Student Publications
I present to you our November edition of the Spartan Newsletter, created by our Journalism class. Thanksgiving break is almost here, and we wish everyone a happy holiday and relaxing break. Now let's dig into the feast of this newsletter!
Why The Turkey
By Billie Charleston
We all know the star of the show on Thanksgiving is the turkey, but why is the turkey the specific protein of choice every November? The answer is a mix of history, practicality, and some good old-fashioned marketing.
When the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people had their famous harvest feast in 1621, a pilgrim named William Bradford wrote in his journal about hunting a "great store of wild turkeys". So, turkeys were definitely around, even if we don't know for sure if they were the main dish, which was probably venison (deer meat).
Turkeys became popular for a couple of smart reasons. Size: A turkey is big enough to feed a large family gathering, unlike a small chicken or duck. Utility: Chickens were kept for their eggs, and cows for milk. Turkeys were mainly just for meat, so it made sense to eat them for a special feast. Availability: They were native to North America and abundant, so they were an easy and affordable food source.
The person who really put the turkey center stage was a writer named Sarah Josepha Hale. She wrote a novel in 1827 that described a Thanksgiving dinner with a roasted turkey as the main event. She also campaigned for nearly 40 years to make Thanksgiving a national holiday, and when President Abraham Lincoln finally made it official in 1863, the image of the turkey dinner was a core part of the American tradition. So, the turkey is more than just dinner; it's a symbol of American history and the idea of abundance and coming together.
Why Is Thanksgiving Celebrated?
By Breelynn Duran
Every year near the end of November, Thanksgiving is held. The preparations are made for dinner with family and schools may have younger students create turkeys. In anticipation of the week off of school soon to arrive, one may wonder why this holiday is celebrated.
It usually comes as common knowledge that the holiday originates from a feast shared by pilgrims and a native american tribe in the earlier days of the country. Further explanation of the feast is that it was a celebration of harvest and for a treaty between them and the Wampanoag. The feast was also said to be intended for giving thanks to the ending of a drought and the aforementioned harvest.
While Thanksgiving today reflects the original celebration, the purpose of making it a holiday was not to honor the day. Rather, the decision was related more to the idea associated with it. Following the first one, though irregularly, Thanksgiving was celebrated in America. It was in 1863 that it officially became a holiday, president Abraham Lincoln made it into a national holiday during the Civil War. A magazine editor named Sarah Josepha Hale had been trying to have Thanksgiving made a holiday, presenting that it would unite the people. Due to the tension between the North and South and Hale’s idea of unity, it eventually became a holiday.
In the modern day Thanksgiving shares similarities with its inspiration, holding the tradition of a feast and thankfulness of good in the year. Though it has shifted from the original, towards unity and spending time together with loved ones. Alongside the activity of giving thanks including a broader field than a harvest. The holiday has become integrated into life as a tradition like others have. The reason it is celebrated appears to continue from the idea of being thankful and for the time to be with family.
Gaining an Hour and Finding Our Rhythm
By Cienna Teter
Every autumn, millions of people across the world turn their clocks back one hour to mark the end of Daylight Saving Time. Known as the “fall back”, this time change usually occurs in early November, making shorter days, longer nights, and the start of winter. While many appreciate the extra hour of sleep, the time shift has both advantages and disadvantages that affect health, productivity, and daily life.
Benefits of the Time Change;
One of the best perks of the fall time change is the extra hour of sleep. After months of longer, sunny days, the transition provides a brief but welcome rest for a lot of people. The earlier sunrise in the morning can also help people wake up easier, especially during dark winter months. Another benefit is the potential for increased safety during early morning commutes. With more daylight during those hours, drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians are more visible, reducing the risk of accidents. Some also find that the earlier darkness in the evening encourages their relaxation and better sleep routines, helping reset rhythms after a busy summer season.
Downsides of the Time Change;
Despite its short-term perks, the fall time change can disrupt people’s internal clocks. The sudden shift in daylight can cause temporary fatigue, mood changes, and difficulty sleeping. For some, this disruption can trigger seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression linked to reduced sunlight exposure. Shorter days also mean less time for outdoor activities after work or school, which can decrease physical activity levels. Businesses that rely on evening daylight, such as restaurants, recreation centers, and retail shops, may see lower customer turnout as people tend to stay home once it gets dark.
Finding Balance in the Transition;
To ease the adjustment, experts recommend keeping a consistent sleep schedule, spending time outside during daylight hours, and gradually shifting bedtime before the change occurs. While the fall time change offers a cozy reminder of the approaching holiday season, it also underscores the importance of light, routine, and rest in maintaining our well-being. Hopefully you all can try to find some positivity in the time change and happy holidays!
History and Significance of Veterans Day
By Clayton Daugherty
Each year on November 11, Americans pause to honor the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Day is more than a date on the calendar, it's a reflection of the nation’s enduring gratitude and a reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of freedom.
The origins of Veterans Day trace back to the end of World War I, known at the time as “the war to end all wars.” Fighting ceased on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, when an armistice was signed between the Allied nations and Germany. To commemorate this moment, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Armistice Day in 1919, marking the first observance with parades, public gatherings, and moments of silence.
In 1954, following World War II and the Korean War, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill officially changing the name to Veterans Day. The new title recognized not just those who fought in World War I, but all American veterans past, present and future who have served honorably in any branch of the military. Unlike Memorial Day, which honors those who died in service, Veterans Day celebrates all who have worn the uniform, both living and deceased.
Today, communities across the country mark the day with parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and school programs that teach the importance of military service. At Arlington National Cemetery. A solemn ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier serves as the nation’s focal point for remembrance. Across towns big and small, veterans are thanked personally, schools hold assemblies, and families reflect on their loved ones’ service.
As Veterans Day falls close to Thanksgiving, it provided a fitting opportunity to express gratitude beyond the dinner table. While Thanksgiving celebrates abundance and family, Veterans Day reminds us that courage has helped preserve the freedoms that allow us to gather in peace.
Honoring veterans is not just a once-a-year event, it’s an ongoing commitment to ensure that those who served receive the respect, care, and opportunities they deserve. On November 11, let us take a moment to say two simple words that carry profound meaning: Thank you
Thanksgiving is on its Way!
By Izzibrayah Grotjohn
Is Christmas around the corner? Obviously, but so is Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is one of the most overlooked holidays, it is overshadowed by Christmas and its spirit. Thanksgiving is the one holiday that brings families together over a delicious feast and maybe even other things, so why is it not popular? Well I'm going to answer that question in a minute.
Thanksgiving is not very popular because it is sandwiched in between the most popular holidays, Halloween and Christmas. Also Thanksgiving doesn't commercialize their holiday with intriguing things or spirit, usually it's a funny turkey or a new movie for the kids, but that's about it. Or sometimes people just don't celebrate it because of the history and story behind it. Just because it's popular doesn't mean it’s commonly celebrated.
It’s kind of sad to see that we have little spirit for Thanksgiving and all the spirit for Christmas or Halloween, and in the school there isn't spirit either, no dress up days, spirit weeks, fun activities and/or crafts, which no spirit in school really means there isn't a lot of spirit in the community. Granted this school year we have a whole week off for thanksgiving, but that's not the whole point. The whole point is to bring people together and give thanks to the people around and the things in your surroundings.
In conclusion, while Thanksgiving remains an important holiday, it’s very overshadowed by Christmas and its spirit, but we honestly need to simmer with the Christmas spirit and give a little more during Thanksgiving. Christmas isn't the only important holiday, Thanksgiving needs to be put out there too. And please wait until at least the day after thanksgiving or even December 1st to start putting up Christmas decorations. Happy Thanksgiving!
Thanks To Our History Of Turkey
by JaiLynne Long
Okay lets get into this wonderful history event called “Thanks Giving”! In 1621, the Plymouth colonists from England and the Native American Wampanoag people shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies. It wasn’t until 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November.
This lovely holiday was featured as the state to proclaim thanks to the people around and although Thanksgiving celebrations dated back to the first European settlements in America, it was not until the 1860s that Abraham Lincoln declared the last Thursday of November to be a national holiday. Spreading thanks and happiness to everyone in their lives with a massive feast for all.
In 1817, New York became the first of several states to officially adopt an annual Thanksgiving holiday; each celebrated it on a different day, however, and the American South remained largely unfamiliar with the tradition. In many American households, the Thanksgiving celebration has lost much of its original religious significance; instead, it now centers on cooking and sharing a bountiful meal with family and friends. Turkey, a Thanksgiving staple so ubiquitous it has become all but synonymous with the holiday, may or may not have been on offer when the Pilgrims hosted the inaugural feast in 1621.
This lovely holiday has brought many years to an amazing feast and places that are greatly celebrated by the Americans. We spend Thanksgiving day giving thanks to everyone we know and love, saying prayers or just saying thanks to whomever one believes in. and with that we all wish you a wonderful thanksgiving and don't forget to Thank you to your friends and family.
Hunting Season in North Idaho
By Jocelyn Barker
Hunting season in north Idaho offers a broad, diverse, and deeply rewarding experience for hunters. Whether you're after big game like elk and deer, or upland birds and waterfowl, the region that is roughly around the panhandle is surrounded by forested mountains and the state is among the better kept secrets in the West. In this article we’ll cover what to expect, what you need to know, and how to make the most of your time afield in this spectacular region.
North Idaho is characterized by rugged mountains, dense forest, high elevation terrain, and extensive public lands. Many portions of it are part of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests where big game hunting is a primary recreational use. The mixed terrain, valley bottoms, steep slopes, and snow covered timber in late season makes the hunt challenging but also full of opportunity for those who prepare.
Here are some of the main species you’ll encounter: Elk (Rocky Mountain type) – Widely available via general seasons and controlled hunts. White‐tailed Deer and Mule Deer – Both species are hunted in units up north; seasons vary by unit. Black Bear and Mountain Lion – Predator/large carnivore seasons are open in many areas. Birds such as Ring‑necked Pheasant are included, particularly in the northern panhandle region. For instance, the pheasant season opens in north Idaho around mid October.
Every hunter must have the proper license, tag/permit, and must know the zone or game management unit where they are hunting. It’s the hunter’s responsibility to have the required license, tag and/or permit for the species and know the hunt area boundaries. On public lands like those managed by the BLM or National Forests, there are additional rules such as staying on designated roads and vehicle use restrictions. Hunting units (GMUs) can vary wildly in terrain, access, and pressure. Knowing where you’re going—roads, trails, parking, private land boundaries—is very important. Some of the best habitat lies on private land or straddles private/public boundaries. Respect landowners and know where you’re shooting. North Idaho can be unforgiving. Early season might be mild, but by late season snow, deep cold, and short daylight can be major factors. Bring the right gear. Many hunters underestimate the challenge of dressing and hauling an elk or deer out of steep country. Plan for the extraction before you pull the trigger.
Hunting season in north Idaho is an experience, not just a chance to harvest meat or trophy, but to engage with rugged wild country, test your skills, and embrace the seasons of the land. With careful planning, respect for the land and animals, and proper gear, you’re setting yourself up for something special.
Why do the Leaves Change Color Every Fall?
By Mary Trusty
One of the most visible parts of fall is the leaves changing color and falling off their branches. Trees that are usually green turn every shade of yellow, red, orange, and sometimes brown. This natural phenomenon can start as early as September, and it takes a month or two for all the leaves to fall. If you hadn't already known about this I would be surprised, but have you ever wondered how and why it happens?
The leaves falling off of a tree is essential for the tree's survival over the winter. Leaves are very prone to damage, especially in the winter months, so they are discarded to keep the tree alive. The process leading up to this, like most things to do with plants, is greatly reliant on the sun. The red and orange pigments that the leaves show in fall are present in the leaves all year round, they just aren't visible because there is more of the green pigment, chlorophyll. In the summer, when there is the most sunlight, plants are producing a lot of chlorophyll to use during photosynthesis. When the days start getting shorter and there's less sunlight, the leaves stop making chlorophyll, and the red, yellow, and orange pigments underneath start to show.
During the spring, energy can pass through the joint between a leaf and the branch easily. As the summer turns to fall, and the leaves are making less energy to send to the rest of the tree, the join between leaves and the branch weakens until the leaf falls off. Trees lose their leaves so it's easier for them to survive the winter. Without leaves, the tree is spending less energy, holding its moisture in the trunk where it's less likely to freeze, and allowing the wind to blow through the branches easier, which puts less strain on the tree itself.
The leaves changing color is a necessary way for the trees to survive over the winter, and a beautiful feature of autumn that many people look forward to every year. Despite the fanfare around it, many people see this natural phenomenon every year without questioning why it happens. Now, if someone asks you if you ever wondered how the leaves change, you'll have some fun facts to add to the conversation.
Thanksgiving and Its Way Of Becoming
By: Abi Lovette
Thanksgiving is a time of fall, leaves, food, and family. Thanksgiving brings people together, but how did it start and how is it currently celebrated? Thanksgiving once started as a harvest celebration and has since then evolved into a day of food, fun, football, and family.
Thanksgiving started as a harvest celebration between the English colonists and the Wampanoag people in 1621. This celebration was a 3-day gathering. They would eat together, much like we all do now. They would feast, play games, and hunt and enjoy being together and around each other. This event was a secular festival and a diplomatic occasion, not really a religious thanksgiving in the solemn tradition of this day and age. The food was provided by both the English and the Wampanoag.
In the 19th century, thanksgiving became a more uniform, national civic holiday. This day is for annual national celebrations and a day dedicated to spending it with family and friends and expressing thanks for all you are grateful for. Thanksgiving feasts now normally consist of turkey, ham, chicken or roast beef, stuffing, potatoes, vegetables, and cranberry sauce for dinner. Then after dinner you have desserts such as pie or pudding. In this time thanksgiving emphasized unity, family, and a more standardized menu.
Thanksgiving today is still about giving thanks, much like the 1600s, but nowadays thanksgiving is about food, football, games, family, and worrying about Christmas shopping. Thanksgiving is a reminder or warning for most people telling them that Christmas is coming up soon. Thanksgiving is the end of fall and the beginning of winter as the leaves fall and the weather gets colder and the snow falls.
The journalism staff wish you all a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving break!