2016 2017 Yearbook

presents people with what they hunger for spiritually, they will not really obtain what it best for
them. We must pray for everything laid on our heart, even if God does not answer.

It is a necessity for Christians to pray constantly. Thoroughly searching and discovering
the revealed answers from Christ Jesus is the only way to develop a closer relationship with
Jesus. Always petition for God’s will to be done. No prayer, means no connection with the
Savoir.

Bible study is very beneficial, yet it does take time and care to reap fruit from its efforts.
Can we be a Christian and yet not study God’s word? The Bible, which was written by God’s
mouth alone, should not be taken lightly.

Why should Christians study the Bible? One of the main reasons is to model after Christ.
In the scriptures Christ commands us to live as he did. If one does not know how Christ lived,
how will they know how to live? It is very crucial to a Christian life.

Sometimes the importance of sinking one selves in the Holy Word is difficult to grasp.
But truly studying scripture is one of the main crusts of Christianity. Scripture says that “all
scripture is God breathed,” meaning it is just like every word is from the mouth of God, which
Jesus says that “man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the
mouth of God.” Does not all of this prove that Bible study should be taken seriously?

It is difficult to fit this sometimes-tedious task into our schedule. Should it be this way?
People get pretty busy, and, yes, it is easier not to study the Bible, much easier. For instance, if
God sent someone a personal letter, would they read it? How many times? They would have
the thing memorized. God did send everyone a personal letter… The Bible. The Bible must be
our schedule.

If one does not take ahold of God’s word, we will never experience the full value of
Christianity. As a Christian one must study God’s word, sink oneself whole life into it. God has
sent you a personalized love letter, but the question is, do you read it?

Christianity is only and all about living, learning, and seeking a new life with Christ.
Putting in little, people will get out little, but if people put a lot into it, they will experience a
real relationship with God the Father. Actions, Bible study, and praying are the key essentials to
a walk with Christ.

Emily H.

Hey, everyone! My name is Emily Howell, and I am 17 years old and finishing up my
junior year of high school. This has been my second year of homeschooling. I plan to attend
college and become a physical therapist assistant. I work at a consignment shop as a floor
worker and at a camp as a day camp counsellor during the summer. My favorite things to do
are play soccer and basketball for a local Christian school and play piano for my church’s praise
team. During my free time I enjoy running, watching Gilmore girls, and hanging out with my
best friends.

My Favorite Family Vacation

Travelling to my favorite family vacation, Rice Lake, Ontario, we stock up on a large
amount of candy, movies, and drinks, as we have a long car ride ahead of us. Every year, on the
last Saturday in June, my family and extended family wake up early in the morning, pack up our
boats, and prepare ourselves for a long car ride. First, we drive for a few hours until we reach
Cortland, New York, which is where the family meets together to have breakfast before a long
day of travelling. From there we drive through parts of New York and cross the border into
Canada after security guards inspect our boat and vehicle. This seven-hour drive to Rice Lake is
long, but also very enjoyable because the excitement of going on vacation is building up the
entire trip up. When this seemingly long drive ends and we reach our vacation spot, we unpack
our boat and the extensive number of belongings into our cabin. This is just the beginning of
our most-loved vacation in Ontario and marks the beginning of the never-ending fun that we
have all week long.

A large chunk of time, during our vacation, is spent in the water because it tends to be
particularly hot while we are there. The owner of the cabin we rent continually sets up a raft in
the lake, which we use for swimming and diving. This past year for the first time, the owner lent
us a wakeboard to try. Attempting to wakeboard led to multiple crashes and what felt like
gallons of water up our noses but was so enjoyable that we continued to try again and again
until we were able to stand on the board without crashing into the water. Every year we pack
different rafts and inflatable chairs which we use to float in the water and relax while tanning.
We even use our rafts and chairs to play war and try to shove each other off the raft and into
the water. My family spends most of our vacation swimming and just relaxing in the lake.

Although I love to swim and play games with my family, my absolute favorite part of our
annual family vacation is the traditions, which will never grow dull. We anticipate our Monday
lasagna night because we love food, and more than anything, love to fellowship together as a
family around the three tables it takes to fit us all. At our lasagna night, each family contributes
by bringing a lasagna and garlic bread, which we share with everyone. My grandma is known for
baking the most scrumptious cookies, so it is tradition that she brings a batch of half-moon
cookies for dessert. One of the most precious traditions to me is our bonfire that we hold the
night before we head back home. This is a night filled with an endless number of s’mores and
ends with the 13 cousins happily sitting in our boats watching the fireworks for Canada’s
Independence Day. These memories are the ones that will never fade. Our traditions, such as
lasagna night and the last bonfire, are what makes the vacation so memorable and special to
us.

My favorite family vacation is absolutely the Howell family’s annual trip to Rice Lake,
Ontario, Canada because we visit with our cousins, who we do not get to see often. The entire
family counts down the days until we can go back to the most-loved vacation spot where we

fish, swim, and relax all week long. The entire week, which never seems to last long enough, is
filled with an endless amount of chocolate fudge, various cookies, and popsicles. To the Howell
family, our trip to Rice Lake is the best vacation we could ever take.

God has truly blessed my family with the opportunity every year to vacation together
and just have a week to have fun. This family vacation provides such an excitement all year
round and gives us something to look forward to. We count down the days until we can leave
home because that is when we begin to travel to Rice Lake, Ontario. The memories from this
vacation will be something we can share with our own kids and continue as a favorite family
tradition for years to come. We cherish our unique vacation and consider ourselves fortunate
to have something so special to be excited about.

Morgan J.

Getting the Upper Hand

Opening the screen door, I hurriedly climbed out of my muddy boots and began
frantically running to my cell phone. I quickly scrolled through my list of contacts until I found
the number for the Appleton vet then pushed my call button. My heart raced uncontrollably
and faster each unanswered ring. Then finally a voice on the other end. “Hello Doctor Kellen,
this is Morgan.”

“Hello, Morgan! What can I do for you today?”
“Actually, I have an emergency. Can you come right away?”
“Why, of course. What is the situation?”
“Poco has had a large abscess on her chest for the better part of a week now. I did not
think much about it, however it keeps getting bigger. I have been draining it daily, which had
helped some, but it keeps coming back. Just a few moments ago I walked into the barn and
began to gather her breakfast, but when I entered her stall, she was lethargic, running a temp
of 102 degrees Fahrenheit, and coughing sporadically. She also has not eaten her feed from
last night. She has me so worried.”
“Oh my, I think I have an idea of what she might have; however, I need you to call the
university and make an appointment right away. Hang in there. I am on my way,” stated Doctor
Kellen.
As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its
animals are treated.” This is a quote which veterinarians do not take lightly. They spend years
testing, researching and developing cures for diseases. Over the years there have been many
diseases that have plagued the horse world, most of which have cures or antidotes. Although
there are many diseases which take the lives of horses every day, veterinarian researchers have
now recently adjusted their focus to find the history, diagnosis and treatment for pigeon fever.







Though treating the infection is the most important way to cure a horse, biosecurity is
often overlooked. It is vital to remember that a horse can still become infected if barn items
and other fomites have not been cleaned or sanitized. Pigeon fever can live in dirt and manure
for long periods of time. A horse can easily become infected with the bacteria again if
biosecurity measures are not taken seriously. Buckets, feed pans and brushes are just a few of
the things which can house and spread bacteria. Keeping the insect population under control is
vital for eliminating the possibility of carriers which could infect a horse. Although these
biosecurity measures might seem simple, they are vital to protect your horse.

Being aware of other animals which enter your place could play a role in saving your
horses life. By being aware of other animals which might enter the barn, horse owners can try
to control some of the elements that might contribute to contracting pigeon fever. If a horse
contracts pigeon fever, immediately contact a vet for correct diagnosis. Following proper
biosecurity measures is one of the most important things to remember whether a horse has
pigeon fever or not. Keeping the simple things in mind such as sanitizing and vet work, can
keep a horse healthy and happy.

Although it has taken several years, veterinarians have finally begun to combat this
troublesome bacterium. Finding the history of how pigeon fever has survived for so many years
has helped veterinarians develop a cure for this painful disease. Pigeon fever can be caught and
eliminated through the proper procedure; this is why vets stress the importance of procuring
an accurate diagnosis. It is vital that strict biosecurity measures be taken to prevent an
infection from becoming increasingly worse or from reoccurring. With these simple
instructions owners have begun to find the upper hand in the fight against pigeon fever.

Works Cited

Edited Press Release. “AAEP Publishes Pigeon Fever Guidelines.” The Horse, 20 June 2013,
www.thehorse.com/articles/32085/aaep-publishes-pigeon-fever-guidelines.

Hall, Tiffany L. DVM DACVIM. “Pigeon Fever: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention.
www.bveh.com/pdfs/bvehpigeonfever.pdf.

Spier, Sharon DVM. “Pigeon Fever: Varying Forms of Infection in Horses.” Horse Report, Winter
2014 ed., UC Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Center for Equine Health,
viewer.zmags.com/publication/67e69b2d#/67e69b2d/1.

Walsh, Liz. "Pigeon Fever Prevalence Evaluated." The Horse, 12 Sept. 2014,
www.thehorse.com/articles/34535/pigeon-fever-prevalence-evaluated.

Nicholas J.

My first favorite motorized vehicles are cars and trucks. There are many different styles
of cars and trucks that make driving them even more fun. The sleek design of the exterior and
the comfort of the interior make the drive a whole lot more enjoyable. Some people have a
passion for cars and trucks, and others could care less about what they look like and sound like.
We are all different in that area, and that’s what makes us all unique. Many car lovers like me
are into giving a car or truck as much horsepower and torque as you can. Just the thrill of
stepping on the pedal and being slammed back into the seat from the shear force has car and
truck lovers begging for more. This is why my most favorite vehicle is cars and trucks.

My second favorite motorized vehicles are off-road vehicles. Off road vehicles are a lot
like cars and trucks. There are many different ones to pick from depending on your taste in
horsepower and style. Four wheelers and side by side rangers are the top picks for the off
roading. For many it is a fun hobby to get out while camping to explore large portions of the
forests and prairie land not achievable on foot. Many others also like to race off road vehicles.
This can get very speedy, but it is a lot of fun to see who has the most horsepower and skill as in
the art of racing. This is why off road vehicles are my second favorite.

My third and final favorite motorized vehicles are boats and jet skis. There is nothing like
spending a weekend on the lake with family and friends tubing, waterskiing and many other
watersports. Some people really get into who has the biggest and nicest boat. Again this is what
makes us all different and helps the world go around. But I have to say there is nothing like
being on a boat traveling through the open waters at 50 mph. There are many different styles
of boats and jet skis such as tubing and ski boats, hunting boats, fishing boats. You name it;
they make a boat for that. I have had the amazing opportunity to ride and drive many different
kinds of boats, and I would have to say there is nothing like the cool breeze on your face sailing
the open waters. This is why my third favorite motorized vehicles are boats and jet skis.

Kelsie L.

Hey! My name’s Kelsie, and I’m 17 years old. I’m a junior in high school, and have been
homeschooled since Kindergarten. I enjoy horse-back riding, soccer, and reading, among many
other things. For as long as I can remember, I have loved theatre. Being on stage, is one of my
favorite things. I have been given a passion to work in the theatre community as a ministry, so I
shall see where the Lord leads me!

Living a Healthy Lifestyle

Why is it so important to stay healthy? This question has been asked many times. Many
people have researched hundreds of ways to stay in good health. First off, Jesus tells us to take
care of our bodies because they are temples. In addition, healthy bodies equal a healthy life.
There is no sure way to prevent all sickness, but a healthy life will usually help eliminate most of
it. People can honor God best by staying in shape and taking care of their bodies.

Hippocrates once said, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” People can
incorporate the most important aspect of a healthy lifestyle by eating clean. It can keep others
from life-threatening diseases, or small things like pimples. What is put into our bodies will
show on the outside. Eating healthy may be tough, but in the end, it is all worth it.

It is crucial to have a balanced diet. There are many fruits and vegetables that taste
good, even though they are healthy. People should aim to eat them every day to get nutrients
and fiber. Include yellow, red, green, blue, purple and orange produce in the diet. For more
fiber, choose fruits over juice (Berkeley Wellness). It is not terrible to eat something that is not
exactly healthy if portion control is practiced. Even fruits and veggies can be harmful if they are
eaten too much! Having a balanced diet will help achieve a healthy lifestyle.

Another aspect of eating healthy is one of the best natural remedies, apple cider vinegar
(ACV). Its wide-ranging benefits rival many other natural remedies. To treat an upset stomach,
mix a tablespoon of ACV with water or a juice (grape, apple, etc.). Drinking this concoction
everyday can help with keeping from getting a stomach ache in the first place! ACV can also
prevent sore throats. Mix ¼ cup of ACV with ¼ cup of water and gargle on the hour (Reader’s
Digest). It is even good for allergies and colds. There are still many more natural remedies from
ACV.

Coconut oil also has amazing natural properties. It has been used to heal cancer or even
to simply detox. Eating a tablespoon of it every day can help improve energy and give the
immune system a boost. Coconut oil can help with weight loss. The medium-chain fatty acids
(MCFAs) can decrease appetite, burn fat and even help lose belly fat. MCFAs can also help gain
muscle. Many heavily-suppressed supplements use processed forms of MCFAs, but when
coconut oil is eaten, it is all-natural (Axe)! Coconut oil is one of the amazing things that God has
given us.

Even though clean eating can be hard to do, it will pay off in the long run. Everyone has
the responsibility to keep their bodies healthy. Food plays a big part in that. At the end of the
day, is that slice of cake worth it?

In addition, a healthy lifestyle does not only consist of healthy eating. American
professional boxer Gene Tunney once said that “to enjoy the glow of good health, you must
exercise.” Exercise does not just help with weight loss, but it also helps prevent life-threatening

diseases. It can help boost mental mood and health. Physical activity is an essential aspect of a
healthy lifestyle.

First and foremost, it is important to find the workout that works best. There are many
options to choose from, but sometimes some routines are better for certain people than
others. First, people need to decide what benefits they would like to gain from regular physical
activity. Are people looking to lose weight? Are people wanting to be more toned? Looking up
workouts should correspond with what each person’s goal. The staff from Mayo Clinic have
said, “Regular trips to the gym are great, but don't worry if you can't find a large chunk of time
to exercise every day. To reap the benefits of exercise, just get more active throughout your
day — take the stairs instead of the elevator or rev up your household chores. Consistency is
key” (Mayo Clinic). Even doing 5 minute workouts will be a lot more effective than doing none.
The perfect workout for is out there!

In addition, some people might not want to go to the gym or spend money on exercise
DVDs. Online home workouts can be the best workouts! There are thousands of routines
online. The best thing is that most of them are free. Simply Google “workouts,” and many
options will come up. One of the most popular ways to do it is on YouTube. By using these
videos, it is just like having an expensive DVD, but with no charge! One great YouTube channel
is JessicaSmithTV. She has many videos that have a wide variety of exercise routines. She also
has workouts for all types of levels, including beginners. No one needs to spend money to stay
fit.

Finally, one of the best ways to stay in shape is by participating in sports. Playing sports
is good for staying active, but is also fun. No talent is required to play sports. Practicing can
help, though! There are many sports to choose from including soccer, swimming, ballet, etc. No
one even needs to join a team to play sports. Playing around can get everyone outside and
playing with friends and family. Sports entice a fun way to stay fit.

Physical activity is key for health. Staying active can be enjoyable, even if it is tough.
Everyone should begin this journey by finding the best workout routine. Also, they should
research local sports clubs. Although not as critical as clean eating, exercise is still extremely
beneficial.

When living a healthy lifestyle, a healthy routine is important! When people do not
wash their face, get enough sleep, or stress out, it will take a toll on their bodies. Jesus wants
everyone to take care of themselves, because everyone is made in the image of Him. Our
bodies are a reflection of our lives.

A healthy routine starts with skin care. Keeping your skin clean is another critical regime.
Start by washing your face twice a day. Coconut oil is a great all-natural cleanser. Rub a small
amount of coconut oil on your face, and then put a warm washcloth over it for 30 seconds.
After the time is up, wipe the oil off with the washcloth. Follow with a moisturizer. Taking care
of your skin will help reduce acne and other skin conditions. Your skin will thank you!

Second, you should make sure that you are getting adequate sleep. Getting enough
sleep could be the difference between life or death! “In a 2010 study of women ages 50 to 79,
more deaths occurred in women who got less than five hours or more than six and a half hours
of sleep per night” (Sparacino). It can also improve your performance in school and athletics.
“Your mind is surprisingly busy while you snooze. During sleep, you can strengthen memories
or ‘practice’ skills learned while you were awake (it’s a process called consolidation)”
(Sparacino). Adequate sleep can cure the biggest to the smallest issues.

Last but not least, a positive attitude will give you many benefits. By being optimistic,
you are instantly improving your life. Being stressed or depressed can have a negative toll on
our bodies (inside and out). Everyone should keep their minds focused, instead of worrying
about things that are out of our control. God is taking care of everyone at all times. He has got
everything under control! Getting enough sleep and staying active are great ways to stay in a
happy mindset. "A lack of sleep can contribute to depression," says Raymonde Jean, MD, "A
good night’s sleep can really help a moody person decrease their anxiety. You get more
emotional stability with good sleep." Stay in a positive attitude and trust in Him.

Live life to the best of your ability, and take care of yourself! Even though, people
usually think of healthy living as just about the diets and exercise, they must realize that even
the small things like skin care can make a big difference. Learn to figure out the bodies’ needs.

Staying healthy honors God. He made us, so we need to take care of ourselves. While
people might feel achieving healthy living is difficult, it really does not have to be so. Keeping a
clean diet, incorporating exercise into your daily routine, and establishing a solid body
maintenance regime. When someone takes care of their body to His standards, they are
honoring Him.

Works Cited
“14 Keys to a Healthy Diet.” Berkeley Wellness,

www.berkeleywellness.com/healthy-eating/food/slideshow/14-keys-healthy-diet .
“13+ Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar.” Reader’s Digest,

www.rd.com/health/wellness/apple-cider-vinegar-benefits .
Axe, Josh. “20 Coconut Oil Benefits and Side Effects.” Dr. Axe,

draxe.com/coconut-oil-benefits/.
“Exercise: 7 Benefits of Regular Physical Activity.” Mayo Clinic, 31 Oct. 2016,

www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389.
Sparacino, Alyssa. “11 Surprising Health Benefits of Sleep.” Health,

www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20459221,00.html#more.

Autumn M.

Greetings from central Pennsylvania! Hi, my name is Autumn—I am fourteen years old
and was a student in Advanced 1 writing for the 2016/2017 school year. I live with my parents,
Chris and Debby, and 2 siblings—Canyon who is thirteen, and Houston who is almost two. We
live in a rural part of the state, so there is a substantial amount of acreage for livestock and
farms. This year, I am showing two Berkshire/Hampshire cross pigs through the 4-H Livestock
club. The pigs are very precious. ☺ When I have spare time, I love to write letters to my
friends, read classic books, spend time with friends, do crafts (such as crocheting, card making,
basket making, and jewelry making), doing things outdoors (kayaking, biking, playing soccer,
square dancing, and gardening) performing with the bluegrass band that my brother and I have,
cleaning/organizing, doing projects with the 4-H clubs, and many other things. My favorite
subjects this year include writing, logic, and music. If you have never been to Pennsylvania,
there are many attractions worth visiting. Conveniently, my family and I, are relatively close to
Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Lancaster, Hershey, Washington D.C., New York City, and Gettysburg.

CONSTUCTION OF THE PALM ISLANDS

Jumeirah, Jebel Ali, and Dietra, also known as the three Palm islands, are incredibly
unique. In June 2001, construction was launched on the three new islands, which are
positioned off the coast of Dubai. Surrounded by a water break crescent, the three islands are
all in the shape of palm trees. Starting in 2001 with the smallest island, Palm Jumeirah, 3.5
billion tons of sand were poured into the frothy ocean from enormous drudger ships to form
the foundation of the new island. When it was finished, the island measured 3 by 3 miles long.
The second island, Palm Jebel Ali, was to be 50% larger than Jumeirah. It was started in 2002;
and when completed, it is to be home to over 250,000 people. Shockingly, Palm Dietra, which
was launched in 2004 and is still under construction, will eventually have a land space eight
times larger than Palm Jumeirah and five times the size of Jebel Ali. That’s a large island! The
islands are truly a bold enterprise, as the Palms are part of the greatest reclamation venture the
world has ever seen.

The Genesis of the Petra

Petra is an attractive and mesmerizing archeological site. Accessed by a narrow gorge,
the stunning city was once a significant trade route for a period of approximately 2,000 years.
Because of the many ethnicities who passed through, the city incorporated numerous
architectural styles including Nabatean, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman. Nestled at the side of a
valley on Jordan’s Mount Hor, the buildings were hewn from red rock. Interestingly, the
buildings are on a scale that dwarf the human visitor. As the centuries passed by, the city
flourished, and the residents used their wealth to create striking and dazzling new buildings.
After the 4th century A.D., the city’s fortune dwindled, because traders began to prefer sea
travel. Struck by an earthquake in 383 A.D., the city’s water system was severely damaged, and
the people gradually abandoned the city. Since its rediscovery by the Europeans in 1812, it has
become a major tourist destination. In 1985, Petra was designated a UNESCO World Heritage
Site.

Benton M.

Hello, my name is Benton. I am currently 16 and in tenth grade. I like to play lacrosse
and hang out with family and friends. I love the Lord with all of my heart. I also have three jobs
that I like to work. I start on the varsity squad for lacrosse and just got awarded with the MVP
offensive trophy and got invited to the league all-star banquet. My dream is to play on a major-
league lacrosse team or be a diesel performance mechanic at Sparks Motors.

Ranch Adventures

Last summer our family got to go on a beautiful vacation, which was to one of my
favorite places in the United States. Since we went to Sweetwater, Colorado, at a dude ranch,
we camped out way up in the mountains. The money we had to spend to take the trip was way
worth it to do this. We greatly got to do some amazing adventures like riding horses up and
down the mountains. Because my personal favorite part was climbing up and hiking on the
beautiful mountains, I got to spend a lot of time doing it. Another great part about the trip was
eating at the ranch restaurant to finish off the great days on the ranch. Last summer was one of
my favorite summers because we went on that vacation.

One of the horseback riding trips we took was about 4-5 hours long. Because this trip
was just with my 2 brothers, my dad, and my Papa, the guide let us go on a hard-core trail. On
this particular trail, we went up the sides of mountains, down them, and through thick woods.
At one point going up the side of the mountain if our horses would make one wrong step, we
would roll down the mountain and die because they only had about one foot of smother
ground to walk on from previous trips. Another day we went on an all-day trip that was about 7
hours long. We packed lunches, which we ate about 4 hours away from the dude ranch where
we stayed. One of the best parts about these trips were the amazing things we saw including:
wonderfully beautiful aspen tree patches that we went through seeing bear claw marks on
them, coyote searching for prey in an open field, and amazing mountains after mountains in
Sweetwater Colorado. Horseback riding is a very exciting activity to do for hours at a time in
Colorado.

Another fun activity that some of us did was hiking and climbing mountains. This
consisted of running through brush, leaping over rocks and bushes, and dangerously climbing
up the sides of mountains at our own risk. It was me, Brock, Blaize, and Logan who was a
horseback riding guide. On these trails we saw some priceless views, but it cost us to use our
legs and arms to do the climbing. When climbing we had to be cautious and use our heads
because one mistake could lead to falling and dying. When we made it to the top of each
mountain, it felt like we were the king of the hill. We were scratched up and bruised up a bit,

but no pain, no gain. Hiking and climbing on the mountains of Sweetwater Colorado, which are
priceless moments, were my favorite part of the trip.

Every night for dinner we ate at the country restraint right on the ranch. You could
either sit on the deck or inside. We liked to sit outside on the deck because there were
humming bird feeders out there with about 100 humming birds that would come and go while
you ate. They would even land on your hand if you held it there patiently. Are family’s two
favorite meals, which were the bison bacon cheese burger and the chicken fried steak covered
with magnificent gravy, were two irresistible options on the menu. All sitting around a big table
laughing and enjoying one another company made for great family time. The cow boys and cow
girls would come over every now and then when we were eating and tell us stories about what
has gone on in the past in the ranch most of them being funny and others being nerve racking.
Overall the ranch restraint was a very enjoyable place to finish off days full of adventure with
some fantastic food.

Horseback riding in Colorado is very fun, can be nervous at some points, but you get to
see some amazing views. Because rock climbing and hiking is also a great experience, on those
mountains you have to be very strong to get up. At the restaurant which some unforgettable
memories were made, we had good food, good family, and good times. Since Colorado is a very
fascinating place with the beautiful mountains, an outstanding lake, and joyfully riding great
behaved horses on the trails with my family, I would love to travel back for another vacation.
These adventures made the trip amazing and very fun for everyone.

Mary M.

“Let’s go on an adventure.”
“Ummm… Its 10:30 at night and raining, but good idea! Let’s go!”
Those are commonly spoken words between us. Sometimes it’s exploring an old bridge
in the dark, or walking through Wal-Mart dressed up like idiots, watching movies together,
playing guitar, or feeding homeless people in Philly, there is never a dull moment with my best
friend. You know you have found a best friend when you have more fun than you ever thought
possible doing the stupidest things together. Sam and I always have a blast together doing
anything whether it’s exploring, having long deep talks or serving God together. Sam is fun to
be around, compassionate to others, and a wonderful listener.
Sam is one of those people everyone wants to be around but somehow, we are best
friends. One of our favorite things to do is night-time exploring (not just the two of us, we have
other people with us☺). We found a huge boat in the woods on a boy scout reserve (not
private property, everything we do is legal☺) one night. Another night we found a small
medieval castle at a park that we got to explore. Sometimes we just go for walks in the dark and
get each other all creeped out a jumpy. Then we spend the rest of the time scaring each other
and then don’t sleep at night because we are too frightened! Every time with Sam is the best
time ever even something normal people wouldn’t have fun doing.
One of my favorite things to do with Sam is go to Philly. We work with a homeless
mission on Tuesday nights once a week to feed homeless people. We usually serve the soup
together. It is a real eye opening experience and a great bonding time. Even doing something
ordinary people wouldn’t find “enjoyable” we always manage to have a blast. Thankfully, Sam
has a real heart for serving other people but Sam is always there for me too.
Like every teenage girl, I have a lot of struggles and not often is someone willing to sit
and listen without trying to fix them. One of the best friend requirements is someone that
listens and cares about your problems. Sam is the first person I talk to when I have a problem,
and no matter what I’m going through I know I can always count on Sam. Some one that is a
good listener is a “must-have” in a best friend, and no one is a better listener than my best
friend. And no one cares about me and my struggles with my faith, more than my best friend.
Sam’s encouragement and advice is what keeps me going some days. Thankfully, God gave me
a best friend in Sam and I am extremely grateful for that.
“Wow that was a really fun adventure!”
“It was only fun because it was with you”
“Awww thanks! Now C’mon let’s go get coffee. I’m freezing!”
I know me and my best friend will be together forever. I can’t go an hour without a song
or place or something someone says reminding me of Sam. But most of all I love my best friend
because of who Sam is. Whenever I’m upset I have a shoulder to cry on, when I am in the mood

for adventure I have someone to go with and keep me safe while scaring me at the same time.
When I’m feeling like God doesn’t work through people anymore, one glace at Sam’s life and I
see God at work. Sam, my best friend, is compassionate and gentle, caring and a good listener,
fun to be around and the strongest Christian I have ever met.

Katie N.

Hi! My name is Katie, and I am a junior in high school. I live in Pennsylvania with my
parents, sister, and three brothers. I have been homeschooled my whole life and I love it! I also
enjoy art and music. Taking art and piano lessons is something I thoroughly enjoy; I love the
creativity of them both. Along with that, I love playing Basketball! I play for a Christian school in
my area. Being at the height of 5 ft 10 ½ in. also gives me a bit of an advantage in the game.
Playing a sport is something I never saw myself doing, but now I can’t see myself not playing.

Personal Essay

There is one certain person who helped shape and form me into the person I am today.
At the time I didn’t realize how much of an impact this person had on me until all of a sudden
he was gone. This person is my grandpa. He was never known to us grandchildren as grandpa,
but we called him Popple. For the first fifteen years of my life, my grandpa was always there. In
July of 2015 he passed away. The impact he had on my life is something for which I will be
forever grateful. I am truly blessed for the fifteen years I was privileged to call him my grandpa.

He was an outstanding grandpa. At times when it never even occurred to me, he was
changing me. He taught me the importance of family in the countless summer whiffle ball
games we all played together. Every game he would be standing on the pitcher’s mound in their
back yard. With his Phillies hat on his head and a baseball glove in his hand, he was in his
element. Popple taught me how to swing a bat and throw a baseball when I was only three
years old. While these seem like small things, they are some of my fondest memories. I now
know never to take my family for granted, and I have a new appreciation for the close bond we
all have. He was the rock, the patriarch of our family.

My grandpa was in a way fearless to me. He never shied away at an opportunity to
witness to others. Because of his example I have a new-found confidence when it comes to my
faith. He took the time when we were all together to either do a short devotion with us or sing
some Psalms. As a child, I hated sitting still even for that brief time, but as I grew older I realized
that time was special. He showed me that Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the most important
thing in our lives. He always eagerly answered any questions I had for him. The sermons he
preached every Sunday were always my favorite because I felt like I grew in my faith so much
after a series of his sermons.

My Popple is the first person I think of who had a huge impact in my walk in Christ, and
in my life. He showed me how to love Christ and love others. He taught me basically everything
I know about the things of the Lord. His passion for loving and serving the Lord was truly a
notable example of how I should be living my life for Christ. I now find myself thinking, “What
would Popple do?” I won’t ever forget the values he instilled on me through the first fifteen
years of my life. I will continue to follow the examples he displayed to me, and to always be
living my life for Christ, just like he did. The impact he had on my life is something I will treasure
forever.

Clare P.

Social Media in the Spotlight

Today, everyone seems to know the term social media. As of now, at least 78% of the
population in the United States of America has a social media account or profile. Although it is a
huge trend today, it was not always around. Social media became popular about eleven years
ago in 2004, when Facebook and YouTube both helped create an exclusively new way for the
world to share and communicate (Hendricks). Since then, producers have generated more
social media sites including Myspace, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, and more. It has become an
unquestionably favorable activity in this generation around the globe and continues to grow.
However, does social networking really benefit society? Unfortunately, no. It is a continuing risk
and privacy concern to communities. It affects children, teens, and adults in inferior ways.
Social Networking promotes negative thoughts and actions, causing it to be detrimental to
society.

The American Academy of Pediatrics advances the idea that social media has been
shown to benefit children by enhancing their lives offline as well. “Social media sites allow
teens to accomplish online many of the tasks that are important to them offline; staying
connected with friends and family, making new friends, sharing pictures, and exchanging ideas”
the report argues, citing from the American Academy of Pediatrics (O’Keefe). Therefore, social
media can help enhance communication and can extend the amount of information obtainable
and also sharable. Nevertheless, this information can be overlooked because there are many
more serious detriments that come from social media. Communicating on social media could
lead to cyberbullying or even to a sexual predator. “Cyberbullying is quite common, can occur
to any young person online, and can cause profound psychosocial outcomes including
depression, anxiety, severe isolation, and tragically suicide” according to a report from the
American Academy of Pediatrics (O’Keefe). Social media can lead to negative thinking and a
decrease in self-esteem when trying to live up to all the high standards on the media. It is more
constructive to focus on reality and what priorities are important instead of what others are
doing beforehand. Therefore, most social media is not beneficial.

A source that provides risks to making social networking damaging is the fact that it
alters the brains of teens and young children. An article from the news website CNN notes that
“In many ways, the young teenage brain is non-empathic. We are concerned that all this tech
time interferes with young people's learning and development of basic empathy skills, such as
maintaining eye contact or noticing subtle nonverbal cues during a conversation” (Small). Since
the emotional development and empathy is formed during early teen years, many people today
are missing this stage in their life because of social media. Teens today are always on social
media and lack the ability to have empathy for others because they obtain self-centered







Works Cited Page

Hendricks, Drew. "Complete History of Social Media: Then And Now." Small Business Trends.
Small Business Trends, 08 May 2013. Web. 02 Jan. 2017.

Kwan, Michael. "Reasons Why Social Networking Is Bad." LoveToKnow. LoveToKnow Corp.,
20 Oct. 2016. Web. 15 Nov. 2016.

O'Keeffe, Gwenn Schurgin, Kathleen Clarke-Pearson and Council on Communications and
Media. "Clinical Report -The Impact of Social Media on Children, Adolescents, and
Families." Pediatrics 2011: peds.2011-0054v1-peds.2011-0054. AAP News and Journals.
American Academy of Pediatrics, 8 Mar. 2011. Web. 20 Oct. 2016.

Olivarez-Giles, Nathan. "More Sex Offenders Joined MySpace than Previously Acknowledged"
Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles Times, 04 Feb. 2009. Web. 20 Oct. 2016.

Perez, Jamie. "How Social Media Affects Self-esteem." The Sundial. The Daily Sundial, 17 Mar.
2015. Web. 15 Nov. 2016.

Saiidi, Uptin. "Hackers Turn to Social Media to Phish for Credentials." CNBC. CNBC, 24 Oct.
2015. Web. 20 Oct. 2016.

Small, Gary, and Gigi Vorgan. "Is the Internet Killing Empathy?" CNN. Cable News Network,
18 Feb. 2011. Web. 02 Jan. 2017.

Wintour, Patirick. "Facebook and Bebo 'infantilising' the Human Mind." The Guardian.
Guardian News and Media, 24 Feb. 2009. Web. 20 Oct. 2016.

Isabella R.

Hey, everyone! My name is Isabella R., and I'm 15 years old. I have a wonderful
family with my Mom, Dad and my 4 amazing brothers, Isaac, Caleb, Nathan, and last but
definitely not least, Luke. I love to write short stories, which I usually never finish. I enjoy
reading biographies and stories about how God has continued to spread His love and mercy
through His people. My favorite movies to watch are old shows like Andy Griffith and Little
House on the Prairie. Exploring my backyard with my brothers is enjoyable and exciting. Most of
all, I love spreading the love of Jesus with everyone I can, and I hope to do this in India when I'm
older.

Pennsylvania in the Fall

In the fall my family and I took a trip to Pennsylvania. We flew on a plane. We drove
out to the places where my grandma grew up, and on the last day we went to Hershey Park.
Since we went in the fall, the colors were vibrant and beautiful. This was my most favorite trip
of the year.

Our trip began with our flight to Pennsylvania. When we got to the airport, we had a
hard time finding a place to park. My brothers and I were so excited as we watched the
different people check in their bags. When we got on the plane, we had to wait a long time for
everyone to take their seats. As the plane took off, we enjoyed listening to the sound of the
engines and seeing the different buildings get smaller. As we were flying, we got to see a
lightning storm. It was probably the most amazing thing I have ever seen. After seven hours of
flying, I was so tired. However, my brothers seemed to have lost no energy on the plane. They
were just as excited and hyper as they had been when we left.

The day after we arrived was very busy as my grandma, my aunt, my cousin, my mom,
and I took a drive out to the place where my grandma grew up. It was so beautiful. My
grandma and my aunt took some amazing pictures. We went to the church that my great-
great-grandfather built. In the church there was a stained glass window that was dedicated to
my great-grandmother. Out behind the church there was a graveyard where my great-
grandmother is buried. After that we drove out to Millerstown. The drive out was amazing.
The vibrant colors perfectly matched the cloudy blue sky. The long drive made all of us
exceptionally hungry. We ate at a little restaurant on the side of the road. The food was so
good. I was so tired after having a really busy, long day.

That Sunday, my aunt, cousin, and my family went to Hershey Park. We first started
with the chocolate factory. We took the chocolate tour. We all were a little sick, so sadly we
didn’t have any chocolate. The rides were amazing. My most favorite ride was called Black
Bear. At the end of the day, my aunt, cousin, and my family were all really tired.

Our time in Pennsylvania was both exciting and fun. Eventually the time came to leave,
and we had to say our goodbyes. I will never forget Pennsylvania. I will never forget my first
plane ride or Hershey Park, but it was seeing the places my grandma grew up and hearing all
her stories that was the most memorable for me. Our fall trip to Pennsylvania was without a
doubt my most favorite trip.

Catherine T.

Hello, everyone! I am a sixteen-year-old traditional roman Catholic in eleventh grade,
and I can truthfully say that I am content in this state, although there are downsides to the
grade aspect. In my family, I am pretty pleased to say I am the eldest sister to seven and
godmother to two of these. Thankfully, domestic activities are my forte because sewing,
reading, cooking, and so on are things which might prove to be very useful later in life like
storm cellar during a tornado! When I am a bit older, visiting Europe, particularly Italy, is
definitely a prospect that I hope will come true in the near future. Since I am sure that all of us
have some goal in life, I would wish to state that mine is to become a perfect lady in order that
Heaven will be that much simpler to achieve. May the Holy Ghost watch over me and other
eleventh graders as we complete our school year!

Preparing the Turkey for Thanksgiving

After summer is over and the crisp fall air surrounds everything, it is time to start
fattening the turkeys. This process begins months before Thanksgiving as it ensures that there
will not be a skinny turkey in sight. Treated with specially designed feed, the birds, which
haven’t a care in the world, are very happy. Poultry treated gently equals a tender and juicy
morsel. Truly, these animals are given VIP treatment. Only the best are picked out for dinner
and fattened even more because a healthy, overweight turkey makes a happy person. At the
beginning of fall, the excitement of fattening the turkeys fills the air.

It is time to prepare the turkey for the Thanksgiving meal. Only the most deliciously
young and plump turkey must be purchased. All the stuffing ingredients need to be brought
out because the bird needs to be stuffed generously and buttered. Next the legs must be sewn
up which prevents the filling from spilling out since no one really want charred stuffing. Soon
the turkey is arranged perfectly in the pan to allow for even cooking. Finally, pop the bird in the
oven well before you want to serve the dinner. A turkey’s presentation for the Thanksgiving
celebration is a lengthy one but well worth it.

It is time to devour! The turkey, when finally cooked, awaits the next step. Carefully,
the turkey is carried out of a scorching hot oven like a previous treasure. Later, after it has
cooled down just a little bit which prevents burnt tongues, the bird is placed on a plate.
Garnish always makes the turkey look its best so dinner should be decorated right before
serving. Always have Dad carve because that is the way to ensure generous portions of this
delectable feast. After a whole day of hard work, it is now time to savor the turkey
masterpiece. When it is time to swallow down the turkey, all the effort put into it will vanish,
and one’s Thanksgiving holiday will just begin.

Blake S.

Hey, y’all! My name is Blake, and I am 18 years old. This is my junior year, and I’ve been
homeschooled my whole life. I am a competitive travel baseball player pretty much all year
nonstop. Whenever I have time I usually hangout with friends or work at a carwash here in
town. If I’m not working or schooling, I am practicing baseball or working out, and I enjoy it
more than anything. This summer I plan on traveling a lot and seeing friends from different
states as well as seeing as many professional baseball games as possible. When I grow up I will
probably do some kind of pastoral ministry since I love talking to people and sharing what Jesus
has given to me.

Personal Growth

Personal growth is something that will occur through getting older, working through
certain situations, and getting to know yourself more. Two years ago, I applied for staff at a
program called TeenPact Leadership Schools. I had attended TeenPact two times, once in Ohio,
and once Tennessee, and I enjoyed it more and more. Hundreds of kids that I knew and did not
know applied for staff, and only four on average were selected per state so it was quite
competitive. Tennessee was a particularly small class so I was confident in my ability to make
the staff team and do well. After the interviews and some of the talk about who would be
accepted simmered down, I found out that I was accepted to staff the Tennessee state class
and I was very excited and scared at the same time. I was excited because it was a big deal and
I was very blessed to be accepted, but scared because I did not know if I was fit for the task. By
the time staff training rolled around, I was feeling more confident about the whole situation
since I knew some of the people there and met some new friends.

By the time staff training ended and I returned home, I studied my handbook endlessly
trying to prepare for the class I would be leading the next month. Since Tennessee is a smaller
class, it is very early in the TeenPact season so that staffers can head to other states and not be
rushed. Knowing this, I prepared in advance and already knew my role for the week. I got to
lead a field experience on how a bill becomes a law and explain it every day to different groups
of students and parents in attendance. We did a few skits to explain things in a simple manner,
and it ended up being an amazing week.

This is an example of personal growth and seeing myself mature and accomplish a task
that in the beginning, I did not feel confident about in the least. I surprised myself and fellow
staffers with how I did, and enjoyed the week more than I ever expected to. I knew that I
would not be the best staffer since I am not the most politically sound, but I used my strengths
and talked to as many students as possible and got to know them on a personal level every day.
The beautiful thing about TeenPact is young people lead young people, and it was an
experience I will never forget. I never saw myself presenting and teaching students about
political processes while developing relationships that will last for a lifetime. Throughout the
TeenPact week people would come up to me and say they were surprised I was on the staff
team since I can be goofy at times and make people laugh. They would follow up with saying
that I surprised them with my level of maturity and knowledge as well, and that was something
special.

Katelin U.

Hi, my name is Katelin and I am 16 years old. So, a bit of info about me. In my family
there is a total of seven kids with an age range between 18 and 3, five girls and two boys. We
have been back in the U.S for about a year and a half, having moved from Dubai where we lived
for about five-ish years. I love to cook and bake which is why I do it almost every day. During
the school year, I play forward position on a competitive soccer team with our homeschool
group. This summer I’m going to be babysitting and traveling a bit.

The Study of Tom

Readers have thoroughly enjoyed this story for ages and it’s easy to see why in just one
chapter from the comical adventure novel, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. The author, Samuel
Clemens, is better known as Mark Twain. Although the author is American, the book was first
published in England June of 1876 and then six months later in the U.S. Creatively narrated in
third-person, the novel gives a special insight to Tom, who is the main character. Throughout
its pages, the book contains a beautifully written childhood nostalgia because the point of view
in the story is that of an adult.

The scene opens up with a cheery description of an iconic summer Saturday morning in
a village. Everything seems to be going wonderfully until Tom, who is the main character, is
introduced. As he enters the mood changes abruptly. Heavily Tom brings a deep melancholy
and discouraging voice in to the picture. Because the change in moods is so opposite and rather
sudden, Twain uses their contrast to really show you Tom’s feelings and how they differ from
the world around him. The abrupt decline in spirit helps in visualizing the setting and attitude of
the character and his surroundings.

In the excerpt, Twain captures remarkably well the boyish struggle of Tom against
authority and responsibility. Showing that because Tom doesn’t have enough wealth to
exchange for his freedom, he is unable to buy off Jim to do his work. While Tom is discouraged
and rather reluctant to do his work, he suddenly encounters a great inspiration. He proceeds to
make art of his work and insists that it is unattainable to any other, claiming that Aunt Polly,
who is quite particular about her whitewashing wouldn’t allow it. Creatively Twain expresses
the mischievousness and cunningness of a little boy.

Tom triumphs in his trickery. Successfully, Tom gets the boys to unknowingly do his
work for him. As Twain entertains the reader, he uses Tom to ingrate a little life lesson, which is
that work is what you’re obliged to do and play what you aren’t. In the end, because Tom is a
bit smarter than he and everyone else thinks, the fence gets three coats of whitewash. During
the fiasco, Tom comes into the possession of much wealth plus all the company and idle time in
the world.

Throughout the novel, the childish actions of Tom and his friends are so realistic which
makes the tale remarkably believable. Constantly giving the book feeling and, an airy depth the
atmosphere is well written. Because Twain opted for his characters to speak in a certain slang,
it definitely puts the context into the time period. Unfortunately, some of the words Tom uses
are too mature for his character since he is portrayed as a little boy. Overall, The Adventures of
Tom Sawyer is a classic and a must read for any generation.

Caleb V.

My name is Caleb V., and I am eighteen years old. I am a missionary kid living just
outside of Mexico City. I am the second of five children; I have three sisters and one brother. I
enjoy drawing, playing sports (mostly soccer), and playing music. I play drums, keys, and guitar.
I am involved in the worship in my church and hope to eventually dedicate myself entirely to
music ministry. Some of my other interests are videography and science. I will graduate high
school this year, and I plan to study environmental science at Biola University in California. I
also enjoy reading comics; my favorite strips are Zits and Peanuts.

Acid Deposition: Causes, Forms, and Effects
Caleb J. V.

Write for Success

Abstract

Acid rain is a phenomenon that results when rain mixes with sulfuric and nitric acids. It was first
discovered in the mid-1800s by Robert Angus Smith. While rain is normally acidic, nitric and
sulfuric acid make it dangerously acidic. Acid rain can negatively affect animals, plants, and
humans. It has both natural and manmade causes. However, it is less of a problem as much of it
has already been handled.

Acid Deposition: Causes, Forms, and Effects

The term “acid rain” is used with great familiarity in industrialized countries such as the
United States. Environmentalists are greatly concerned with attacking the problem, and the
term has an ominous connotation. But what exactly is acid rain and for how long has it been a
problem? The term was coined by Scottish chemist Robert Angus Smith in the mid-1800s. Smith
noticed that rain was more acidic in areas where there was a greater amount of pollution in the
air. Smith also discovered a correlation between the burning of coal and the deterioration of
buildings in those areas. In the 1950s, scientists began to research and gather information
about acid rain as a widespread problem (Willyard, 2010). Acid rain can affect animals, plants,
humans, buildings, materials and more. Acid rain is a problem, but it is not manmade. There are
many natural causes. Neither is acid rain limited to wet precipitation like rain or snow; it can be
a problem in dry form as well. Acid rain can carry pollution from one area to another and
disrupt ecosystems if the conditions are right.

Causes of Acid Rain
Acid rain is caused by chemical reactions between water vapor and pollutants.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
Acid rain results when sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOX) are emitted into
the atmosphere and transported by wind and air currents. The SO2 and NOX react with
water, oxygen and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. These then mix with
water and other materials before falling to the ground. (What Is Acid Rain?)
Normal rainfall is formed when water evaporates from the ground and rises into the air. When
it reaches a certain height, the cold air makes it condense back into water droplets. These water
droplets form clouds. As the droplets bump into each other, they get progressively bigger and
heavier until they fall to earth. When there is a large amount of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen
oxides (these include nitrogen dioxide and monoxide) in the air, the water droplets in the

clouds mix with these chemicals before falling to earth. This is the phenomenon that is known
as acid rain. Kim Masters Evans, author of The Environment: A Revolution in Attitudes (2008),
says that acid rain is formed when sulfur dioxide and nitrous oxides “are converted to sulfuric
acid and nitric acid in the atmosphere and can be carried by the winds for many miles from
where the original emissions took place.” The two main chemicals that cause acid rain are SO2
and NOX, as these turn into acids and combine with rain. Because the wind can take it so far,
acid rain can have long-term impacts on more than one area. It can affect many different areas,
regardless of where the pollutants were emitted. Where there is a high amount of the right
pollutants, rain becomes contaminated with the resulting acids.

Scientists determine the acidity of rain using the pH scale. “The lower a substance's pH
(less than 7), the more acidic it is; the higher a substance's pH (greater than 7), the more
alkaline it is… Acid rain usually has a pH between 4.2 and 4.4” (“What Is Acid Rain?”). At a basic
level of chemistry, it is common knowledge that some substances are acidic while others are
basic. Both acids and bases are measured on the potential hydrogen (pH) scale. At a pH of 7.0, a
substance is neutral, neither acidic nor basic. The scale is useful in meteorology to determine
whether rain is harmfully acidic. Masters Evans also gives the pHs of different forms of water:

Pure, distilled water has a neutral pH of seven. Normal rainfall has a pH value of about
5.6. It is slightly acidic because it accumulates naturally occurring sulfur oxides (SOx) and
nitrogen oxides (NOx) as it passes through the atmosphere. Acid rain has a pH of less
than 5.6”. (2008)
There is not complete agreement as to at what pH rain can be classified as acid rain, but it is
usually agreed to be between 5.4 and 5.6. Water as found in nature is rarely neutral, and, as the
pH of normal rain demonstrates, rainfall is never that close to having a neutral pH. However, if
rain is too acidic, it can harm organisms. The pH scale is a useful took in determining whether or
not rain is harmfully acidic.
Natural Causes
With all the excitement about acid rain, it would never occur to many people that rain is
naturally acidic. According to scientist Jay L. Wile:
The first thing to learn is that rain is naturally acidic… The key is that to be safe, acids
have to be weak. The acid in normal rain is carbonic acid, the same acid you drink in
soda pop… The pH of [acid rain] is usually about 5.3. (Wile, pg. 518, 2003)
Carbonic acid is naturally present in the atmosphere, but not at a high concentration. Water
droplets in the air mix with this carbonic acid and fall to earth. However, this rain is only slightly
acidic and is not harmful to life. An article on the Climate and Weather website also notes this
fact: “Rain is normally a bit acidic, with a pH of around 5.5; if the pH of rain is below 5.5, then
the rain is most likely contaminated by acid gases” (“Acid Rain”). Some acids are normally
present in the atmosphere, and water vapor and droplets can easily come into contact with
them. Additionally, water may have evaporated from a body of water that had a small amount

of acid in it. Whatever the case, it is normal for rain to contain a small amount of acid. All rain is
in a sense “acid rain,” but the term is used to denote an abnormal amount of acid.

Acid rain falls into a category of phenomena known as acid deposition. There are two
other forms of acid deposition: moist and dry. The EPA explains:

Wet deposition is what we most commonly think of as acid rain. The sulfuric and nitric
acids formed in the atmosphere fall to the ground mixed with rain, snow, fog, or hail.
Acidic particles and gases can also deposit from the atmosphere in the absence of
moisture as dry deposition. The acidic particles and gases may deposit to surfaces
(water bodies, vegetation, buildings) quickly or may react during atmospheric transport
to form larger particles that can be harmful to human health. When the accumulated
acids are washed off a surface by the next rain, this acidic water flows over and through
the ground, and can harm plants and wildlife, such as insects and fish. (“What Is Acid
Rain?”)
Wet deposition, when acids fall mixed with wet precipitation, is the most well-known form of
acid deposition. It is common in industrialized areas and the surrounding areas. However, dry
deposition is also a problem. Dry deposition is formed when there is no moisture for the acids
to mix with. It harms humans more directly than wet deposition. Because it is dry, it can sit in
the air and be inhaled. It also has an effect on organisms that live close to or in the ground.
When dry deposition mixes with water, it flows and soaks into the ground. Kim Masters Evans
also says:
Wet deposition occurs when the acid falls in rain, snow, or ice. Dry deposition is caused
by tiny particles (or particulates) in combustion emissions. They may stay dry as they fall
or pollute cloud water and precipitation. Moist deposition occurs when the acid is
trapped in cloud or fog droplets. This is most common at high altitudes and in coastal
areas. Whatever its form, acid rain can create dangerously high levels of acidic
impurities in water, soil, and plants. (2008)
Masters Evans lists a third category of acid deposition, moist deposition. This type also affects
humans and non-water-dwelling organisms directly, as the pollutants sit in the air mixed with
fog and can be inhaled. Areas that are prone to fog are more susceptible to moist deposition.
Moist deposition is more likely to affect organisms through the air they breathe, as the
pollutants stay in the air for longer. Sooner or later, all three of these forms of acid deposition
end up in bodies of water where they pollute the aquatic ecosystem. While the most well-
known form of acid deposition is wet deposition, these two other types also harm the
environment.
Man-made Causes
While much of the emphasis is on man-made causes of acid rain, there are many natural
causes. Climate and Weather gives a brief overview of natural causes:

Natural sources of sulfate in the atmosphere include ocean spray, volcanic emissions,
and readily oxidized hydrogen sulfide, which is released from the decomposition of
organic matter found in the Earth. Natural sources of nitrogen or nitrates include NOx
produced by micro-organisms in soils, by lightning during thunderstorms, and by forest
fires. Scientists generally speculate that one-third of the sulfur and nitrogen emissions in
the United States comes from these natural sources. (“Acid Rain”)
Human activity does contribute to acid rain, but in some cases its contribution is exaggerated. A
good amount of acid rain is caused by natural processes such as volcanic eruptions,
decomposition, and combustion processes like lightning and forest fires. These sources
contribute to an estimated one third of acid rain in the world. Thus, while it is a good idea to
cut down on acid rain, it is impossible to eliminate it all together; it is a natural occurrence. The
article “Causes, Effects, and Solutions for Acid Rain” from Conserve Energy Future goes into a
little more detail:
The major natural causal agent for acid rain is volcanic emissions. Volcanoes emit acid-
producing gases to create higher than normal amounts of acid rain or any other form of
precipitation such as fog and snow to an extent of affecting vegetation cover and health
of residents within the surrounding. Decaying vegetation, wildfires and biological
processes within the environment also generate the acid rain forming gases… Lightning
strikes also naturally produce nitric oxides that react with water molecules via electrical
activity to produce nitric acid, thereby forming acid rain.
Volcanic emissions are responsible for many phenomena, including emission of greenhouse
gases, and in this case, gases which create the acids which form acid rain. Combustion
processes are also once again listed as causal agents. These include lightning strikes, wildfires
and microscopic combustion processes such as those involved in decomposition. These are the
main natural sources of the contributors to acid rain.
Much of the acid rain that troubles ecosystems is a result of human activity. The
Environmental Protection Agency gives an overview of some of the causes: “The major sources
of SO2 and NOX in the atmosphere are: Burning of fossil fuels to generate electricity,” which
accounts for “[t]wo thirds of SO2 and one fourth of NOX in the atmosphere.” Other causes
listed are vehicles and heavy equipment and “[m]anufacturing, oil refineries and other
industries” (“What Is Acid Rain?”). The greater part of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides is
produced in manmade combustion processes used in industrial activities, such as burning fuels.
The EPA claims that the major source is the generation of electricity, which is usually
accomplished by burning fossil fuels such as coal. The EPA also lists manufacturing, oil refineries
and other industrial activities as sources. Conserve Energy Future also lists:
The activities include air pollution sources emitting sulfur and nitrogen gases like
factories, power generations facilities, and automobiles. In particular, use of coal for
electrical power generation is the biggest contributor to gaseous emissions leading to

acid rain. Automobiles and factories also release high scores of gaseous emissions on a
daily basis into the air, especially in highly industrialized areas and urban regions with
large numbers of car traffic (“Causes, Effects and Solutions”).
This article lists combustion processes such as those in factories, electric plants, and motorized
vehicles as contributors to acid rain. Like the EPA, Conserve Energy Future claims that the
largest source of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide is the burning of coal in electric plants.
Because of these factors, acid rain is most common in industrialized areas where there is high
automobile use and combustion processes with commercial purposes. Human activity is
responsible for causing a large part of acid rain.

Effects of Acid Rain
Vegetation Effects

Acid rain affects many different organisms, including plant life. Plants and trees are
mostly affected by acid rain through the soil:

Dead or dying trees are a common sight in areas effected (sic) by acid rain. Acid rain
leaches aluminum from the soil. That aluminum may be harmful to plants as well as
animals. Acid rain also removes minerals and nutrients from the soil that trees need to
grow. At high elevations, acidic fog and clouds might strip nutrients from trees’ foliage,
leaving them with brown or dead leaves and needles. The trees are then less able to
absorb sunlight, which makes them weak and less able to withstand freezing
temperatures. (“Effects of Acid Rain”)
Too much acid can harm any organism. Acid rain affects plants because plants mostly get their
water from rain. When the rain they are receiving has too much acid, the acid can enter the
plants or unleash adverse effects on other factors that affect plant health. One way acid rain
harms plants is by releasing the toxic metal aluminum previously contained in the soil. It also
removes the minerals that plants use to grow. Plants can also be affected through their leaves
by acid contained in moisture that is in the air. The leaves of a plant are responsible for
absorbing sunlight, and when the leaves cannot perform, plants are more susceptible to
freezing in cold regions. Masters Evans also gives information on how acid rain affects plants
through the soil:
Soils exposed to acid rain can gradually lose valuable nutrients, such as calcium,
magnesium, and potassium and become too concentrated with dissolved inorganic
aluminum, which is toxic to vegetation. Long-term changes in soil chemistry may have
already affected sensitive soils, particularly in forests. Forest soils saturated in nitrogen
cannot retain other nutrients required for healthy vegetation. Subsequently, these
nutrients are washed away. Nutrient-poor trees are more vulnerable to climatic
extremes, pest invasion, and the effects of other air pollutants, such as ozone. (2008)
Plants need minerals and other nutrients to be healthy, including calcium and magnesium. If
they are mixed with a harmful metal such as aluminum, these nutrients also pose a threat to