Author: Hanna Young

By Hannah Feldman

As the summer sun begins to wane and the crisp, cool air of autumn sets in, trees across the Northern Hemisphere put on a stunning display of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. The annual transformation of leaves is a natural spectacle that has captivated poets, artists, and nature enthusiasts for centuries. But what exactly causes this kaleidoscope of colors? In this article, we’ll explore the science behind the mesmerizing phenomenon of leaves changing colors during the fall.

Chlorophyll: The Green Pigment of Summer: During the spring and summer, the green pigment chlorophyll is the star player in photosynthesis. Chlorophyll captures sunlight and converts it into energy for the tree, allowing it to grow and produce food. It’s the dominant pigment in leaves during these seasons, so they appear green.

Shorter Daylight and Cooler Temperatures: As autumn approaches, the days grow shorter, and temperatures drop. This shift signals to deciduous trees that it’s time to prepare for the harsh winter ahead. The tree begins to conserve energy, and the production of chlorophyll decreases.

Revealing the Hidden Colors: Beneath the green chlorophyll, other pigments have been present all along. Carotenoids, responsible for yellow and orange hues, and anthocyanins, responsible for red and purple hues, are typically masked by the dominant chlorophyll. As chlorophyll production slows, these pigments become more visible.

Yellow and Orange Pigments – Carotenoids: Carotenoids are present in the leaf year-round but are typically overshadowed by the green of chlorophyll. When chlorophyll breaks down and dissipates, the colors produced by carotenoids shine through, giving leaves their warm and golden hues.

Red and Purple Pigments – Anthocyanins: Anthocyanins, unlike carotenoids, are produced in response to certain environmental factors, such as cool temperatures and exposure to light. Trees like maples, oaks, and dogwoods have anthocyanins in abundance. The color intensity of anthocyanin-rich leaves is influenced by factors like the tree’s genetics and the pH levels in the leaf.

The Role of Weather: Weather conditions can significantly impact the brilliance of fall foliage. Warm, sunny days followed by cool, crisp nights produce the most vivid and striking colors. Adequate moisture is also essential for maintaining healthy leaves throughout the changing process.

The annual transformation of leaves from lush green to the brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn is a testament to the intricate balance of nature. 

Understanding the science behind this breathtaking phenomenon only deepens our appreciation of the world around us. So, as you embark on your next autumn stroll through a forested trail or a tree-lined avenue, take a moment to admire the work of art that is nature’s canvas and the marvelous chemistry that orchestrates this enchanting spectacle each fall.

Work Cited 
“Why Do Leaves Change Color?” Why Do Leaves Change Color? | Rutgers University, www.rutgers.edu/news/why-do-leaves-change-color. Accessed 30 Oct. 2023.

By Caia Bevins

This was a busy week for the men’s teams, so let’s recap.

Men’s soccer played Mount Saint Joseph last Wednesday in their last game of the season. The Jackets wasted no time, and #7 Adam Tobin scored the first goal of the game in the first five minutes. #11 Riley Hensley scored a few minutes later, and they kept up their momentum, scoring another seven goals in the first half, one by #23 Jeremy Fuller, two by  #24 Joshua Maurer, one by #4 Will Gehlhausen, and another by #X Jacob Saxby. In the second half, DC only scored one goal, which was made by #7 Adam Tobin. #24 Joshua Maurer and #7 Adam Tobin led the team in goals, #10 Armando Campos-Ortiz and #35 Griffin Meyer led with shots, and #1 Orry Killam led with four saves. Overall, the team attempted thirty-four shots, seventeen shots on goal, and five saves.

Men’s soccer played in the first round of the HCAC tournament last Saturday against Transylvania. Both teams were scoreless in the first half despite several attempts on both sides. In the second half, the Jackets made several more shots, but none of them found the back of the net. The clock ran down with both teams scoreless, so they went into overtime. There were six rounds of one-on-one shots. Each team made several good saves after six rounds; they were tied 3-3. They went into a sudden death round, and Transylvania made the shot, winning the game. #11 Riley Hensley and #7 Adam Tobin led with four shots each, and #1 Orry Killam led with saves. The team ended with fifteen shots, eight shots on goal, and four saves.

Football played against Manchester last weekend. In the first half, the Spartans made three touchdowns and made all three extra points, while the Jackets scored two touchdowns and a field goal, making the score 21-17 going into the second half. The Jackets dominated the second half and scored 34 points, and the game ended with a score of 51-27. The game ended with 291 passing yards, 199 rushing yards, and had a time of possession of 26:22.

By Hannah Feldman

College athletes often face an incredibly demanding schedule, juggling rigorous training sessions, intense competitions, and the academic responsibilities of their coursework. Balancing these demands can be stressful, both physically and mentally. Relaxation, however, is essential for optimal performance and overall well-being. Here, we explore practical ways for college athletes to relax and recharge.

1. Mindfulness Meditation: Mindfulness meditation is a powerful technique to calm the mind and reduce stress. Engaging in regular meditation sessions can help athletes develop greater focus and emotional stability. Whether it’s a few minutes of deep breathing or a guided meditation app, integrating mindfulness into a daily routine can provide significant benefits.

2. Physical Activity Beyond Sports: Engaging in activities outside their sport can be an excellent way for college athletes to relax. Hiking, cycling, yoga, or simply going for a walk can help athletes unwind and reduce physical tension. These activities provide a break from the intensity of their sport while maintaining an active lifestyle.

3. Massage and Recovery Techniques: Athletes often experience muscle tension and fatigue. Regular massages or foam rolling sessions can help release tension and promote muscle recovery. Incorporating these practices into their routine can prevent injuries and provide relaxation.

4. Quality Sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for recovery and maintaining physical and mental health. College athletes should prioritize a consistent sleep schedule, create a comfortable environment, and get the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

5. Social Connection: Spending time with friends and loved ones can provide emotional support and relaxation. Engaging in social activities, sharing experiences, and enjoying a laugh can be a welcome break from the demands of sports and academics.

6. Creative Outlets: Exploring creative hobbies or artistic outlets can be an excellent way for athletes to relax and unwind. Painting, writing, playing music, or even cooking can provide a sense of achievement and escape from the daily grind.

7. Time Management: Effective time management is critical to reducing stress. Athletes can benefit from creating structured schedules that allocate time for training, academics, and relaxation. Setting clear boundaries helps prevent burnout.

8. Nature and the Outdoors: Spending time in nature is a powerful, relaxing way. Whether it’s a visit to a nearby park, a hike in the woods, or a day at the beach, connecting with nature can have a calming effect and improve mental well-being.

9. Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing exercises can help athletes manage anxiety and stress. Simple techniques like the 4-7-8 method or diaphragmatic breathing can be done anywhere and provide quick relaxation.

In conclusion, relaxation is an essential component of a college athlete’s life, promoting physical recovery, mental well-being, and improved performance. By incorporating these relaxation strategies into their routine, athletes can balance the demands of their sport and their overall health and happiness. Remember, relaxation is not a luxury; it’s a crucial part of the athlete’s journey to success.

By Hanna Young

Dirt Creek, by Australian author Hayley Scivenor left me guessing until the very end. This book was set in a small, rural town in Australia called Dirt Creek. This is the kind of town where everyone seems to know everyone and that is the perfect scene for what is about to shock the town. Not only does everyone in Dirt Creek know each other, but everyone is hiding something. 

When little Esther Bianchi goes missing from the small town of Dirt Creek there are several different clues that need to fall in place to find out what happened to her. Her best friend Veronica or Ronnie for short is a little spitfire that is trying to do everything she can to help find out what happened to Esther even if it involves getting herself into trouble. Lewis knows something, but can’t tell anyone because it will divulge one of his own secrets. Constance is in a place where she doesn’t know what to believe because her only daughter is missing and the one person that is really close to her is being suspected of the disappearance. And lastly, Sarah the detective that is on the case has her own demons to fight off. Someone has to know what happened to Ester and there are so many secrets that need to be uncovered. 

This book has so many things that stick out as odd. Just as soon as you think that you have something figured out another secret is revealed and you are left picking up the pieces of the conclusions that you had drawn. There are a whirlwind of secrets and characters that are overlapping that make the ending unpredictable. The characters are lovable as well, which really adds to the book. 

Overall, I give this book a 5/5. There was no way that I saw the ending coming. Each page revealed something new and by the end I was reeling because of who was really behind the disappearance. 

By: David Heidelburg

When it comes to the holidays, it can be a fun and exciting time. Family and friends come around and bring endless laughs, good times and memories. If I were to ask the question, ‘what is your favorite holiday?’, some may say Christmas, whether the reason is presents, snow, or movies. If I were to ask another person what their favorite holiday is, they might say Halloween, because of the candy or costumes. 

The choice and reasons for why we choose what type of holiday is our favorite are endless with different types of answers, as well as adding in some holidays that weren’t mentioned. On the other hand, if you were to ask me what my favorite holiday is, I will tell you all of them. The reason why I chose all of the holidays to be my favorite is simple. In my opinion, I believe that when it comes to the holidays, they all play a special part in my heart based on childhood memories from each holiday, whether it is Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Halloween, they all play a big role in my heart.

For example, I love Halloween because it reminds me of the times when I was a kid and used to go trick or treating with my mom and sister. I also remember watching all of the classic movies that premiered during those times, like for example, Hocus Pocus. When it comes to Thanksgiving, I love it because I remember being around my family and going shopping with my mom and sister and we would tell her what we wanted for Christmas while she took pictures of us. And last but not least, Christmas, I love Christmas because of the memories of spending time with my family, decorating the house and setting up the Christmas tree while listening to music was one of my favorite memories.

Saying all that, we are all different and have our own likes about things especially when it comes to the holidays. Some like Christmas whereas others may prefer Halloween or Thanksgiving. Also we have our own reasonings of why we choose which one, but for me all holidays that I celebrate are fun filled with great memories.

By Caia Bevins

This week was a busy week for women’s sports, so let’s talk about it.

Women’s soccer played their final game on Wednesday last week against Mount Saint Joseph. The Jackets went into the game with a few injuries, which certainly made the game an uphill battle. In the first half, the Lions scored five goals, making the score 5-0. DC rallied in the second half and were able to slow the Lions down. They scored a few more goals against the Jackets, and the game ended with a score of 8-0. #99 Sarah O’Shea led the team with 25 saves, a game-high. She made 194 saves this season and 433 during the three years she played at DC. The Jackets ended their season 2-12-2 and 0-9 in conference games.

The volleyball team played at home last Wednesday against Anderson. They played three sets with scores of 21-25, 23-25, and 18-25 respectively. In the first match, the Jackets started off strong and were the first to put points on the board, but the Ravens retaliated and won the match. Anderson dominated the second match and the third, winning the game 3-0. #2 Jamia Murray, #10 Jaelyn Tomoletz, and #12 Shelby Clements led the team with kills, #10 Jaelyn Tomoletz led with three blocks, #5 Emma Chaffins led with 24 digs, and #25 Hope Yost led with three saves. Overall, the Jackets ended with six blocks, six blocks, and three aces.

The volleyball team played again on Saturday against Franklin. They played five sets with scores of 10-25, 26-24, 24-26, 25-23, and 13-15, respectively. The Jackets won the second and fourth sets and came close to winning the fifth but were denied victory. #2 Jamia Murray and #12 Shelby Clements led in kills, #10 Jaelyn Tomoletz led in blocks, #5 Emma Chaffins led in digs, and #4 Kayla Boettger led in saves. The team as a whole ended with six blocks, 75 digs, and 16 aces.

By: Jessica Reynolds

I would like to introduce you to Lisa Beringer. She is the Assistant Professor of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. She is in her second year of teaching at Defiance College, she started in the fall of 2022. She previously worked in a community college environment, but when she was presented with an opportunity to switch to DC she chose to make the switch because she wanted to be actively involved in equity, diversity, and inclusion within a college. Dr. Beringer’s favorite part about working at DC is the students. She states that she loves “the commitment that the college has for building an inclusive environment.” Prior to working at Defiance College, Dr. Beringer worked full time at Ivy Tech for 16 years. 

Dr. Beringer went to St. Norbert College in Wisconsin for her Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology. She then went on and got her Master’s Degree in American Studies from Penn State University. Lastly, she attended Purdue University for her PhD in American Studies. Ultimately her favorite class to teach is multiculturalism. She has taught this class at another college, but is going to teach multiculturalism this coming spring at Defiance. When asked the question if she is more of a dog or a cat person, she responded with “I don’t own any pets, but would pick dogs.” Her first job was working at a car wash in Wausau, Wisconsin. When in high school, she competed on her basketball and swim team. If she could have one superpower, she would choose to snap and instantly have a cappuccino in front of her. When in high school she kicked off the very first Wisconsin Badger state games by singing the national anthem and after the governor said, “Great job Linda.”

Dr. Beringer’s office can be located in Dana 13. 

By Hanna Young

Tyshaun Freeman started off the scoring early on Saturday’s away matchup with Anderson University. Midway through the first quarter, Freeman ran the ball into the end zone earning Defiance a 6-0 lead. The second quarter was starting off strong when Thomas Coltrain snagged a fumble and returned it 95 yards for a touchdown. The point after attempt was good which added another seven points to Defiance’s growing lead, making the score 13-0. Only a few minutes after that, Anthony Southerland made his way into the end zone, which was followed by a good point after attempt. This put the Yellow Jackets ahead 20-0. Nearing the end of the 1st half Anderson was able to make it on the board with a touchdown making the score 20-6.

The third quarter found the Yellow Jackets adding to their lead yet again. Zeke Sanchez was put in to hurl a ball 27 yards and through the uprights to add three more points in favor of the Yellow Jackets. Again, Defiance continues to add to their lead by putting the ball into Tyshaun Freeman’s hands yet again. This time he received a pass from Jordan Ambrose before ending up in the endzone. Zeke Sanchez makes the point after attempt as well to make the score 30-6. Rounding out the scoring for the Yellow Jackets was Jalen Warren. Warren caught a pass from Jehlani Warren before he made his way into the endzone. This was the last time DC would score in the game making the final score 36-6 in favor of the Yellow Jackets. 

Defiance College had 174 yards passing, 170 yards rushing, and possessed the ball for 26 minutes and 56 seconds in the contest. Jordan Ambrose recorded 136 passing yards while Jehlani Warren added 38. Tyshaun Freeman led in rushing yards with 71, which was followed closely by Jordan Ambrose with 60. Tyshaun Freeman also led in receiving yards with 72, Jalen Warren followed with 42. Zeke Sanchez chipped in one field goal, 3 extra point attempts, as well as 7 kick offs. Mathew Bolanos had one punt in the contest. V’Sean Palmer had one kick off return as well. 

On the defensive side of things Defiance recorded 67 tackles, 29 of which were solo tackles with the other 38 being assisted. Dominic Harris led the team in tackles earning 9, which was followed by Thomas Coltrain and Richard Pope IV who both recorded 8, while Brian Murat chipped in 7. Richard Pope IV led the team in solo tackles with 5, Brian Murat, and Coty Johnson II each added 4, and Jaylen Redd and Tyquez Douglas tallied 3 each. Dominic Harris and Thomas Coltrain are both credited with a forced fumble. Dominic Harris, Jalen Redd, Braydon Birkholz, Fernando Sanabria Nieves, and Justis Ashley each are credited with breaking up a pass. 

The Yellow Jacket football team will travel to Manchester University on Saturday, October 28th at 1:30 pm.

By Hannah Feldman

College life is often an exhilarating and transformative experience, but it can also be incredibly stressful. Juggling academic demands, social pressures, and personal responsibilities can affect students’ mental and emotional well-being. To manage college stress effectively, students can adopt several strategies that promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Time Management: Effective time management is one of the most critical aspects of managing college stress. Create a schedule or use a planner to allocate time for classes, assignments, study sessions, and personal activities. Prioritize tasks based on their importance and deadlines, and stick to your schedule as consistently as possible.

Break Tasks into Manageable Chunks: Large assignments or projects can be overwhelming. To alleviate stress, break them down into smaller, more manageable tasks. This makes the workload seem less daunting and allows you to focus on one step at a time.

Seek Help When Needed: College campuses usually offer various resources to help students manage stress. Feel free to contact professors, academic advisors, or counseling services if you feel overwhelmed. They can provide guidance, support, and solutions to academic or personal challenges.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are crucial for managing stress. Physical activity helps reduce anxiety, while a nutritious diet and sufficient rest provide the body with the energy needed to cope with academic demands.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Engage in mindfulness exercises, meditation, or deep breathing to help calm your mind. These practices can reduce anxiety and improve focus, aiding you in managing your workload more effectively.

Social Support: Connect with friends and peers who understand the college experience and can provide emotional support. Sharing your concerns and listening to others can be reassuring and help reduce feelings of isolation.

Set Realistic Goals: Be mindful of your academic and personal goals. While it’s essential to strive for excellence, it’s equally important to set achievable objectives. Setting unrealistic expectations can lead to unnecessary stress.

Limit Procrastination: Procrastination can lead to increased stress as deadlines approach. Avoid this by starting tasks early and maintaining a consistent work ethic. Breaking tasks into smaller chunks (as mentioned earlier) can also help reduce procrastination.

Time for Relaxation and Hobbies: Make sure you have time for relaxation and engage in hobbies or activities you enjoy. It’s essential to have a healthy balance between work and leisure to prevent burnout.

Learn to Say No: It’s easy to get overwhelmed by extracurricular activities or social commitments. Knowing your limits and being comfortable saying no when necessary is essential.

Stay Organized: Keep your study space and materials organized to minimize frustration and stress caused by lost or misplaced items.

Seek Professional Help: If your stress becomes unmanageable, don’t hesitate to consult a mental health professional. They can provide guidance and counseling to help you cope with the challenges of college life.

College stress is a common experience, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By implementing effective time management, seeking support, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and practicing stress-reduction techniques, students can successfully manage stress and enjoy a fulfilling and productive college experience. Remember that stress is a part of life, but how you deal with it can significantly affect your overall well-being and academic success.

By Hannah Feldman

Selecting classes for the next semester is a crucial decision for college students. The right choice can lead to a fulfilling and successful academic journey, while the wrong one can result in frustration and academic setbacks. To ensure a productive and enjoyable college experience, students should follow a thoughtful and strategic approach when choosing their next semester classes.

First and foremost, students should begin by evaluating their degree requirements. Understanding the prerequisites and core courses necessary for their major is essential. This information can typically be found in the university’s course catalog or through academic advisors. By prioritizing required courses, students can ensure they make steady progress toward their degree and avoid any unnecessary delays.

In addition to core requirements, students should explore their elective options. Elective courses provide an opportunity to explore interests outside of their major, develop a well-rounded skill set, or delve deeper into a subject they are passionate about. It’s important to strike a balance between fulfilling degree requirements and pursuing personal interests.

Another crucial aspect to consider is class scheduling. Students should take into account their individual learning preferences and daily routines. Some students are early birds, while others are night owls. To optimize learning, it is advisable to schedule classes at times when they are most alert and attentive. Furthermore, students should be mindful of the time they spend commuting to campus, as this can significantly impact their daily schedule.

Moreover, it is wise to check course reviews and ratings online. Many universities have websites and platforms where students can share their opinions and experiences with particular professors and courses. Reading these reviews can provide valuable insights into the course’s quality and the professor’s teaching style. It is also a good idea to seek advice from peers who have already taken the class or consult with academic advisors.

Beyond reviews, students should carefully read the course descriptions and syllabi. These documents outline the topics covered, the required assignments, and the expectations for the course. This information can help students determine whether the class aligns with their interests and academic strengths.

While it is essential to consider individual preferences, students should also be aware of their overall course load. Balancing course difficulty and credit hours is vital. Taking on too many challenging courses in a single semester can lead to burnout, while a semester with too few challenging courses can stunt academic growth. Finding the right balance between difficulty and workload is key to academic success.

Furthermore, students should be open to seeking academic guidance from their professors and advisors. These individuals can provide insights into course selection based on the student’s goals and aspirations. They can help create a well-rounded schedule promoting academic and personal growth.

Selecting classes for the next semester is a significant decision for college students, and it requires careful consideration. By prioritizing degree requirements, exploring elective options, considering personal scheduling preferences, reviewing course ratings and descriptions, balancing course difficulty and workload, and seeking academic advice, students can craft a semester that contributes to their overall growth and success. This approach ensures that college students make the most of their academic experience, resulting in a fulfilling and productive journey through higher education.