By: Adith Bondugula MTHS students of many backgrounds had a blast last week at the Diwali celebration hosted by the Hindu Student Association. This was an amazing and unique event that helped students unite together and learn more about one of the most well known and vibrant Indian holidays.  Diwali, also called the Festival of Lights, celebrates the idea of light over darkness and the victory of good beating evil. Creativity, unity among students, and a willingness to learn more about the holiday made HSA’s festival a massive success. From coloring giant posters to painting diyas, students had a great time learning and participating in Hindu culture.  In order to prepare for such a huge event, many members of HSA helped change a boring science classroom in vibrant colors using bright decorations and various forms of art. For example, students used art such as lights, rangoli patterns, and flowers to transform the room into one that was more fit to celebrate the holiday. Members of the club also made posters with fun facts and Diwali related designs to emphasize the educational part of the celebration that helped students learn more about the holiday while also having fun.  While celebrating, students participating in the event had an engaging discussion about the true meaning and importance of Diwali. Students talked all about the deep cultural and spiritual values Diwali has on Hinduism. Many stories from Hindu mythology were shared such as Lord Rama coming back to his kingdom after defeating the evil. This is represented in the celebration of lighting lamps to symbolize how good ended up beating evil. These discussions helped students connect personally with the holiday and make participants think about Diwali’s message revolving around inner light.  HSA not only included decorations in their celebration but went above and beyond by including food too. Many students brought in various Indian sweets like gulab jamun, laddoos, and kaju katlis. This helped people receive a taste of traditional sweets which are enjoyed in India and helped highlight one of the festival’s main traditions, which is eating sweets. By combining art, food, decorations, and learning, the HSA Diwali event was a massive success with many students having the opportunity to firsthand experience the holiday of Diwali in an educational environment. At the end of the festival, tables were covered with beautifully painted diyas, walls were lined with colorful artwork, and students had a stronger sense of connection with the holiday than ever before.  Though it is still a new club made just this year, HSA has achieved massive success and continues to connect students to their religion further. HSA showed that it was possible, light by light, to learn more and have fun with friends through the club's unique festival celebrations.

By: Rhea Bhooshanam The dance team at the homecoming football game! (Photo Credit: Christina Sable) You will want to stay in your seat when the half-time show begins—that’s when the Monroe Township High School dance team shines. Their performances light up the stands with their amazing energy and bright smiles. They get the crowd going with their sideline dances and put on an exceptional show during half-time.  The dance team practice starts in the summer. Dance captains Ella Kochinski, Ava Mattielli, and Natalie Daly collaborate to choreograph the half-time dances with elements from jazz and hip-hop. The team learns their half-time, sideline dances, and practices the dance routines during the summer. The captains ensure that the practices are going smoothly and help the team put their best foot forward.  This group of talented dancers is led by Ms. Cobb. Reflecting on her past years, she said, “My first year as head coach was definitely a learning curve! This team has made my job so much easier, from being not only phenomenal dancers, but such helpful and supportive young adults. I am grateful and amazed by how much this team grows together and individually.” A message she has for the dance team is, “Keep working hard and giving your all! Leave everything you have on the dance floor!”  The dance team had exciting performances at the pep rally and four football games. At each football game they had different dances to perform. Their hard work, passion, and skill was evident in these performances. If you didn’t see the dance team in action, don’t worry! They have more performances coming during basketball season that will amaze you!

Plain slice at Fresco Pizzeria. (Photo Credit: Harrison Wolk) David Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, is most widely known for his “One Bite” pizza reviews. Since 2017, he has released nearly 2000 ratings on his personal YouTube account; the harsh judging process has transformed the pizza-making industry into a competitive and cutthroat environment. After briefing myself on baseline indicators, I think it’s time that we bring a pizza review column to The Falconer’s Voice! I look forward to introducing certainty and confidence to the ranks of all your local options. Keep an eye out for comprehensive reviews in the near future and feel free to email any recommendations to hwolk@students.monroe.k12.nj.us !

"Vote" sign and balloons welcome MTHS Seniors to their first ever voting experience (Photo Credit: Ms. Abruzzese). For the first time ever, high school Seniors were given the opportunity to participate in a voting simulation! During their Health periods on March 27th and 28th, Rho Kappa board members provided an in-depth presentation that covered the importance of voting, how to register, and the steps involved in becoming an informed voter.  Following the presentation, students were escorted to the PAC lobby and guided to their respective polling locations based on alphabetical order. They were required to check-in with a signature worker and then handed a ballot which they would use for voting purposes. Once in the booth, the ballot was to be sent up the slot in the bottom right corner and the student could proceed with making their desired selections. Once the vote had been casted, students proceeded to the final table where they could obtain an “I Voted” sticker and/or begin their official registration as a New Jersey voter! In this simulation, three questions were asked to a total of over 525 students… Favorite MTHS School Lunch  Favorite Performer in Concert Public Question - Ranked Choice Voting (Photo Credit: Ms. Abruzzese) At the end of the day, General Tso’s took the favorite in the school lunch category with 186 votes. This was just enough to beat out Pizza Monday (161 votes), however it completely left pizza crunchers (86 votes), zoodles (66 votes), and toasted cheese (25 votes) in the dust! Students also gravitated towards Drake as their favorite performer in concert, giving him a total of 184 votes. Behind him included Travis Scott (149 votes), Taylor Swift (86 votes), SZA (67 votes), and Beyonce (40 votes).  For those of you who don’t know, ranked choice voting is a new concept being introduced which allows voters to rank their candidates by preference as opposed to simply choosing one candidate. This question, which asked whether or not we should have ranked choice voting in place, earned a whopping 407 votes of approval and a mere 75 votes of opposition.  Poll booth workers and event organizers gathering before the next group of Senior students arrive. (Photo Credit: Harrison Wolk) I spoke with the President and Membership Chair of the League of Women Voters to get their perspective on this event. Andrea Pellezzi and Linda Kinsey emphasized the importance and uniqueness of this opportunity. “The students here are truly lucky to have such amazing staff who put an emphasis on civics in the curriculum. Something like this takes away the mystery of voting, and I think it provides some comfort to new voters who might be a little bit nervous. It’s incredible what Ms. Abruzzese [History Honor Society Advisor & MTHS Teacher] has helped put together, and to think back when the voting age was 21 during my childhood, it's remarkable to see the leaps of progress we’re making in younger generations!” While it can often be intimidating for a first-time voter to enter the booth, this realistic simulation helped calm the nerves of hundreds of young voters at MTHS. The collaborative effort on behalf of the MTHS chapter of Rho Kappa History Honor Society along with the League of Women Voters was truly a success. As a participant and volunteer, I would strongly encourage getting involved in this event as you look ahead to your Senior year! If your interested in more information about Rho Kappa HHS and the projects they are working on, check out their Instagram page @mthsrhokappa.

Each year, there's a singular event that fills me with anticipation and excitement – the Om Memorial 5k Run & Walk. Among the cherished memories of past years, one stands out vividly: standing alongside my peers, cheering on the diverse array of runners as they dashed past us. It was a moment of profound realization as I witnessed individuals of all ages, from toddlers to seniors, uniting in support of this important cause. The sight of our community coming together united in our efforts to raise funds for pediatric cancer research, is truly heartwarming. As I reflect on these experiences, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and determination. Each step taken, each cheer uttered, contributes to the collective impact we can make in the fight against pediatric cancer. I may echo sentiments shared by others, but it only underscores the significance of this event to us all. The Om Memorial 5k Run & Walk holds a special place in our hearts, not only for its impact on the community but also for the beautiful legacy it honors – that of the resilient and inspiring Parikh family. So, I urge you to join us and become a part of this extraordinary event. Let's stand together, stride by stride, as we honor the memory of Om Parikh and support pediatric cancer research. Sign up today and be a part of something truly meaningful! What is the Om Foundation? Nestled within the vibrant community of Monroe Township, New Jersey, the Om Foundation shines as a beacon of hope, compassion, and optimism. For years, this local nonprofit organization has been at the forefront of the fight against pediatric cancer, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of residents far and wide. Founded upon the tragic loss of their beloved son, Om Parikh, the Parikh family transformed their grief into a powerful force for good. With a steadfast commitment to honoring Om Parikh's memory and supporting those affected by pediatric cancer, they established the Om Foundation, a testament to the transformative power of love and unity. At the heart of the Om Foundation's mission lies a deep-seated desire to positively impact the community. Through a diverse array of initiatives, they work tirelessly to raise awareness, funds, and support for pediatric cancer research, education, and advocacy. From educational workshops to financial assistance for families in need, their holistic approach addresses the multifaceted needs of those affected by the disease, offering a ray of hope in times of darkness. One of the Om Foundation's most anticipated events is the annual Om Memorial 5k Run and Walk. This beloved community tradition brings together individuals of all ages and backgrounds for a day of remembrance, solidarity, and celebration. Participants lace up their running shoes and take to the streets of Monroe Township’s beloved Thompson Park, united in their commitment to honoring Om Parikh's memory and supporting pediatric cancer research. It's a day filled with laughter, tears, and heartfelt camaraderie – a true testament to the power of community coming together for a common cause. Central to the Om Foundation's ethos is a spirit of inclusivity and compassion, welcoming individuals of all backgrounds and experiences to join their cause. Whether through volunteering, fundraising, or simply spreading awareness, each contribution serves as a testament to the collective power of small acts of kindness and solidarity. In the embrace of the Om Foundation, our community finds not only a beacon of hope but a steadfast ally in the fight against pediatric cancer. Together, we stand united, empowered by the spirit of Om Parikh and the transformative power of community, as we journey towards a future free from the burden of childhood cancer. As this year's Om Memorial 5k Run and Walk approaches, the Om Foundation invites residents of Monroe Township and beyond to join them in their mission of spreading hope and making a difference. Whether you're a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or simply looking to show your support, there's a place for you at this year's event. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in the fight against pediatric cancer and ensure that no family faces this journey alone. Mark your calendars and save the date for the Om Memorial 5k Run and Walk, happening May 19th, 2024. Join us as we run, walk, and come together as a community to honor the memory of Om Parikh and support pediatric cancer research. Together, we can make a difference – one step at a time. Om Foundation Website:   https://www.smilesforom.org   Link to Sign Up:   https://runsignup.com/om

A senior spotlight is to recognize an individual who has stood out from the crowd and left a mark in their four brief years here at the highschool. Class of 2025 senior Danica Zelvin is a perfect definition of what a senior spotlight is really for.  In her short time here at MTHS she has created a name for herself and constantly surprises everyone with what she has up her sleeve. She is both an athletic and active member of the school and community. When asked what she will miss most about highschool, Danica says the connections she made and continues to make on a daily basis. She has loved being able to turn to the person next to her in class and simply chat about how they are. Those little connections/conversations make the days of many people and even lead to friendships along the way. (Danica and friends at senior sunrise) Dancia’s biggest passions are both sports and business so it only made sense for her to found the sports business club here at the highschool. Taking over a year to form, Danica pushed through obstacles in order to get this club running. Now with over 100 members Danica leads the club with two other students promoting and helping all varsity sports through social media and more. Their biggest focus is to bring attention and help especially the teams that don't get a lot of recognition. Danica says that the very first meeting of this club was one of her favorite high school memories. Being able to see all her work pay off and all the students' excitement to be able to help made it all worth it. Her passion and determination is something in itself to be recognized and admired. Since founding this club there has been a major difference in student involvement at sports games. We can thank Danica and the sports business club for this!   Danica not only shows her amazing leadership skills in the sports business club but another club called DECA. DECA helps prepare individuals to become leaders and entrepreneurs in all business aspects. Whether it’s financial, marketing, hospitality and management etc. Danica leads the club as one of the presidents helping countless students excel in these aspects in preparations for competitions.  (Danica after winning at a DECA competition) Not just in the walls of the highschool is senior Danica Zelvin making a difference but actually out in the sports business field as well. Currently the senior works with athletes signing name image likeness deals which allow them to make money from sponsorships. She also helps connect and market these athletes to companies. At such a young age being able to put herself out there and work with athletes is something not many kids are able to do. In the end Danica not only is an excellent student, an extremely active member of the school, but she's overall an amazing person. Constantly going above and beyond to push limits and make a difference both in highschool and out in the world. Knowing how much she has done in the few years at the highschool it's only fair to assume that she will continue to do great things after graduation.

By: Craig McPherson A 2008 Hummer H3 Alpha, in a basic black paint job. (Credit: 2008 Hummer H3 Alpha for sale - Cars & Bids) The 2020 decade would see the return of a certain type of vehicle popular in the 1990’s and early 2000’s. In 2020, General Motors would begin making new Hummer EVs. These larger automobiles would be available as electric SUVs and pickup trucks. This would be a contrast to the mainly gas-powered Hummers, which were a larger variant of Jeeps. However, some people might be wondering, how was the Hummer originally created, and how did it return? The original Hummer would be conceived in 1983, when the Pentagon requested that the AM General Corporation develop 55,000 High Mobility Wheeled Vehicles. The result of this request was the Humvee, used to transport troops and cargo. The Humvee would famously be used during the invasion of Panama and the Persian Gulf War in the early 90’s.  AM General would create a variation of the Humvee, the Hummer, in 1992, which could be owned and driven by average American civilians. The Hummer became popular with celebrities at the time, such as Arnold Schwarzenegger. In late 1999, AM General would give the rights to manufacture and sell the Hummer to General Motors. In 2002, General Motors created a smaller version of the original Hummer, the Hummer H2. General Motors would create an even smaller version of the Hummer in 2005 with the Hummer H3.  However, the Hummer would be discontinued in early 2010. The eventual failure of the Hummer would be caused by several different factors. These include concerns about how much gas the average Hummer used, as it only manages to travel approximately 10 miles per gallon. The need for more gas not only means that driving a Hummer would be more expensive, but also results in contributing more to air pollution.  Eventually, in 2020, General Motors would announce the Hummer EV. One writer described the EV, saying, “It bears a strong resemblance to the H2, carrying over iconic design elements such as the front grill with vertical slats. Compared to the H2, this electric model is longer, wider, and heavier. Estimates suggest that it will weigh over 9,000 Ibs, which according to EPA estimates, it’s more than double the weight of the average car. This is primarily attributed to the truck’s vast quantity of battery packs.” (Marcus Lu, 2022). The reason General Motors made the new Hummers seemingly has not been confirmed yet. In speculation, the company likely did so to capitalize on the original popularity the Hummer had, as well as the growing popularity of electric vehicles. Overall, the Hummer has had a turbulent history. What was originally meant as a means for military transportation would appeal to many American civilians. This popularity would lead to its eventual return after the downfall caused by its notable design flaws. In the end, it undergoes a significant transformation, from a machine that infamously used large amounts of gas, to a more eco-friendly, electric vehicle.

La Maria from Mancini’s Brooklyn Pizza. (Photo Credit: Anjana Janaththanan) Last year, our Editor in Chief, Harrison Wolk, graduated, and our beloved pizza review series was put on pause.However, I [Anjana] am very excited to revive this series with a pizza review of Mancini’s Brooklyn Pizza, East Brunswick.  At first, I was astonished by the shape of the pizza, I was staring at a big “block” of flavors that resembled a prism. The Sicilian pizza was topped with pepperoni, fresh mozzarella, and tomato sauce. I was a bit hesitant at first, seeing the pizza shine, revealing the sauce, and grease smothered on top. However, the aroma made me cave in and take a bite.  I was surprised by the taste, it was both sweet and spicy. The sweet sauce was not only drizzled on top, but it was also soaked into the crunchy crust. The mozzarella cheese had a nice pull, and at the final moment, a hint of spice hit. As someone with a high spice tolerance, I found the heat level pretty mild. Still, the combination of sweetness and spice made for a unique slice that stands out from your typical pepperoni pizza. While the sweet sauce adds a unique twist, it occasionally overshadows the spice and cheese, which might not be for everyone. Overall, the La Maria pizza from Mancini’s Brooklyn Pizza brought a unique blend of sweet and spicy, paired with the thick cheese and crunchy crust. I’m a fan of the flavors presented by the pizza. However, if a pinch more spice is added and sweet sauce is withheld a bit, I would prefer this balance of the great combination. I would personally give this pizza an 8.5 out of 10. I recommend that you try the pizza out yourself, as this may be the pizza for you!

By: Craig McPherson A Chart Depicting the rising costs of college tuition in the United States over the years. (Credit : College Costs Explained: Why “High Tuition” Headlines Don’t Tell the Full Story - Bipartisan Policy Center) A Chart Depicting the rising costs of college tuition in the United States over the years. (Credit : College Costs Explained: Why “High Tuition” Headlines Don’t Tell the Full Story - Bipartisan Policy Center) A common reason that some people choose not to go to college is because they believe it is too expensive. They worry they will struggle to pay back student loans or other bills. Unfortunately, this seems to be the case, as in an interview with 1,500 U.S. college students, 59% of them considered dropping out due to financial stress. If not educated or prepared properly, high school students may experience the same fears or struggles in the future. But how do most current high school students feel about college? What are high schools doing to help prepare students for college? Before investigating feelings of high school students, or college preparations in high school, the reasons for college being so expensive must be explored first. The inflation of tuition prices is increased by factors such as excessive numbers of staff members and amenities in universities as well as a business model dependent on high-wage labor. This means the average pay for staff members would be at least 50% higher than the overall average. This would mean that universities would have to make more money to fund these many resources and higher wages. To make more money, they charge more for tuition. A student feeling overwhelmed by things in their life that regularly stresses them out, including tuition fees and student loans. (Credit : STRESSED-OUT COLLEGE STUDENTS: HELP IS POSSIBLE - Stethoscope Magazine) But how do local high school students feel about the expenses of college? When asked about her feelings on any student loans or debt she or her family may have to pay off in the future, Monroe Township High School student Ashley Sawh stated, “I want to avoid taking out student loans, though if need be, I will do it. Having student loans is just something that I generally do not want to deal with, mainly because I want to have my full attention on my career in the future.” As Sawh points out, owing student loans not only is a financial stressor, but can also be a distraction to studies and pursuing one’s future career. A photograph of Monroe Township High School, a local high school in Monroe Township, New Jersey. (Credit : Monroe Township High School, Monroe Township NJ Rankings & Reviews) Some people also may wonder how local high schools are preparing students for college. Brielle Goldstein, a guidance counselor in Monroe Township High School, provided her opinion on this topic and responded, “ Yes, I do feel like our school does a lot to prepare students for college. I cannot really speak to what other schools in the area do. At MTHS, we offer courses where teachers prepare students for the academic expectations of college. The counseling department holds various events and evening programs to provide information to students and families to help prepare them for the process of applying for colleges. We hold parent nights, the college fair, college rep visits, groups, etc. There are plenty of readily available resources for students including the use of Scoir to learn about and prepare for college and the application process.” According to Goldstein, there are several different resources available in Monroe Township High School meant to help students prepare for college. However, she did say she could not speak about the college preparation programs for other schools in the area, meaning some other schools may not have as many resources compared to Monroe Township. In conclusion, high school students may feel apprehensive about the increasing costs of college tuition, student loans, and debt. However, they may be able to find guidance or resources to help them prepare for college, such as in programs set up by their own schools. In turn, this begs the question: Even with support from these resources, will financial stress decrease, no longer interfering with students’ decisions on whether or not to attend college? In short, the solution to this issue is to understand you are not alone. In addition to one’s counselors and the abundant resources they provide, one should remember their peers are undergoing the same struggles, and are open to working through this problem together.

By: Craig McPherson A 2007 Honda Accord Coupe, in a bright, San Marino Red. (Credit :  Used 2007 Honda Accord Coupe for Sale - Edmunds) The feeling a young person gets when they are finally getting their first car is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. There are many different makes and models. This massive variety of different options often causes one to question if a model is safe, if the brand that produces it is reliable, and if the car is too expensive. However, in spite of all this uncertainty, there is one particular car that can satisfy all these factors and has become notably popular. This car is the Honda Accord.  The Honda Accord was first created in 1976, and  was a signifying milestone for Honda as a motor company. The company was previously known for its smaller sedan, the Honda Civic. The introduction of the Accord is considered Honda’s first step in becoming a prominent brand in the automobile industry. The Accord’s interior was seen as innovative. It included a maintenance reminder system, which advised the driver when to change oil or tires. The Accord would gain a more refined design during the late 70’s. Just in the year 1980, Honda would sell 185,972 Accords.  Throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s, several different variants of the Accord were made. Including different station wagons, sedans, and coupes. This would likely be another reason the Accord became so popular, where having a variety of different body styles meant it could appeal to many different types of people. During 1994 and 1995, the Accord gained a larger interior with a longer front, and a new grille. During the early 2000’s, it also gained a new body, chassis, and engine. Significant changes to the Honda Accord would continue in 2005, when a hybrid variant was introduced. This would be around the time that hybrid cars would become popular, and sales exponentially grow. In 2006, an estimated 80% of buyers said they would at least consider getting a hybrid. However, the popularity of hybrids would not extend to the Honda Accord, as sales were reportedly slow. This was likely due to competition from more popular models, such as the Toyota Camry andPrius. However, the Accord would become the top retail-selling car in America from 2013-2015. It would also be the retail-best-selling passenger car brand in America in 2018, selling over 667,762 units. In conclusion, the Honda Accord would not only lead to Honda becoming a major automobile brand, it would also appeal to thousands of people with many different variations of it introduced over the years. The Honda Accord is summarized accurately by this excerpt, “The Honda Accord is a legendary car for a reason. It's a well-rounded sedan that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a family looking for a spacious and comfortable car, a commuter looking for a fuel-efficient option, or an enthusiast looking for a powerful and sporty ride, the Accord is worth considering” (CarSoup). The Accord’s popularity, the new records it set in recent years, and revolutionary design aspects has allowed it to leave its mark on automobile history.

By: Ashley Sawh The debate over AP classes in high school is something that is discussed by almost all students. Most students ask the same question: Do I take an AP class? For some students, the answer is simple, but it’s not so simple to others. On one hand, these classes give students college credit and are a great way to challenge themselves. On the other hand, AP classes always come with a cost. As these classes continue to progress in the future, people become more unsure about taking them. Here are the pros and cons of AP classes. AP classes give students the chance to be prepared for college. These classes go at the same pace as college classes do. Granted, the intense pressure and burnout that students face in these classes eat them alive. The combination of intense material and pacing of lectures can be overwhelming for students, especially those taking other rigorous classes and after school extracurriculars.  On the other hand, these classes help students save money, as these classes are free. Excluding the optional AP test in May, students no longer have to pay to learn about a subject of their choosing by instead taking it in college. . However, although AP classes give students the opportunity to stand out from their peers, they do not come without the stress that comes with the class.  Thirdly, AP classes also provide college credit to the students that decide to take it. Yet,  some colleges don’t accept them, hence why it’s important to remember to do your research first. Along with this, some critics argue that AP classes don’t actually help students prepare for college, even though the class is considered a college level course. Each AP class prepares students for the AP test in May, but then what? Most classes in college go more in depth than high school AP classes. Lastly, AP classes come with a ton of homework and studying. Most AP teachers expect students to complete a large amount of homework and studying, and depending on the other classes that students take, it can be the most challenging thing about an AP class. As someone who’s enrolled in AP classes today, I can support the notion that they all come with benefits and challenges.

By: Anya Prasanna ( Daniel.tietz@bridgesinternational.com . “Holi: Festival of Colors.” Bridges International , 2 Aug. 2021, www.bridgesinternational.com/holi-festival-of-colors/ ) Holi is an Hindu holiday celebrated in India and around the world. It is one of the most vibrant celebrations in the world and involves people having fun by throwing colored water and powder on each other. It marks a time to spend time with friends, and the community, representing the triumph of good over evil.  There are many stories involving the roots of this holiday that change throughout India’s demographic. One story is the legend of Hiranyakashipu. He was a demon king, who tried to kill his son, Prahlada, a devotee of the god Vishnu. He enlisted his sister, Holika to help him do so. Holika tricked Prahlada into sitting with her on a pyre. She wore a cloak to protect herself from the fire, however, a wind blew, transferring the cloak to Prahlada, causing the demon to be burnt in the flames. This myth symbolizes the triumph of good over the oppression of evil. In many regions of India that believe this story, a large pyre is lit, to commemorate this event.  In other parts of India, the holiday comes from the story of the Hindu deity, Krishna. He was an avatar of Vishnu. He had fallen in love with Radha who was a milkmaid, however he was embarrassed by his dark blue skin. To solve this issue, he colored her face during a game with her and the other milkmaids. This may be the reason why people throw colored water and powder during the holiday.  Some parts of this festival are gatherings, music, and food. Some sweets that are eaten are gujiya, which is a dumpling filled with coconut and dried fruit that is deep-fried in sugar syrup, malpua, a type of pancake made with jaggery, cardamom, and milk. Jalebi is commonly eaten, and is a spiral shaped sweet that is made with sugar syrup. Some street food is eaten such as chaat and kachori. People drink lassi, and thandai which is a milk drink with almonds, saffron, poppy seeds, cardamom, and rose petals.  Holi is celebrated in many different ways around India. In some places the holiday lasts 40 days, while it lasts 2 days in others. The most common custom of this holiday is to light a pyre which represents the demon Holika. This ritual occurs in North India.  In a region of the state of Uttar Pradesh in India, Holi is celebrated with a playful battle between women and men. In this battle, the women represent Radha and are armed with staves while the men represent Krishna and have shields to defend themselves. This practice is called Lathmar Holi. In other regions of India, Holi is celebrated with staves, shields, colors, and flowers in a period of 40 days. and begins on the Basant Panchami, a holiday that celebrates the first day of Spring. In conclusion, Holi is a colorful holiday. It involves many diverse traditions, customs, and myths. It is a time to celebrate with the family and the community and have fun.