Tidal Wave Volume 2 Issue 2

TIDAL TIDAL WAVE WAVE VOLUME 2 | COASTAL CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL | ISSUE 2

HONORING ATHLETIC DIRECTOR MIKE SCHEFFEL AFTER EIGHTTEEN YEARS OF SERVICE.

contents

TIDAL TIDAL WAVE WAVE

COASTAL CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL’S NEWS MAGAZINE

Advisor: Heather Hughes Editor-in-Chief: Ryan Burton Reporters: Noah Anderson, Owen Arnette, Sara Biagini, Lauren Bretzloff, Chase Davenport, Ava Fowler, Ryan Hobbs, Valentina Huertas Celis, Noah Loop, Joel Marin, Rylee Paris, Mia Singleton, Drew Snyder, Frannie Solano, Ellery Smith, Will Stevens, Addy Tognotti, Hudson Williams

Tidal Wave is published semi-annually

by Coastal Christian High School’s yearbook class.

The magazine is printed by New Hanover Printing in Wilmington, NC, and is also available online at ISSUU.com.

Tidal Wave is an member of the North Carolina Scholastic Media Association.

The staff received the “All North Carolina” ranking in 2024 during their inaugural year.

Views expressed in Tidal Wave do not reflect those of the faculty or administration of CCHS. Editorials are the opinions of the magazine staff.

If you wish to submit an entry for a contest, please submit your work to Heather Hughes.

Questions? Comments? Story ideas?

We welcome our readers’ opinions.

You can email your letters to hughesh@coastalchristian.net or mail them to 1150 The King’s Hwy. Wilmington, NC 28409.

They must be signed.

~NOTE OF FAREWELL~ A little over two years ago, I eagerly sent a letter to a woman I had never met, who worked at a school I didn’t attend, asking to help lead a team of people I didn’t know.

This woman—who would later serve as a mentor, a teacher, and a friend—agreed to my request, and asked me to be the editor of a new school magazine. Initially intended to be an alumni publication, Tidal Wave blossomed into a student-focused, student-created magazine that sought to explore the corners of the school that the yearbook wasn’t able to contain.

Mrs. Heather Hughes was absolutely instrumental in the development of the first edition of this magazine last year, as well as the two issues we produced throughout the 2024-2025 school year.

It was in a wonderful, almost always agonizing, and mostly stressful manner in which the Tidal Wave magazine was created.

With a staff of under twenty, crafting a polished, newsworthy magazine was ten times harder than I could have ever imagined.

Mrs. Hughes supported me throughout all of this, serving as a creative counterbalance to my often rigid and traditional style of journalism.

I’ve also been encouraged by the increasing level of engagement by our staff since the first issue of the magazine. Journalism has long been a passion of mine, and it’s been such an honor to see the seeds of inquiry, devotion, and the occasional need for controversy blossom in the younger writers. I’m encouraged to see what the future will bring for them.

Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working in journalism as a student, a volunteer, and a professional. It’s with both relief and sadness that I depart from my editorship of Tidal Wave but with high hopes for what is to come for the magazine. If our team has touched or engaged even a few people from our outstanding community, it will have all been worth it.

Most of all, thank you to the readers, especially the students to whom this magazine is intended. Your readership means the world to me, and I hope you continue to follow along in the years to come.

I cannot wait to join you as a fellow reader in the coming years.

Call for writers!

Ryan Burton Editor-in-Chief

Do you love writing?

Does highlighting unknown stories sound exciting?

Do you love finding out details?

Do you have a hot take to share?

We would LOVE to have you as a contributing writer for Tidal Wave.

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Contact Mrs. Hughes for details if you are interested.

CONTENTS spring 2025

TIDAL TIDAL WAVE WAVE

FEATURES

Teens prepare for summer with jobs

1

COASTAL CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL’S NEWS MAGAZINE

Seniors leave for college, workforce ‘Coastal Madness’ sparks intrigue

SPORTS

NEWS

Mike Scheffel leaves after 18 years of service

Senior Decision Day commitments

3

Student entrepreneurs manage tarrifs

CITY && STATE CITY STATE

4

Varsity Boys Tennis team shrinks to zero

The Problem with Vending Machines

A look into nursing

5

A track team too big to manage

to our Patrons & Supporteres

Savannah Gibbs joins Joffrey Ballet Arts Extravaganza honors a year of work The making of a musical

6 19

THANK YOU

ARTS

7

Boys Volleyball team draws major interest

OPINIONS

New developments outside CCHS

The impact of the surf swell

2 19

8 VOL 2/ ISSUE 2 02

news

Student Council Unveils Garden Party: Brunch Edition

by Sara Biagini Reporter

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arge fascinators, floral dresses, and pastel colored shirts mark the appearance of the annual Garden Party, which is a favorite for the student body every year. The event—based on the annual Azalea Garden Party–is a chance for students to dress up in spring attire with their friends, take memorable pictures, and enjoy a short break from the school day.

This year the student council decided to make a significant change to the Garden Party, shifting the historically over an hour long lunch to a shorter, forty minute morning brunch.

There were multiple different reasons for these new changes. In the past, heightened costs, time infringements, and stress about the event contributed to a general dissatisfaction from both teachers and staff. Many teachers felt they lost too much time for instruction, especially with finals approaching in the coming weeks.

The student council knew it was vital to preserve the event as it was a beloved feature of the year for many students. Student Council President Ryan Burton and Vice President Hannah Grace championed its continuation, ultimately working with members of the administration to craft a new twist on an old event.

The Brunch Bunch. Senior Marin Diana, Juniors Ryleigh Wood, Ethan Adgent, Senior Aron Ruiz, Juniors Pasey Hodges, and Eliza Greene enjoy various bites and coffee during the garden brunch. The smaller brunch foods marked a departure from the traditional larger southern lunch served in previous years. Photo: Heather Hughes

“Hannah and I were in charge of a lot of the concepts behind how the event would look and feel, while she took ownership of organizing parents and ensuring that enough food was appropriately distributed,” Burton said. “In the end, we were extremely proud of how the event turned out.”

“While a catered, southern lunch and live band were wonderful in the past, the cost–particularly of food– had become prohibitive,” Student Council Adviser Montica Miller said.

“Last year, ticket prices were raised but they still didn't cover the cost of a catered meal. To save money, the Student Council decided to eliminate the band and change the food offerings, which was a major cost saver. Administration suggested a brunch, so students wouldn't be as hungry when they arrived, and a team of about 15-18 wonderful Coastal Moms stepped up to make it all possible.”

The brunch included a photo booth, coffee truck, chicken and

waffles and much more. The student council was able to prove that you could do a garden party with a smaller budget while receiving help from parents and cutting unnecessary costs.

New J-Term Excites Students and Staff Members

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by Lauren Bretzloff Staff Writer

ould you like to take a trip to Cuba or New York and get school credit? Next year you can, Coastal will be offering a new opportunity for students called J-Term. J-Term will be an annual two-week experience in January that will provide students with unique opportunities. Students will be required to complete one J-Term credit yearly.

These opportunities will allow students to complete internships, trips, and classes. The purpose of this is to expose students to activities and fields of study that they wouldn’t be able to do otherwise. Students will be able to use their gifts to glorify God and share the Gospel.

The trips are available for Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors during J-Term and can be educational or service. Some of the trips include mission trips to El Salvador, Costa Rica, as well as Cuba, and an educational trip to New York.

These trips will allow the students to experience other cultures and tell them the truth of the Gospel, or to experience learning about an exciting topic.

Junior Ella Baker is going to Costa Rica next year and says that she chose to go to Costa Rica because “ I went last year and it was so fun, and I was able to bond with people I don’t usually talk

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to. It was really nice to get to meet the locals and talk about Jesus with them.” She says that she is most excited “to see all of the little children again and some of the leaders that were there.”

The classes will give students exposure to career-ready paths to give them a wider range of industries to explore. It is a way to offer more electives without obtaining more teachers and classrooms. The classes can be trade-based, experiential, or theoretical. Types of classes could include welding, cooking, diving, or a Bible study, to name a few.

If students elect to take classes during J-term, they will choose two classes to take at the same time. These classes will be 80% experiential instead of lecture-based.

The third option for J-term is internships.

These internships are arranged by the students and allow those who know what they want to do in the future the opportunity to try out the path that they are considering, so that they can learn now if they like it, before they go to college.

Coastal is doing J-Term to provide hands-on learning and exposure to career pathways that students might not otherwise discover. It also provides a break in the year, which protects rest and mental health. It will act as a reset after midterms and the start of the second semester.

Tariffs Spell Tariffs Spell Trouble Trouble for for Coastal Students Coastal Students and and Staff Staff Recently imposed tariffs pose impact on student, staff entrepreneurs

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by Mia Singleton Staff Writer

n the wake of newly imposed aggressive tariff policies, small business owners including student entrepreneurs, as well as anyone partaking in the Stocks Challenge in Civics and Economics at Coastal Christian High School are feeling the pinch. From rising costs to disrupted supply chains and everdropping market prices, the impact is being felt across campus.​ For many students, entrepreneurship is more than a classroom concept, it's a side hustle or even a full-time endeavor.

However, the recent trade policies have introduced significant challenges. ​The rising costs of materials and shipping have made it difficult to maintain their commitment to affordable pricing for their peers.

To mitigate losses, two students have reduced promotional offers like free shipping and services like driving to business sites, which were once a staple of many student drivers’ business models. Similarly, Freshman Henry Dobstaff, a student entrepreneur behind an Organic Surf Wax product, and a participant

in the Stocks Challenge, hasn’t seen his costs soar due to tariffs on imported materials, because everything he uses to make his surfboard wax can be locally sourced. Dobstaff offers a unique perspective and a solution, saying to “locally source your materials if you can so the tariffs and foreign suppliers raising prices for them won’t disrupt the cash.” The increased expenses have strained many’s ability to offer competitive pricing, threatening the viability of their brand.​ Beyond the student body, Coastal staff members with entrepreneurial ventures are also grappling with the effects of the tariffs. Mrs. Matthews, an economics instructor and founder of a non-profit organization, provides a unique perspective. "It will actually take two to three months to see any effects tariffs itself will have on businesses. There is just no way to tell now,” and she observes.

"Foreign countries raise the prices of their goods in preparation of tariffs, so despite there not actually being any effects from the tariffs themselves, prices are rising.”

Her insights are echoed by industry experts. According to a report by Investopedia, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has emphasized the inflation risks associated with the current trade policies, stating that tariffs threaten to slow the economy while pushing up inflation. This economic uncertainty poses significant challenges for small businesses, which often operate on

thin margins, and for popularly invested stocks like PCVX and NVDA, whose prices “continue to rise precariously and plummet irregularly,” according to Powell.

In a conversation with Freshman Mackenzie Davis about her experience in taking part in the Stock Challenge this year, she said, “My dad told me to take everything out because he heard all the stocks I had would be crashing in price, and I tried but I was too late and lost a lot of money. It is so hard to tell when it is going to happen, but now I am almost at the bottom of the leaderboard.” Many students are facing similar challenges.

The digital marketplace, a realm where many student entrepreneurs operate, is not immune to the effects of tariffs. Influencers and online retailers who rely on affordable imports are facing increased costs that could alienate their customer base.​However, these alternatives often come with higher labor costs and less flexibility, making the transition challenging.​Influencer entrepreneurs, both popular and relatively new alike, all offer different perspectives and pricing strategies.

The broader economic landscape also paints a concerning picture.

According to Colin Laidley's Market Report viewed on April 21st, 2025, the “S&P 500 has declined 14% since President Trump's inauguration, marking the worst start to a presidency for U.S. stocks since at least 1928.” This downturn reflects the broader market's response to the

uncertainty and inflationary pressures introduced by the current trade policies.​The U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports that small businesses are worried about the impact tariffs will have on their ability to grow and hire, with many already experiencing reduced profitability. The uncertainty surrounding tariff policies is contributing to the difficulty of making sound business decisions, particularly for those operating on limited resources.​ Despite the challenges, student and staff entrepreneurs are finding ways to adapt. Diversifying suppliers, exploring alternative manufacturing options, and adjusting business models are among the strategies being employed to navigate the current economic climate.​As the situation continues to evolve, the resilience and adaptability of Coastal's entrepreneurial community will be key in weathering the storm of tariffs and economic uncertainty.

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features

‘Coastal Madness’ Contest Builds Community

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by Noah Loop Staff Writer

rackets and Baskets brought madness to March, and Coastal Students were all in. For the 2024-2025 NCAA tournament, Coastal’s Student Council kicked off an inaugural bracket pool. This bracket was open to all, regardless of basketball knowledge. It had to be filled out by March 20th. The top ten brackets received a food-related prize, and the top three received a gift card or cash reward. There were over 100 brackets submitted, including students and faculty.

This was the first time doing the March Madness Bracket at Coastal, and Student Council President Ryan Burton emailed the student body on how to participate.

“The tournament was a success. We had a lot of student and faculty participation. People were invested in the weekly bracket updates and excited to win prizes,” Student Council Vice President Hannah Grace said.

The top three brackets consisted of #1 Nevin Blanchard, #2 Sam Johnson, and #3 Shelby Slater. All top three brackets picked Florida to be the champion.

“I filled out this bracket just for fun,” Sophomore Nevin Blanchard said. “I used a premade bracket because I don't know a lot about basketball. When the top ten brackets were announced, I was very surprised and excited to have won.”

Students had various reasons for joining the tournament. Some joined out of a passion for basketball, while others joined for the fun of it. “I filled out this bracket intending to win,” Sophomore Ryan McConekey said. “I am a sports fanatic, especially basketball and football.

I thought I would win, but I will try again next year.”

Nevin Blanchard Winner!

Senior Decision Day Celebrates and Looks Ahead

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by Addy Tognotti Staff Writer

ver the past four years, the Class of 2025 has put in the work—facing challenges, growing through experiences, and staying focused on their goals. Now, with graduation around the corner, it's time to celebrate the next chapter.

Decision Day honored post high school plans, including college, the military, the workforce, a gap year, or trade school. The day served to recognize the dedication, courage, and commitment that brought the class to the pivotal moment.

Some seniors are heading across the country, while others are staying close to home.

Senior Naomi Davis is off to Hawaii. “I am going on a six month discipleship training with YWAM (Youth With A Mission). I am looking forward to what God has in store for my future,” Davis said.

Senior Noah Anderson will be joining the workforce right away, by attending fire academy. “I am looking forward to joining the fire department and I am hoping to help others and keep people safe,” Anderson commented.

On May 1st, students proudly wore shirts, hats, and gear representing the colleges, programs, or opportunities they’re committing to. The day was all about honoring their hard work, dedication, and the bright futures ahead.

They celebrated by having hamburgers and hot dogs cooked by Coach Carpenter and Mr. Treece. The teachers and staff created several fun experiences, including cupcakes that had the students' flag of where we are going to college and photo backdrops. Throughout lunch, students gathered in groups to take photos, capturing memories with friends, teachers, and their college flags.

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Sweet Treats. Seniors Laney Anderson, MC Shearin, and Hannah Grassi enjoy their custom cupcakes with their intended school on top. Photo: Lisa Edwards

Teens Prepare for Summer by Lining up Jobs

by Ellery Smith Staff Writer

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ith summer starting soon, many students start to look for jobs to fill their time. There are many reasons why students get a summer job like saving money for college, making new friends, exploring future career paths, or gaining real world experience.

Summer jobs can even help students with their schoolwork by teaching time management, problem solving, and interpersonal skills.

Senior Jane Tippett works at a local christian summer camp, Camp Impact over the summer.

“It's a blessing to be able to share the gospel with kids through fun activities that they will understand, and while it might not be the full idea yet, learning about God and his word is super important to teach,” she said.

By working at Camp Impact she has learned “how to communicate with parents and deal with tough situations, which has encouraged me to want to be a children's therapist when I graduate in June.”

For other students, a summer job on the beach is a great way to spend time working.

Senior Gabby Lagomarsino works at Tony Silvagni’s Surf School and Beach Rentals.

“I want to make some extra money to save for college and I also like working with my friends during my shifts,” Lagomarsino explained.

During a shift she works “in the shop so I can help customers book rentals like chairs, umbrellas, and surf lessons. Other than that I will be on the beach setting up chairs and umbrellas and I usually work for six hours.”

On the beach she learns “a lot of customer service skills and I have gotten a lot better at communicating over the phone by practice and experience.”

While summer jobs are common for high school students, some students, like Junior Ryan Hobbs, work year round.

“I have a media business that specializes in automotive photography and videography,” Hobbs said. “I am independently contracted by a few luxury car dealerships in Wilmington like Porshce, BMW, Lotus, and Audi to capture pictures and videos for their social media.”

For his job he says “it’s very fun, my managers give me a short list of what I need to capture, and then I go capture it.”

This job is a perfect fit for Ryan because he says “I’ve always been a car enthusiast and in the last few years fell in love with photography and creating engaging videos for my own social media page.”

While he likes his job he says that “my only gripe with working for dealerships is that sometimes my bosses unintentionally limit my creativity and I'm not able to do things how I want to do them.

Eventually, my plan is to do more client work away from dealers and continue to grow my social media and influence that way.”

He’s learned a lot working this job.“I’d say the most important qualities I’ve learned from doing what I do is the discipline you have to get clients and bosses the photos

in a timely manner and keep them happy so they become returning customers.”

Managing a job and free time can be hard, but he says “the hours are very light and part time, leaving time for me to enjoy time with my family and friends. I probably work a total of 8 days a month, but I am looking forward to ramping that up when I don't have to worry about school.”

Another student, Junior Christian Curtain has another year round job working in food service.

Christian works at Krispy Kreme as a donut specialist. During school he works “two days a week for a total of fourteen hours a week.” He got a job to “make my money so I can be independent and a way to make myself get up to be motivated.”

Working at a job that involves food can be challenging, he says “I have learned self control over eating donuts and dealing with rude customers. There is definitely a learning curve with self restraint.”

Jobs can also be training for future careers. Junior Olivia Kruger works year round at the hospital.

Her role is to “set up rooms, clean the tools, and move the patients around.” She keeps her job “for the experience as a hope for a future career in healthcare.”

Throughout her time working at the hospital, Olivia has learned “a lot about the healthcare system, and to communicate with people like nurses, doctors, and patients.”

Spanish Fishing Tournament Raises Funds for

by Hudson Williams Reporter

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he sound of reels screaming and laughter carrying over the waves marks more than just a love for fishing. The tournament shows the community’s unity and a rally for a good cause.

A Spanish Mackerel tournament throws in some fun times for King Mackerel tournament fishermen. Most tournament fishermen fish for either King Mackerel, Blue Marlins, or Flounder so this will start a new type of tournament.

Coastal Christian High School launched the first annual Mack Attack Spanish Mackerel Fishing Tournament, with proceeds benefiting the baseball program.

The tournament took place on May 24th, after being rescheduled due to weather concerns. Team Addason from Sneads Ferry took home the prize for the biggest fish.

With bright skies and fair seas, the tournament draws fishing enthusiasts of all ages to compete for prizes and bragging rights while supporting a mission far bigger than the catch of the day. With an entry fee of $200 per boat and several tournamentwithin-a-tournament (TWT) opportunities, including cash prizes for the largest Spanish Mackerel, a three-fish aggregate, and the largest bluefish, anglers have plenty to compete for.

“Spanish Mackerel are an enjoyable fish to target this time of year that can be fished from a Skiff to a Sportfish,” Tournament director Chad Shingleton said.

Chad Shingleton is the father of first baseman Freshman Carson Shingleton. He is “happy to help this team and watch them grow.”

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features

Senior Assassin Unites Senior Class in Final Days A game where no one can be trusted.

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by Ava Fowler Staff Writer

or Seniors at Coastal Christian High School, Spring isn’t just about prom dresses, SAT scores, and senioritis it’s also the season of squirt guns, sneak attacks, and non-stop paranoia. Welcome to Senior Assassin, the annual game that turns seniors into stealthy strategists in a high-stakes battle for bragging rights and a coveted cash prize.

“It’s the highlight of the year,” senior Marin Diana said, clutching a neon green water gun.

“You never feel safe, and even going to Starbucks feels like a mission.”

Here’s how it works: each senior receives a target—another classmate they must “assassinate” using a water gun. Once they eliminate their target, they inherit that person’s assignment and continue the chase. The last player standing wins.

The game is organized and monitored by Sophomores Annie Grace Kuhne and Chloe Cofer. It includes a long list of rules: no attacks

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on school property, no ambushes at church, and absolutely no targeting while someone is at work.

“It’s about keeping the game fun and fair,” says President Ryan Burton, who oversees the event to make sure it stays in line with the school’s values. “It’s a unique tradition that teaches students about community, creativity, and believe it or not time management.”

In its second year at Coastal Christian, Senior Assassin has become a defining part of the senior experience. Students form alliances, develop elaborate disguises, and use social media to track their targets.

Enya Benito Arapiles hid outside someone's house for hours and got sprayed with a hose by the little brother, and they turned the sprinklers on them. Others have used decoys, changed cars, pretended to be other people, and even left phones at other people's houses.

There’s a fellowship that grows alongside the competition. Friends turn into rivals, and every casual hangout carries the suspense of a possible ambush. It’s intense, but in a good way. They video and take pictures of the attacks to post on Instagram and on the Splashin app, which turned the game into a schoolwide spectacle.

There have been late-night stakeouts, earlymorning sprints, and more than a few wet backpacks sacrificed in the line of duty.

For many, it’s about more than just winning— it’s about participating in something memorable.

“You only get to do this once,” says Senior Drew Snyder. “Even if I’m out, I’ll be talking about this for years.”

Still, the organizers take precautions to ensure everyone feels safe and included. “Consent is key,” says Annie Grace Kuhne and Chloe Coefer.

“Anyone who doesn’t want to participate doesn’t have to. It’s about fun, not fear.”

With around thirty players left in the game (at the time this article is being written), tensions are high. The prize pool built from entry fees and buy backs, which is for those who were killed in the first round and want to buy “back in” to continue playing, has grown to over $500, and the final weeks promise dramatic showdowns.

The anticipation is electric, and the strategies are getting more creative by the day.

As the school year winds down, Senior Assassin stands out not just for its chaos, but for the memories it creates. “It brings the class together in a way that nothing else does,” says Ryan Fowler.

Whether they win or get soaked, every player walks away with stories, laughs, and the unforgettable adrenaline of being hunted and hunting during their final days of high school.

city & state

Area Outside of CCHS Undergoes Development: What to Expect

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by Hudson Williams Staff Writer

If you’ve driven through Monkey Junction recently, you’ve probably noticed some serious construction happening at the corner of Carolina Beach Road and King’s Hwy. And no, it’s not another car wash. Something far more exciting is underway: a brand-new shopping center is coming to the area, and it’s bringing with it some major names.

Set to open in late 2026, The Village at Myrtle Grove will feature a massive Target store, along with a new Chipotle, Playa Bowls, and possibly more to come. For students at Coastal, this development is set to bring big changes.

The upcoming Target will be more than 128,000 square feet in size, making it one of the largest retail spaces in the area. Stocked with all the essentials, it’s expected to become a go-to spot for residents and students alike. Whether students are grabbing lastminute school supplies or doing a late-night snack run, having a Target this close to campus looks to be a game changer.

Right next to the new Target, construction has already begun on a brand-new Chipotle, complete with a drive-thru. That means quick and easy access to burritos, bowls, and chips with guac.

Students are especially excited about this new dining option. “It will be a quick and tasty lunch next year, as their honey chipotle chicken is great on your bowl and good source of protein,” Junior Banks Downing commented.

With limited fast casual dining nearby, Chipotle offers a welcome addition for students and faculty looking for something fresh and fast.

But it’s not just about food and shopping.

The new development is expected to bring a wave of economic benefits, including dozens of new jobs. Many of these positions will be perfect for students seeking part-time work after school, on weekends, or over summer break. This opens positions in retail, food service, and is perfect for making some extra cash.

Beyond employment, the project is expected to have a broader impact on the community. The new stores are likely to increase foot traffic and draw more investment into the area. As the shopping center becomes a local spot, it could bring new events, and continued development that makes Monkey Junction a more heavily populated place to live.

However, not everyone is thrilled about the changes. Increased traffic is a growing concern, especially for those who travel to and from school daily.

“Traffic will be awful from people going to Target and grabbing food, as we are trying to get to school daily,” Mrs. Emily Whitfield said.

Students will need to be especially careful turning onto The Kings Highway during peak hours. According to the Wilmington Fire Department, they responded to 18,472 emergency calls in 2024, with 8% related to motor vehicle collisions.

With rapid growth of cars in the Monkey Junction area due to the new stores, road safety becomes an even bigger issue. New medians in the road trying to make it eaiser for traffic flow could actually negatively affect traffic.

Wilmington is expanding quickly, and the addition of The Village at Myrtle Grove is just the latest sign. Whether it’s for a part-time job, a quick lunch, or a new place to shop, students and residents alike have a reason to be excited.

Surf Swell Know the waves before you go out

by Noah Anderson Staff Writer

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ilmington is one of the hottest surf sports on the east coast and is the birthplace of surfing on the East Coast.

Famous spots such as Mason's Inlet, Masonboro Island, Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach are just a few spots where hundreds of surfers wait for a swell to pop up so they can get out there.

Wilmington is known for Hurricane swells, which peak mid-August through mid-October.

However, this season of surfing was on a decline due to no big swells and inconsistent swells.

The last major hurricanes, Florence and Helen, in 2018 and 2024, brought significant swell. Ever since then, I believe there has been no swell near that good and consistent.

As a surfer I look for any type of swell or wave to be able to get out there, this past season I rarely paddled out due to a lack of waves. With different seasons in surfing there is possibility of more

swell to come in the future, typically during the summer months, surfers can look for tropical swells which bring sweeping currents from the South. During the Winter, surfers can look for Nor’easters, which can produce offshore hollow waves.

As a surfer, my attention leans more towards Winter swells since they are usually bigger and cleaner. However, don't forget to wear your wetsuit, as the water can get close to freezing.

Another huge factor that goes into waves is beach erosion and dredging, which causes the sand and sandbars to shift, making small and less consistent waves. For a surfer, dredging is not your friend and I'd consider it unfortunate for your local spots.

A lack of waves doesn't just affect the surf community but can impact tourism, local shops, and Wilmington's identity. Wilmington has many different spots, which makes it an

deal surf town, because you can check each one for a break. Masonboro Island and Mason’s Inlet are hidden gems of surf spots in Wilmington. At Masonboro, you need a Southern swell to catch long rides, as with Mason's inlet, you need a Northeastern swell with an offshore wind for it to break nicely.

Surfers can choose which spot to go to based on how the swell is working.

There is a lot more to surfing than just grabbing a board and going out. You need to know what you are dealing with and when waves are coming.

VOL 2/ ISSUE 2 08

ConGRADulations

SEN

WHERE THEY ARE HEADED

North Carolina Appalachian State University Gabby Lagomarsino

Elon University University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Victoria D’Amico

Ryan Burton Zach Bunch

Campbell University Miles Herrmann

Cape Fear Community College Marin Diana, Ashleigh Dries, Ryan Fowler, Liam Reese, Nate Richmond, Drew Snyder, Jane Tippett

East Carolina University Briana Sweeney

High Point University Lauren Bretzloff Hannah Spivey

University of North Carolina at Charlotte Andrew Harrison Ethan Hixon Danny Mendez

North Carolina State University Sam Johnson Ben Lampman Lucy Walsh George Robertson

University of North Carolina Wilmington Lucia Boudreau, Caleb Burrus, Chase Davis, Hannah Grassi, Daughtry Hales, Emma Huneycutt, Ashley Kidd, Emma Kidd, Reagan Mintz, Zeke Newton, Georgia Phillippou, Evangelo Psilos, Aaron Ruiz, MC Shearin, Ashlyn Tarrant, Cole West, Hailey Whitfield, Regina Castillo, Christian Hackney

South Carolina Wofford College Lucy Collins

University of South Carolina AK Watson

Lander University

Vaughn Brodowski

College of Charleston Ellery Smith Hastings Smith

Longwood University Mallory Eggleston

Liberty University Buckley Hubbard

Virginia Virginia Tech

Cole Hudson

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IORS Class of 2025!

Bocconi University, Italy Hanna Cartrett

International

Tennessee

University of Tennessee Hannah Grace

University of Mississippi

Alabama

Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Spain

Auburn University

Enya Benito Arapiles

Elsa Southerland

Addy Tognotti

Mississippi Florida Texas

Florida State University

Embry Riddle Aeronautical

Gabe Tepper

Natalie Sikorski

Baylor University

Florida Institute of Technology

Ava Fowler McKenzie Sutton

Braelen Fox

Palm Beach Atlantic University Cheyanne Grevin Brandt Webster

Florida Atlantic

Laney Anderson

Other Joffrey Ballet Dance Company, Chicago, Illinois Savannah Gibbs

Fire Academy

Noah Anderson

Electrician Apprenticeship Caleb Martin

CNA Program

Gap Year

Sara Biagini

Paige Ripa

Youth with a Mission (YWAM), Hawaii Naomi Davis

VOL 2 / ISSUE 2 10

sports

FULL COURT, FRESH START

New hire Brad Soucie looks to turn basketball’s program potential into progress.

by Chase Davenport Staff Writer

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oach Brad Soucie, the new Varsity Boys Basketball coach for the 2025-2026 season, is a distinguished basketball coach with twenty-seven years of collegiate coaching experience, contributing his expertise at several universities, including Liberty, Virginia, New Mexico, Oregon State, Colorado State, and Portland State.

Throughout his career, he has been instrumental in the development of nine NBA players and has coached teams that participated in seven NCAA tournaments, achieving notable success with advancements as far as the Sweet 16. His teams have also secured championships in the ACC, Mountain West, and ASUN conferences.

Coach Brad Soucie's basketball journey began as a high school champion at Inter-City Baptist in Allen Park, MI, followed by a successful stint with Team Detroit, where he played a key role in their AAU National Championship victory.

He continued his athletic career at Eastern Michigan University, where he helped the team win the MAC Championship and earn a spot in the NCAA Tournament, setting a first-round record with eight threepointers. In addition to his coaching accomplishments, he competed in the NBA Summer League for two consecutive years with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas Mavericks.

Coach Brad Soucie emphasizes nurturing student-athletes academically, socially, and spiritually. He is passionate about the core covenants he has set for the Varsity Boys' Basketball team.

Q & A with Coach

Q: What inspired you to get into coaching?

A: “I did not have a desire to coach initially, but then God really changed my heart to try it and ever since then I just enjoyed working with young people and helping them realize their dreams.”

Q: What is your favorite basketball memory?

The covenants for the upcoming year are Love, Joy, Courage, Overcomer, and Your Best. He desires to develop the team’s culture improve individual skills and create a winning mentality. His commitment to his players' personal growth is frequently highlighted in testimonials from former athletes, who commend his servant leadership, dedication, and ability to create an environment where players can thrive and become the best versions of themselves.

"Brad Soucie played an important role in helping build the Virginia basketball program during its foundational years. His insights and love for the game and the young men in our program were evident from day one, and he made a significant impact on and off the court on many of the players. He

cared deeply about developing our young men's physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. I am grateful for his time with me and his commitment to being a transformational coach over a transactional one. Coastal Christian High School is fortunate to have Coach Soucie leading the way." former University of Virginia head coach Tony Bennett said.

With Coach Brad Soucie’s incredible basketball background and coaching accomplishments, he is well-equipped to lead the team and bring new excitement to Coastal’s basketball program.

“I'm excited for the new coach because I think God gave us a new coach for a reason. Even though change is hard sometimes, You just gotta trust God and the path he has for you,” Junior Chase Hager reflected.

A: “As a player, I would say winning a high school state championship.”

Q: What's the most well known player you’ve coached?

A: “Definitely Malcolm Brogdon.

He was NBA rookie of the year.”

Q: What's your favorite coaching job you’ve had to this point?

A: “My favorite coaching job was at the University of Virginia, and coaching in the ACC and being able to play top teams in the country.”

Q: How did you come to know Jesus?

A: “My parents got saved when I was 5 and we started going to church and then a few years later I prayed to receive Christ into my life.”

COASTAL COMMITS

Track and Field

Golf

Cheerleading

Cross Country & Track

University of Tennessee

Lander University

Longwood University

Campbell University

Cross Country & Track

Hannah Grace Vaughn Brodowski Mallory Eggleston Miles Herrmann Cheyanne Grevin 11 TIDAL WAVE

Volleyball

Marin Diana

Palm Beach Atlantic University Cape Fear Community College

‘A Legacy Figure’: Athletic Director Mike Scheffel Exits

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by Ryan Burton Editor-in-Chief

fter eighteen years of dedicated leadership, service, and mentorship, athletic director Mike Scheffel is preparing to leave his position at Coastal Christian High School.

Scheffel, who has been with the school since the fall of 2007, has overseen the development of the entire athletic program from its genesis at six teams to twenty one teams today.

“I think [the program’s development is] reflective of the overall health and growth of the entire school, and of our desire to provide the best possible experience for a high school student athlete through providing additional sport offerings to maximize the participation of our students,” Scheffel said.

Over the course of his tenure as Athletic Director, Scheffel has also been heavily involved himself as a coach. He’s coached Varsity Boys Soccer for sixteen seasons, Varsity Girls Basketball for eighteen seasons, and Varsity Girls Soccer for nine seasons.

“I think as a coach across all three sports allowed me to build stronger and more meaningful relationships with our student athletes and has

given me better insight into their experiences which allowed me to have a better understanding as an athletic director” Scheffel said.

While several championships and wins are certainly among Scheffel’s favorite memories across his time at Coastal, he’s found that witnessing the personal development of student athletes themselves has proved to be most significant.

“I would say probably my most

meaningful memories come from any time there were moments that captured the growth and transformation of an individual student athlete or a team in a particular season,” Scheffel said.

Another key aspect of Scheffel’s position includes leading Senior Day at the end of each respective sports season. For each athlete, Scheffel recognizes them with their current achievements and looks to

their future plans. He then presents them a collage of photographs outlining their time on the team.

“I think [the senior’s] time as a student athlete is so much about the journey, and the Senior Day is such a sweet reflection of how they’ve journeyed throughout their time at Coastal,” he said.

After serving part time as a non vocational pastor for almost three years, Scheffel will move to a fulltime position as a pastor at Crossway Wilmington. “I have loved my time at Coastal in a lot of ways,” Scheffel explained. “I envisioned myself being the AD at Coastal for forty plus years so this was not something I was necessarily looking for.”

“It was clearly God’s leading to my family and I,” he continued. “We’re excited about serving in one place together as a family where God has made it abundantly clear of where he has us for this season of our life.”

Despite his move to a new position, Scheffel still sees a future connected to Coastal, chiefly through the experience his daughters will one day have.

“We look forward to being on the other side of it with our girls and to experience all that Coastal has to offer as a family and as parents after being an Athletic Director and coach for 17 years,” Scheffel concluded.

VOL 2/ ISSUE 2 12

sports

BOYS ON THE COURT Boys Volleyball Sets the Bar in First Season

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by Ryan Hobbs Staff Writer

hen Coastal Christian High School hosted its annual Powder Tuff volleyball game earlier this year, no one expected it to spark a brand new competitive sports club.

After a packed gym, a buzzing student section, and a group of guys showing real skill on the court, something clicked. That moment set the stage for the formation of the boys’ volleyball club; what’s happened since has surprised even the players themselves.

Background Men’s volleyball in North Carolina has been growing steadily, especially thanks to the efforts of the North Carolina Boys Volleyball Association, but until recently, teams in the eastern part of the state struggled to find competition.

“That was the issue,” explained Coach Carpenter. “Up until last year, there was really nobody to play. But now, teams have popped up in Fayetteville, Jacksonville, and this year, even Swansboro and New Bern. Suddenly, we had options.”

Seeing the enthusiasm at the Powder Tuff game and knowing there was now real potential for competition, Coach Carpenter made a move.

“I saw how many guys were actually good,” he said. “We had over twenty people sign up right away, so I said, ‘Let’s go for it.’ I knew we had something.”

And just like that, Coastal’s first boys’ volleyball club was born.

Formation Forming a club was only the beginning. At their first practice, the players had little to no formal experience.

“It was like PE volleyball,” Carpenter recalled.

“No one knew positions, no one knew what covering was. Now, when I call out a play, they all move together. Tactically, it's like we’re a completely different team.”

Despite the steep learning curve, the team has seen remarkable success. They currently stand 3–3, ranked sixth in the state among private schools, and are officially qualified for the state tournament.

Statistically, key performances have pushed the team forward.

“Our leading ace server is Conor Lampman,” Carpenter said. “Right behind him are Jonah Struntz and Danny Mack. And our Libero, Jediah Kuhn, is instrumental in running the back line, not only that, but he is up there with our top ace scorers.”

The most memorable moment of the season? A sweet comeback.

“We played Fayetteville Academy and got beat badly,” Carpenter said. “They then came here thinking they’d roll over us again. But we showed up, played hard, and beat them. Their coach was pretty mad walking out of the gym.

That was definitely a highlight.”

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The team Junior Jonah Strunts has been a key player since day one and remembers exactly what pulled him in.

“After Powder Puff, we all realized how fun volleyball really was,” he said. “Coach Carpenter mentioned a team, and I was in. I’ve always liked volleyball — my family plays, but we never had a team until now.”

For Jonah, their first game — and first win — was unforgettable. “We were up against a team that had already been playing. And we still won.

That was awesome.”

But building a team from scratch hasn’t been easy. “Learning how to work together as a team — that’s been tough,” he added. “A lot of us do track or other sports, but this is different. It’s more about mental connection and teamwork in real time.”

As a Junior, Jonah’s already looking ahead. “I want to see more people join next year. A lot of students were interested but didn’t sign up in time. Hopefully next season, we’ll grow even more.”

The fans Of course, no team is complete without its fans, and Coastal’s Boys’ Volleyball Club has some of the loudest.

Junior Braden Eddy, a student who announces matches, plays a unique role in shaping the game day atmosphere.

“I play music, get on the mic, and hype everyone up. The energy is incredible. It’s what Coastal culture is all about — showing support and turning something new like boys volleyball into something huge.”

His message to the rest of CCHS? “Come out and support. It means a lot to the team, and it makes our school community better. So just do it.”

Jonah agreed. “When there’s a student section and it’s hyped, it’s a blast. It really pumps us up and gives us energy.”

Even without more home games this year, the team hopes the Red Tide will turn out next season in even greater numbers.

The future From first practices to first wins, and the inevitable first setbacks, this season has laid the foundation for an even stronger future.

“We wrapped up our regular season with a tri-match in Fayetteville,” said Carpenter. “Now, we’re focused on preparing for the state playoffs.”

But even beyond this season, change may be coming statewide.

“The state only needs a few more public schools to have teams before boy’s volleyball gets sanctioned,” Carpenter said. “Once that happens, the NCISAA usually follows. I’d say within two years, this will be a varsity sport.”

And as for his overall season vision?

“We’re going to win states,” Carpenter said confidently.

No matter what happens in the playoffs, the Boys’ Volleyball Club has already done something huge, brought a new sport, a new community, and a new tradition to Coastal Christian High School.

Coastal Softball Team In Works

Female students, staff prepare to play ball as soon as summer

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by Ava Fowler Staff Writer

oastal Christian High School is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever girls’ softball team, set to begin in the 2025–2026 school year. After years of dreaming and planning, soon-to-be Assistant Coach Heather Hughes has teamed up with Head Coach Rennie Clark, a veteran with 18 years of coaching experience, to make it a reality.

Hughes, who formerly played softball in high school herself, has pushed for the formation of a team at Coastal for a while. “I wanted to give the girls at Coastal an opportunity to try something new that some may not have played before and provide a place for students who had grown up playing to have somewhere to compete in high school,” Hughes explained.

“I’m excited to see where the team goes and how the girls make connections with each other through a new sport,” Sophomore Avery Alexander said.

Initial expectations for the team are to work on building skills and chemistry; the team will work to achieve this beginning with summer workouts and through participation in “Fall Ball,” a recreational league designed to give the girls early experience. This opportunity also allows newcomers to be introduced to the game in a low-pressure environment. The team is expected to play in the spring, as other schools in our conference have also added softball to their offerings.

Practices will be held on the school’s practice field, with modifications made to the baseball field when needed, as well as at local facilities like Veterans Park and First Baptist Church’s field. If there aren’t enough players initially, the group will continue participating in recreational leagues until fully ready. If you are interested in playing, see Mrs. Hughes.

Boys Tennis Vanished Where did all the players go?

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by Owen Arnette Staff Writer

oastal Christian High School in Wilmington, North Carolina, is a private, college-preparatory institution that emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and athletic development. As of the 2024–2025 academic year, the school offers a diverse range of sports to its students, including baseball, basketball, cheerleading, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis, track and field, volleyball, weightlifting, and winter track .​ While tennis is listed as one of the sports offered at Coastal Christian High School, the spring season came and went without boys tennis. This is due to various factors, such as limited student interest and conflicts with other sports. It's also possible that the school has chosen to focus its athletic resources on other programs that students evoke more interest. One of the players that competed last year, Sophomore Finn Wells

says, “I think it’s pretty good that we don’t have one [a team] because no one really ever played tennis so we had to forfeit a lot of matches. Now this year our coach left so we didn’t have a coach for this season.”

The decision not to offer a boys' tennis team is not a problem just for Coastal, but other private schools face similar conflicts when there are not enough students to fill every team. While this could be in part due to low enrollment, one has to wonder for rising 9th graders and transfers who want to play tennis, does not having a team actually hurt us to generate more students?

While Coastall does not currently offer a boys' tennis team, the school's commitment to providing a well-rounded athletic experience remains obvious through its multiple sports offerings. If the sport returns next year or not is up in the air, as a new coach is needed and a base of committed players need to step up.

Photo Credit: Joel Marin

VOL 2 / ISSUE 2 14

arts & entertainment

‘It’s Quite an Honor’: Savannah Gibbs Goes to Joffrey

by Valentina Huertas Celis Staff Writer

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or most high school students, senior year is filled with the familiar routines of classrooms, social events, and college applications. But for Savannah Gibbs, a young dancer from Coastal, senior year looked a little different. She traded traditional school hallways for the studio floors of the prestigious Joffrey Ballet in Chicago, embarking on a lifechanging journey of independence, growth, and artistry.

Moving to Chicago to train with Joffrey has been nothing short of transformative for Savannah.

Immersed in an environment that constantly challenges and inspires her, she has found herself thriving both as a dancer and a young adult.

“It’s been full of challenges and new opportunities, but I feel like I have really thrived here,” she says. And her progress hasn’t gone unnoticed — her increased exposure to auditions has already led to two full-time training offers: one with the Joffrey Contemporary Ballet trainee program and another with a small company in Dallas, Texas.

The training at Joffrey is demanding, with classes more rigorous than anything she’s previously encountered. Savannah frequently takes master classes with members of the professional company, an experience she describes as incredibly motivating.

“Sharing the building with the company is so inspiring,” she says.

“I get to see what’s possible.”

Joffrey has also expanded her understanding of ballet itself. While she’s always been curious about neoclassical and contemporary styles, her time in Chicago has given her a deeper appreciation and skill set in these areas, opening doors she hadn’t fully realized were there.

Outside of the studio, Savannah is also navigating life on her own for the first time. Living independently in a bustling city like Chicago has been both freeing and empowering.

Simple routines — like walking a mile and a half to Trader Joe’s each weekend or riding public transport — have become small adventures that make up her daily life. It’s in these moments that Savannah has

embraced the full meaning of independence.

she admits to missing the in-person interaction with her teachers and peers. Despite that, she remains grateful to the Coastal administration for supporting her decision and helping her complete her high school education in a flexible way that matches her ambitions.

Academically, Savannah continues her studies through an online school program for most classes, but still participates in Mr. Forrester’s Apologetics class remotely. The lighter course load has provided her with a muchneeded balance, especially with the demands of her dance schedule. “It is much less stressful than going into school every day,” she notes.

“I’m finally sleeping enough!” Still,

Savannah’s journey is one of courage, dedication, and selfdiscovery. She’s not just learning how to master complex choreography or perfect her technique — she’s also learning how to navigate life, chase her dreams, and take bold steps toward an exciting future in the world of dance. And with her talent, determination, and spirit, there’s no doubt she’ll continue to thrive.

A Look Behind the Curtain

What a musical looks like behind the scenes

by Ellery Smith Staff Writer

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oastal puts on a Spring musical each year, with this year's being Mary Poppins: The Broadway Musical. It turned out to be successful with sold out performances and was entertaining to watch.

Putting on a musical takes months of preparation, a lot of time, energy and dedication from everyone involved. Freshman Kayla Jones was a part of the ensemble and says, “this was my first year and I didn’t know what to expect, I didn't know how many hours it would take to put on the musical.”

While actors are the part of the musical that the audience sees, there is a lot more happening behind the curtain. Tech crew makes the musical happen with the lights, sounds, curtains, and so much more. Even before the musical is known to the students, the director and tech crew leader plan ahead for everything.

Mr. Kuhne, who has led the tech crew every year, and says, “for the musical to happen we start planning usually in mid-summer when the director makes the decision. We begin by securing the performance rights and doing preproduction work, which entails counting actors and parts to determine what scale the performance will be. For set design we find inspiration by watching reference videos of

15 TIDAL WAVE

other groups who have performed prior.” Some cast members spent twenty-two hours a week practicing four days a week, five hours each.

During tech week, the cast spent thirty hours and the tech crew spent fifty hours.

With different productions come varied lighting, sound, and design needs. Mary Poppins was a more practical set, unlike last year's Seussical, which was abstract.

One member of the crew, Senior Daughtry Hale, has been a part of the tech crew all four years, and said she got involved “because it was a great way for me to make friends and build connections, and also introduce myself to something new that I’ve never tried before.”

Since joining the crew, there have been many things she has had to learn and challenges to get used to.

“The most challenging part of it was time management. Sometimes we only had a few seconds to move props before the curtains opened again. Other transitions we had more time, so it was easier to move things in a timely manner.”

Daughtry has worked hard on the tech crew and says, “There is a lot of responsibility” since each person is in charge of moving their piece.

The tech crew plays a big part in the musical; without them, the show could not happen. They might not get all the credit and praise, but they should start.

Curtain Call. Olivia DeMarco swiftly moved the curtain open and closed all weekend with ease. Photo: Heather Hughes

Final Performances of the Year Delight All at Extravaganza

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by Valentina Huertas Celis Reporter

he CCHS Fine Arts Extravaganza is a beautiful and meaningful yearly final celebration to showcase of the fine arts.

It brings together music and visual art in a night of appreciation and performance.

All choirs performed several selections, filling the space with powerful music. The event also included a time of recognition, as students were honored for each year they had been part of the program.

Although the visual arts portion was scaled back this year, the lobby still had a thoughtful display of new pieces. The collection offered a glimpse into the creativity of our student artists and added a rich, visual element to the evening.

A special part of the night came when Mr. Morgan honored his senior choir members by giving each of them a devotional book, a reminder of his care and encouragement.

Likewise, Mrs. ATM chose a hymn for her seniors that reflected her prayer for them, explaining how the lyrics applied to their individual persons.

Altogether, the event was a celebration of art, music, and the community that makes it all possible.

Strumming to Success. Junior Matt Streeper, Senior Paige Ripa, and Freshman Makenna Lee play guitar in the Spring Fine Arts Extravaganza. Photo: Heather Hughes

Sweet Melodious Sonnet. Mrs. ATM leads the combined choir in their moving performance of How Great Thou Art. Photo: Heather Hughes

VOL 2 / ISSUE 2 16

opinions

The Problem with the Vending Machines Machines offer convenience, but at what cost?

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by Frannie Solano Reporter

ending machines have become a common sight in many schools, providing students with convenient access to snacks and beverages throughout the school day.

While they offer a quick solution for students who need a pick-me-up between classes, they have also created a debate among many students and teachers.

For students, vending machines can be a great way to grab a snack or drink during a busy schedule. However, from a teacher’s perspective, they can sometimes become a distraction.

Many students tend to take longer breaks when visiting the vending machines, often using them as a chance to socialize with friends.

This can cut into valuable class time, disrupting their learning and making it harder for teachers to maintain a smooth schedule.

Sophomore Charleigh Meyers says, “I think the vending machines are very functional for students who use them correctly.” Charleigh also believes that there is room for improvement. She suggests that schools should provide more food options, implement a better payment system, and offer more reasonable prices. By addressing these issues, vending machine visits could become quicker, more efficient, and ultimately less disruptive.

The vending machines are filled with snacks that are high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.

These types of foods can contribute to poor eating habits and could affect students’ energy levels and overall health.

Junior Olivia Kurger said, “I don't like that the vending machine is unhealthy, but I enjoy getting a snack when I get hungry.”

Many students feel similar. When they get hungry, they want a snack, Unfortunately, the vending machine doesn't offer a variety of healthier snacks.

Several students would like to see healthier snacks such as granola bars, fresh fruit cups, low-sugar beverages, trail mix, and even small sandwiches or wraps added to the machines.

Some students also mentioned the idea of including dairy-free or gluten-free options to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.

In conclusion, vending machines in schools can be both beneficial and problematic.

With a few adjustments, such as healthier food choices, improved pricing, and quicker payment methods, they could become a much more positive addition to the school environment.

Let the chips fall where they may. In addition to their unhealthy offerings, the machines frequently malfunction, in this case, piling up five bags of chips.

Photo: Heather Hughes

A Look Into Nursing

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by Sara Biagini Staff Writer

or anyone interested in a career in Nursing here are some of the steps I took. There's many ways to get involved in nursing. For me, I took my senior internship at the hospital with a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). I was on the pediatric floor.

I learned a lot through it and I was able to meet nurses and learn my way around the hospital.

This summer I am taking a CNA class, because I want to get more experience before I apply to nursing school.

Once I receive my certificate I plan on applying to the hospital and work there for some time. I plan on going to CFCC since their nursing program is the best in the state and will save you a lot of money.

CFCC and UNCW have their clinicals at the hospital so if you are interested in working there these programs offer great exposure.The quickest route you can take would be to get your Associate Degree In Nursing (ADN). This takes two years and is offered at community colleges.

Getting your Bachelor of Science In Nursing (BSN) takes four years and is offered at universities. There are many different kinds of nursing.

Pediatrics: Caring for children and infants.

Geriatrics: Working with elderly patients.

Emergency Room (ER): Responding to critical and life-threatening situations.

Surgical Nursing: Assisting in surgeries and postoperative care.

Labor and Delivery: Helping deliver babies and supporting new mothers.

ICU (Intensive Care Unit): Caring for critically ill patients.

Home Health Care: Providing care for patients at home.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): Advanced practice roles that require further education and training.

A Track Team Too Big to Manage

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by Ryan Hobbs Staff Writer

he Varsity Track and Field team has always been one of Coastal’s most inclusive sports, serving a place where students of all backgrounds and experience levels can get involved. But with over 100 athletes on a team at a school of just shy of 300, it’s getting harder to ignore the strain that size creates.

The truth is, not everyone who signs up shows up ready to work. While some athletes train hard, hoping to compete at meets or improve their times, others aren’t as committed, and that imbalance is starting to show.

For coaches, it’s nearly impossible to give proper attention and feedback to the students who truly want to compete when practices are crowded and chaotic, even though they try!

17 TIDAL WAVE

Worse, those who aren’t serious often become distractions. They take time, space, and focus away from the athletes who are there to grow. It’s not about creating an exclusive team but an environment that helps every runner reach their potential.

Maybe that means having a commitment check-in mid-season, or limiting entries to

certain events. Perhaps it’s as simple as clearer expectations at sign-ups. Whatever the solution, it’s time to have the conversation.

Track should stay open and welcoming, but it also needs to function. Right now, we’re asking too much of our coaches and not doing enough to support the athletes who are all in.

THE TIDAL REVIEW

I watched Thunderbolts recently, and to be honest, I was kind of disappointed. Not the worst Marvel movie, but not amazing either. I thought it was going to be something new, but it felt like the same Marvel content we’ve seen before.

The movie is about a group of antiheroes the government puts together to go on dangerous missions. It’s kind of like the Avengers, but with characters who have an evil past.

The team is composed of Yelena, Bucky, Red Guardian, Ghost, Taskmaster, and U.S. Agent. They are sent to take down a powerful threat, The Sentry, who ends up being way more dangerous than expected.

Some of the action scenes were cool, and I liked a few of the characters, especially Yelena. She had the best lines in the whole movie.

But the story felt rushed. like it was trying to cover too much in too little time. I also didn’t really feel connected to what was happening. It was hard to care about the mission or the team.

The movie didn’t explain why it mattered or give the characters enough time to connect. If you are really into Marvel, you might still enjoy it. But for me, it was just another superhero movie that didn’t do anything super exciting. It’s not bad, but I probably won’t watch it again.

-Chase Davenport Staff Writer

Have you ever struggled with your faith?

Isaiah Wright, a drifting 19-year-old disconnected from his faith and his mother, takes a job interview at Moore Fitness and meets the president, who invites him to join a men’s discipleship group called The Forge.

Though initially resistant due to his anger and burden from his past pain, mainly from his fathers abandonment, Isaiah gradually embraces accountability, integrity, and faith. As he matures, he becomes a leader, reconnects with his mother, and begins walking confidently in the path God has for him. By the end, we see him thriving in his job, as well as in his faith.

There are many challenges in our lives that can drag us away from knowing there is something greater, in this movie, the abandonment of his father. I believe this movie was a great representation of the struggles of faith. Everyone, including myself has had this struggle, never feeling motivated enough to be in a true relationship with Christ, it’s always hard, but He will always choose you, you just have to choose Him too. Without God, we truly have no direction in our lives. God knows our future and He knows our path, but we need to believe in Him, trust in him, and love Him just as He loves us.

-Rylee Paris Staff Writer

Suzanne Collins returns to Panem in Sunrise on the Reaping, the second prequel to The Hunger Games, and the anticipation has paid off. Set 24 years before Katniss Everdeen volunteers as tribute, the novel follows a young Haymitch Abernathy as he fights for survival in the 50th Hunger Games known as the brutal “Quarter Quell.”

Collins deepens the world we thought we knew, painting a portrait of a Capitol growing ever more ruthless and a District 12 still grappling with hope and hunger.

Haymitch is written with sharp vulnerability, making it impossible not to root for him, even as we begin to understand the bitterness Katniss later encounters. Collins’ writing is crisp, suspenseful, and emotionally charged.

What truly elevates the novel is its exploration of moral ambiguity in young people, a theme Collins continues to handle with remarkable depth and maturity. It’s a story that speaks to both teens and adults, with moments that are both gripping and heartbreaking.

As a fan of The Hunger Games, I really enjoyed reading Sunrise on the Reaping.

Like many others, I’ve been waiting for Haymitch’s character to be more fully explored and elaborated on, and this book delivered everything I hoped for. It gave me a deeper appreciation for who he is and the trauma he carries. I’m so excited to add this book to my collection and recommend it to others; it is definitely a must-read for fans of the series. I can’t wait for the movie!

Sunrise on the Reaping is not just a return to the world of Panem, it is also a powerful reminder of the cost of survival and the price of rebellion.

-Mia Singleton Staff Writer

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