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A CLOSER LOOK AT 2024. Students share what they found to be the most important issues to them in 2024.
A CLOSER LOOK AT 2024. Students share what they found to be the most important issues to them in 2024.
Lani Ngonethong

Students speak: what was a defining issue of your 2024?

In these submitted mini-opinions, students reflect on an important topic or issue from their year that they want to bring more attention to in 2025.
California fires reflect dangers of ignoring climate change

California wildfires have been raging for decades, but until recently, they haven’t gotten the attention they deserve. According to the data from the National Integrated Drought Information System, 21.7 million people in California currently live in a drought-ridden area. California is constantly in droughts, which can easily lead to wildfires. But this isn’t the problem. The problem is the increasing amounts of droughts and wildfires occurring. In fact, the US Drought Monitor noted that the percent of California that is drought-free has significantly decreased over the past year, from 97% in January 2024 to 41% in December 2024. Combined with climate change, this statistic has led to an increase in the frequency, length and intensity of wildfires.

Until these past two weeks, many people had no awareness of the everyday devastating destruction caused by these wildfires. But why haven’t they been given more attention before? Why haven’t the countless animals and humans killed every year been given more attention?

Some people will say it’s a lack of public education. But the real reason is our country is scared to face the reality of climate change. When people can’t solve a problem, they tend to run away from it, and California wildfires are a prime example of this. People who live in Minnesota or other northern states will use the excuse of proximity. Some people simply don’t care. But when it comes down to it, we all have one common enemy: our ever-changing planet.

So next time you hear about a mass disaster like the California wildfires, take a second to educate yourself, and truly ask yourself what can I do to help. Consider donating to the American Red Cross or California Fire Foundation, and spread awareness about how these extreme events will affect everyone.

 

Why knitting, crocheting can help you relax

Last year, I decided to pick up knitting and crocheting again after about a 10-year hiatus. I wasn’t sure why I’d stopped, so I gave them another go, and I’ve fallen in love with the crafts. I love to curl up on the couch at the end of the day and pull out my sweater or work on a stuffed octopus during my free period. It turns out that there are many benefits to this particular hobby, too. 

Knitting has been shown to have physiological benefits such as improving memory and concentration. It’s also used in certain therapies since the flow state of knitting and crocheting can be relaxing and akin to meditation in terms of its benefits due to its repetitive motions. 

Since SPA students are frequently stressed and rushing from one thing to the next, having a craft that provides time to slow down and decompress from the day can be beneficial. 

There are so many different techniques and projects to explore with knitting and crocheting, from cute plushies to comfy sweaters to warm blankets. The best part is that each project is fully customizable. If you don’t like the color, you can swap it; if you don’t like the length of the sleeves, you can change it. 

Because of these qualities, knitting and crocheting are also a great way to combat fast fashion. In my experience, since I’m making items that I actually want to use, and I’m putting all the time and effort into the piece, I value it more and am less likely to throw it out after a couple uses. You can always unravel old projects and turn them into something new again. 

One of the best things about this hobby is the low barrier to entry. There are supplies for as little as a few dollars at  craft stores like Michaels, and there are plenty of free patterns and tutorials online. If you prefer more interpersonal contact, the staff in yarn stores are great resources for learning various techniques, and there are groups all over the Twin Cities with experienced crafters who’d probably love to help out a beginner. Take advantage of the resources at your disposal and pick up knitting or crocheting this year.

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