Northwestern High School | 2503 West Main Street | Rock Hill SC–RH3
Trojan Trumpet Lost from our school, but not from our hearts
Volume 3. Issue 1.
by: B. Floyd & B. Adkins
Have you ever lost a friend that you thought you would never have to say a permanent goodbye to? Northwestern has lost several students in the past two years, and this has had a profound impact on the student body. Four students are gone, but they will never be forgotten.
CAMERON COLLINS
BRITTANY HAMPTON
FRANKIE ADAMS
BENJAMIN OWENS
Collins passed away the summer before his eleventh grade year . Senior Sarah Bergin was a close friend of his and states that they have plenty of memories. Her best memory comes from when they were in the 6th grade in Mr. Major's class. Mr. Major's was dressed up as a monk and Cameron blurted out laughing in the class and couldn’t stop.
Hampton (far right) lost her on-going fight to cancer in 2013 . Hampton helped Mrs. Southern in her multi level two class. She said, "Hampton was so sweet, very understanding, a great helper and you really missed out if you didn't meet her."
Sterling Montague , senior, was best friends with Adams. Northwestern lost Adams (far right) to a car wreck that took place on May 15, 2014. Montague told reporters, "I would tell other friends to keep your head up. Learn to use good judgment so that you can live life for living instead of living life for the moments. Frankie will ALWAYS watch over his closest friends."
Owens passed away earlier this school year in a tragic car crash. He was a senior at Northwestern high school. He participated in orchestra for 6 years and his death had a huge effect on Ms. Gross, NHS's orchestra director. Gross recalls that, "Ben loved music." Orchestra students made a memory book and presented it to Owen’s parents. Putting feelings into words helped the students cope.
New backpack ban enforced at sporting events by: J. Davis & L. Faulkner Planning on bringing a backpack to a game? Think again. Recently a new ban has been put in effect that prevents spectators from bringing a backpack into a sporting event. While teachers believe that the ban will have a great impact, students believe the contrary. The ban was a recommendation from the Rock Hill Police Department, mainly for safety reasons, but also as an attempt to prevent alcohol from being snuck into games. Mr. Bramlett, assistant athletic director/teacher, says, “As a parent, I want the football games to be a safe environment for my kids.” He believes that the ban is geared more towards students and that it also enforces the "no outside food or drink" policy even more. Mrs. Burdette, a math teacher, has many students in her fourth block class that believe that people jumped to conclusions. Cameron Russell said, “…Intention is good, but if they found a way to check bags before games, it would be better.” Also, Zack Ayer believes that the ban is a “…minor annoyance to the people that regularly bring backpacks.” Although backpacks are no longer allowed in the stadium, it is the belief of many students that bag checks would be more effective.
Jada Davis was denied entrance to the football game due to the new backpack ban.
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TROJAN NEWS - Editorial
TROJA N TRU MP ET V OLU M E 3. ISSUE 1.
Michelle Obama wages war against HS vending machines by: A. Harbison Time to say goodbye to the chocolate bars, chips, and sodas, and hello to the whole grain cheez-its, whole grain rice crispy treats, and non-fat Doritos! The vending machines may have changed but that doesn’t mean that people cannot have something to say about it. “If I want to be unhealthy, I should be able to be,” stated Kyona Perry. Students in high school are supposed to be learning how to make their own choices and trying to make the right decisions, but yet their choice to choose what they want to eat has been taken away from them. A question was raised about why teacher’s vending machines were not changed, because students do look up to the teachers as role models, but Principal Blake stated, “The federal regulations did not effect adults because they’re better at watching their diet.” When asked if he thought teacher’s vending should be changed, Mr. Lancaster, administrator N-Z, stated, “Teacher’s vending machines should not be changed because that’s one of the perks of completing one’s education and gaining employment.” Some would agree with his statement and others wouldn’t because students are spending their money just like the teachers so students feel it’s unfair. The new vending has effected students’ behavior wise because, “More students are breaking school rules to get the unhealthy food,” stated Dr. Sparks. Students are walking across the street to the Burger King and Subway during their lunches or having their parents bringing them outside food which are both against school rules. “It’s a good idea, but it’s not working,” stated Dr. Sparks when asked what he thought about the new vending. “I haven’t seen the benefits of it,” quoted Coach Evans, JV basketball coach and physical education teacher. Michelle Obama and legislation’s goal was to end childhood obesity, but changing the snacks in schools is not going to drastically change anything; what students need is more physical activity. Not everyone is involved in sports or other healthy after school activities like they need to be. Everyone doesn’t needs to be an athlete, but it’s a proven fact that one hour of exercise everyday will have long term healthy benefits. There is an obesity problem that cannot be ignored. The percentage of children and adolescents overweight or obese is continuing to increase. The percentage of adolescents aged 12-19 years who were obese increased from 5% in 1980 to 21% in 2012. Seventy percent of obese youth had at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Lack of exercise is responsible for over 300,000 deaths in America each year it’s time to do something about this problem and take back lives. “If there’s something better I want that solution,” stated Principal Blake. That’s what is needed a better solution instead of talking about how much the new vending is hated come up with ideas to make it better.
Junior Brian Legette finds himself frustrated at the new choices in the soda machine.
The new healthier snacks featured in the vending machines are non-fat chips, gummy snacks, whole grain rice crispy treats, and more.
Students often have to resort to drastic measures in order to get their favorite snacks during the school day.
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TROJAN NEWS
TROJA N TRU MP ET V OLU M E 3. ISSUE 1.
Suicide Prevention: Change starts with you by: J. Beckham & N. Hanson Suicide is committed every day, and most people want to help those who are suffering, but don’t know how before it’s too late. Suicide awareness is suicide prevention. If someone you know may be suicidal, Mrs. Bybee, one of the guidance counselors at Northwestern, recommends NHS students to “…tell and adult, or call 911 if it’s serious.” She provided this information on what to look for If someone talks about wanting to die or to kill oneself. If one is looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun. Someone talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live. If one talks about feeling trapped, in unbearable pain. If they talk about being a burden to others. If one has an increase in use of alcohol or drugs. Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly. If one sleeps too little or too much. Withdrawing or feeling isolated. If someone shows rage, display extreme mood swings and/or talking about seeking revenge. It is important to take these warning signs very seriously. Suicide is not a joke, and should not be ignored. The majority of people that commit suicide are from ages fifteen to twenty-nine, though it can affect any age. Suicide can be prevented. Do not be afraid to step up and help those in trouble; it could lower our suicide rates in the younger community drastically. Most suicide attempts are in a private setting between the hours of midnight and 6AM. The National Suicide Prevention line is 1-800-273-TALK(8255). It is available 24 hours a day and can offer free, confidential support. Talk to someone, things will get better. Ignorance can kill, suicide is serious. Know these signs and you can help yourself, or a loved one from making a temporary decision, a permanent problem.
Spread kindness. Whether it be through a hug, a smile, or even just kind words; you never know the impact it can have on someone.
New faculty members join Northwestern family by: R. Covington & J. Rubio Returning students at Northwestern may have seen some new faces in the form of faculty members. Mr. Williams, assistant principal for last names H-M, is a new face that most everybody has seen around. He deals with books, buses, and clubs and organizations in addition to being an assistant principal. "I have always wanted to be in administration," said Williams, "so when an opportunity came up when Dr. Aldridge left, I was very excited and hopeful." Williams was a football coach, basketball coach, and health/success after high school teacher at his previous school. He greatly enjoys working here at Northwestern. "The staff is great, strict, the school morale is high, and it's a great atmosphere," he said during the interview. Another not so new face that can be seen more frequently is that of Coach Davis'. He's the ISS teacher and varsity basketball coach. Davis came to Northwestern for the coaching opportunities and because Northwestern has never won a state championship for basketball. Davis is a former outside salesman for the Time Warner Cable sales department and is the former head basketball coach for Lewisville HS (Richburg, SC), but he has always wanted to be a coach." Once a coach, always a coach," he said. Davis likes it here at Northwestern, especially the coaching part, and being an ISS teacher is "always interesting."
Mr. Williams can be found in A Office.
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TROJAN NEWS
TROJA N TRU MP ET V OLU M E 3. ISSUE 1.
Welcome Class of 2018 by: A. Douglas & S. Boulware
Freshman Skylar Lim is enjoying her first year in high school and looks forward to graduating in 2018!
Say goodbye to middle school and hello to Northwestern High School. The transition from middle school to high school can be a challenge. It can be challenging to find new classes and make new friends. Every year a new group of freshman have to figure out how to successfully navigate NHS's hallways. Here are what some of this year's new freshman have to say about their first year in high school so far. When asked about her high school experience Skylar Lim said, “My transition was a good transition; I didn't have any problems." Kyle Morris also commented on his experience as well. He said, “My first impression in high school was scary. There were so many people. I was scared at first, but then I got used to it.” Morris also thinks that there are some big changes in this new environment, “...the difference between middle school and high school is that they are more strict in high [school] and less in middle [school].” Da'Jour Amdi said, "The difference between middle school and high is the uniform. I'm glad we don't have to wear them no more." Talking to this year's freshman class provides insight into what high school can be like for them. Although the first few days or weeks of high school can be difficult, there is no reason to have a bad high school experience. In order to make the next four years of high school the best that they can possibly be, find ways to become more involved at NHS. Join a club! Stay out of drama! Play a sport! Study hard!
Attack on earbuds by: S. McCloud & T. Miracle The earbud policy has created a big buzz at Northwestern High School. Administrators have made it their goal over the past few school years to expand the policy. The policy was changed because the administrators wanted to provide a safer environment for students and to decrease disciplinary issues that resulted from the use of earbuds. Some students agree with the policy. Jenny Kleinn, freshman, says, "I'm for the policy. What happens if there's a fire and you can’t hear administers directing evacuation because your listening to music." However, others think it should removed. Austin Hoofnagle, sophomore, thinks that “..It’s kind of stupid; I don’t see why you have to have one [earbud] out.” The policy has changed throughout the school year. It has changed from one earbud in while changing classes to no earbuds at all, but students still make an effort to enjoy their music during school hours. Now, students may only listen to their music during certain times while at school. "The policy is good for the school for safety reasons," says Mr. Lancaster. He also states that the students can only listen to their music before school, lunch, or after school. What are your thoughts about the earbud policy? Leave your comments on www.thetrojantrumpet.weebly.com.
Junior Michael Strickland enjoys a rare moment where he can listen to his music.
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Sports
TROJA N TRU MP ET V OLU M E 3. ISSUE 1.
A city divided by: S. Wright, W. Rhodes, G. Richar In Football City, USA, one of the biggest high school football rivalries can be found in the town of Rock Hill, South Carolina. Head football coach Kyle Richardson of the Northwestern Trojans provided insight on the upcoming rivalry game against the Rock Hill Bearcats. Richardson stated that out 5 of the 8 years that Richardson has been here Trojans have a 4-1 record against the Bearcats. Richardson stated that his pre-game rituals are watching a black and white movie and listening to Lil Wayne on the bus. Northwestern students Marshall Freeman and Meghan Howard also gave their perspective on the upcoming game. Freeman and Howard predicted the score would be 34-21 with Northwestern winning over Rock Hill. Freeman and Howard were also asked who would have the best student sections out of the two schools. Freeman stated that the Bearcats would take the win for having the best student section over Northwestern. Howard thought otherwise and said Northwestern was going to have the better student section by far. Come out to District 3 Stadium on Halloween night to support the Northwestern Trojans.
The Northwestern Trojans have twice as many State Championships than Rock Hill high.
**Game Update** The Northwestern Trojans went on to outlast the Rock Hill Bearcats 2920 in a game that was played in frigid/ rainy conditions. Congratulations Trojans and keep up the good work!
The student section’s hope for change by: M. Crawford
Northwestern students show off their school spirit at the most recent football game. Photo courtesy of The Herald
It’s time to get loud! It’s time to get crunk! Right?? Pep rallies and the student sections at games are lacking the normal enthusiasm that can typically be seen at these kinds of activities. These are all factors that play a big role in encouraging school spirit in high school and even college. Many Northwestern students are looking forward to a change when it comes to the pep rallies, student section, and even the band. Ideas like playing up-to-date songs or the commentator saying a song and the band just following their lead have all been brought about when discussing the topic. Principal Blake stated that he agreed that it should be a change and he would like to see more participation from the student body. He has worked with student council members very closely this year. He has been able to provide support to them and as a result there was a change to the Homecoming pep rally this school y ear. But for a true change to happen it’s up to the student body as a whole. From discussing the issue with the principal and other students, it seem like more of an issue that the students have to fix. While there are changes that can be made to pep rallies and the student section, if the students aren’t willing to put their school spirit on display, what’s the point? For any change to be done people have to be willing to change and step outside of their comfort zones.
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Lifestyles
TROJA N TRU MP ET V OLU M E 3. ISSUE 1.
Job openings in Rock Hill by: S. Boulware & A. Holland Often it is hard earning money when you don't have a job. Since students in high school are growing up it's expected of them to have a sense of independence. Having a job is a good start to gain some responsibility. Looking to earn some extra cash? Here are some part-time jobs that are hiring in your area: Taco Bell team member 1771 Heckle Blvd. (803) 366-2100 Requirements: 16+ yrs. old Wendy's team member 1758 Heckle Blvd. (803) 324-8402 Requirements: 16+ yrs. old Bojangles' team member 2382 Cherry Rd. (803) 366-8623 Requirements: 16+ yrs. old Chick-fil-A 2415 Cherry Rd. (803) 325-1323 Requirements: 16+ yrs. old If none of these jobs interest you, you can find different choices at SnagAJob.com or consider volunteer work around our area.
Photos courtesy of Google
NHtrendS by: A. Holland and D. Blake Here at Northwestern there are many trends floating around. There’s always a new song to listen to or a new gadget to buy. Whether it's this fall’s latest music or a student group’s clothing line, NHS knows what's new and hip. This is what makes NHS students stand out from others. Here are some popular trends found around Northwestern today.
“Just Know” clothing line was started by John Fowler and Niko Thomas. You can purchase a shirt from JAD (Just Another Day), the studentbusiness group featured in this picture. Students can frequently be seen wearing their shirts around NHS.
Chris Brown’s new album, X, was released on September 16, 2014 . NHS fan favorites are “Loyal” and “Don’t Think They Know.”
Sophomore Raychel Koterba shows off her new iPhone 6. The iPhone 6 and the iPhone 6+ were released in the USA on September 19, 2014.
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Lifestyles/ Student poll
TROJA N TRU MP ET V OLU M E 3. ISSUE 1.
Trojan Concert Goers Share Their Concert Experiences by: C. Shirley & K. Rios Everyone around you is shaking with excitement, the lights are rapidly flashing, and all of sudden your favorite musician is performing and it feels as though it’s just for you. It's 2014 and it seems that everyone's favorite past time is going to concerts. Whether going for head-banging metal, or swingin' country, concerts are the place to be. Concerts can be an enjoyable experience. People typically attend concerts because they want to meet their celebrity idols, listen to their favorite music, or just be around others who enjoy their similar taste in music. Most believe that one of the greatest experiences to ever be made is when they are dancing around crazily and having their favorite song loudly blasting in their ears. All of the loud music and bright lights, along with the bond everyone shares creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Junior Adam Hawthorne and FACS teacher Kari Milliken shared their opinions on the atmosphere of concerts and their past concert experiences. When asked about the atmosphere, Hawthorne stated, "I love how the atmosphere is so energetic, the feeling that you are about to see your favorite band or musician is great.” Due to the positive reviews most seem to report after having attended their respective concerts, it isn’t surprising that many end up going “concert crazy” (doing anything/ everything to attend their favorite concert). Milliken is also a fan of attending concerts. Recently, she attended SC native Darius Rucker’s concert in Charlotte, NC. Milliken reports that she has attended so many concerts that she has lost count, but the number is “probably over 40.” The atmosphere of concerts does not please everyone and some may have never even attended a concert. When Hawthorne was asked how he might convince someone to attend a concert. Surprisingly, Hawthorne showed no empathy stating, “Why would I try to convince someone to go to a concert?" Hawthorne, who attends many concerts, has a mindset that concert going is just not for everyone and they should not be forced to have interest in them. Rightfully so, concert going is not for everyone. However, for those who want to participate in concert going, it will be an unforgettable experience and a night to always remember.
NHS Poll: Would you rather?! By: B. Costner & N. Carey Each issue, our reporters conduct a poll to find out what students at NHS think about important issues/ topics. For this edition, student reporters went around Northwestern and polled various students in order to find out their favorite building to have class (ATC or NHS). The results are featured below. Do you have a poll idea? Submit your idea at www.thetrojantrumpet.weebly.com.
Sophomores Raychel Koterba and Chelsea Haverlock enjoy themselves as they attend the One Direction concert on September, 28th, 2014.
editorial
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TROJA N TRU MP ET V OLU M E 3. ISSUE 1.
The real reason why good guys finish last
by: S. Mobley
For some teens it's easy to find love, but for most... it's the struggle. I use to ask myself all the time, what do I have to do to find love? There's a question going around that most guys are wondering. Do good guys finish last? In my case, it used to be true. But I'm going to show you how to avoid that cliché. It's good to be a good guy but the main mistake we make is coming on too hard. It's good to show you care, but there are limits. The risk of coming on too hard can either be good or bad. She can easily find a reason to friend zone you. Then as soon it happens, you’re left with a broken heart, and with low self-esteem. The best thing to do if your interested in a girl is take things slow. Be her friend first for awhile and weigh your options. Avoid being too nice to her because it makes you look desperate and needy. The most important thing you need to remember is that you don't need a girl to make you happy. If she turns you down than get back up and do what makes you happy. Go out with friends, play the game, etc. It's ok to feel sad but it's more important to recover as quickly you can. We (Nice guys) take too many things to the heart. We spend to much time being sad then enjoying life. Avoid the cliché and use relationships as a hobby not a necessity.
F 2014 Journalism 1 students pose for a class picture in front of our informational bulletin board. Are you interested in journalism? See your guidance counselor or Mrs. Brown in A 217 TODAY!
F 2014 Trojan Trumpet Staff The Trojan Trumpet: Code of Ethics At all times The Trojan Trumpet staff will remain: Impartial: Our stories will always remain unbiased. Honest: Our stories will always be truthful. Considerate: Our stories will never attempt to cause harm. Authentic: Our stories will always be the original work of our staff members. School Appropriate: Our stories will always refrain from containing inappropriate material. Responsible: Our stories will always be reflect ethical journalism practices.
Bailey Adkins Janaija Beckham Daisha Blake Serena Boulware Nick Carey Bryant Costner Rose Covington Malaya Crawford Jada Davis Alexis Douglas LeighAnn Faulkner BreAnna Floyd
Natalie Hanson Alisa Harbison Asha Holland Shakeem McCloud Tyler Miracle Sam Mobley Amber Odom Will Rhodes Garrett Richar Kiana Rios Jailene Rubio Camryn Shirley Savannah Wright