Man’s best friend, COVID-19’s newest target

By: Haili Luevano

With the ongoing pandemic affecting people all across the globe, news of how COVID-19 is affecting pets and their owners has gone widely unnoticed.

“You hear conflicting stories,” said Kaci Schacht, a local farmer. “One moment they say dogs can contract and be affected by the virus and the next they’re saying that they’re safe from it. But I have also heard that dogs can carry the virus on their fur, but that’s only if they are exposed to someone who has the virus.”

While it’s true that animal cases are few and far between, especially in regards to their human counterparts, there are still ways that the coronavirus can make life difficult for pet owners and their companions.

In the past two decades, coronaviruses have caused two major pandemics: SARS and Middle East respiratory syndrome. Scientists of the World Health Organization (WHO) previously thought that another outbreak could only be caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARSr-CoV), which is mainly found in bats.

It’s also speculated that COVID-19 originated from Chinese horseshoe bats in one of Wuhan’s many food markets. The closest confirmation of this data was given by WHO Spokeswoman Fadela Chaib on April 21, stating, “It is probable, likely, that the virus is of animal origin.”

SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is able to affect animals by binding to a cell surface protein known as ACE2, thus injecting itself into the cells. This protein is found in many animal species. As of April 22, it was confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that SARS-CoV-2 had found its way into two pet cats. This marked the first pets to test positive for the coronavirus in the United States.

The pandemic could also pose problems for more exotic species, especially those who are flagged as endangered or threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Already, a 4-year-old tiger at the Bronx Zoo tested positive for COVID-19 as of April 5.

“I think [COVID-19] might actually help [endangered species] right now,” Schacht said. “Due to the fact that travel is restricted and people aren’t allowed into different areas, [this] helps restrict access to them.”

While opinions on the matter may differ, the fact still stands that the current pandemic isn’t just affecting pet owners, but their pets and other animals as well. The first confirmed pet cases in the U.S. might have been two cats, but Hong Kong’s first pet case was a dog.

The Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department reported that a pet dog who had previously been in contact with a person infected with the coronavirus tested “weakly positive” on February 28, through samples taken from the nose and mouth.

“People don’t think about it, but animals are a big part of life and the economy,” said Bibiana Luevano, a local pet owner. “Police dogs. Service dogs. Military dogs. If service dogs are affected, then how will people be affected? The dog food business is a huge market.”

While COVID-19 has seemingly expanded its sphere of influence, the next logical step is to find a vaccine for both humans and animals.

“I know that even though this virus is new to humans, it’s not new to certain animals,” Schacht said. “For instance, cattle actually have some strand [of coronavirus] and they have a vaccine … but it is not safe for human injection.”

A statement released by Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institution of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said that developing, testing and approving a vaccine for humans could take 12-18 months, though most new vaccines usually take years to approve and release to the public. In the meantime, pet owners must use their own methods to protect their animals.

Much of the same safety measures that people use for themselves can also be applied to pets. With the recent closing of parks, there’s less places to socialize or walk your animals, encouraging people to keep them at home. Make sure to carefully monitor their behavior and take them to the vet if they get sick.

“Wash your hands,” Luevano instructed, sharing the precautions she takes with her own pets. “Clean their bowls, and avoid sneezing or coughing near them. Keep an eye out on their behavior. Sometimes it’s easy to spot when animals are feeling under the weather.”

Kaylee Cellar, an English teacher at GISH, offered the same advice, stating that she has taken to isolating her own animals at home and keeping them six feet away from other animals.

Ensuring that your pet is happy and healthy is simply one more weight off of your shoulders. Animals are still susceptible to disease, so it’s better to make sure that they truly have nothing to fear from COVID-19.

“Animals are important,” said Pamela Robledo, a local pet owner. “They are family as well.”

Toss your dog their favorite toy, feed your bird some fruit, redecorate your fish tank or simply cuddle with your cat. Quarantine may be boring at times, but with a safe and healthy animal at your side, at least it won’t be lonely.

*Photo by Haili Luevano

Saying goodbye to “the good life”

By Emily Krupicka and Emelia Richling

Clara Krabbe

For international students studying abroad in America, the coronavirus pandemic has disrupted a sense of normalcy and routine. At Northwest, foreign exchange students were asked to return home with very little time to prepare. Senior Clara Krabbe, a foreign exchange student from Denmark, has felt the repercussions of this.

“Things have changed faster than I ever could have imagined. I never thought that this would happen on such a large scale,” Krabbe said.

In the beginning stages of the pandemic, each exchange student was given the opportunity to continue their learning in the United States or return to their home country; however, soon after, students received an email that prompted them to go back home immediately.

“When I learned that I had to leave, I definitely didn’t see it coming; I was very shocked,” Krabbe said.

Although Krabbe’s departure seemed unexpected to many, the unprecedented news was especially surprising for her host family.

“When we got the news about her going home early, we were heartbroken for sure,” said Sophomore Alexis Julesgard, a member of Krabbe’s host family. “The day that she left was so hard for me; it was like I was losing a sister.”

During her stay in America, although cut short, Krabbe made fond memories in Nebraska. Immersing herself in the culture and meeting new people were among the top highlights from her stay.

As Krabbe adjusts to life back in Denmark, she has hopes of returning to America to visit when the pandemic has eased.

Giacomo Sarra

Before the outbreak of the coronavirus, Giacomo Sarra, a foreign exchange student from Italy, had a lot of plans for the remainder of his time at Northwest. Besides receiving his diploma, Sarra was also looking forward to a great soccer season. During this past year, he has been heavily involved in sports, playing football and working as a basketball manager in addition to participating in soccer.

However, when the news broke that schools would be closing, Sarra’s time in America was cut short. The exchange agency informed their students that they would have to return to their respective countries immediately.

“I felt sad about it because I had a lot of plans for the remainder of the experience,” Sarra added.

Not only would Sarra be unable to walk across the stage at graduation, but he would also be unable to play soccer, hang out with his friends and complete the rest of his experience as a typical American teen.

However, Sarra wasn’t the only person who was disappointed that he would have to leave America. Johnny Bangs, a junior, has been a friend of Sarra’s since he came to the United States.

“I was shocked that he had to go back to Italy early, especially when COVID-19 was pretty bad [there],” Bangs said, referring to the fact that Sarra had to leave the United States a little over a month ago when Italy’s numbers were the highest in the world.

Bangs also added that he will miss Sarra and the many memories they have had together, including watching sports events, like the Super Bowl.

“I wish I could tell him that we miss him and hope he can visit soon,” Bangs concluded.

However, now that Sarra is back in Italy, a return date to America is indefinite and improbable in the near future as COVID-19 continues to stall travel. In the meantime, Sarra has been catching up on school work and spending time with his family. Although he was a senior in the United States, he still has one year left of Italian high school.

Once his high school years are behind him, though, Sarra plans to return to the United States.

“I would like to attend college in the U.S. because I like the American culture, and I’ll have the possibility to play soccer at a higher level,” Sarra said.

Even though his time in America was cut short, Sarra has not been deterred about returning to the United States. He hopes that he will be able to come back to America soon and continue creating memories and building friendships.

*Photos Courtesy of Clara Krabbe and Giacomo Sarra

Who would have thought senior skip day would last this long?

By: Mackenzie Vogt

On March 15, Northwest joined the surrounding districts in cancelling school for at least that coming week. Now a month later, it is known that students will not be returning to the normal definition of school. This is impacting the college admission requirements that seniors would normally be subjected to.

From changing due dates to scheduling virtual admitted student days, needless to say, high school seniors this year will have a different experience from seniors in the past. Lori Merritt, one of the counselors, confirms that fact.

“Usually, our office would be busy with seniors asking questions and getting clarification on how to submit things. Seniors need to be advocating for themselves and asking for help, even though things aren’t normal right now.”

Many colleges, though, are doing their best to work around these circumstances. The University of Nebraska, which includes Lincoln, Kearney and Omaha, has announced they will be offering free tuition to in-state undergraduate students with families making less than $60,000. Most other colleges are allowing high school seniors to make the decision to use either their seventh semester or current GPA.

Also, class ranking, ACT and SAT requirements are being waved at most colleges. Many have also decided to extend the due dates of applying for admission, submitting housing contracts and extending the acceptance of admission. Most colleges have even started to move orientation and tours online.

“Every college that I have been in contact with has been extremely lenient working with kids,” Merritt said. “As long as a student receives credit in the classes they are in they aren’t worried about the grade since most schools have gone to a pass/fail system. If a student doesn’t have an ACT, which is rare, many are allowing admission based on GPA and their school records.”

One of the bigger things to consider is the difference between low-income and high-income students. The closure of schools and beginnings of quarantines eliminates support systems. Students who might have been relying on their parents’ income or even their own to help pay for college may no longer have that luxury. Students will miss out on the support systems that high schools offer, such as teachers and counselors.

If any students have questions about college or school in general, they are encouraged to talk to the admission directors at their desired college or contact either Lori Merritt or Andrew Manhart. Counselors also want to emphasize the importance of students checking their emails for updates and information.

*Photo Obtained from the San Diego Community College District

A possible silver lining?

By: Mackenzie Vogt

The year 2020 began with the continuation of the Australian wildfires, the threat of WWIII and the release of pandemic: the coronavirus. As new statistics about this pandemic appear each day, the coronavirus is also seen impacting the environment.

Most of what the media is calling “improvement to the environment” is due to the decrease of carbon emission. China was the first nation to have a case of the coronavirus, so their quarantine restrictions began first. Since then, there has been an estimated reduction of 250 million tons of carbon emission in China, according to Benjamin Storrow in an article in Scientific America. As an extension to that, Martha Henriques in a BBC article says that the air quality in China was up 11.4 percent. Christopher McFadelen also supports this in Interesting Engineering by saying the pollution of air in China has dropped 10-30 percent.

There have also been other notable countries and areas that have experienced similar improvements. The pollution in New York City has gone down by 50 percent. Henriques highlights that a related cause could be that traffic is down, and McFadelen also supports this by saying transportation counts for 23 percent of global emission. In addition, McFadelen also talks about how the waters of Venice have never been clearer. Fish can now be seen. This is due to the grounding of water boats.

All these impacts of course are not due to the coronavirus directly but indirectly. The impacts are due to self-quarantines and travel restrictions that haven’t been this extensive since WWII. The restrictions that are in place to reduce the spread of disease are also impacting industries that can be linked to carbon emissions. Industries that have been impacted and also have an effect on carbon emissions are airports and the gasoline industry.

Experts at the Center for International Climate and Environmental Research are also discussing the lasting impact that the pandemic will make on the future. They predict that carbon emission will go down a projected .3 percent globally. To put that in perspective, Storrow talks about how during the Great Recession (2008-2009), emission went down 1.3 percent due to the economy. After the economy restored itself, though, emissions then rose to 5 percent.

Carbon emission could bounce back after normalcy returns to daily lives. The when of that will help determine the impact on the environment, but also some believe that behavioral changes could happen. Behavioral changes occur when an outside force changes the way one lives their day-to-day life. So, due to the coronavirus, new daily routines may form, and even after the new routine isn’t necessary, it may stick.

For now though, the improvements to the environment may be a little bit of good in the bad.

*Photo Obtained from BBC

Sorensen resigns after five successful years

By: Emelia Richling

 

In the past five years, it suffices to say that Northwest’s athletes, coaches and students have done an amazing job of coming together to win three state championships, two state runner-up championships, 19 district championships and four sportsmanship awards, a distinction Michael Sorensen, the athletic director, is especially proud of. After several years of helping student-athletes and coaches earn a long list of accolades, Sorensen is resigning.

Since the fall of 2015, Sorensen has served in a position in which he directs and organizes primarily athletic events, but he has also worked with other extracurriculars, including the music department. Although some students may not directly interact with him, Sorensen is a large part of many of the activities that students participate in, working behind the scenes to schedule activities, supervise events and facilitate policies.

However, after his wife was offered a position as a principal in Grant, Sorensen had to make a decision about whether the couple should stay in Grand Island or move.

“We had planned on living apart next school year,” Sorensen said. “She would live in Grant, and I would live in Grand Island and continue working at Northwest.”

Near the end of March, however, the plan changed.

When a principal position opened up at Chase County, a school closer to where his wife will work, Sorensen understood it was an opportunity he should seize. After applying for the position, he was offered the job.

“I thought it would be a great opportunity,” Sorensen commented. “The best part was not being separated from my wife by 175 miles.”

After five successful years at Northwest, many students and teachers will be sad to see Sorensen leave because of the impact he has had on the school and the athletic program.

“He wants the best for each program in the school,” said Alex Hull, the golf coach. “He wants coaches to think big and push their students. He doesn’t tolerate people expecting less than the best out of their student-athletes.”

Sorensen concluded by thanking Northwest for five wonderful years, encouraging students to always appreciate their teachers and reminding staff members to continue doing their best.

“I will always have a special place in my heart for Northwest High School, and I will continue to cheer for you from a distance. I want Northwest to be the best in Class B in everything!”

*Photo Courtesy of Tally Creative

 

COVID-19 makes both hashtags and headlines

 

By: Haili Luevano

In recent months, COVID-19 has not only affected 500,000+ people in the U.S., as of April 12, 2020 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but has also spread across the news and social media.

With quarantine allowing more time for media, news networks have received a rapid increase in attention, as well as various other media platforms. 

“The most influential social media platforms at this time are Facebook, Instagram and TikTok,” said Eli Flodman, a junior from GISH. “With so much free time, one always has to scroll through their phone.”

Most apps and websites offer a complementary warning about COVID-19 when you first log in or open the site, such as TikTok and lesser-known forums such as Sufficient Velocity and SpaceBattles. Pinterest even restricted the search of ‘Coronavirus memes’ in an effort to stop the spread of misinformation and instead replaced all results with posts about how to effectively wash your hands and prevent the growth of the virus.

Even with these restrictions, people are still finding time to make light of the situation in humorous ways. A quick scroll through Tumblr shows the many memes being posted about the coronavirus. The same can be said for TikTok and other YouTube channels that upload content pertaining to the pandemic. 

In addition, the majority of ads of YouTube have been overtaken by various celebrities declaring their support for quarantine and urging others to stay home to lessen the spread of the pandemic. The hashtag #withme has also increased by 600 percent since March 15, according to YouTube. Videos with titles such as “work at home,” “craft with me” and “cook with me” have received an ever-growing amount of views.

“I’ll admit, a few of [the jokes] are kinda funny,” said Autumn Graczyk, a sophomore. “But we could probably stand to dial down the amount of them. I understand that some people cope with situations through humor, but I think the humor should be respectful because for some people this situation is absolutely terrifying.”

Contrasting this, news channels are providing real-time, hard facts over COVID-19. Fox News Channel, MSNBC and CNN, referred to as the “Big Three,” continue to cover this topic the most. They tell of the rapidly-climbing number of cases, as well as the face mask shortage that hospitals and clinics are trying desperately to solve. 

With the mix of content being distributed to the public, it’s easy to confuse humor with horror. 

“I’ve seen some news articles saying how hospitals are needing supplies,” said Beau Studley, art teacher. “Other people are saying everything’s okay and we’re going to be over this in a couple weeks … No one’s really sure how to take it.”

While jokes may help alleviate the tension and help pass the time under the restrictions of quarantine, it’s important to remember that while the threat of COVID-19 is avoidable, it’s still dangerous.

Whether you pass your time watching the news, scrolling through social media posts or doing something else, remember to keep a safe distance from others and take the necessary precautions to keep the community as healthy and safe as possible.

*Photo by Haili Luevano

Lights! Camera! Postponed…

By: Emily Krupicka

Northwest High School’s long-anticipated production of “Hairspray” has been moved back to an undetermined date due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus. 

When school was first called off, many worried about the future of the musical. When an announcement was made to postpone the show, many students expressed distress and disappointment.

“Honestly, I was really looking forward to the musical,” said Sophomore Sydney Fisher. “I obviously understand the decision, but it’s sad because everyone was so dedicated. I hope that we can still do something!”

“Hairspray” the movie first was released in 1988 and later went on to inspire the Broadway show of the same name, which became an instant success after its debut in 2002.

Senior Abby Schneckloth, Northwest’s female lead who was set to play Tracy Turnblad, said that “Hairspray” takes place in a 1960s Baltimore, Maryland.

The plot centers around Turnblad, a quirky teen who auditions for “The Corny Collins Show.” After her unexpected win, she becomes an instant celebrity. With her newfound spotlight, she uses her fame to incorporate ideas of racial integration into the show. 

“The musical had a really great message of acceptance and understanding,” added Fisher. “It’s really too bad that people won’t get to see that just yet.”

To the students participating in the musical, the show also had a profound message of hard work and resilience. Cast members spent countless hours in after-school rehearsals to perfect their lines and their singing, each person dedicated to crafting a seamless performance.

Despite the show not being able to go on as of now, students have still expressed gratitude and understanding of the situation.

If spectators will not be able to view the show in person, there is still hope for a livestream event.

Carter Levander (Link Larkin) and Abby Schneckloth (Tracy Turnblad) rehearse their choreography for “Hairspray.”

“I’ve enjoyed working with all the cast members; they made the long rehearsals worth it.” -Carter Levander

“This whole experience has been absolutely amazing. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the cast.” -Abby Schneckloth

“Even if the show can’t go on, you really can’t stop the beat! I’m proud of everyone!” -Sydney Fisher

*Photos by Gera Baltasar-Salinas

The isolation diaries: Taking a look at our lockdown lifestyles (teacher/administrator edition)

 

By: Emelia Richling

The switch from physical classrooms to Google classrooms is a transition that is more than just difficult for students. Teachers and administrators have constructed an online schooling system, facilitating the shift in the way learning is amassed by the masses of students who feel like they are now attending Zoom University.

Melanie Haith, an English and French teacher, weighed in on the recent switch to online teaching, describing some unique challenges she has faced as a foreign language teacher.

“French is a special challenge,” Haith said. “I try to find short, effective YouTube videos to help explain new concepts, so it’s more like having a mini class with a teacher presenting the information.”

In addition to the education aspect, Haith also discussed how the quarantine has been difficult in other ways. With no definitive end to the pandemic, she described how there is a lot of uncertainty about when life will resume.

“There is no timeline,” Haith commented. “That’s been one of the hardest things to wrap my head around. I want a quarantine countdown!”

Haith concluded by reminding students that, although this is a time of great sacrifice for many, she hopes we learn that life can change in an instant, so “don’t take anything or anyone in your life for granted.”

However, it isn’t just the teachers who have had to adjust. The administrators have also been working hard to ensure that the transition occurring in education is as seamless as possible.

Tim Krupicka, the principal, discussed how the recent events have been extremely difficult to adjust to, adding that he has been following the lead of many people around him who have been doing a good job of making adjustments to the way education is delivered and received in the era of the coronavirus.

“I still go to school almost every day,” Krupicka said. “I am not at school for as many hours, so I try to organize what I need to do at school so I can be more productive.”

When he isn’t at school, Krupicka said that he has been staying at home, working on projects such as mowing the lawn and walking his dog. However, he added that he is definitely a people person, so he has missed seeing students and teachers, getting the chance to have conversations with them and building relationships.

With social distancing and quarantine restrictions, building relationships and having conversations is more difficult than ever, but Krupicka also offered some valuable advice for the tough times that we are currently going through.

“We can choose to complain about it and do nothing, or we can make positive changes from this experience. Out of struggles can come opportunities. Those who best utilize these opportunities are the ones who will be well-rounded individuals when the pandemic is over.”

Lately, we have all faced unprecedented struggles, but taking a chance to look at the lives of our teachers and administrators is one way we can be together while we are apart.

*Photo Courtesy of Emily Krupicka

Virus prompts exchange students to leave early

 

By: Emily Krupicka

Amidst the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, students are being asked to limit travel and stay away from others; however, the foreign exchange students attending Northwest High School have been asked to return to their home countries, cutting their stay in Grand Island short.

Gera Baltasar, a junior, arrived in the United States at the beginning of August. While stepping foot into a new country, she was hopeful about her stay in Nebraska, and, after returning home, she relished in her memories of her time in the Midwest.

“I truly enjoyed my time in America. My favorite memory was going to watch the show choir in Omaha at one of their competitions.”

Baltasar, as well as the other exchange students, made many lifelong memories here, but she was hoping to make even more in the coming months.

The students were scheduled to return back to their home countries a week after the school year ended. However, due to the coronavirus outbreak, the exchange agency requested them to return home earlier than expected. Even though the ubiquity of the outbreak has been proven perilous, the abrupt ending to their American studies was still unexpected.

“More than disappointed, I was sad and frustrated about not getting to spend more time with my friends in Grand Island, but I understood what a difficult decision the exchange agency had to make,” Baltasar said,

When she was sent back to her home country of Spain, which, at the time, was a global hotspot for the outbreak, many were saddened by her leave. Many were also worried for her overall well-being.

“I wish that I could explain to her how much her being my best friend changed my life. I hope she’s doing okay there,” said Sophomore Danyka Galvan.

In a video commemorating their time spent together, Galvan recalled the fond memories she and her friend had made during her stay.

Baltasar’s impact made a profound impact on the lives of many in Nebraska. As she battles with the abnormality of transitioning to life back in Spain, she leaves behind a promise of return.

“I will visit the U.S. again, and I can’t wait to go back and see everyone.”

*Photo Courtesy of Gera Baltasar

The isolation diaries: Taking a look at our lockdown lifestyles (student edition)

By: Emelia Richling

Across the country, schools are being shut down and self-quarantining is becoming the new norm. Even just a few months ago, none of us could have ever imagined such extreme measures. However, now that the measures are in place, people are reacting to the quarantine restrictions differently, from those who are using the extra hours for sleeping to those who are trying to be more productive.

Sydney Fisher, a sophomore, said that she has actually been more productive, managing school in the mornings and working on her business, Sydney’s Scrunchies, in the afternoon.

“Whether it’s posting on Instagram or sewing scrunchies, it keeps me busy almost every day,” Fisher said.

For some students, including Fisher, the challenge isn’t necessarily being productive but finding a quiet place to work. With siblings home from college and many parents working from home, a lot of families are now under the same roof again, creating a louder and more distracting atmosphere.

“I’ve walked in on a Zoom call more than once,” Fisher added. “It can be tough to stay focused and not get distracted.”

Amidst the challenge of staying productive and focused, there have also been a different set of challenges that some students have had to face. Activities, such as cheerleading, generally hold tryouts during this time of year, but, with the quarantine restrictions in place, they have had to find a different way to give students the same opportunity.

“This year, we had to do virtual cheer tryouts,” said Lauren Morrow, a junior. “It was difficult because we weren’t able to work with other people on the stunting and cheers.”

Morrow also discussed how she has been less productive, adding that she has definitely spent more time on social media platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat, but she also mentioned how she has been trying to stay productive by working on homework, spending time outside and completing household projects, such as cleaning.

The past several weeks have been difficult as we adjust to the new era of uncertainty settling around us, but getting the chance to take a look at the lockdown lifestyles of our peers can make us feel more together, even if we are miles apart.

*Photo Courtesy of Sydney Fisher