The 2019 summer vacation is fast approaching, and though all you can think about is school being done and finally having time to relax and enjoy your long break, what is it that you’ll be doing – sitting on the couch all day with the fan on blast picking at your nails? Come on!

There’re so many great things to do, and volunteering is one of them. Volunteering is a great way to spend your summer as you’re not only helping people, you’ll learn about yourself and do some good work.

Hopefully, now you’re interested, and want to know more, so here are some volunteering opportunities and where are they located – keep reading to see 10 amazing ones!

Animal Rescue Shelter: There are lots of local animal shelters in the Highland area, for example the Highland Animal Shelter and the Highland Humane Society. You can gain many office skills from volunteering here such as answering emails, fielding phone calls, and providing general administrative assistance. You can even earn cash by making connections with staff or customer’s and offering to walk their dogs, it makes for a great part-time-job and you’re staying happy and healthy; I mean who doesn’t like animals?!

National Parks: Volunteering at a national park is more than just cleaning litter, if you like history or nature, this is defiantly the path to go. You can explore the fascinating historical sights and learn more about it history as you complete your volunteering hours. Places like the Mississippi River National Park or Fort Snelling are definitely a history buff’s dream come true.

Food Pantries: Food pantries and soup kitchens can always use a helping hand organizing things like food drives, raising money, or even simply handing out meals to those in need. Offering any of your services to these organization is great, some local food pantries include the Neighborhood House and Francis Basket Food Shelf.

Habitat for Humanity: Habitat for Humanity offers various locally targeted volunteer opportunities. If you’re interested in architecture, design, or engineering, then this program allows you to gain experience by completing home repair and maintenance. check out its A Brush With Kindness campaign or the Women Build program, designed specifically to help women learn construction skills. This will allow you to gain leadership, team-building and construction skills.

Local Libraries: Libraries, such as our own Highland library, never refuse help. They typically need help organizing shelves, setting up public events – such as book fairs, and much more. You can even ask to design ads for these events allowing you to add more to your resume!

Art Museums: If you’re interested in art, working in a art museum can allow you to gain invaluable experience. Surrounding yourself with timeless works of art you can soak up art knowledge and acquire administrative skills. If you’re interested, try the Minnesota Museum of American Art

Political Campaigns: If you’re passionate about government, politics and current news consider offering to help a local candidate you feel good about. No politician gets elected without volunteers manning the phones. This type of office work can help you gain valuable experience. It will also help you establish contacts if you’re interested in politics as a career

YMCA: At the YMCA, you can volunteer to help people of all ages, strengthening your leadership skills by teaching a class in any sport or activity you’re interested in. Check your local YMCA’s website, or simply walk in to find out more about their opportunities. whether you want to be active or gain desk job experience, the YMCA has something for you.

Retirement Homes: Retired people love exciting new classes or activities to try. Teaching these people something fun and interesting, while showing of you’re skills, seems like a wonderful volunteering opportunity. If you’re good at public speaking, maybe recite some poems or historical speeches. If you’re good with computers, lend you’re services to show the senior citizens how to use it. Whatever it may be chances are, they want to learn, but no one has ever taken the time to give them the proper instruction.

Red Cross: The American Red Cross has an extensive list of jobs available to help those in need and allows you to bolster your resume at the same time. If you don’t like giving blood, greeting and assisting customers could be an option. You’re skills may make you a good fit got multiple jobs such as grant writing, clerical tasks, and maintaining.

Volunteering doesn’t take any special skills or extensive experience – and there’s never a shortage of organizations looking for help. Now you have a multitude of ways to spend your summer, and no matter whether you are an animal person, or an art person, there’s one out there for you! So take this short list as inspiration and find your favorite! Who knows, maybe it’s the start of your lifelong success!

The list above is adapted from  https://www.moneycrashers.com/good-places-volunteer-opportunities-organizations/ 

Fishing is an all year activity that can be done at any time. There is regular fishing during the Spring to Autumn seasons and during winter, there is ice fishing. As we are approaching summer, as the temperatures are getting warmer, and now that the ice is gone, there are more opportunities to go fishing.

The best times to fish during the summer are in early mornings and late evenings. There is a moon positioning theory that was made by John Alden Knight. The moon positioning theory states that bass bite the best during certain tidal activities. For more information on the times to fish, visit the website shopkarls.com.

Minnesota is the land of 10,000 lakes and may have more if you continue to count after 10,000. Each lake has its benefits of catching fish such as: bass, walleyes, muskies, pike, and many more. Areas you are able to find fish are: narrows, bay entrances, weed beds, sunken islands, and points.

According to www.minnesotalakes.net:

Some of the best lakes to fish bass are:

• Lake of the Woods
• Lake Winnie
• Rainy Lake

Some of the best lakes to fish northern pikes are:

• Leech Lake
• Class Lake
• Lake Minnetonka

Some of the best lakes to fish muskies are:

• Detroit Lake
• Lake Minnetonka
• Lake Vermillion

Not only are lakes great to fish in but also rivers. Though Minnesota has twice as many lakes than rivers, river fishing is still enjoyable at these rivers:

• Red River
• Root River
• St. Croix River
• St. Louis River
• Minnesota River

Fishing can help create bonds with family or friends. From my own perspective, I have relatives who loves to fish and are closer to one another because they share this in common. My siblings, and our friends, take time out of their days to spend time fishing with their friends. So, when summer begins, and we are out of school, consider going out to spend some time fishing.

What is MEPS?

MEPS is the Military Entrance Processing Station. MEPS is a two day long process; the first day is when you’ll have to take the ASVAB test and the second day is where you go through a physical examination to see if you’re physically fit for the military.

What is the ASVAB?

ASVAB stands for Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery. It is a multiple choice test that everyone must take when trying to join any branch of the military. The ASVAB is timed, meaning that for each section of the test you take, there will be a timer and time limit for that section. The time limit varies each section, so maybe the science section will have a time limit of 15 minutes, and the math might have a time limit of 20 minutes. Overall, the test should be around 2-3 hours long.

What happens after the ASVAB test?

After taking the ASVAB, the person in charge will tell you your scores and give you a sheet to look at and sign then put all the documents into a folder specifically for you. After the first day, you are required to sleep overnight at a hotel that has a program with the MEPS. The reason for this is that people working for MEPS want to make sure that everyone wakes up on time, and gets to the Department of Defense at the same time, so that there won’t be any inconveniences. The required time to wake up is at 4:30am, as the process will take up the whole day. Depending on how many people are also joining on the same day as you, you might have a roommate or you might not.

What is the physical examination like?

Once you get to the Department of Defense, you have to sign in using your social security number and your fingerprint. During the examination, you’ll have to take: a urine test, eyesight test, hearing test and a blood draw. After you do all of the required tests, you will be put into a room with people of the same gender, and in there you’ll have to do some physical activities to make sure your arms and legs are working fine. Some examples are: flapping yours arm, touching each of your fingers with your thumb, and doing the duck walk. Once you finish, you’ll meet individually with the doctor.

Afterwards:

Once you finish with the physical examination, you’ll meet up with a counselor from your branch and go over your paperwork. After that, you meet with another counselor working at MEPS to go over your papers and make sure everything you have on your files is real. Once you go through all of these steps, it’s time for you to swear in and make an oath. Swearing in will take about 15-20 minutes, then after that, you’re done at MEPS and officially a part of whichever branch of the military you’ve applied for.

Climate change and global warming are hot topics right now–and while many people are concerned about where our environment is going, not many people have taken action to assist in a healthy change. According to Ceasepollution.com, in the USA alone, we emit 5,414 million metric tons of carbon dioxide into our environment every year. Because of this, Conservation.org says that currently 11% of earth’s population, or 800 million people, are at risk to exposure to extreme climate change effects, such as droughts, heat waves, and rise in sea level.

If we don’t combat climate change and global warming effectively, these effects will grow worse and affect more people. A lot of people think that going to a message board or writing a letter to the president will help with climate change, and although that could assist in making a change in our global environment, there are other ways to aid in conserving our environment. One simple thing you can do is create less trash. Here are multiple ways you can cut down on your waste production:

• Straws! Eliminating or lessening one use plastic straws has been very popular. Starbucks produced a drink lid that prevents the use of a straw, and many restaurants support the “ask for a straw to get a straw” idea. To make sure you aren’t using plastic straws, ask for any drinks at restaurants without plastic straws. You can also purchase a glass, metal, or silicone reusable straws. If this is too much of a change, opt for a recyclable paper straw. You can visit https://www.ourlaststraw.org/ for more information on one use plastic straws and their effect on the environment.

• Buy in bulk! Buying in bulk eliminates the wasteful plastic packaging our food comes in. If you use reusable glass jars or burlap bags, the amount of plastic you use when buying ingredients will be lessened. In some cases, buying in bulk can even be cheaper. However, don’t use the grocery store plastic bags to buy your bulk food–as this eliminates the reason for buying in bulk!

• Opt for fresh produce instead of plastic wrapped produce! Similar to buying in bulk, buying fresh produce that hasn’t been packaged in plastic will cut down your waste production. The reason you should cut down on plastic in particular is because plastic takes forever to break down! On top of that, only a small percentage of plastic is actually recyclable.

• Get a reusable water bottle! Although that plastic water bottle might have been a good last minute purchase, it puts even more plastic into our environment. In the long run, a reusable water bottle will not only prevent waste, but save you money over time.

• Carpool! Cars emit millions of magnitudes of carbon monoxide, which unlike carbon dioxide, is colorless, odorless and extremely poisonous. Cut down the carbon monoxide

• Reduce Plastic! Bring your own boxes and containers when in need of a container. Avoid the styrofoam to-go containers or the plastic shopping bags. Reuse containers for storing leftovers or shopping in bulk. When getting juice try to get fruits and freshly squeeze them yourself to avoid the plastic packaging most drinks have. Make your own cleaning products that will be less toxic and eliminate the need for multiple plastic bottles of cleaner. Pack your lunch in reusable containers and bags. Also, opt for fresh fruits and veggies and bulk items instead of products that come in single serving cups. Avoid buying frozen foods because their packaging is mostly plastic. Even those that appear to be cardboard are coated in a thin layer of plastic. Plus you’ll be eating fewer processed foods! For more tips, go to http://www.greeneducationfoundation.org/nationalgreenweeksub/waste-reduction-tips/tips-to-use-less-plastic.html you’ll be surprised about the gum one!

• Compost! Although “composting” seems like a big scary word, it can actually be pretty simple. The ultimate idea of composting is to recycle food waste in your home. You can even dump all of your compost at a public compost bin in the parking lot across from the Patagonia store. For more information, go to https://www.pca.state.mn.us/waste/composting-your-backyard for more information.

These are only a few things we can do to help preserve our environment. Some other small things you can do are: turn off lights when you’re not using them, avoid putting any trash in outdoor drains, reduce food waste by serving only what you need to eat, and avoid buying single-use products. Although many of the things we need to do to conserve the environment may seem challenging and extensive at first, we still need to learn to do them. Without taking these measures, you are encouraging pollution to continue to occur. Let’s treat the earth the way we want it for future generations!

“Who cares if there are lumps on my thighs? I’m guilty of having human legs made up of fat, muscle and skin, and sometimes when you sit, they get bumpy.” This quote was said by the lovely Kristen Bell.

There are so many people who dislike their bodies because of how companies show their products.

Most models weigh around 23% less than the average women.

Eating disorder problems have increase almost over 400% since 1970.

There is only 5% of women in the U.S. that fit the body type that’s so popular in advertising.

Dove, a Unilever brand, made a huge attempt to show women realistically. According to Thebalancecareers.com, even though they had good intentions, it was obvious that most ad campaigns still contained men and women as physically “perfect.”

Here are 9 possible steps you can take to have a more positive body image:

Step 1: Appreciating all that YOUR body can do. Each day your very own body carries you to achieve your dreams.

Step 2: Keep a top ten list of things you like about yourself. Positive things work the best.

Step 3: Continuously remind yourself that “true beauty” is not skin deep. Having self confidence when you are normally not having much can help.

Step 4: Surround yourself with positive people. It’s helpful having friends who always think positive and support you and your body.

Step 5: Doing something nice for yourself. Doing the smallest things make you feel so much better. Whether it be treating yourself to something you have never had, or even something as small as having a relaxing day by yourself.

Step 6: Shutting down the negative voice inside your head. You can push over through all of the negative thoughts with positive thoughts.

Step 7: Protesting advertisement images, slogans, and attitudes that have made you feel bad about yourself.

Step 8: Use the time and energy that you might have spent worrying about food, calories, and your weight to do something to help others. Reaching out to people can make you feel better about yourself and can change the world positively.

Step 9: looking at yourself as a whole person. Let’s take a mirror for an example, when you look into the mirror you focus on one thing. This thing can be both positive and negative, but people usually look at the negative things.  

To read more about these step you can go to: nationaleatingdisorders.org

Spring break is just around the corner and you’re probably considering what to do. Here are a few ideas:

1. Science Museum of Minnesota: The Science Museum is focused on topics in technology, natural history, physical science, and mathematics education. It was founded in 1907. You can explore 8.5 acres of exhibits. https://www.smm.org/
2. Mall of America: This is a shopping mall where you can visit all your favorite stores. It is the largest mall in the country, and it has over 500 stores and more than 50 restaurants. There are a lot of fun activites like visiting the Nickoldeaon Universe and going on many different rides. https://www.mallofamerica.com/home
3. Minnesota Zoo: This zoo is in Apple Valley, Minnesota. The zoo has many different animals you can see like American Bison, American Black Bear, Amur Tiger and, Brown Bears. http://mnzoo.org/
4. Greak Wolf Lodge: The Great Wolf Lodge is an indoor water park in Bloomington. Great Wolf Lodge will offer families a great place to stay and play with over 75,000 square feet of indoor water park. https://www.greatwolf.com/
5. Sky Zone: This is an indoor Trampoline Par. You can plan parties, do dodgeball tournaments, fitness classes, and other events. https://www.skyzone.com/

Writer’s block impacts everybody. Whether you’re writing something for school, or for fun, chances are, it’s hit you. Here are some tips on how to get past it.

1. Don’t start writing with a blank slate; always start with an outline. This helps because you will always know what happens next with your plot or essay, so you won’t be stuck trying to move forward.
2. Walk away from writing. Not forever of course, but taking a step back and taking a break can help refresh your brain, and open yourself to more ideas and creativity.
3. Don’t beat yourself up. If you beat yourself up about not being able to move ahead, that won’t help. It only results in you being upset and not moving ahead. It’s normal to get writer’s block, so don’t feel bad.
4. Start to write something else. Writing something else like a short story or even just short sentences can help refresh your brain while also taking a break. It can also help the creative juices start flowing.
5. Last but not least, brainstorm. Write down ideas of what you could write next. Write everything you think down. Something will stick, and you will eventually be able to move forward.

These are just a few ways to get past writer’s block, and they’re all worth a try. So next time you’re stuck writing; try one or multiple of these tips. You will most likely be able to get past your writer’s block.

Snow days can get pretty bleak, so to keep you entertained, here are some thing you can do on a snow day:

• Cook a special meal: The perfect way to show your family appreciation and enjoy a delicious meal you can spend all the time in the world to perfect.
• Eat in the dining room and/or with fancy dishes: After you’re done, you still might have some extra time on your hands, so why not make the table look extra fancy to surprise your family, or simply enjoy the extravagance yourself.
• Watch a favorite movie(s)/show(s): I mean let’s face it, do you really want to get up during snow day? It’s your one day to relax and sleep in and eat all the junk food in the world. So just put your favorite show(s) or movie(s) on! The extra s’s are because you’re most likely not going to stop when you start… but hey! It’s our day to relax!
• Order in dinner: Maybe you don’t want to do all that and you’re on to the more relaxed vibe the snow day is sending you, then kick up your feet, get out you’re device, and order away while you binge watch your favorite show for the entire day #noregrets.
• Make hot chocolate: If you’re relaxing, the perfect drink to keep you warm and feeling that oh so good fuzzy feeling inside, is some hot chocolate. The recipe we recommend is quite simple, just click on this lick for the perfect hot chocolate.
• Build a pillow fort: Now, you’re relaxation has reached the max, movies, food, hot chocolate, what could you be missing! A fort! Make a cuddle place for you to eat, drink hot coco, and watch your favorite movie to reach ultimate comfort
• Play in the snow: Now the white stuff outside looks so soft and you think it would be perfect to roll around in, so head on out! Explore the wonders of your front and back yard. And though it very cold and we recommend ultimate caution at all time, you could probably see many bodies of water sculpted beautifully because of the weather, but stay safe!
• Make snow angels: If you’re going outside, a fun activity to try would be creating snow angles. You could make snow forts and make other creative creations. We know you’re in high school, but you’re never too old to play in the snow.
• Make snowballs to freeze: Once you’re done with your daily dose of Minnesota winter, you can head on back home but don’t forget to bring some snowballs. Store them in your freezer for a surprise attack that is sure to startle people in summer!
• Cut snowflakes from paper: Now you’re done with snow, but the snow’s not done with you! Create some paper snowflakes and though we’re sure people know how to do it, here a tutorial just in case: Paper Snowflake Tutorial. Have fun, be creative, and be careful if you’re using an exacto knife.
• Bake cookies: Now if hot chocolate didn’t do the trick, then fresh baked cookies definitely will! The oozing chocolate (or other topping, but let’s be honest, chocolate’s the best!) and warm dough with a melt in your mouth, slip down your throat, kind of flavor. I know my mouth watered when writing this!
• Check on/visit neighbors: Make sure your neighbors are O.K. and if they’re struggling or stuck, well that’s one way to make their day. Bring over your baked cookies, or other food that everyone enjoys, I’m sure they’ll be super grateful.
• Shovel together: Now this may seem hard, but when doing it with family or seeing your neighbors while doing it, it might make shoveling a bit easier. Sometimes, people are out of town, old, or hurt so they can’t shovel. Help them out and shovel their driveways; everyone will be grateful.
• Light the fireplace: Make a warm fire to sit by as you watch the cold snow from the inside. The bitter cold washes away as you stay inside your warm home* with no regrets.
• Play a family game: Gather your family around and play fun games, I’m sure everyone wants to relax after their long day of shoveling and cleaning with a fun game by the fireplace.

Another note to make is that some school districts, like SPPS, have debated using iPads on unexpected breaks like the snow days to have “online school” or using Schoology to do school for a day. This however hasn’t been enacted because the mandatory snow day work could be overly stressful since all teachers would possibly be assigning work at once (though some districts have decided to do this anyway).

*Many people who are homeless cannot find suitable places to stay during the extreme weather. if you are out and see someone, please make sure to lend a hand.