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From Hype to Bankrupt

Restaurants fail their first year after opening, which is false, they actually stay open for a lot longer than that, it was mainly popularized with TV and people just believe that. There are actually a lot of businesses that fail. On the other hand there are many businesses that open. The open to close ratio is something that is very surprising to many. 

There are a lot of businesses that fail–about 20% of businesses fail every year, 49.4% of businesses fail every five years and 65.3% of businesses fail every ten years. That’s a lot of businesses.

According to the Chamber of Commerce, about 627,000 businesses open up every year, and about 595,000 fail each year but the 32,000 that remain open are still pretty good. There are about 32.5 million businesses that are currently open in America making up 99.9% of all businesses in America. A lot of these businesses or about 20% of them are expected to fail in the first year. Then as time keeps going about 5 years 49.4% are expected to but if they have made it passed it that’s a milestone for business. Then about 10 years go by and 65.3% are expected to fail but of course, if they have made it they are set or they are going to fail soon. 

Photo Credit: Kevin Picone

Surprisingly enough businesses like restaurants aren’t deemed to fail the first year they are opened like everyone says.  It’s said that about 90% of restaurants fail in their first year but that’s not true. According to Adam Guild, only 14% of restaurants fail in their first year. Restaurants were just said to fail in the first year from TV back in the early 2000s. Restaurants are known to fail or be an unsafe business practice because they are very easy to go under, such as if the food isn’t good and people don’t go there or if no one knows about the place then no one shows up. 

There are many reasons why a business fails and that’s why the percentages are so high and there are so many. One of the biggest reasons why businesses fail is there is no need for their services or products. An example of this would be cable TV because of newer streaming platforms cable doesn’t survive well in this new generation. There are a lot of mid-range reasons why a business might fail and that could be they ran out of money, they don’t have the right people running their business, they have been bested by a competitor, or there is a price and cost issue. Then some reasons don’t always make a business fail such as a poor product offering, a lack of business model, poor marketing, or they ignore their customers. 

In a little bit more specific case KTM, a motorcycle dealer based in Austria is starting to go under after having to pay a loan of 600 million euros. KTM stopped production last year in 2024 because of a lack of money and parts, the pandemic, chip shortages, and supply hiccups. This year 2025 they stopped production again for the same reason of no money or parts, and only could produce 4,200 motorcycles. 

Photo Credit: Kevin Picone

If KTM were to shut down and never come back it would be a very quiet time in the moto industry. Though a lot of people do favor KTM or like KTM they are a good brand with something here. They have made so many people’s lives with the ability to ride whatever they want whether it be on the dirt or on the road. If KTM shuts down people that own these bikes and vehicles would be left with nothing basically because no one could make these parts or any new bikes.

People learn from KTMs mistakes and what KTM has to bring to the table for performance and riding. Losing a brand like this would limit the bikes even more because there isn’t much for the riders out there, especially if they grew up on a KTM and wanted to stick with it. Some other companies such as Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, and Kawasaki make beginner bikes and road bikes and though there are four when you have more options you can really dial in what you like because every brand is different.

Figuring out why these businesses are closing is important to the consumer that loves the brand. If no one knows why they are doing bad they could never help or try and support them. KTM is one of those brands that should be kept here as long as they can because they help the people that want to live on the roads that these bikes are meant to be on.

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Breaking The Silence Behind Bullying

About 1 in 5 students experience bullying throughout the school year in the United States.
There are so many different views about bullying; some feel as if it’s when someone says a mean word, others think it’s physical, while even a couple of people believe that it’s not even a real thing. So, which one is it?

what is bullying?

Bullying is an unwanted and aggressive behavior with mostly school-aged people that involves a power imbalance. It has to be repeated over a course of time. The person who is considered the bully will use their power, such as strength, access to embarrassing information, or popularity, to control or harm others. There is a possibility that it can change over time, but it depends on the situation and the people involved in it.

In the United States, kids ranging from 12–18 have experienced bullying of some kind, resulting in low self-esteem and a tendency to isolate themselves from the people around them. Bullying doesn’t just result in those two things, but it can lead to other side effects, such as performing poorly in school, having few friends, a negative view of school, experiencing physical symptoms of stress like headaches, stomachaches, or sleeping problems. They also include mental health problems such as depression, suicidal thoughts, and anxiety.

photo credits Antonio Friedemann; Unsplashed

Is bullying just physical? Actually, no, there are a couple of different types. The most common types are verbal, which includes name-calling, teasing, insults, and racist or homophobic comments; social harassment, which includes humiliation or harm to reputation, such as spreading rumors, getting others to exclude the individual, or cruel jokes meant to embarrass; physical, such as hitting, pushing, or property damage; and cyberbullying, which is bullying through a device. The following is how common each type of bullying is : verbal harassment, 75%, social harassment, 50%, physical bullying, 29%, and cyberbullying, 25%.

When someone is getting bullied, it doesn’t necessarily only affect the victim, but it can also affect the people around them. The aggressor and even the bystanders have to deal with the consequences. Young people who are bullying others are at a higher risk of substance abuse, academic problems, and experiencing violence in both adolescence and adulthood. The people who are surrounded by it are subjected to having alcohol or drug problems; on top of that, they might have increased mental health problems. 57% of bullying incidents stop when a peer intervenes on behalf of a student being bullied; however, peers witnessing the bullying intervene less than 20% of the time

Park River Interviews

People were interviewed at the Park River High School to get a better understanding of the topic. The staff were interviewed first. The counselor at Park River High School states, “Students are taught more early on in their elementary school years, more so than high school does.”

While the kids are getting taught by their counselors, the staff at the beginning of the year go through meetings where they go through different topics of staff mental health and professional development for about 4 hours, which is state-required. The counselor at the high school vocalizes that there isn’t the best system for educating staff on the topic of bullying. When you first start working here, you get told where the bullying forms are to be filled out and that you’re told there is a zero tolerance to bullying, leading to the conclusion that the high school doesn’t teach more in-depth about it.

What are the steps that are taken to report a bullying incident? The school counselor notes that it depends on whom it’s reported to. If it’s reported to a counselor, she has to follow confidentiality ethics that have to be followed. The first question that is asked after a student reports is always, “Should we talk to Mr. Justin?” The reason for this is that some kids just need to vent about the situation, not necessarily wanting to get the other kids in trouble. But if it’s gone too far, it gets brought to the principal. The only people in the room during this time would be the victim, the principal, and the school counselor. After talking to the principal, it gets moved onto him talking to any kid who was either involved or witnessed the situation. If there is anyone who can verify what was said or done, then the next step is to fill out a bullying report form that you can retrieve from Mr. Justin and Ms. Ulland.

If bullying is happening off school grounds, it gets tricky because the school doesn’t have control in that aspect. So they can’t reprimand a student for picking on somebody or bullying another during non-school hours, and not in school. Bullying or threatening behaviors is a level three offense; it goes straight to the minimum, which for the first offense is detention, and the maximum is expulsion.

The second staff member states that “Students at Park River are overall respectful of others, but there are bound to be issues that arise occasionally at any school. Whether that be drama or bullying, it does happen, and we as teachers do our best to prevent or stop these things from going too far. I feel that our school atmosphere is generally a welcoming place. With that being said, I also think that there are unfortunately times that bullying gets dismissed/misread as just ‘joking around’ or not noticed and addressed. Our school could sometimes do better at assessing the consequences needed due to bullying.”

He believes that bullying can have serious effects on individuals that decrease self-esteem, leading to depression, as well as, worst case, feeling isolated or singled out. In his classroom, he tries to prevent any situation that leads to bullying or teasing so that his students will feel comfortable being their true selves.

On the student end of this, a few students were interviewed from different grades. When asked how the atmosphere at the school is, one student voices that they feel as if the atmosphere isn’t all that positive due to a lack of positivity and equal equality in their grade. They state, “A lot of people like to attack each other just for ego boosts or just to seem cool to their peers.” Students like to attack each other due to many people being in different types of cliques, and since they are in different types of cliques, there isn’t a chance for others to get to know each other due to there being so many people. While they aren’t able to get to know their peers, they tend not to know what each other is going through personally.

The student claims that people aren’t very accepting when someone different comes along. If you don’t dress a certain way or act a certain way, you are automatically ostracized. A time was stated when the more popular kids in their grade started teasing a student for a haircut. They ended up getting asked if they were gay by the same people multiple times after denying it. It only eventually stopped after it had grown out.

Conclusion

Bullying has a massive effect on students. School staff need to be taught how to handle situations and be able to intervene between disputes that are going too far. Schools need to pay more attention as well as become more informed on the topic.

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The Advantages and Disadvantages of Working Students

Have you ever experienced working a job and attending school simultaneously? 

An article from Lumina states “64% of college students work, and 40% work full time.” At Park River Area High School most of the students’ upkeep working opportunities while going to school, but what are the effects on these students? 

Based on a survey conducted at Park River Area High School relating to students and work. The survey was sent to 12 individuals asking a variety of questions such as “Do you feel like your work life has interfered with your school life?” or “Is balancing work and school stressful?”

Six of the students agreed to work interfering with their school life while four chose sometimes, and two said it didn’t. The second question was open-ended, so they were all able to answer in their own words and explain.

Over half of the students who filled out the survey admitted that work does become stressful but they explain that the money is worth it, although it causes them to have less free time. Within the survey, the students were also questioned about their priorities regarding school and work.

Out of the 12 students half reported that they value school over work, and the other half admitted that they prioritize work more. They explained that work provided money, which helped provide things for their life.

Others said they prioritized work because they didn’t want to get fired, they wanted to earn money more than they cared for school, and some explained that they were almost done with school so it had less importance to them. Only one student said both, and explained that they “need school and work for money.” 

Research done by Portland State University states “Students work for a variety of reasons, including to meet financial needs like paying tuition and rent, to gain experience related to career goals, and to earn spending money.” When you think of students working, something to consider is not everyone has a choice. Some students need to work to meet their needs, whether it’s high school or college. Although college students are more likely to pay rent, some high school students could be put in the same position. 

The impact of multitasking work and school at the same time goes beyond how students do in their classes, but what are the effects? An article titled “Support for working students” says “Work can affect students’ abilities to engage in academically enriching practices. These include devoting time to assignments and studying; making connections with classmates and faculty; and participating in activities such as attending talks or participating in research.“

The quote explains the schooling aspect of balancing education and work. The effects on the individuals can vary. Stress is a common feeling. An article by Malta media  states “students’ problems affect health, cause constant stress, anxiety and social integration deficit…changes in energy, lack of sleep, appetite, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, difficulty concentrating, and feeling sad, empty, hopeless, worthless, or guilty.”

There are pros and cons regarding this subject. Although students balancing attending school and going to work can have negative effects, it also teaches students how to improve time management skills. The Article “Support for working students” Says “The need to balance school and work allows these students to develop skills related to time management, organization, and developing routines.” 

Research done by Walden University explains that working students get the benefit of learning how education and working can go hand in hand, while also working low-paying jobs teaches students that if they want to earn a “good living” schooling is an important part of that equation.The article describes how it can help students learn the value of money. Along with them earning their own money, it allows them to rely on their income for any wants an individual might have.

When a student is working a job it shows them the real life of budgeting their income and allows them to gain confidence from withholding a job. On top of all these benefits, the article also explains how it helps occupy time so there’s less availability for teens to get into trouble. 

In conclusion, working a job as a student can poorly impact your school, but it can be compromised by working a maximum of 20 hours, and setting up a routine that works for you. As a student who works there are a variety of pros and cons, but knowing how the negatives can impact you, and persevering through challenges.

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The Heart of the Land: Farmers in Our Communities

Photo Credit: James Baltz

According to Population Education, “A hundred years ago, nearly one-third of the U.S. population was involved in farming and there were 6.5 million farms in the country … Today there are 1.9 million farms, and farmers account for only 1 percent of the population.”

Farmers are a central part of our community and North Dakota. With endless fields of wheat, soybeans and corn. When you think Farmers, what do you think about them and what they do for the community? When one thinks about farmers, the image is often of labor, vast farmland, unspoken connection with the land, and where our food comes from.

Farmers, however, are much more than sweaty laborers working until the sun goes down. They are integral members of their communities, balancing the hard and sweaty demands of their job, but also their community’s values. In North Dakota, where agriculture is the state’s economic lifeblood, with “Nearly 24% of North Dakota workers are farmers and ranchers or are employed in farm-related jobs”, according to North Dakota Studies. Farming is not just a way of life, it’s one of the main identities of so many people. To understand how farmers are perceived, one must first understand and explore both the challenges they face and the respect they hold in the community.

A survey was given to 9th-12th graders at Park River Area High School, 27 students responded. Out of the 27 responses, 55.6% reside in Park River, while the other 44.4% live in other towns and districts. With this 40.7% said they lived outside of city limits, which should have a high correlation with having one or more parents who are working in agriculture. And it turns out that 19.6% of students had one or more parents in production agriculture, while the national average is around or less than 2%, according to The Farm Bureau.

While having this big of a leap in children who live on farms, it was surprising to see how little the respondents knew and thought about farmers, the majority thought that they only provide us food, which isn’t wrong but farmers don’t just produce food, they provide jobs and other economic stability to their own communities. Also when I asked a few students to describe their view of a farmer, most of them described your stereotypical farmer, older, mainly white and middle class.

When people think of farming, many envision long days spent working the land, and yeah, that is something that has not changed much over the years. Instead of using their back and horse drawn plows, they now have become more reliant on tractors, satellite tech, and data driven plans and strategies to ensure the best crop yields to meet market demands. Still the public perception remains rooted in outdated ideas of farming as a simple and seasonal occupation. This gap in understanding has led to a disconnect between farmers and the general public, especially those living in big cities and urban areas with little experience and exposure to the agricultural life.

Photo Credit: Orosz Razvan

Despite the challenges they face, farmers are admired as pillars of the community. In small towns across North Dakota including Park River, farmers are not only business owners but also volunteers, mentors, and supporters of their local community. It is a mutual relationship, farmers benefit from their communities and the communities depend on farmers. Farmers are crucial to their local economy, providing jobs not only on the farm but also in the agricultural related sectors, such as grain elevators, equipment sales, and transportation of agricultural goods.

In recent years, the perception of farmers has shifted toward an appreciation of their efforts to sustainability. Environmental stewardship has become an increasingly more important aspect of modern farming, with many farmers adopting more sustainable practices to ensure the long term sustainability and health of the lands.

According to a local farmer a couple of these tactics are No-Till, this is when you directly drill in seed into the ground, drain till, where you put piping in the ground to allow excess water to runoff, and cover crops. The public is becoming more aware of the challenges farmers face in balancing productivity with environmental concerns.

The perception of farmers in North Dakota is a blend of admiration and respect. Though their numbers have been dwindling, the importance of their contributions can not be overstated.

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Is The Buzz Worth It?

When you think about caffeine consumption in teens what is the first thing you think of: the benefits of caffeine or the risks of caffeine? 

Some of the well-known benefits of caffeine are higher levels of focus, which in theory would help students study and do assignments. It’s unproven but some studies suggest that caffeine in moderation can help people with ADHD to focus as well.  

Featured in Medical News Today, better athletic performance has been shown in some studies, indicating that caffeine makes you feel less exhausted and reduces fatigue during and after exercise. Heightened senses from the energy given by caffeine would help in sports because athletes could be more aware of their surroundings. According to University of North Carolina Health Talk, in small amounts it can also help with headaches, and can even be found in over-the- counter medications such as Excedrin. 

Free A close-up photo showcasing freshly brewed coffee in a white cup with visible bubbles. Stock Photo

We should talk about some of the most common downsides of caffeine, however. A large amount of caffeine can cause sleep issues, which could be problematic for students. They may be tired which would make them non productive at school and could fall asleep in class which can affect their grades. Caffeine in moderation can help you focus but in larger amounts it can cause the opposite effect making it very hard to focus. This could cause students to start “zoning out” in class. 

Even local healthcare workers have shared experiences of seeing dangerous heart arrhythmias in patients who have consumed too much caffeine, which can definitely put students’ physical health at risk on top of the effects that it can have on things like your ability to think.

Now for some Opinions from local teachers on caffeine effects on students:

 “My take on caffeine is that kids are getting too much and it is not helping with their concentration and their focus.”  – Ms. Lipsh 

“I think that students need caffeine if it is what they like. Just like anything else, I believe in moderation. Anyone that likes caffeine should consume it in my opinion, but they need to avoid overconsumption for their health.” – Mr. Young 

 “I feel that too much caffeine (used outside of moderation) can affect students (or anyone) in a negative way, especially those on medication. It is all about moderation.” – Ms. Moberg 

I agree with Ms. Lipsh that caffeine can affect concentration and focus, however from my own observation, it doesn’t seem to affect some students the same as others. Mr. Young makes a good point as well. Caffeine should be consumed in moderation because it could possibly benefit you in some ways, like the ability to focus better and keeping you aware and not tired in classes.

As a person who is personally sensitive to caffeine because of medications, I can definitely say that Ms. Moberg is on to something. I get super sick and feel terrible when I drink that extra energy drink and it can affect my ability to focus and get school work done.

So, I think we can all agree – moderation is key. Caffeine in general isn’t going to hurt, and has some great benefits, but don’t overdo it.

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Faking It: The Risky Reality Behind Student Use of Fake IDs

Photo Credit: Georgi Dyulgerov, Unsplash

From the National Library of Medicine, “In college, roughly 42% of students nationwide reported having five or more drinks in one sitting within two weeks.” This report highlights an ongoing problem that has persisted for a long time. Fake IDs are often used by underage teens to purchase alcohol. Having friends in college and sisters living in a college town, I hear about how common they truly are.

A survey taken by seniors at my high school showed that 78% of students know someone who has owned or currently has a fake ID. This is a high number, especially coming from just the seniors in high school. Word of mouth is a key factor and plays a significant role in distributing fake IDs. With people already being aware of them, it becomes easier for teens to acquire fakes with the help of their friends.

Peer pressure plays a significant role in the decisions teens make. It can lead them to engage in risky behavior that could get them into trouble. Oftentimes, this includes alcohol or nicotine, which they can’t legally obtain. In their minds, they want to access these substances more easily or without the markup from someone buying them. This is why fake IDs have become so prominent in teenagers’ lives today—gaining easier access to buy what they want feels like freedom to them.

Purchasing alcohol with a fake ID can be incredibly dangerous. Getting caught using one could lead to serious consequences. According to The Nieves Law Firm, Anyone caught with a fake ID can be charged with a felony, along with a hefty fine and possible imprisonment for one year or more. They also can prevent  voting, serving on a jury, owning firearms, and obtaining certain licenses or jobs.

After compiling this information, I conducted a survey asking students a few questions. In the survey, I found information that shocked me.

Regarding the punishments for getting caught with a fake ID, 72% of the students knew that it could lead to serious consequences. With that in mind, you might ask, why would someone risk getting caught with a fake ID despite these serious punishments? The answer is that many places don’t report fake IDs after they are confiscated.

In a conversation with a fellow student, I asked him this question. He responded that “90% of the time, they don’t turn them in. I’ve even heard of them selling them back to the person who tried to use them.” He added, “I’ve known about people who have had this happen more than once.” If people know that they can easily avoid charges and even buy back their ID, the risks become less intimidating.

There are other risks involved with buying a fake ID. The people you buy them from are not always trustworthy. To create a fake ID, you must provide personal information, such as your address to have it shipped and your full name. According to the University of Colorado, This information can be used for identity theft, redirecting your mail, or even accessing more sensitive data.

black and white rectangular frame
Photo Credit: Tobias Tullius, Unsplash

In an interview with a college student, he shared a story about a friend who had been affected by this. He said, “He was signed up for things under his name that he did not do.” Some of the websites his friend was signed up for were sketchy and gave him viruses when he visited them to check them out.

Personal information can also be used to create things that could get you into trouble. That’s why keeping your information safe is critical to everyone’s safety.

The same student also stated, “I’ve known people who have gotten caught and gotten into big trouble with the police.” As mentioned earlier, the punishments for using a fake ID can be harsh and have lasting consequences. A felony conviction can dramatically affect someone’s life, including their job prospects. It can even restrict them from getting government jobs, if they can get one at all.

I believe that fake IDs are not worth the risk. The consequences do not outweigh the potential benefits. Although you might think that some people are “dumb” for getting caught and that “I won’t get caught,” there are many things out of their control—like the theft of your personal information or the need to recover your ID. There are reasons why fake IDs are illegal: they are meant to protect people’s safety.

In conclusion, rethinking your decision to get a fake ID could be life-changing. Getting into trouble with the police could affect your life forever, as a felony conviction can prevent you from voting, owning firearms, serving on a jury, holding certain jobs, accessing specific benefits, and traveling internationally.

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Impacts of Sleep on Students

Do you ever feel super tired throughout the day and want to take a nap?

According to Hershner, Chervin, 50% of students report daytime sleepiness. On top of that, 70% of students don’t get enough sleep, or they don’t get good quality sleep. With that being said, many students in the world are not getting enough sleep, and it could show up in their school work or performance in their day-to-day life.

Sleep for students is very important. For most students, sleep is important because it helps the information they learn in school stick in their heads so they remember it. For example, if you are studying for a test, you are going to want to get good quality sleep after studying because it will help the information stick in your memory, so you can do better in school. According to Bureau of Indian Education, “Students who do not get enough sleep are more likely to struggle with concentration, problem-solving, and retaining information”.

School is very stressful for students, the way it is. To improve their memory, students can make school easier on themselves by getting a good night’s rest. Without sleep, a student may experience a negative impact on their school performance, which can show up in their grades and even in their health.

woman in blue shirt lying on bed
Photo Credit: Shane

After seeing some statistics about sleep that students get across the world, I asked some of the students from Park River Area School if they feel like they do better in school when they get more sleep at night. I got a few different answers when interviewing them.

Noah Troftgruben said, “Yes, the more sleep I get, the better I feel throughout the day, and I feel like my work is easier to do because I am not trying to procrastinate. If I do not get enough sleep, I feel tired and I can not concentrate”.

Madison Bernhoft explained, “Yes, I am more productive and get less distracted throughout the day. If I do not get enough sleep, I am less efficient when completing my work in class. Then I have to do it at home”.

Nevin Daley stated, “Yes, I feel as if I have a longer attention span throughout the day and can easily focus on what I am doing”.

Cutter Gillespie had a different opinion and said,” No, not a chance, I do just fine.”

Although Cutter had a different perspective, I have personally heard many people in school say that they are tired or even seen that they fall asleep or yawn throughout the whole day.

I believe that being tired the next day can also help a student become more aware of their situation in life. I think that it can teach students a valuable lesson in how to use their time wisely and get important things done right away, and not procrastinate. As a student, I think that there are many ways that we can learn even outside of a classroom, and this is just one example.

On the other hand, students need sleep in order to function and perform well in school. A study from Mayo Clinic says that kids from the age of 13 – 18 need at least eight to ten hours of sleep every 24 hours for them to be considered well-rested.

After I saw that students need eight to ten hours of sleep a night, I sent out a survey to some of the students from Park River Area High School to see if they were getting enough sleep. In total, I got 36 responses from the student body that did the survey, and almost half did not get enough sleep.

Alongside students not getting enough sleep, many of them say that their lack of sleep is because of the amount of homework they receive in school. Homework that students receive can make a substantial difference in how many hours of sleep they get, especially if they are in extracurricular activities.

Being in sports and having a job is also a major factor in the amount of sleep students get. Many of the students at Park River High School have jobs or are in sports, which can make them push off their work until late at night. This can lead to many of them not achieving the necessary eight to ten hours of sleep every night and not doing the best that they can.

Sleep can play a very important role in a student’s performance every day. Getting the right amount of sleep can help many of them achieve their goals in and out of a school setting.

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When Silence Hurts: Confronting Teen Suicide in North Dakota

Photo by Zhivko Minkov on Unsplash

In North Dakota, a quiet crisis is growing louder, one that doesn’t always make headlines, but leaves deep and lasting scars on communities across the state. Teen suicide has become a pressing concern, with rate that consistently surpass national averages. It’s a problem that cuts across rural towns and urban schools, affecting students, families, teachers, and mental health professionals alike.

The urgency to understand and confront this heartbreaking issue has never been greater. Recent data from North Dakota KIDS COUNT, “In 2023, 18 percent of high school students seriously considered suicide in the past year.” That statistic means that nearly one in five high schoolers in the state have thought about ending their own life, a number that should send alarm bells through every classroom, household, and legislative office.

These aren’t just statistics. Each number represents a young person struggling. The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction reported that “61.2 percent of high school students said their mental health was not good on at least one day during the 30 days before the survey.” For many teens, these struggles persist over weeks or months, quietly growing heavier until they become overwhelming

While every teen’s story is different, there are patterns and risk factors that show up consistently. One such factor is substance use. The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services notes that “high-risk teens who drink alcohol underage are three times more likely than their non-drinking peers to attempt suicide.” This statistic reflects a dangerous mix of impulsivity, access, and unaddressed emotional pain. Prevention, then, cannot just focus on mental health, it must also address substance use, peer pressure, and the environments in which teens grow up.

Despite these challenges, North Dakota is not without hope. In fact, the state is home to several innovative programs that are working to support struggling youth. ND HOPES is one such effort, a collaboration of over 25 organizations offering suicide prevention education, training, and services throughout western North Dakota. These groups focus on community-level action, working directly with schools, health workers, and families to build awareness and equip people to respond when someone is in crisis.

Another initiative making a real difference is Sources of Strength, a program that originated in Mandan, North Dakota. Unlike many traditional programs that focus solely on identifying warning signs, Sources of Strength emphasizes building up resilience through relationships, peer support, and positive coping strategies. Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, which supports the initiative, noted that it has helped “students create more positive coping mechanisms and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health discussions.” By helping teens talk more openly about mental health, the program is not only saving lives, it’s changing the culture.

One of the most important messages coming from experts across the state is the value of honest, open conversations. According to the North Dakota Department of Health an Human Services “Talking openly and honestly about emotional distress and suicide is okay. It will not make someone more suicidal or put the idea of suicide in their mind.” This quote reflects a growing consensus among mental health professionals that avoiding the topic does far more harm than good. Silence, in fact, can be deadly.

Starting the conversation is often the hardest step. But once those barriers are broken down, real healing can begin. Parents, teachers, and friends all have a role to play, by learning to listen without judgement, by watching for warning signs, and by knowing where to turn for help. Schools across the state are offering mental health first aid training and crisis response education. Peer-to-peer networks are being created to help students support one another. Some schools are even integrating mindfulness and stress management into their everyday curriculum.

The stakes are high. Suicide remains the second leading cause of death among youth in North Dakota, according to the state’s suicide prevention dashboard. Thus makes the issue not just a mental health concern, but a public health emergency. And while the pandemic may no longer dominate headlines, its effects on isolation, anxiety, and depression continue to ripple through the lives of many teens.

Still there is a reason to be hopeful. More students are speaking out. More families are seeking help. More schools are investing in mental health education. The problem may be complex, but the solutions begin with small, brave steps, steps like asking a friend how they’re really feeling, or reaching out to a trusted adult, or picking up the phone to call 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For any student reading this who feels overwhelmed, know this: you are not alone. There are people who care, and there are resources that can help. And for everyone else, listen, learn, and don’t be afraid to ask someone how they’re really doing. That one question could save a life.

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Two Worlds, One Grind: Life as a Student Athlete

Late nights after long after-school practices. Early mornings filled with homework and rushing to the next class. The adrenaline and anxiety of game day, followed by the looming deadline of a paper that still needs to be written. For student athletes, the grind doesn’t stop when the final whistle blows; it only shifts into the next gear.

According to Southern New Hampshire University, a student athlete is defined as “a person who juggles both academics and sports.” But that simple definition barely scratches the surface of what the role truly demands. Balancing academics isn’t just a schedule– it’s a lifestyle, one that demands discipline, sacrifice, and relentless time management. While many admire the glory of game-winning shots or highlight-reel moments, very few see the exhaustion, the pressure, and the constant juggling act that happens behind the scenes.

Photo Credit: Joshua Hoehne; Unsplash

In a recent survey I conducted among student athletes in my school, approximately 88.9% said they’ve felt overwhelmed by these demands. While 44.4% of students reported spending just one to two hours per day on academics outside of class time, 22.2% said they spend three or more hours daily on sports-related activities. It’s no surprise that one in three student athletes say that they find it quite difficult to find a balance between the two. 

“Basketball is a Privilege”

Coach Bob Young, who is the head coach of the boy’s basketball team, sees the struggle firsthand. 

“I think one of the biggest challenges that athletes face is the fact that coaches are demanding of their time, therefore, it is more difficult for them to find the free time to concentrate on homework for extended periods of time. Whether it is a game night, or practice, athletes are required to get home late. Sports require physical and mental demands that are very healthy, but it can make finding ample time to do homework challenging.”

But Coach Young made his priorities clear when he stated:

“I stress academics all the time. Basketball is a privilege. You are here to get an education first and foremost.” 

Young doesn’t just preach academics– he actively supports his athletes in meeting their academic goals. He shared that he’s willing to make accommodations for certain athletes to miss practice or even a game for an important academic situation they need to be a part of. He also tries to share some of his own life experiences to help his players understand that he can relate to them. Young works to foster an environment that values balance. 

“I try to recognize athletes that excel academically, and I also try my best to reach out to students that may be having academic struggles. I want them to know I understand, and I’m here to support them.”

His advice for new athletes?

“I would tell any student athlete to make sure that they take school seriously because results in the classroom are typically related to results on the court, field, or diamond. Sports and academics are structured around some of the same values. Most importantly I would tell them to not get overwhelmed, make a daily or weekly plan and just complete it a step at a time, work hard but have fun, and never be afraid to reach out to a coach, teacher, or administrator because we are all here to support you as athletes but most importantly as students and people.”

What the Stats Don’t Show

The pressure to perform both on the field and in the classroom takes a toll mentally, physically, and emotionally. According to Global Town, student athletes face four major challenges: time management, physical and emotional fatigue, social isolation, and mental health struggles. One student shared that they often feel overwhelmed with all of the activities they’re in, especially in the early months when school is just starting. 

“I’m always busy in the fall. It’s hard to find time for myself because of all the homework and sports practices I have.”

Balancing academic achievement with high-level athletic performance isn’t easy- it demands careful planning and having a strong support system. This ongoing struggle clearly highlights just how important it is for student athletes to have structure, guidance, and encouragement as they navigate both worlds. 

A Lifelong Impact

When nurtured correctly, being a student athlete is more than just grades and wins; it’s about growth. A report from NFHS states, “Participating in high school athletics has long-lasting, definitive benefits, especially when athletic leaders create an environment that challenges and rewards the growth mindset. When participants are supported in this way, they develop lifelong habits that transcend high school.” For many, these habits include grit, time-management, and the ability to perform under pressure- traits that serve far beyond the classroom or court. 

So while the title “student-athlete” may seem pretty straightforward, the reality is anything but simple. It’s a role that demands strength, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to growth in two very different worlds. But for those who can find the balance, the rewards last a lifetime. 

The Economy and You: The Importance of Saving for Retirement
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The Economy and You: The Importance of Saving for Retirement

Imagine that with a steady investment of just $500 monthly, you could have $9.5 million by the time you are 65 years old. No matter what your age or profession, the question of saving for retirement comes up for everyone sooner or later. Retirement is unavoidable, and planning for it is essential.

I will discuss the importance of starting your retirement savings early and emphasize that it’s never too late to start. Everyone has plans, but realizing them requires funds. Investing in your future is the most effective way to ensure you reach your retirement goals.

I have surveyed junior and senior high school students to find out how aware they are of retirement savings. These particular age groups are approaching the point where they can set some clear life goals. To the question, “Have you thought about saving for retirement?” 52.9% of the respondents said they had not thought about it. However, to the question “Do you think it is important to save for retirement?” all 17 participants answered in the positive, which was surprising.

Saving for retirement is valuable at any age because the future is unpredictable. Regardless of your retirement ambitions, taxes and other expenses will remain, so it’s essential to start investing in your future to deal with these financial responsibilities. As someone who studied economics in high school, I have thought about different questions.

One question is: “Is there a difference between saving money earlier or later?”. I posed this question to the people who took my survey and their answers, though different, each have their own share of truth to them

Alexis Restemayer stated, “I don’t think there is a difference, but you can save a little bit at a time if you start earlier; if you start later, you have to save more at once.”

Luke Shirek remarked, “Saving as early as possible is the best step, but sometimes it can be hard to start saving. When you’re young, it’s so much fun to spend money on friends and stuff.”

Cutter Gillespie commented, “I think you should definitely start saving for retirement as early as possible to get a head start, but I can’t give you a specific age to start.”

Obviously, there is no clear answer to this question. However, everyone agrees that there are financial advantages to starting early. A recent study by Voya Financial found that 64% of Americans would like to start saving for retirement before age 25, showing the importance of early financial planning. 

Photo Credit: Anne Nygård, Unsplash

I would also like to bring up the importance of compound interest.  For example, consistently investing 15% of your annual income between the ages of 21 and 65 at 12% interest rate gives a much higher return than if you started at age 40. I decided to calculate this situation for you using the “Retirement Calculator” created by the experts at Ramsey Solutions. If you start investing $500 a month at age 21, earning an average 12% return annually, you could retire with nearly $9.5 million by age 65. Start the same investment at age 40, and you’d end up with just $939,422 nearly ten times less! 

But there’s one catch that more and more people are meeting in their lives. It can be hard to start saving money because many people go to college right out of high school, and not everyone can afford to pay for it without debt. The debt problem will come back to haunt you because you won’t be able to save for retirement right after college because you’ll need to pay off debt.

There was also a question in my survey about the role of financial education in preparing for retirement. Many respondents gave unique answers, and I would like to focus on two of them:

Troy Wessman emphasized, “Financial education plays a huge role in preparing for retirement; you can’t expect to be able to save for retirement if you don’t have an understanding of how the economy and finances work.”

Emma Almen stated, “I believe that quality financial education is very important in preparing people for retirement. It may be the only way to learn how to manage your money throughout your life.”

Photo Credit: Rodion Kutsaiev, Unsplash.

Financial education is an essential part of our lives at any age, but starting at age 21, young adults often have to deal with the heavy responsibility on their own. Dealing with student loans, budgeting for monthly expenses, and planning for the next steps can be an overwhelming task. I believe that preparing for retirement can help with this load as you begin to learn about finances and slowly find ways to make it easier. 

Planning for retirement early not only provides a base for a strong financial future, but it also teaches important money management skills. By understanding concepts like budgeting, saving, and investing, young adults can make informed decisions that ease financial stress and build confidence in their financial abilities.

In conclusion, investing for retirement can help you sort out your personal goals, become more advanced in your financial decisions, and help you avoid mistakes that will result in a big loss of funds. Always remember that when you are investing, there are some words of wisdom:

“Never invest in something you don’t understand.”