News in Brief
Northern Lights light up California
For the first time in nearly 20 years, a strong geomagnetic storm hit the U.S., creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the Northern Lights. Although difficult to see simply with your eyes, this sight made it all the way to Southern California. Southern California had a slim chance for this sight, so a few traveled just a short distance to enjoy the electric colors of the sky as it lit up with purple, pink and green. For Eli Zasloff, freshman at NPHS, it was simply a camping trip with a few friends that turned into an irreplaceable experience. “It was the spontaneity of the trip at the beginning [that] became unique, and that we weren’t even supposed to see [the Northern Lights] in California,” Zasloff said.
Animal crossing overpass plans advance
Wildlife across the world face dangers from a variety of human innovations, especially when it comes to crossing roads full of cars. California has recently begun to take fundamental steps towards safety and sustainability with the creation of Wildlife Crossing Bridges. The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing began construction across the 101 Freeway at Liberty Canyon in order to prevent restriction of animals and wildlife from engaging in movement within the Santa Monica Mountains. Wildlife in this area, especially mountain lions, are currently facing troubles with migration to and from the mountains, but it is necessary for the genetic diversity to prevent local extinction. With the use of matte material to block bright headlights and insulation to mute the sound of cars, the crossing will attract animals from both sides of the freeway. The completion for the construction is expected to be early 2026, and the Wildlife Crossing will open the possibilities to save the genetic diversity and prevent extinction.
La Reina New Campus Plans Fall Through (Elizabeth) – 116 words
After La Reina, a middle school and high school, announced their closure at the end of the 2023-2024 school year, alumni and parents got together to establish a new campus, La Reina Academy, at the former Pinecrest School’s campus. However, their plans to create the new school have fallen through due to low enrollment. Originally planning to close the Thousand Oaks campus due to financial and enrollment reasons, a group of concerned parents and alumni, calling themselves the “Save La Reina Team,” attempted to raise awareness and funds for the cause. Announced in a newsletter and social media post, La Reina officials stated that they were unable to reach their enrollment targets with less than 100 students, and will not be opening for the 2024-2025 school year.
