020 presidential election.

2024 Presidential Campaign    

     

With Biden no longer seeking re-election, Kamala Harris was swiftly endorsed by Biden himself, as well as other national and global icons including the Obamas, Stevie Wonder, the Clintons, and Beyonce. Harris’s campaign took off with great energy and momentum and continues to do so. Her husband Doug Emhoff, as well as her stepchildren Cole and Ella Emhoff, have played a significant role in her campaigning.

On August 6, 2024, Kamala Harris announced her VP pick as governor Tim Walz from the state of Minnesota. The running mates both took the stage during the Democratic National Convention which aired on national television through August 19-22, 2024, accepting their nomination.

 

Harris’s campaigning style has brought a sense of youthfulness and excitement to voters all around the country. Social Media has played a critical role in Harris’s campaign efforts. Grayce McCormick, founder of Lightfinder Public Relations states that Harris’s team has found a unique way to connect with young voters. Kamala Harris’s campaign TikTok account, Kamala HQ, averages six million views per post since July, and the account already has 4.8 million followers. The account specifically targets younger voters by jumping on viral trends and memes. Her social media campaign has created a vital connection with Gen Z, keeping her relevant. By engaging with the younger generation, Harris is approaching voters in a more interactive and relatable way which has been resonating with not just the youth, but social media users of all ages. 

Harris's campaign is spending hundreds of millions of dollars on ads and continues to keep her on a steady campaign trail, specifically targeting states such as Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, according to AP News. These states, also known as 'swing states,' play a key role in the election as both the Republican and Democratic candidates have similar levels of support for each party. The Harris Walz campaign continues to trailblaze as they fight for a Democratic victory over their Republican opponents, the Trump Vance campaign.

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Mass Apathy: How to Make Change in a World of Unrelenting Social-emotional Conflict

 

January 2025 Edition

Christopher Brookbank

Co editor-in-chief ‘25

In an age of rising political and socio-economic turmoil, people all around the globe await what horrible catastrophe will occur next. With various ongoing conflicts occurring in the Middle East, to the global crisis that is climate change, it can be hard to want to help make the world a better place, especially when most people think to themselves “What can I do to help? I am just one person.” This line of thinking may lead to apathy.

Apathy is, according to Oxford University, a “lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.” One may feel this sort of emotional lethargy when they see a piece of trash on the sidewalk that they don’t want to pick up, or possibly when they see that someone is in trouble with a thief in broad daylight. Not doing anything at all is the highlight of apathy, and nowadays it has much more influence in more pressing events like national and global politics and humanitarian crises. 

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi recently reported that there has been an uptick in inaction when it comes to aiding displaced people, and the organization warns that only more people will be displaced if the world remains apathetic. “The rise in overall forced displacement – to 120 million by May 2024 – was the 12th consecutive annual increase and reflects both new and mutating conflicts and a failure to resolve long-standing crises”, as told by High Commissioner Grandi, “Refugees – and the communities hosting them – need solidarity and a helping hand. They can and do contribute to societies when they are included.”

Aspiring Vanden teacher and long-term substitute for Psychology/History teacher Jacquilene Miller, Milton Heath Solarzano, was interviewed on the topic of world-wide apathy. Mr. Solorzano describes how feelings of apathy may develop: “People have an immediate need in their lives,” and that people tend to push away focus on other conflicts in place of their own as a way to not burn themselves out. This isn’t intentional, as Mr. Solorzano claimed, “We’re just running out of steam.”

This concept of burnout can be applicable to Vanden High School’s academics as well, as students are beginning to care less about their academics and the people around them. Proof of this is seen through reports coming from K-12 school systems, as told by the Institution of Educational Sciences, who found that 8 in 10 schools witness “stunted behavioral and social-emotional learning.” Further research also shows that fourth and eighth graders have broken new lows in math and reading performance testing.  Yet, Mr. Solorzano believes that students aren’t exactly apathetic towards the school system, but are rather just exercising their ability to say no to things they feel like may cause them more stress. 

When struggling students begin to burnout, a lot of them find their solution to this in the pursuit for a more individualistic and grounded lifestyle. These two things compare very similarly to the social environment of the world during the Covid-19 lockdowns, where most students were forced to do their schooling under vast mandates and policies that separated them from their peers, even more so when students had to complete their academics from their home.

Additionally, as kids begin saying no to their stressors, some have decided to instead say yes to drugs and alcohol. According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS), drug usage amongst 8th graders went up by 61% between 2016 and 2020. Even further, 83% of young adults in America have reported using marijuana within the last month. Reasoning for substance abuse can vary, but many sources claim that most use drugs to alleviate boredom, pain, and mental issues, which can be the reason why there was such a spike in usage during the 2020 global pandemic.

 

 

Kristin Shields, a Principal at Vanden discussed the staff’s perspective of peer-to-peer relations on campus. Ms. Shields also provided a comprehensive databook of statistics that were gathered from last school year’s California Healthy Kids survey, which was given to ninth and tenth grade students during their Gym and History classes. Many worrying statistics were apparent in the document, with around 40-50% of ninth and tenth graders reported positively on questions related to School Connectedness, meaning nearly half of each grade’s population feels divided as a community. Even further, reports show that only 20% of students meaningfully participate in school duties, and only around half of students perceive Vanden as a safe school.

It seems that students have become more vulnerable and distant, and the weight of education and socialization burdens them even more, which leads to them informally “opting out,” as Mr. Solorzano explains it, from these things that are supposed to help them. 

Kai Cato, a Senior at Vanden, also believes in this theory of opt-in/opt-out.

“It’s an amalgamation of different things,” Cato claims, “People go through things at home too, and so now they sort of just come together eventually to decide what they do and don’t want to do.” He also delves into what he personally has experienced in terms of burnout in high school, saying “I feel like in the back of my mind, I knew a lot of (high school) it didn’t really matter.” Nowadays, with colleges supposedly not really looking as far back as sophomore year when vetting college students, the senior classman explains that with all the things happening in his personal life, he feels that school is not a worthy source of stress to focus on when it comes to his everyday life.

Cato does take school seriously to the extent of needing to graduate, however, and the student expressed a concern for life after high school, and the youth becoming contributors to national concerns and policies. “I think everyone should be informed about politics,” he declared, “and as long as you meet the certain requirements, you should absolutely vote.” 

Cato also believes that media literacy should be something that should be included more in Vanden curriculum, especially considering that fixing an apathetic environment cannot be done without the people of said environment becoming informed citizens.

There is a question of how exactly students should go about analyzing media resources correctly, as the internet introduces a lot of subjectivity when it comes to what is right and what is wrong, and it can be exhausting for students to have to surf the internet in a spiral of different opposing sources and information, all which contain their own biases and validity. Political ideology is a main contributor to this concept, and students of high-school ages often will find themselves in an internet rabbit hole of what makes a political identity in the modern world.

Ozymandias, a left-winged YouTube political commentator and speaker for his organization The Watchmen Party, is an uprising voice in leftist online discussion and values teaching his youthful followers how to organize and propagate civil political action. 

The YouTuber was interviewed over his observations on the topic of media literacy, and he stated that “the best way to stay informed and get the full story is to vary your sources.” He also declares that "most times if an event happens, I’ll look at CNN, Fox News, Washington Post, etc, and piece together what they all have in common.” The commentator adds that students should leave their emotions and biases out of analysis when doing research on pressing issues.

Misinformation is very convincing even in mainstream media too, however, and sometimes it burrows into some of the most damaging parts of one’s life. This can be seen with the aforementioned concept of political ideologies, and the dangers it can do to suggestible people. “I think it's very easy to go down enticing and dramatic avenues over slow research, readings and documentaries. It's way easier to say that the “communist liberals want to take away your cars and jam you into pods” vs looking into federal spending and infrastructure and how we can reallocate them for the better of the populace”, Ozy states, when speaking on political pipelines and their influence on the youth. In a nutshell, culture war politics are used as a distraction from a more globally intersectional issue; class war.

The goal for the curious yet held back youth is clear: get involved, and see things for oneself. “I think a lot of young people would benefit from getting involved in their neighborhoods and backing up their thoughts with their actions. Go to a town hall event with your family, pick up trash where you see it, work a variety of jobs while you still have safety nets. All of these allow you to develop your own thoughts and worldviews,” Ozy finalizes. Furthermore, just getting out into a local community and interacting with what is more productive for oneself and their environment can be a wonderful antidote to this instance of apathy. “Think globally, act locally" Mr. Solarzano advises.

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Why Does the Internet Care About Nepotism?

 

Shohei Ohtani: Entering the Hall of Baseball’s Greatest Players

Joseph Harris

Sports Reporter ‘25

On-Field Achievements 

A mesmerizing moment “during the game against the Miami Marlins on September 19th, 2024, at LoanDepot Park, in Miami, Florida, as Shohei Ohtani accomplished 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases, setting a new single-season record,” stated by David Shin, of The Echo. This extraordinary achievement left fans in shock, showcasing Ohtani’s unparalleled talent and solidifying his place in baseball history. His performance not only highlighted his incredible athleticism but also brought a renewed excitement to the sport, inspiring not only just in America but everywhere else in the world where the sport of baseball is played.

Shohei Ohtani is a two-way player for the Los Angeles Dodgers and has quickly ascended into the pantheon of baseball's best players through his unparalleled dual-threat capabilities both on the mound and in the batter's box. Specialization is the rule of the day within the sport, with Ohtani being the exception to that rule. In a sport where players usually focus on mastering a specific role, Shohei Ohtani stands out as a rare talent who excels in both pitching and hitting.

He's graced the mound with an over-100 mph barreling fastball and a splitter that's just devastating, making him a tough out for any batter. The power in that hit has then translated to home runs and a decent batting average, showing comparable skills with the bat to legends like Babe Ruth. He is now one of the most famous players in baseball, and with such huge stardom, he is an inspiration to a whole new generation of players and fans alike.

Cultural Impact 

Ohtani came from Japan, an immigrant who strived to come to America and play with some of baseball’s greatest players. Ohtani signed with the Los Angeles Angels in 2017 and continued to play with them until the end of the 2023 season. According to Sportrac, “he ended up earning $42,269,259 in his six seasons with the Angels. After receiving a signing bonus of $2,315,000 with his initial deal, he had salaries of $545,000, $650,000, $259,259 (in the pandemic-shortened 2020 season), $3 million, $5.5 million, and $30 million.” As stated by Major League Baseball, during the 2023-2024 off-season, Ohtani was the key free agent that every team that was able to afford him was looking for: “He met with the Los Angeles Angels, the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Chicago Cubs, the Toronto Blue Jays, and the San Francisco Giants; the Giants offered Shohei Ohtani $700 million.”

According to the SF Chronicle, “the Giants were willing to defer $680 million of that, as per Ohtani’s request. Ohtani went to the Dodgers for the same deal.” Ohtani stayed in Los Angeles just to drive 1 hour to his new stadium. On the report of Major League Baseball, “Ohtani signed with the Dodgers on December 9th, 2023, for a 10-year contract for $700 million, earning $70 million a year. Ohtani’s contract made history by becoming the highest contract in the league’s history.” Before Ohtani signed with the Dodgers for $700 million for 10 years, his former teammate Mike Trout, outfielder for the Los Angeles Angels, made history with his contract extension in 2019-2032 for $426,500,000. Ohtani earned his contract with the way he was playing on the field.

Off the field, Ohtani is a very humble soul; his dedication to baseball won people's hearts, and his work ethic and perseverance brought him respect from his peers and admiration from aspiring athletes, even as Major League Baseball places pressures on him as a two-way player. Ohtani's journey from Japan to international baseball icon is one that expresses the common tug the sport has, aside from how much hard work and talent can amount to. 

Off the field Contributions 

That influence does not stay limited to the field itself but overflows into active charity work and the fostering of the sport to younger generations. According to Marca sports, a website for every sport, “Ohtani supports elementary schools in Japan.” More significantly, this solidifies his reputation as a superb athlete, role model, and sports ambassador across all continents. In addition, several sportsmen and fans have found inspiration in his selflessness and generosity. 

He leaves a lasting impression on this sport that extends far beyond its boundaries. Much more than his being an athlete, Ohtani stands tall in a towering position as a man of principle, really caring about people and being prepared to support a number of worthy organizations that have gained the affection of people worldwide.

Very few match his love for the game, except by how much he can mentor up-and-coming players, and this ensures his legacy goes on to inspire many more generations. Also, Ohtani inspires fans not just around the world but probably on the face of planet Earth because Ohtani has made a huge name for himself in just the 6 years he’s been in the league. According to Sports Pro Media, just this year alone, with his incredible record, Ohtani has the most jersey sales and is one of the sport’s greatest stars of this generation.

Another aspect of Ohtani entering the hall of baseball's greatest players is his role in breaking cultural barriers in Major League Baseball. Being among the few new Japanese to reach such great stardom in the MLB, he has helped other international players continue with aspirations in the league. His ability to seamlessly adapt to a new culture and excel in a highly competitive environment showcases his resilience and determination. This cultural bridge he has built not only enriches the sport but also fosters greater understanding and appreciation among fans from different backgrounds. 

Additionally, “Ohtani’s unique dual role as both a pitcher and a hitter has revolutionized the game, challenging traditional notions of player specialization and inspiring a new generation of players,”as stated by Gisele Bundchen of GP Magz. His extraordinary achievements have made him a global ambassador for baseball, highlighting the sport’s potential to unite people across diverse cultures and backgrounds. “I think that every baseball fan wanted to see that,” as stated by Trout, mentioning the final at bat in the World Baseball Classic between the United States and Japan.

As Ohtani gets ready for his next season with the Dodgers, Ohtani and the Dodgers have to consider that he will likely still be a little bit injured from his torn labrum and had surgery right after the 2nd World Series game on October 26th, 2024. Although it wasn’t his throwing arm, Ohtani is still taking his time with the recovery to become fully healthy once again to become that dual-threat player that everyone loves and despises as fans around the world and around the MLB are ready to see him in that position once again.

According to Dodgers Way, a website for the Los Angeles Dodgers news, “the Dodgers already suspected that Ohtani wouldn’t be ready to pitch by the Tokyo Series next year, which takes place on March 18th and 19th, 2025.” This acknowledgment underscores the organization’s awareness of the delicate balance between Ohtani's health and the team's competitive aspirations. Furthermore, the Dodgers are likely to explore various strategies to maximize Ohtani's impact while he continues to recover. 

Also, while Ohtani takes care of his injuries in trying to become healthy again, this may include utilizing him primarily as a designated hitter in the early part of the season, allowing him to contribute offensively without the added strain of pitching. In addition, as the season approaches, fans eagerly await updates on Ohtani's recovery. 

The prospect of seeing him back on the field, even in a limited capacity, is enough to ignite excitement and hope among not just Dodgers supporters but supporters of other teams as they also want to see Ohtani back on the field again. The Dodgers and Ohtani himself are aware of the immense pressure and expectations surrounding his return, but his priority remains clear: ensuring that he is fully healthy and ready to reclaim his status as one of baseball’s most electrifying players. 

This journey ahead may be challenging, but with the right approach, Ohtani has the potential to once again dazzle fans and redefine the possibilities of what a player can achieve in the modern game. In addition, as Ohtani looks back at the season he had, he realizes that fans around the world have been waiting for a season like that not just from Ohtani but from any other player, including baseball Hall of Famers.

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From Olympian to Outlaw: The Shocking Downfall of Ryan Wedding

Alyssa Vazquez Rodriguez

News Reporter 28

A former Canadian Olympic snowboarder, Ryan James Wedding, has been accused of leading a massive drug trafficking ring responsible for transporting large quantities of cocaine across North and South America as well as ordering four murders. Wedding is known for being a good player in the Olympics, competing for Team Canada in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, as well as participating in the men’s Parallel Giant Slalom snowboarding event, earning 24th place overall.       

According to the FBI, “it has placed a $50,000 reward for information that could lead to Wedding’s capture and extradition.” A Canadian national residing in Mexico, the 43-year-old is now a fugitive facing U.S. charges, including a criminal enterprise, murder, and conspiracy to distribute cocaine, as detailed by U.S. prosecutors. How do people react when a former Olympic athlete gets involved in crime? Does it change the way we see professional athletes? 

Amaya Corinne, freshmen from Vanden High School, states, “I don’t really feel any different about any athletes but it makes me upset about him, never had known him but it’s never good for anyone to do such things.” 

NPR News states that, “Wedding’s organization allegedly transported substantial cocaine shipments from Colombia through Mexico and California to Canada and various U.S. locations, using long-haul trucks.” Wedding, who also faces unresolved Canadian charges from several years ago, is one of 16 individuals indicted in a drug ring accused of moving 60 tons of cocaine annually with four suspects still on the run. Investigators allege that the group killed two family members in Canada in an act of mistaken retaliation for a stolen drug shipment, as well as two additional individuals, according to federal court documents. Its troubling to be aware that such incidents occur in this industry around the world. 

Riolyn Beltran, Vanden student states, “Any kind of trafficking is horrible, and it’s scary to think about how far-reaching it is.” 

According to AP News, “During their investigation, authorities reportedly seized cocaine, firearms, ammunition, cash, and over $3 million in cryptocurrency.” Wedding also faces drug trafficking charges dating back to 2015. He has a prior U.S. conviction for cocaine distribution conspiracy, having served a prison sentence in 2010, with federal records suggesting he returned to drug trafficking after release, allegedly under the protection of Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel.  This highlights not only the devastating impact of such criminal activities but also the complex and far-reaching networks that enable them. As these investigations unfold, it serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness and continued efforts to combat trafficking at both local and global levels. 

The Menendez Brothers Case Recaptures the Attention of People Across the World 

A resentencing of the Menendez Brothers called by the prosecutor and the release of the Netflix series titled “Monsters”  which took the world by storm. 

Jordan Tillman 

Reporter’ 25 

 

Background 

On Sunday August 20th 1989, two teenage boys, by the names of Erik and Lyle Menendez, killed their parents Kitty and Jose Menendez, in their Beverly Hills home. The brothers were later sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole putting an end to the case, so the world believed. 

The case of the Menendez brothers was recently brought back to attention following the Netflix series titled “Monsters.” This show tells the story of the Menendez brothers. Following the release of the show the district attorney who tried the case, requested a resentencing of the brothers, leaving many people wondering what this could possibly mean for the future of Erik and Lyle Menendez. 

On August 20th of 1989 police arrived at the  Beverly Hills home after 911 was called by 21 year old Lyle Menendez who reported that someone had killed his parents. According to an article by Alicia Tejada for CBS News when police reported to the scene  “Lyle and his then 18 year old brother Erik Menendez later told investigators that they had arrived home to find their parents shot to death.” There were no leads as to who might have committed this crime. Jose Menendez father of Erik and Lyle Menendez worked in the film industry at a film studio leading investigators to believe that this could potentially have been the source of the murder however suspicion began to rise towards the sons. 

An immense amount of attention turned towards Erik and Lyle during the investigations after the brothers “appeared to be spending their parents’ money, and lots of it” stated Tejada. With the money.Tejada says Erik and Lyle purchased luxury items such as Rolex’s, real estate and even invested in businesses.

 The courts officially decided to charge the Menendez brothers after the girlfriend of  psychologist Dr Jerome Oziel, Judalon Smyth came forward with crucial evidence regarding the case. According to Tejada, Smyth informed the police that “the brothers had confessed to the killings in therapy and there was an audio taped recording of it.” On march 8th 1990, Lyle Menendez was arrested in their Beverly Hills home, Erik Menendez surrendering only two days later upon returning from his tennis match in Israel. 

Trial 

The first trial of the Menendez brothers began on July 20th 1993. In this trial both Erik and Lyle spoke out about the many ways in which their parents were abusive towards them. While Jose Menendez was extremely abusive physically and sexually towards his sons their mother Kitty Menendez was abusive towards Erik and Lyle as well.

Lyle Menendez was the first to testify in the trial. In the footage of the trial Lyle opened up about the abuse that he faced at the expense of his mother and father. According to Tejada, Lyle Menendez was abused sexually by both his mother and his father, the abuse by his father starting at the age of only six years old. According to Lyle there were many ways that his father was abusive sexually including taking nude photographs of the brothers. 

 Erik was next to testify speaking out about the ways in which his mother and father were abusive beginning at the age of 8. Lyle recalls that his mother would force him in her bedroom closet when she would leave the house so that he could do his homework and often times she gave him more work to do, “ she put me in there when she felt that I wasn’t concentrating hard enough or I was having trouble concentrating or just wasn’t doing it well enough to how she liked.” Menendez also spoke out regarding being sexually abused not only in the Menendez  homes but on vacations and trips for tennis as well, he was threatened to be killed by his father if he told anyone. Menendez recalls the last time being sexually abused by his father was August of 1989 the same month and year the couple were killed. 

 

Now 

With the rise in fame of the series “Monsters” the case has regained popularity amongst social media. However, it has also been the driving force behind many opinions and questions raised regarding the case and fate of the brothers. Erik Menendez says Monsters “ misleadingly portrayed him and his brother” also claiming “there are blatant rampant in the show.” Erik disagrees with the portrayal of him and his brother that is displayed in the series calling it “disheartening slander” shared by his wife Tammi Menendez on X. 

Co-creator of “Monsters’ Ryan Murphy clapped back at Menendez’s response implying that the brothers should be thankful for the creation of the show. According to NPR News reporter Juliana Kim, Murphy referred to the brothers' anger as “faux outage,” saying that the show “is the best thing that has happened to the Menendez brothers in 30 years in prison.” Murphy expressed that the show re opened conversations about the case and even about sexual abuse. 

With the release of the series “Monsters” new evidence in the Menendez brothers case emerged leading to a potential turn of events. A letter written by Erik Menendez to his cousin Andy Cano, As well as evidence of ex boy band member Roy Rossello who has come forward and made claims of also being sexually assaulted by Jose Menendez lead the prosecutor of the Menendez brothers, George Gascón, to request a resentencing of the brothers. However it is unclear what will happen with the Menendez case now with the election of Nathan Hochman as La County DA who would like to do more research on the case before making any decisions. 

Vanden Vikings Thoughts 

Vanden High School teacher Brent Manuel was a college student during the time of the Menendez brothers trial. He recalls the case being on national news at the same time he was working in the radio industry saying “ At that time I was also  working at a news radio station so it was hot news” and calling it a “media frenzy.” According to Manuel following the release of a film about the brothers, things went quiet and he hadn't heard anything of the case since "Monsters” and the DA’s call for a resentencing. Manuel believes that if it hadn't been for  Netflix creating a series about the Menendez brothers attention wouldn't have been brought back to the case. 

Vanden High School senior Kaleesa Hester was disappointed by the false portrayal of the Menendez brothers in “Monsters” saying “ yes they committed such a sin” however she believes that decision was made only in order to escape the abuse they received from their own parents. Hester believes that the series was filled with too much misinformation. 

Is it truly possible for justice to be served when a victim of abuse strikes back as a means of self defense. It is important to understand that victims of abuse may stay silent in fear of being harmed further and to them the only way to escape may be by committing a crime. While murder should not be justified, a victim and or victims of abuse such as the Menendez brothers should not have to spend the entirety of their life behind bars and the fact that they were abused in such horrible ways should not be overlooked. 

 

 

Dear Abby,

As the school year goes on, my friends are starting to get into serious relationships. Everyone is moving on in life and hitting these goals, but I'm not. I'm nervous I'm getting left behind and when I do find someone, I don't know what to do. Is there any dating advice or tips I should know of?

Sincerely,

Nervously Lonely

Dear Nervously Lonely,

Everyone grows at their own pace and in their own way. In addition, everyone has experience feeling nervous and lonely. You're not alone in that! There's an adage, "To compare is to despair." We are all unique, and I encourage you to accept the uniqueness of your own experiences and not compare yourself to your friends. When you inevitably find someone you like, be yourself. Be caring and be willing to put effort into the friendship or relationship. When you start dating, it's important to manage a healthy balance of hanging out with friends as well as the person you're dating. You wouldn't want to make your friends feel left out as well and/or like you don't care about them.

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby, 

This being my first year of high school, I'm having trouble learning to balance my personal and academic life. I’ve always prioritized my education before my life outside of school, even when it wasn't what I really wanted to do. Now more than ever, I feel the pull between my two worlds stronger than ever as I meet new people and form new relationships. I know if I don't learn to find a balance between school and life, I’m either not going to be mentally happy, or my grades will drop. How should I manage my time so that both my grades and personal life receive the attention they need? 

-Sincerely Torn

Dear Torn, 

You find what makes you happy. Do you want good grades? Okay, study. You want to hang out with your friends? No problem, you make time. Choosing what time or how much time you want to give to one thing is key. Make a schedule and plan out what you can do that day. Balance is important, so try to allow yourself time to work, but also to have fun with friends. It is possible to organize your life and make your life the way you want it to be. It may not happen overnight, but as you practice organizing your time and life in a way that is aligned with your priorities, it will become second nature.

XO, 

Abby

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Dear Abby,  

I have been having family problems. I feel like ever since my step dad moved into the house everything has changed. My mom acts different to me and my sister when he’s not around and I feel like he's stepping into a dad’s shoes that don’t need to be stepped in, given it has been just me, my mom, and my sister my whole life. 

Sincerely, The problemed child 

Dear The problemed child,

Experiencing new changes especially at home is very tough. Talking with your mom and possibly your new step dad can help. Being vulnerable and honest may not fix your problems but may help your mom and stepdad think about how all these changes may be affecting you. But if you are willing  to talk to them you can not expect an immediate fix and them not to voice in. A calm discussion on finding a good middle point for your family may help you.

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby,

Should I stay with my boyfriend or go to my ex?? My boyfriend was having very bad mood swings, but I guess it's done now. He told me he loved me, but I don't know how to feel. I miss my ex and our memories together. What do I do???

Sincerely, Relationship Stressed

Dear Relationship Stressed,

Talk with your boyfriend and see what he says about his mood swings. There could be something going on at home. Before you get with your ex, think about it and see if this is really right for you. And maybe get an opinion from a friend about the situation. They are your ex for a reason, if it was because of something you both couldn't put into the relationship that’s another story, but going back just to go back isn't healthy. You're making your decisions based on your boyfriend’s emotions which you haven't talked about. You need to talk about it and see what the problem is.

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby,

I find it really hard to understand how to read body language. I can never really tell if someone wants to be friends or more. If they have bad intentions or good intentions. It makes finding friends or making close friends and getting into relationships (hard). I also struggle to show body language while listening. Say if someone is telling a story, a normal person has their eyes on them and isn’t messing with things. I on the other hand have to move or mess with things. How do I read body language?

Sincerely,

No Focus

Hello, No Focus! 

Believe it or not, a good portion of your peers likely have the same issue. We live in a world of instantaneous gratification, which is brought upon by our various mediums of entertainment and devices (like scrolling on TikTok for three hours straight or being able to search up literally anything in an instant). This isn’t your fault, however, as you are merely just an involuntary participant to the consequences of mass media and the ease of so much information being fed to your brain on top of school, work, and whatever other things you are held responsible for. If you didn’t have a phone or a video game console, depending on what you’re into, you’d probably be quite bored, quite often. The solution to this is to understand that you are just as normal and human as anyone else, and there will always be people who are in the exact same situation as you, who you might enjoy talking to. Time won’t heal you though, and you’ll need to accept that you may need to step out of your comfort zone in order to find some friends. Once you do so, you’ll feel much better.

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby, 

As the holidays quickly approach, I find it hard to feel motivated to continue to keep up with my classes. My boyfriend might have something to do with that. He makes me really happy but I need to focus on my schoolwork sometimes. How would I be able to set those boundaries without hurting him? ( it might be good to note that we hang out everyday afterschool) 

-Lovesick Lassy

Dear Lovesick Lassy, 

As school is a very important time in any teenager's life it is important to set that boundary with your partner. Couples spending time with each other is important however it is even more important to be able to balance school life and your relationship, couples do not need to be tied to each other's hip constantly it is important to be ok with spending time apart sometimes. Doing well in high school will set you up for your future. If your partner is not understanding of this then it may be good to consider taking a break just until you feel caught up and in a good place with your schoolwork, that doesn't mean you will be apart forever. 

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby,

Currently I’m going through another move at the end of the school year to Florida. I'm afraid to tell my bestfriend cause she’ll be distraught and I already told my boyfriend but I'm afraid he doesn’t understand. So, how can I tell my friend and help both of them understand?

-Pumpkin 

Dear Pumpkin,

The best step in this case is honesty. The more time you drag it out and wait to break the news, the tougher it’s going to be. Tell your friend before it gets too late! If your boyfriend and your bestfriend truly value you, then they’ll make the effort or attempt to understand you. Make it known that you don’t want to leave them and that you care about them.

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby,

I’m in an activity that competes each person against each other. We have auditions coming up but no matter what I do I feel like I'm not good enough. There are so many people that have the natural talent to do what my sport requires. I practice and practice but it seems unachievable. Is there any way to stop this feeling? I know I’m decent enough, but I’m not recognized like I want to be. Is there a way to build my confidence, even when I'm not the best? 

-Magnolia at Vanden 

Dear Magnolia at Vanden, 

Though it may sound repetitive, the best thing you can do is believe and trust in your capabilities! You are auditioning for a reason and it's important to remind yourself that you are just as qualified and worthy of a spot just as anyone else is. It is true that all of us have unique talents, including you. It can be humbling to play alongside those who are more skilled, and that's ok. You do not have to be the best to be proud of yourself. With that, remember to give yourself grace and to give it your 100%. When it is all said and done, know that you gave it your all and continue to work towards your goals. If you are meant to have that spot then it is yours. If not, that means there is another door around the corner waiting for you to open it. Do your best and forget the rest! Believe in yourself and good luck! 

XO, 

Abby

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Dear Abby,

Break is getting closer and I still haven’t made much progress with talking to my crush. He’s very nice and sweet, smart, and sometimes looks to me for help. But, I’m shy and can’t come up with conversation starters. I want to get his number and talk to him more. How do I get closer to him and do it naturally?

Sincerely, 

Hopeless Romantic

Dear Hopeless Romantic,

Many people struggle with initiating conversation with others – it’s natural to not know where to begin. My advice is to focus on things you have in common. You may discover this by asking your crush questions to learn about their interests and hobbies. Your crush on them is most likely based on some shared interests, it’s just a matter of discovering what they may be!

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby,

I recently got broken up with and it's been kind of difficult. We weren't together very long but we were friends for a good amount of time before that. I really did love him, and part of me still does. We don't talk anymore but we see each other quite often since we have a class together and our other classes are right next to each other. I just wish I could stop caring because I know he doesn't. Do you have any advice for moving on?

Sincerely,

A Broken Heart

Dear A Broken Heart,

It’s healthy to grieve a past relationship after you and your significant other went separate ways, but it is also very hard to move on after. A way to help you move on would be to get rid of any evidence that you and he were dating. This may sound extreme but the more you hold onto the gifts he bought you, his unblocked number, social media, and all the pictures you have, the more you hold onto that past relationship. If you feel like he doesn't care, maybe it is time for you to let go of all of these memories and let them be a part of your past.

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby, 

Today marks three weeks since I've talked to him. We met the first week of last school year and despite being friends all last year, I couldn't help but like him the whole year. We talked on and off all through summer and I know he's been talking to other people the whole time as well. Thinking about him disgusts me. I don't like the person he is, who he surrounds himself with or how he acts. Yet I can't get him out of my mind and every time I see him I get that feeling that we aren't done. It's been weeks since we aren't talking. Why can I still not get over him? Even blocking him didn't work and I'm really trying. We never even dated. How do I move on? 

From, Boom

Dear Boom, 

I want you to know you are definitely not alone in feeling this type of way. Many people you pass by in the halls are in the same situation you're in. It's completely understandable to grow attachments with people who may not be benefiting you or your well being. But, It's good to know you took the first step which is acknowledging and understanding your feelings and trying to move on. Moving on from a deep or long term connection is never easy and crushes you a majority of the time. Have patience with yourself and give yourself grace. There is no one thing that will magically get you to move on but I would suggest finding things that make you happy to distract yourself, keep yourself busy and focus on school and other things that will benefit you. It's also important to surround yourself with people who are supportive of you trying to step away from that person and encourage you to better yourself. Time will do its thing and heal those wounds, before you know it that person won't even be on your radar. 

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby, 

I have been having trouble connecting with others at school and making friends. I’m new and I'm barely getting anywhere. School’s been overwhelming, juggling school and home life has never seemed so lonely and time consuming. Everything just feels like so much recently, my mind doesn't seem to calm down. I'm not sure how to calm down, slow down. 

Sincerely, 

Yapper 

Dear Yapper, 

First off, welcome to Vanden! It is important to remind yourself and acknowledge the fact that you're new and are not alone in this feeling. Though easier said than done, reach out to people. Complement a classmate, join a club, connect with a teacher, there are so many opportunities that are waiting for you. Don't let fear stop you from new connections and relationships. As far as slowing down goes, take time for yourself and do things that make you happy. Remember that even if this is a harder phase of life, it is just a phase and is not forever. When you feel overwhelmed, regroup with yourself and do things that give you peace of mind and remember that tomorrow is a new day. 

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby, 

I have been playing basketball for around three years now. I have people telling me I'm good at it but I really feel like I'm not. I struggle a lot with confidence, especially in basketball. How can I gain the confidence to play and keep all of the negative thoughts out of my head?

Sincerely, 

Low Confidence 

Dear Low Confidence, 

Trust in what others are saying about you! They would not be saying this for no reason and sometimes we need to hear it from other people. With that, it's important to recognize that confidence cannot be received or given, it is something that you have to develop. By continuing your hard work, the confidence will develop as well. Your dedication will pay off and the journey will lead to a boost in confidence. You got this! 

XO,

Abby 

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Dear Abby, 

I've always felt like I'm being judged by someone every second of every day. I've stopped enjoying hanging around others, especially in a group settings. I’m not shy, I would even say extroverted, but only so others don't think I'm lonely. Is this feeling normal? Is it okay to feel like this? How can I make myself feel better?

– Sincerely, Me

Dear Me

It’s totally normal to not not want to be around large groups of people. It really doesn't matter what other people think of you because at the end of the day people are going to have opinions of you no matter what you do and at the end of the day they are just opinions! This means you need time for yourself. It's okay that you want to be alone, there's no shame in that. You can always find things to take up your time so you don't feel lonely or alone. Hobbies are usually the best in this case. Like playing an instrument, baking/cooking, jogging, going on walks, reading or painting. These are all types of self-care and can help you feel better. Being alone doesn’t mean there's something wrong with you, it just means you're ready for change.

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby,

As a military child, my family is constantly moving. We are moving again, hopefully for the last time, during the Break. I’m nervous about attending a new school and having to start over again. What can I do to relieve this stress and find comfort about this move?

Thanks,

Sincerely,

a Military Brat

Hello Military Brat! 

Your worries about moving away are absolutely valid. Not only that, it’s a shared experience! Many kids, like myself, have moved around the country, and had to meet completely new people at each station. My biggest advice for you is to not change a thing about yourself, and keep in contact with your peers from Vanden. Military families experience a lot of grief when moving due to the large changes in environment, social norms, and even your sponsor’s duties. But, there are supports that are available in each military base and the schools that are connected to them. For one, Military Family Life Counseling (MFLC) is a great program for people who struggle with the transitions involved in PCSing. They can provide talk counseling, and help you find strategies to adjust to your new environment and build up the confidence needed to excel in social and academic structures. Another strategy to relieve some of the stress of your moving is to always keep speaking with your previous peers. I still talk to friends that I haven’t seen in 5+ years, and our bonds only grow stronger. Regardless of where you are, you should find comfort in the fact that there are people prepared to help you through your station transition, and you should never lose hope in your ability to strive wherever you may be.

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby,

I am struggling in school at this moment especially in AP World History and English 2H. What is some advice to become better and get my grades higher? I put in the work for homework and studying. For example, last night I had a lot of work to makeup in all my classes so I spent 8 hours working or more, from 7pm-3am. Pls give me advice and help me understand how to fix this. 

Thanks Abby!

Vexed @ Vanden

Dear Vexed @ Vanden,

Catching up in your classes is more difficult than keeping up. Staying organized and having a schedule can help with keeping up, but there are many ways to catch up. It is important that if you are trying to catch up in your classes you pay attention and block out any distraction like phones or friends. Talk to your teachers about your struggles as well as they may have advice to help you with their classes.  There is tutoring in the library Monday-Wednesday, until 5:15pm with people who are there to help you.

XO,

Abby

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Dear Abby 

AP world history is really kicking my butt right now, How do I pass while being lazy and uninterested? I already paid for the exams, I CANNOT be down 105 dollars AND fail not getting college credit. I will drop out because I don't just puke that kind of money out. Please help.

Sincerely, 

Me 

Dear Me, 

I get it AP History can feel like an overwhelmingly exhausting slog, especially when you're uninterested and the stakes are already high. But here's the thing: you don't need to love the subject or even know everything to pass. The trick is to work smarter, not harder. Focus on the big picture, use tools like review books, study guides, etc. If it helps, try to find even one interesting thing in the subject just to make studying less miserable. You already paid for this exam, so don't let it beat you. A little focused effort now will save you from regret later, and you’ll walk away with the credit and your pride intact.

You’ve got this, 

Abby

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Dear Abby,

I am currently feeling less like myself every day. I don't really know what the point of living is. I am undergoing a lot of stress right now. I don't really know anything for certain. I'm really lost right now. I also had a breakup a few months ago, and I'm not sure how to move on. I don't really know how to think maturely, or at least I struggle with it. I lose sight of myself easily. I am also stressed and I don't know how to relax. I'm struggling trying to find people of good influence. I haven't opened up about how I feel like ever. 

From Squidward

Squidward,

We feel for you. Being a teenager in high school can be so stressful and exhausting while also trying to manage your mental health. It sounds like you've been going through a rough time recently and it's important to know that there are on campus resources out there if you ever feel like you might need some extra help managing your emotions. There is a Wellness Center you can use to regulate yourself. As well as our counselors you can talk to for school help if you're feeling stressed out with workload or anything in that realm. While also offering help with the emotional aspect of things, a social worker and other on campus staff that are here to help. You are not alone! Even if it's intimidating, reaching out is the first step. Remember to take time and take care of yourself; distancing yourself from people who might not have the best influence on you and your well being might also help lift your spirits. It's always helpful to surround yourself with those who support and want the best for you. Set goals for yourself, having something to work towards might help motivate you and keep you busy. Make sure you're getting a good night's sleep for school every day and allow yourself to set time aside for your hobbies and interests. Remember these tough times don't last forever, you have what it takes to persevere. 

XO,

Abby

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Need help or someone to talk to? The following resources are available:

• Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
• Crisis Text Line: Text "DESERVE" TO 741-741
• Essential Local And Community Services: 211, https://www.211.org/
• Lifeline Crisis Chat (Online Live Messaging): 988, https://988lifeline.org/chat
• LGBT Hotline: 1-888-843-4564
• National Council On Alcoholism & Drug Dependency Hope Line: 1-800-622-2255
• National Crisis Line - Anorexia And Bulimia: 1-800-233-4357
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): 866-662-1235, https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/
• Planned Parenthood Hotline: 1-800-230-PLAN (7526)
• Self-Harm Hotline: 1-800-366-8288
• TransLifeline: 877-565-8860, https://www.translifeline.org
• TREVOR Crisis Hotline: 1-866-221-7044

Meet our Staff

Christopher Brookbank

Co-Editor-in-Chief

Christopher Brookbank is the dedicated Co-Editor-in-Chief of Vanden High School's newspaper and the President of Vikings for Humanity, a community action club committed to social change.

With a strong passion for social sciences, Christopher excels as a writer, researcher, and reporter, focusing on global conflicts and politics. An advocate for human rights and world peace, he is deeply influenced by Marxist principles and actively works to challenge capitalist structures.

In his downtime, Christopher enjoys playing video games and spending quality time with friends, balancing his activism with leisure. His commitment to social justice and thoughtful analysis makes him a vital voice in his community.

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Tamia Reid

Co-Editor-in-Chief

Tamia Reid is a dedicated and accomplished senior student journalist currently in her fourth year of Journalism. In addition to her editorial responsibilities, she actively contributes to the News section, showcasing her versatility and commitment to delivering accurate and engaging stories.

Beyond her journalistic endeavors, Tamia is deeply involved in her school community. She is a proud member of the Community Service Club, Friday Night Live, where she participates in various initiatives aimed at making a positive impact. She is also a member of the National Honor Society, and Link Crew, where she supports and mentors incoming freshmen. Tamia’s dedication to service extends beyond her school as she is also a Girl Scout Ambassador, embodying the values of leadership, community service, and personal development.

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