BA Today - May 2017

A TODA

Volume 10 Issue 4, May 2017

Editor-in-Chief Jacob Hartley Layout Editor Mary Helene Hall News Editor Grayson York Web Editor Rice Shelley Reporters Sophie Akyuz, Augie Barnette, Taylor Hartley, Ben Lane, Arsheya Maghsoud, Chris MIller, Evelyn Prickett, Mae Taul, Anna Turner, Parker Watts Advisor Ms. Deborah Denniston

Cover Photograph Kate Reali Mercer / Utopia Bay Photography Spread Mary Helene Hall Athletics Taylor Hartley Photo Credit 7 Seas Images, Wikimedia Commons, Clipartfest, Getty Images, Facebook, Taylor Hartley, Milesplit, DOuglas Robertson

ON THE COVER:

Jimmy Hall shown performing during the high tide southern music showcase, held in the pilot center on March 10th. He preformed alongside the swampers from Muscle Shoals.

2 | Ba Today | May 2017

Parting Words

W

e all begin as dreamers. If we are lucky, we see the fruits of our harvest at the end of our mission. Each of us is endowed with purpose, a mission like no other. Not every person has the same mission- not every one of us is the same. Bayside Academy is, undoubtedly, a special place that each one of us calls “home” in one way or another. Whether it is your home only from 8-3 or your home from 7 till nearly the late of night, this place is special for so many reasons.

I did not come to this school with the idea that I would be your SGA President, represent you in Washington D.C., or even work on our school newspaper. I came here with the thought of making my own dreams a reality, from the point of view of a seventh grader -- do well in school, be involved, and get into a good school (at that time Duke and Georgetown). But, this story is not about me. This story is about us, we, as a school, who we are now, and where we have come from.

This is your story.

Last May, I was elected as your SGA President. Last year, I began to make extensive changes within the SGA that have taken most of the time as your President. I have made many mistakes, but I do believe, none at the expense of worsening the experience of the students and faculty.

Many upheavals were thrown at the SGA this year, and many criticisms came as well. From my vantage point, at the end of every day, we prevailed as the group that best advocated for each and every one of you.

To talk about what we could have done would be meaningless. To speak of what we failed at and failed to do would be pointless. To say we have accomplished new tasks, ones we thought we could never do as a school, would be braggadocious. In reality, the goals we set were achievable, just not comfortable. One thing I discovered in my time as President is that nearly any goal for this school is achievable, it is simply a matter of going “into the world,” making ourselves uncomfortable, acting locally while thinking globally.

Some would say that Bayside is a country club, where all of the kids could not care less about others outside of their own socio-economic status. However, with much disdain to them, to definitely say this is inherently false. Sure, do some of our own have this mentality - yes. We cannot pretend that those sort of people exist here. For the most part, Bayside kids have hearts that wish to love, hearts that wish to help others. It may be hard to see, but I believe every student here has the capability to love and help others far beyond their own “social groups.”

One thing I have fought tooth and nail for is to break this social norm. In the community, our state, and our nation, I have told the history and story of Bayside. I usually tell them that the school is exceptional with the success it has in preparing kids for college. That is our main mission right? I would say, bluntly, no.

The job of Bayside according to our mission statement is, “to educate and develop students who are fully prepared to pursue learning throughout life. These students exhibit high moral standards, a sense of responsibility, respect for self and others, and commitment to excellence in all their endeavors.” What does this mean? First, it does not state anywhere in the mission statement, the very foundational level of our own existence, the words “college” or “social” or “wealthy.”

What we do see there is “life,” “high moral standards”, “excellence’, and “endeavors.” Talk about a high and mighty list.

You see, our mission here is not to make you feel comfortable. It is not to empower you with a false sense of intelligence. It is to push the envelope, make you see parts of the world that you have never seen, and take you to places you never dreamt of. That is what education is. That, at the crux of the matter, is why educational environments such as this one exist.

I will not leave this place the way I found it. In my opinion, I will leave this place better than I found it. I challenge you all to do the same. Live the life of someone who is thirsty for more, hungry for opportunity. You have the world at your fingertips. Many have come and gone like the wind. Why be just like them? Why be mediocre? Why be the same old same old? What makes you different? What is your passion? These are questions I have, hopefully, proposed to this school.

Perhaps to some, I have left you with more questions than answers. These questions will not be answered if you do not seek the answers. Bayside ought not be a place where learning is given to you on a silver spoon -- if you feel it should, I believe you belong to another school.

Bayside is growing to be more extraordinary than ever. There is so much potential here, and I believe that is not up for debate. If you feel like you have an idea, say it! Do not be complicit to

Continued on page 4.

2017: The End of Privacy

By Parker Watts ‘18, Reporter

T

uesday, March 26 marks the day that the FCC privacy rules, passed in October under the Obama administration, were repealed in Congress. It happened all too quickly, slipping under the nose of the public eye and escaping the grasp of popular media with suspicious convenience.

The rules being repealed protected internet users’ privacy. Without them in place, internet providers can use your information however they like without your consent. Mostly, this will be used to bombard customers with advertisements hand crafted for their interests(based on their browsing history).

Why would this right to privacy be revoked? Clearly it is not for the benefit of the constituents of the members of congress. The answer is lobbying. Some 1.5 million dollars in total was given to members of congress by internet providers such as Comcast, Verizon, and Mediacom. With the FCC privacy rules revoked, internet companies will make millions by selling your information.

Has the public finally been worn down to apathy? The radio silence sur-

rounding this monumental bill points towards this conclusion. Relentless assaults on the privacy of Americans have chipped away at the resilience of our citizens until there is no longer a fight put up against injustice. You may remember when Wikipedia had a

blackout on their website and Google spread awareness about the passing of SOPA, the “Stop Online Piracy Act,” and PIPA, the “Protect IP Act.” Where are they now? Divided by partisanship and fruitless debate, the public cannot stand together against the bullies and

aristocrats that control law in America. The powers of the world are left to succeed in achieving a new Orwellian government, with Big Brother watching behind you at all times. Do I sound insane? I am separated from conspiracy theorists by undeniable proof.

On March 7th, WikiLeaks released a mass amount of previously unseen CIA documents. It is reminiscent of the NSA leaks -provided by American hero, Edward Snowden - that revealed all of the many ways our government was looking into our lives. This new leak shows that the NSA is not the only department of the government spying on us. The documents included detailed descriptions of hacking tools and surveillance methods developed by the CIA. These methods included backdoors into Windows, OSx, and Linux operating systems; ways to control and steal information from IPhones and Androids; even a tool that listens to conversations through the mic of your smart TV. This is the direct manifestation of the telescreens from George Orwell’s 1984.

A Move in an Uncertain Direction

By Augie Barnette ‘20, Reporter

O

ne of the big controversies of last year has continued into 2017. Why are so many prominent athletes, musicians, and celebrities boycotting our national anthem? In mid-August of last year, Colin Kaepernick, quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers, was noticed kneeling during the national anthem.

His reasoning for kneeling was to support victims of racism in America. Until the third game of the season, Kaepernick was kneeling unseen. Throughout the following months, many other athletes includ-

ing Jeremy Lane, Megan Rapinoe, Brandon Marshall, and more followed suit. Full teams even stood with Kaepernick by locking arms and kneeling in unison. Since the start of this movement, it has spread to many different sports and associations. It has spread to sports such as basketball, college and highschool football, and cheerleading.

Where the controversy lies is whether this is the correct way to fight racism. Many argue that this is unpatriotic. Others believe that Kaepernick has not experienced the very own racism he is fighting

against. On the other hand, many argue that Kaepernick is simply exercising his First Amendment rights. With the question of whether Kaepernick has the experience to protest, people like Iman Shumpert, a professional player for the Cleveland Cavaliers, has said that “...I no longer believe taking a knee is the answer…. For each steal I’m going to donate money and time towards a foundation striding to improve the struggle between the badge and the citizen.”

I personally believe this is the correct way of proceeding with

things. Shumpert’s plan supports what he believes is right and supporting those who are affected by the issue at hand. This also causes no one, such as police or military, to feel targeted. One big difference between this approach and Kaepernick's is the fact that Shumpert is helping by action, while Kaepernick is helping by a display.

Whether you agree with the movement, the protesting, or the way it was done, you must admit, the movement definitely gained support, publicity, and had to have helped in some way.

3 | Ba Today | May 2017

Bayside Participates in Underwater Robotics Competition

Letter from the Editor cont. peer pressure. Break down the social norms and find the heart of the matter. If that matter is tough, get tough.

Twenty years from now, will you be saying “I could, would, should have” or will you say “I’m proud of that. I’m proud to call that progress in our community my own.”

I don’t believe I have one signature accomplishment. I don’t claim to own any large change. I was the leader of a group effort to make Bayside a better place than ever before. The work ahead is hard, no doubt. There are still many loose bolts to tighten and new structures to be built. The job may seem endless, because frankly, it is. Your mission, the ones who will not be leaving in May, is to leave this place better than you found it by next May. I have no doubt that can be done.

Thank you all for your support, time, and love. I have been your humble servant, and your leader. This new Bayside story isn’t really anything new. Your revolution has begun. New methods of teaching are in place, new service groups are active, new initiatives are set in. It is now your turn to turn the page and write the next chapter. You all are wonderfully made; why be mediocre? Make Bayside your own; make it your success story.

By Anna Turner ‘19, Reporter

B

owling fanatics now have something very exciting to look forward to! Just recently, a bowling club was created for all interested students. And even better, next year there will be a full-on varsity bowling team, coached by Mr. Robertson. However, he did not get the team started on his own. With the help of sophomore, Mary Helene Hall, they approached the administration about establishing a team, and they got the outcome that they hoped for. “I just really want to promote a new team at Bayside that is both fun and competitive at the same time,” Mary Helene said regarding her

4 | Ba Today | May 2017

By Chris Miller ‘20, Reporter

O

n the weekend of April 15th and 16th, Dr. McCall, senior Blake Giles and junior Rice Shelley competed in a Marine Advanced Technology Education Competition for Underwater Robotics at Bishop State and the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Students had to build and operate their own remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and complete a series of tasks earning points for each successful completion. This is the first time Bayside has participated in this competition which Dr. McCall learned about from her work with the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California.

Blake and Rice built the frame of the ROV out of PVC pipe with propellers that were driven by three bilge pump motors. The ROV also had two cameras, one facing down and the other forward, to be able to see the objects they needed to retrieve. Hooks were manipulated to pick up the objects. Dr. McCall added, “Rice was the driving force behind the controller of the ROV. He used a joystick and wrote the computer program for it.He actually went

above and beyond the requirements by creating his own device rather than using the kit that the competition provided.

“I enjoyed creating my own design instead of using the kit they provided.

This gave our ROV an advantage be-

A Strike for the Admirals! motivation for starting the club and team.

Bayside will be joining other AHSAA Varsity Bowling teams such as UMS-Wright, McGill Toolen, Daphne High School, Fairhope High School, Spanish Fort High School among many others.

For those interested, club meetings will take place on various weekdays, dates TBA, directly after school at Eastern Shore Lanes. Bring $9 with you and you can bowl for two hours! If you are interested, you can talk to Mr. Robertson or Mary Helene to find out when the next meetup is.

cause it was a more intuitive system,” Rice responded.

Dr. McCall stated,“ I hope next year we can get some students interested and keep building on it. This year was a total learning lesson. Rice and Blake were interested, so I said let's do it!”

Fact Check: Paper vs. Foam

By Ben Lane

Congratulations to the Bayside Admiral band for an incredible concert! Under the direction of director Nathan Shadix, they performed “Jive at Five,” “Work Song,” Sway,” and “Respect” with Geneva Martin and Dori Lumpkin accompanying. Band members include: Seniors Wesley Thompson, Tommy O’Hara, Jacob Paul; Sophomore Nathan Schrader; Freshmen Kaylin Denton, Ivy Fellers, Spencer Gaberino, Dyer Lumpkin and Anna Schmidt; Eighth graders Henry Covington and Gabriel Stewart and Seventh graders David Klimjack and Ben VanDerHayden. The audience responded with a standing ovation!

Congratulations to the editors and staff of BA Today for receiving a first place award in the 2016-2017 American Scholastic Press Association contest. High schools from around the nation compete in this annual contest by submitting copies of their publication for review.

Each school newspaper or magazine is scored on a point system and receives a first place with merit, first, second or third place award. BA Today is the only school from the state of Alabama to win an award this year.

White, foam lunch containers are a common item used and seen every week by Bayside students. The school goes through countless amounts of these foam trays, yet none of them are recycled. Even if Bayside decides to recycle them, it would not be permitted because Waste Management regulations do not allow styrofoam to be recycled.

However, there is another option.

Bayside could switch over to a different type of container.

Paper based lunch packaging, although much more expensive, is more environmentally friendly than non-recyclable styrofoam containers. On webstaurantstore.com, a website used to buy bulk kitchen supplies, 200 foam containers like Bayside is currently using are sold for $14.99.

In contrast, 200 environmentally friendly cardboard containers sell for $34.10.

It is up to Bayside to decide if it is worth the money to switch over to the other option or not―but who knows? There could be other vendors out there that would provide cardboard containers to our school for a cheaper price. The question is, does Bayside want to become environmentally friendly while incurring an increase in the containers’ cost?

5 | Ba Today | May 2017

Jacob Asher I would like to leave my fishing ability to Teal Corte and my yellow cards to Sergi C. Dori Lumpkin I would like to leave my airport novels to Mary Helene, as well as my percussion skills to my brother Dyer; may he be blessed to be as good a drummer as I. Meagan Daves I would like to leave my art stress to Ashley Suchan, my determination to all freshmen, the Pilot Center ghost to the theater kids, High Tide to the Revolution, my cookies to maintenance, and my legacy to the future of Bayside.

Mattie Thompson I would like to leave my love for sports to Lucy Barnes.

Vaughn McLeod To the 2017-2018 Cheer Team, I will you the endurance to get through another year of cheer.

Kennedy Tarziers I would like to give my ability to always skip school to Ann Margaret Boothe.

Camille Carey I leave my musical theatre songs to Darby Kemper, my sarcasm to Sarah Kalaris, and my weird and crazy performance legacy for my brother, Charles.

Blake Giles I leave my “senioritis” to all the upcoming seniors because I have enough to go around. And I leave my hatred for the 800m to Christopher Drayton.

Lauren Chastang I leave my technical fouls to Bayside Buckets. I will the NOS grind to all the “animals” at Bayside. I leave my pink shoes to my sister Caroline.

Caroline Pond I leave my pre-game “Boom Chicka Boom” to Caroline Young, and my Chick-Fil-A BFF, Tyler, to Harper Wise.

Trent Kannegieter I would like to give a healthy skepticism of whether the American Revolution was truly revolutionary to Monty and the rest of the history department.

Mary Grace Hellmich I leave my height to my brother, Lawson, my cross-country pranking skills to Bradley Schmidt, and my brother to Jimbo Cassity.

Maddie Seale I would like to leave my parking spot to Abigail Ketchem.

Gillian Grice I’d like to leave my “Funkfest” legacy to the Varsity Volleyball team and nothing to Blakely Jones because she’s perfect.

Peter Ledet I would like to leave my job in the concession stand and my kitchen access to Ben Kendall.

I would also like to leave my untucked shirt to Mr. Long.

Madison Hedge I leave Darby Kemper my sass and I leave my brothers, Matthew and Brady, my driving skills.

Lisa Engel I want to leave my “previous soccer skills” to Paige Hammele.

Hannah Turner I leave my poor attendance with Mrs. Donna.

Madeline Paul I leave my stress at Bayside and all my study material to Gavin Mims.

Genevieve Corte I would like to leave early curfews from Mom and Dad to Charles Corte and Reibe’s room for lunch to Ansleigh Dailey.

Peyton Mohler I would like to leave my fungo golf skills to Coach Jeffrey Stanley because he really needs them.

John Bryant I would like to leave my ability to get yelled at by Coach Stan to Brock Murphy, my work ethic in the gym to Seth Shirley, and my eyebrows to Stuart Gluck.

Tommy O’Hara I leave my skill at video games to Charles Yow, my “extensive notes” from the past two years to Mary Helene Hall, and my corner of the band room to Ivy Fellers. I also leave my right soccer cleat to Bobby Hammele and the left one to Grayson York.

Callie Corte I leave Ritchie (Steve) Prince to Will Beard. I also leave Mom’s and Dad’s million questions to my sweet baby brother, Del. Wesley Thompson I leave my passion for music to all the members of the band (particularly that Ty Rannesieter kid; he’s got talent). May they find success and self-fulfillment in their quest to improve their skills.

Dawson Jellenc I would like to leave my soccer skills to Robert Sullivan and my dapper looks to Cody Smart.

Bo Ezell I leave my athletic ability to Jimbo Cassity and my metal detector to Del Corte.

Steve Chen I leave my happiness and joy to Parker, Ford, and Rice, in hopes that they can feel as jolly as I did hanging out with them.

Maggie Puckett I leave nothing to no one.

Mary Patton Morrison I leave pookies and my carpool ability to Laurel and Lucy, and I leave the Dry Bar to Mary Catherine and Amalie, and I leave my amazing backspot skills to Caroline Weller.

Skiddy Payson I give my swimming to Frac, my parking spot to whomever gets it, and my Membean minutes to Mr. Marine.

Annabelle Kahalley I would like to leave the swim team to Alex Fraccaro.

Anna Sanford Boan I would like to leave my incredible wisdom to Riley McGlasson and squish to Caroline Weller.

Matt Mitchell I leave my desire to grow a beard every week to all future seniors.

Lena Cole Speir I would like to leave my runs to 64 to Lucy Barnes and Ashley Rella.

Reid Norton I leave my promise ring from Dawn Smith to Andrew Smith (you can give it to your love Riley).

Erin Brown I will my organizational skills to Coach Swagart.

Calvin Dulaney I would like to leave the basketball team to Harrison Biggs and the charge captain to Chandler Passions.

Landon Johnson I would like to leave my lax skills to Tucker Milteer, my hustle to Ryan Ross, my funny jokes to Seth Shirley, my good luck to Reese Holmes and my chain to Gerrit Robbins.

Downie Radcliff I leave my wet hair to Lily and Gigi Radcliff and my sisters to Anna Barnes.

Claire Corte I leave my soccer temper tantrums to Cate Kasuba! I will also leave my mom’s crazy antics to my little brother Teal!

Ariel Dulaney I would like to leave #16 in a row to the more than capable Bayside volleyball team. Good luck!

Anjali Vira I would like to leave both of my parking spots to Sara Boyd even though she walks to school and my extremely outgoing personality to Grayson York.

Betsy Baldwin I leave my goofiness to Annie O’Neill and Emily O’Neill.

Safiya Mulla I would like to leave my La Casa book to Madelyn Mixon.

Gavin Primm I would like to leave my singing abilities to Austin White.

Matthew Lipham I would like to will my poor work ethic and parking spot to Wyatt Cooper.

Helen Heebe I leave my ladybug to Ben James and my promise ring to Lawson Hellmich.

Cole Perry I would like to leave my spotify playlist to Bobby Hammele. I would like to leave my 400m dash legacy to Luke Dobbins. I would like to leave all my guitars to Mr. Montgomery. I leave my finches to Mrs. Finch. I leave Ellie Perry to Mr. Small.

Thomas Boothe I would like to leave my chain and good looks to Wyatt Cooper and my athletic ability and charm to Coach Stan.

Anna Catherine Chapman I leave my carpool to Kennedy Bedford and my athleticism to Annie Loper.

Katie Brown I would like to leave my insanely fast speed to the cross country girls.

Sam Grey I leave all of my jokes to Seth Shirley, and I leave the “Coo” to Slade Mclendon and Noah Dasinger. I leave my pure basketball shot to Jack Knight.

Connor Sirmon I shall leave my wooden bat to Chandler Passons and I leave Jack Sledge to torment Bingham. I also leave the morning grind to Del Corte.

Jacob Paul I will leave the Pilot Center and the Element to Spencer Gaberino. Make memories and make fun of the cast in the cue list.

Greer Lyons I leave always being late and our mom’s errands to my sister, Hunter, and I leave rap music and my dance skills to my brother, Caid.

John Northcutt I would like to leave my small calves to Seth Shirley. I would like to leave my cutoffs to Traylor Henry.

Madison Grace I leave my gallon jug to Coach Watson.

ZuZu Hakmiller Spencer Gaberino, I will you my beautiful smile and happiness to you, dude.

Noah Waters I would like to leave my inhuman strength to Jimbo Cassity, my grind to Seth Shirley, and Beans can have my cut-off hoodies but not my helmet.

Jack Hearin I leave “The Boathouse” to Charles Yow and the absence of constant singing to my family and friends.

Jacob Hartley I will the award-winning, insightful, fearless, and dangerously honed BA Today to Mary Helene Hall and my brother, Taylor Hartley.

Lauren Smith I would like to leave my bitterness from the Houston Academy game to Mary Frances West and my ability to make a penalty kick to Sergi Cebrian.

Haley Tripp I leave my senioritis to all the seniors, especially you, Couch!

Good luck second semester.

Henry Wise I leave my speed to Ty Ferguson.

Pelham Henry I leave my broken ankle to Austin White. I leave my fishing skills to Will Beard. I leave my flow game to Traylor Henry.

Savannah Cummins I will my yearbook editorin-chief position to Abigail Ketchum.

Lauren Erdman I leave my pack of Zebra Cakes to Grayson York and my love of recycling to Mr. Marine.

Where are the admirals setting sail?

American University Auburn Baylor Belmont Birmingham Southern Boston University Brown Butler Catholic University of America Claremont McKenna College Coastal Alabama Community College Coastal Carolina College of Charleston Columbia Cornell Dartmouth Duke East Central Community College Emory Flagler Florida Institute of Technology Furman Georgetown George Washington GPS International Academy London Iowa State Jacksonville University Kennesaw State Lafayette Lee University Louisiana State Loyola Lurleen B. Wallace Community College Middlebury Mississippi State

Northeastern Palm Beach Atlantic Pepperdine Queens Rollins Samford Sciences Po Campus de Reims Southern Methodist University Stanford Swarthmore The College of William and Mary Troy Tulane U.S. Naval Academy University of Alabama University of Alabama at Birmingham University of Chicago University of Georgia University of Massachusetts Lowell University of Miami University of Mississippi University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill University of North Florida University of Notre Dame University of Pennsylvania University of South Alabama University of Southern California University of South Carolina University of Southern Mississippi University of TN, Chattanooga University of Virginia Valdosta State Williams Yale

Gulf Coast Air Balloon Festival Lifts Off

By Grayson York ‘18, News Editor

T

his year Foley, Alabama is hosting the 13th Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival. Lasting from Friday, May 4 to Sunday the 6th, the Hot Air Balloon festival is a small event that will host balloons and vendors not only from across the state, but across the nation. Featuring thirty-five balloons this year, the event is growing and attracting more and more people, with balloons not only from Alabama, but states as far as Colorado and Missouri.

For those who are not the biggest fans of heights, the event has a carnival surrounding it now. In addition to this carnival, there is also a color run 5k.

Aside from the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival, Baldwin county is hosting many other new and exciting festivals this spring. For instance, on Saturday, April 15, Gulf Shores is hosting the Crawfish Festival. Other notable festivals are the annual Mullet Toss in Orange

Beach from Friday to Sunday April 28-30. After the Mullet Toss, the next notable event is the Hangout Music Festival.

Featuring headliners such as Chance the Rapper, Mumford and Sons, Major Lazer and Frank Ocean, Hangout Fest is sure to bring in a crowd. As the last big festival of the spring and a kickoff to the summer season, Hangout is indubitably the largest attraction in the county and the biggest, most successful festival of the year.

Though it may not appear to be much at first glance, the maturing and expansion of this festival is an ode to the recent growth spurt that the Gulf Coast, specifically Baldwin County is experiencing. From the Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival to Hangout Music Festival, many big things are happening in Baldwin County and the upcoming months that are not to be missed.

Top 10 Gadgets on Amazon Under $100

By Arsheya Maghsoud ‘20, Reporter

1

Bluetooth Spy Gloves are gloves that wirelessly connect to practically all cellular devices. As one may expect, the user is meant to speak through a speaker on the thumb, while listening through a microphone on the pinky tip of each glove ($15.99).

2 3

XDREAM is a portable vibration system that produces sound from everyday objects such as a Solo cup or bottle. The more hollow the object the greater the sound quality ($15.99).

A waterproof and washable keyboard produced by Logitech is a perfect replacement for your broken keyboard because it cannot be damaged by any form of spills ($64.82).

8 | Ba Today | May 2017

4 5

AirBar by Neonode is a device that will convert any non-touchscreen laptop into one with extended touchscreen capabilities ($79.99).

Rhidon is a wireless iPhone receiver case that is compatible with a number of different wireless charging platforms, and its unique design allows iPhone users to charge their phones wirelessly like the competition ($19.99).

6

GRAYL is an ultralight, portable water filtration device that filters out unwanted particles and bacteria. It is a great device to take hiking or camping, for one day it may save your life ($59.50).

7

Zubits offers a new and innovative way to tie shoes. Run the laces through holes on each side of the magnetic closure, tie each lace at the end, and connect or disconnect the two magnets to tie or untie the shoe. ($18.14 - $29.99).

8 9

Fidget Spinners are everywhere and the most inexpensive ones are on Amazon. It is a magnetic, handheld device that helps prevent people from being distracted ($2.65).

AGS is a fascinating, futuristic wireless virtual keyboard that projects a red laser keyboard onto a flat surface, and through this laser technology one is able to capture a slight glimpse of what the future holds ($29.99).

10

Orbitwheels are no ordinary pair of skates. They are a cross between a skateboard and a pair of inline skates. Using a rhythmic wave motion, each foot moves independently, allowing freedom to turn and accelerate in unusual ways ($78.00-90.36)

Bayside Students’ Favorite and Least Favorite Books Poll by Rice Shelley ‘18, Web Editor

BEST

1st

2nd

WORST

3rd

2nd

1st

3rd

Healthy Options at Fast Food Restaurants

By Mae Taul ‘19, Reporter

F

ast food restaurants in the United States serve 50 million customers per day, but eating too much fast food can increase the risk of having diabetes and heart attacks. Eating it 2-3 times a week increases the risk by 50 percent.

Fast foods can cause diabetes and heart attacks because the meat, milk shakes, ice cream, and fried foods are full of saturated fats. They can block insulin receptors and cause blood sugar levels to rise.

Although there are mostly unhealthy items at fast food restaurants, there are some healthy options.

McDonald’s might seem like one of the most unhealthy places to eat, but you can actually get a Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich for 360 calories or an Egg McMuffin for 300 calories. Although an Egg McMuffin might be 300 calories, a

regular hamburger is 250 calories.

Even though it is less calories, it is not necessarialy healthier.

At Moe’s you can order a chicken burrito bowl with brown rice and pinto beans for about 500 calories instead of getting a normal burrito for over 700 calories.

Chick-Fil-A, one of everyone’s favorite restaurants, also has more than just fried chicken. They also have the option of grilled chicken with the Grilled Chicken Cool Wrap a much healthier choice than the fried chicken sandwich.

At Burger King they even have a veggie burger for vegans!

Eating fast food is convenient and easy when you are on the go, but if you eat it regularly, it is not good for your body.

Ordering the healthier options definitely will not taste as good but will have better long term effects on your health.

MCDonald’s Egg Mcmuffin 300 Calories

Chick-Fil-A Cool Wrap 350 Calories

Burger King Veggie Burger 410 Calories 9 | Ba Today | May 2017

Too Good To Be True?

By Jacob Hartley ‘17, Editor-in-Chief

P

lans to deepen and widen the Mobile Ship Channel, proposed by the Alabama State Port Authority have been set asail to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for approval. The plan, spearheaded by director Jimmy Lyons of the State Port Authority, has ruffled many feathers with environmentalists and brought joy to those wishing to expand the Port of Mobile’s opportunity with larger, more modern ships.

With a greater supply of the newer, longer and wider ships entering the international trade market, older ships that are smaller in their width and length are becoming outdated. Most container ships that enter the port travel through the Panama Canal, which has been widened and deepened to accommodate larger ships. These “larger than ever” ships have been classified as “super-Panamax” ships -- ships nearly twice the size of most vessels that presently enter the port.

According to the Port Authority, ships that are of the super-Panamax type cannot bring full loads into the Port, and, with the addition of a wider and deeper channel, these ships would finally be able to bring full loads into the Port. Simultaneously, ships would be able to pass one another in the channel, solving the issue of a “one way channel” presently facing

the Port, along with lifting the ban of large ships from travelling into the port during the nighttime. The Port Authority states that it has a $14.9 billion economic value, which will increase with the enlargement of the channel.

The public was invited to attend a meeting on January 12, 2016, regarding the expansion of the channel. The report that followed included concerns over shoreline erosion, fishery destruction, air quality diminishment, and even decreased property values. A look at some of the Corp’s literature on this project explains that Congress, in 1986, established the channel’s limits of 55 feet deep and 550 wide -- a stark contrast to the current 45 feet deep and 400 feet wide the channel maintains.

There is little doubt that increases in tonnage for ships would create higher profits for the state and federal governments through tariffs. But, not all are happy with the possible impact this dredging would cause on the local environment.

Notably, residents and visitors of Dauphin Island have stated their disdain for the loss of their beloved beach due to the annual dredging of the mouth of the Bay near Dixie Bar. The Corps blames the loss of beach on Dauphin Island’s beaches on erosion from the downdrift

of sand thanks to other projects.

Conversely, residents and visitors of Fort Morgan and nearby Gulf Shores to have witnessed the expansion of their beaches by approximately 300 feet since the dredging has occurred.

As of press time, local environmental watchdog Mobile Baykeeper has not officially commented on the proposal but listed many concerns and questions for the Corps on the Baykeeper website.

Questions regarding air quality, erosion, biodiversity, fisheries, and other similar topics were included in a message to members prior to a public hearing on the project in Daphne held on March 16th, 2017.

Mr. Lyons stated in an AL.com article that, “We don’t know yet what the

improvements will look like as we are only 25% into the study process. No one today can predict what this project will look like nor what the impacts of this project may be. Anyone stating otherwise is offering pure conjecture.” However, in the same report from the Corps in January 2016, findings on environmental impacts and economic impacts were included. No beginning date for the project has been set, as a $7.8 million study to “examine the costs, benefits, and environmental and economic consequences of enlarging the channel” is currently in place for an undefined time.

There are many more questions than answers, especially what the final dimension of the enlarged channel will be. Stay tuned…

Microtargeting: Are You Being Targeted?

By Sophie Akyuz ‘19, Reporter

H

ave you ever wondered how the social media platforms you use everyday know exactly what you want to see?

The recommended page may show things you never thought you’d actually like, but somehow you’ve had them in the back of your head.

When you think of social media, politics might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but political campaigns actually have plenty to do with social media. Political campaigns use social media platforms 10 | Ba Today | May 2017

in order to customize their advertisements and attract customers.

According to The New York Times, these campaigns use where someone lives as a way to know what kind of ads to aim in their general area. This gives each person what they want to hear about the candidate they support and makes them want to vote. It has been said that political campaigns know you better than you know yourself.

Social media has been labeled as an “international geopolitics battle-

field” by The Guardian, which also brought up the fact that it is possible to take any trending topic and weaponize it by turning it against the media that uncovered it in the first place. Predictive analytics is collecting data and making predictions about unknown future events.

It has been used in microtargeting to “predict” which candidate an individual is going to vote for.

Although microtargeting has been used in political campaigns, small businesses and large corpo-

rate companies also use it to attract customers. Online marketing has become a big part of business and is now used almost everywhere.

Microtargeting has been referred to as a new era of propaganda that is infiltrating our society.

While it benefits the corporations that utilize it, it is seen as a little creepy by those who experience it on their own devices. Having this in mind, ask yourself, what is likely to happen in the future?

Whit’s Frozen Custard Opens in Daphne

By Anna Turner ‘19, Reporter

W

hit’s Frozen Custard on Main Street in Daphne recently opened. With a lengthy menu of different custards and sundaes, it is easy to predict that Whit’s Custard is going to be a hit!

They’ve named their custard “The Best on the Eastern Shore” and look forward to giving Daphne residents a taste of their treats. Their custard is made fresh daily with the finest ingredients. But the menu does not stop with custard. They even have a food menu that consists of hot dogs,

barbeque, chili, and more!

Whit’s is about a five minute drive from Bayside, so it is safe to say that Whit’s is going to make for a very convenient after-school or study hall snack! But what if you don’t have time to get a snack after school? Whit’s has a carry-out menu titled “Take Home Freezer” that has a variety of sundaes and treats that can be taken home to feed between six and fourteen people depending on the size you order. So, stop by and try it out!

Subtle Signals of the Queen of England Tension Arises Over North Korea

By Sophie Akyuz ‘19, Reporter

By Ben Lane ‘20, Reporter & Mason Audet ‘20, Reporter

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R

ne can always see Queen Elizabeth carrying her beloved £2,000 Launer handbag everywhere she goes, but what you may not see is that she uses this purse to send signals to her staff and security guards.

It is used as a form of communication and not just a fashion statement.

She has been known to own over 200 Launer handbags.

As well as her handbag, she also uses her wedding ring to tell her guards when she wants to be rescued from an unpleasant conversation. For example, if someone was talking to the Queen and she just so happened to spin her ring around or place her bag on the ground, this is a bad sign.

She most likely wants to terminate the conversation or feels as if she is in danger. According to the Daily Telegraph, if she places her purse on the table, she wants the conversation to end within the next five minutes.

Queen Elizabeth typically carries a pen, a mirror, lipstick, reading glasses, mints, and small, precisely folded bills to give to the church on Sundays.

There are many other royal heirs who use forms of “secret code” in order to

avoid awkward interactions or to use when they want to exit a conversation.

For example, the NY Post states that Kate Middleton carries a small purse in both hands to avoid handshakes, while Prince Philip takes only brief handshakes.

So, when you see a photo, video, or even encounter the Queen or other royals, make sure to watch for signals that they give and see if you can interpret them.

ecently tension between the United States and North Korea has dramatically increased. Tension between the countries has existed since 1950 when North Korea invaded South Korea, starting the Korean War. Over the past couple of weeks, North Korea has performed multiple actions creating political issues involving the United States, Korea, and China.

China is one of the few countries that North Korea is friendly with. Recently, there has been fear that North Korea is developing nuclear weaponry.

The US government contacted the Chinese government and asked them to intervene to stop North Korea from all nuclear weapon production.

The United States is also taking other precautions. The head of US Pacific Command said that the United States will have any defense necessary to stop a Korean missile threat.

North Korea has not yet made a direct response to the request, but the Chinese and American governments are working together to try to stop the weapons from being produced.

“There have been storm clouds gathering.” These are the words of the Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi about the struggles between the US, North Korea, and South Korea.

The US and Chinese governments have also been working to try to intercept shipments going to North Korea by boat. The idea is to look for signs of any nuclear weapon development. This action originated from the Bush Administration more than 10 years ago.

What the North Koreans are doing could prove to be not only dangerous to other countries, but also to their own innocent citizens.

This is the reason the US is trying to stop Korea from producing nuclear weapons. Whether they actually will or not is not yet determined.

11 | Ba Today | May 2017

Outdoor Track and Field Christopher Drayton

Personal Bests: 60 Meter Dash: 7.44 s 400 Meter Dash: 54.21 s Triple Jump: 37 ft 6 In

Beginning his journey through Track and Field during his 8th grade year, Christopher quickly became an asset to the team. Christopher ranks in the top 6 for freshmen boys in his three main events; Christopher ranks 6th in Triple Jump and the 60 Meter Dash, and he ranks 2nd in the 400 Meter Dash. Christopher also finished 3rd in the 400 Meter dash for the 1A-3A division at the Alabama Indoor Track State meet, defeating 25 other runners.

Amber Mason

Personal Bests: High Jump: 5 ft 2 In Long Jump: 17 Ft 3 In 60 Meter Dash: 8.79 s

12 | Ba Today | May 2017

Amber Mason may be a newcomer to Bayside and our Track and Field team, but she has done remarkably well for herself and her team.

Amber placed 1st in Long Jump at the Magic City Indoor Track meet, while later finishing 2nd place at the Indoor Track State meet. Amber also finished her Indoor Track season with a 2nd place finish in High Jump at the State meet, setting her personal record of 5’0”.

Meagan Daves Meagan is a six-year member of Bayside’s Track and Field team, and her dedication to her team and her passion for track and field has been clear. In Meagan’s top event, the 100 Meter Hurdles, she placed 8th overall for 1A-3A girls at the 2016 Outdoor Track State Meet. And in the past year, Meagan has run both Cross-Country and Indoor Track, putting herself in an even better athletic standing then she was last season.

Meagan hopes to medal in pole vault and the 100 meter hurdles at this year’s Outdoor Track State Meet.

Personal Bests: 100 Meter Hurdles: 17.98 s Pole Vault: 8 Ft 6 In Triple Jump: 32 FT 7.25 In

Blake Giles Blake is a five-year member of Bayside’s Track and Field team, and has contributed greatly to the team by prioritizing team spirit. Blake runs on Bayside’s A-team 4x400 team, and he has for several years. Blake is also one of the few athletes from Bayside that competes in the outdoor decathlon. Blake has set several school records during his time in the decathlon, including the 1000 Meter run.

Personal Bests: Discus: 108 Ft 6 In Decathlon: 3,548 points 400 Meter Dash: 55.83 s