Tidal Wave Volume 1 Issue 1

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

tion i d E

1st

Surf Club’s rise to popularity, beach meet ups, and what actually happens on surf mission trips.

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02 TIDAL WAVE

IN THIS ISSUE 03 News

Turning Heads Ink to Insights Senior Takedown Veterans Day Chapel Spiking the Funds Catching Waves

07 Sports

letter from the editors

W

elcome to Tidal Wave. We’re all so glad you’re here.

The Tidal Wave staff is proud to present Coastal Christian High School’s first ever student run news magazine. We hope that you find inspiration, knowledge, and guidance within these pages.

Tidal Wave was born out of a desire for a new kind of journalism for the Coastal community.

We wanted to inform the community of our news, solidify the beliefs of faith, find camaraderie in our passion for sports, express our strong opinions, remember the value of our alumni, and showcase the incredible art of our student body.

The staff has worked diligently over the past months to complete their articles, in addition to the yearbook spreads which they are already working on throughout the year.

ears ago a short publication called Perspectives was sent out to the Coastal community. It contained articles and updates about things happening around campus and celebrated the student body.

I couldn’t be more proud of the hard work our staff has put in and the perseverance they’ve shown as we’ve navigated the genesis of this publication.

I also can’t overstate the value of our bold, fearless, and utterly enthusiastic leader, Mrs. Heather Hughes. Her passion for this new piece of art is infectious, and she has been vital to the development of this magazine.

It inspires me to know that this is hopefully just one of dozens of issues of Tidal Wave for the community of Coastal. This issue is just one step towards a bigger journalistic legacy.

I hope you enjoy our take on Coastal and the world around us.

Let’s ride this wave to the end.

13 Opinions The Path Ahead Dear Roman...

Ring! Ring!

Tis the Season

14 Upcoming 15 Art

Gallery of Glory Performers at Play Between the Lines

17 Alumni

On the Battlefield with Matt Holdsworth Returning Centurtions Alumni News

TIDAL WAVE STAFF Adviser

Heather Hughes

To that end, these pages are put together by student writers, designers, and photographers- it contains their ideas and creations and I am excited to share their hard work with you.

After many years without this type of communication, the 2023-2024 Yearbook staff has chosen to bring it back, but under a new name. Tidal Wave is your new CCHS magazine made by students for our community.

We want this publication to represent the community as well, and as such, you will find multiple places throughout these pages where we ask for you to send us your own ideas and updates. This includes story ideas, alumni life updates, student artwork, and more!

It shares stories of students, faculty, teams, alumni, and the community. Included are stories of faith and education and also student opinion and celebrations.

Thank you to the amazing editor team and staffers. Without them, this publication would not have happened or be as good as it is. I am blessed and proud to be their teacher.

It is my goal as an educator to ensure my students have the ability and resources to succeed and to do so in a manner that glorifies God.

11 Faith

Keeping the Faith Retreating to Christ Growing Together

Ryan Burton Editor-in-Chief

Y

Fall Sports Recap Behind the Whistle Athlete Feature

Heather Hughes Adviser

Editor-in-Chief Ryan Burton

News Editor Sara Biagini

Faith Editor

Lauren Bretzolf

Sports Editor

Dominic Libretto

Opinions Editor Lily Williford

Alumni Editor Loralai Dengler

Reporters Bradley Arnette, Ethan Arnette, Jud Davenport, Braeyln DeHart, Chase DeHart, Ashleigh Dries, Ellie Forrester, Ava Fowler, Ryan Fowler, Hanna Grassi, Cheyanne Grevin, Cole Hudson, Cole James, Lawson McInnis, Ella Moore, Audrey Pate, Samantha Powell, Liam Reese, Will Santaniello, Ellery Smith

VOL 1 / ISSUE 1 03

news

TURNING HEADS

Principal Kevin Culotta enters new role as Interim Head of School

By Ethan Arnette, Cole James and Liam Reese

M

r. Kevin Culotta’s journey to become the new head of Coastal Christian High School is something significant that has to be told.

Culotta began his educational journey teaching English I and European History in 2010. He shares that, “I started as an English/History teacher in 2010 and never envisioned that I would ever do anything else so it's been fun to take on some new challenges as my role has evolved over the years.”

However, after considerate thinking, Culotta accepted the responsibilities of Head of Coastal as Interim.

“I was motivated by my deep regard for the school and a desire to serve it by leading it,” Culotta explained.

Another reason he took on the challenge was because of his preparation. Culotta already had experience serving Coastal in his role as principal under Mrs. McCombie’s guidance, learning to serve Coastal with grace, humility, and passion.

As the years progressed, Culotta’s involvement within the Coastal community did as well. He soon became the principal of Coastal.

Culotta looked upon her as an example and learned from her how to effectively master the responsibility as Head of School.

This is a responsibility that he pursued and enjoyed daily due to his commitment to this school and overseeing the academic program for the last nine years.

Additionally, his fifteen-year journey at Coastal helped to prepare him by teaching him to “understand the ethos of CCHS and what it takes to effectively lead it.”

Culotta served dutifully as principal.

However, looking ahead, Mrs. Brenda McCombie gave the helm of being the Interim Head of School to Culotta, stepping back slightly to focus more on the management and future of the expansion of Coastal Christian High School.

He also received an opportunity to focus on educational leadership for four years through the Master of Education Program at Covenant College, which taught him how to be an appropriate administrator for a Christian school.

With this new role, Culotta received more responsibility for all school operations compared to past jobs as principal. However, he says ”I ironically did my best to avoid taking this position for several years so I can't say it was anything I aspired to until more recently.”

With these factors, Culotta states that “it is a tremendous honor and an even greater responsibility to take on the Head of School role.”

He plans to use this opportunity to better improve the school.

New Land NEW POSSIBILITIES A NOTE FROM MRS. MCCOMBIE God is expanding His territory once again! Over the past eighteen months, the doors have opened for Coastal to purchase adjacent land parcels for future expansion. Four land parcels have been purchased totaling approximately six acres which adjoin the CCHS property to the west reaching up to the Post Office parking lot. After the vision for these acquisitions was shared with a small group of generous donors, the funds were received to make this dream a reality.

A big thank you to the anonymous donors!

Exciting thoughts are now swirling in the hearts and minds of our Coastal family as we pray for the next expansion project for Coastal Christian High School. Please join our staff, faculty, and Board of Governors as we seek God's guidance for future plans regarding this wonderful opportunity to expand God's Kingdom.

Mrs. Brenda McCombie - Head of School, Emeritus

04 TIDAL WAVE

As Mrs. Brenda McCombie transitions to Head of School Emeritus, Mr. Kevin Culotta takes her place as Interim Head of School. Photo: Contributed

One of the improvements Culotta has already begun implementing is the Teaching for Transformation initiative, which is a comprehensive biblical framework designed to direct a better model of Christian education.

Despite all of his newfound responsibilities, Culotta intends to continue teaching.

“I love being in the classroom, and the time with my students is really life-giving for me,” he reflected.

While Culotta’s responsibilities are plentiful, he is not alone in his work.

Brenda McCombie remains as Head of School Emeritus. Her role includes maintaining oversight of the school's financial systems as well as land development.

“It is a tremendous honor and an even greater responsibility to take on the Head of School role” This has provided Culotta “an opportunity to observe the finer points of creating and maintaining an annual budget that I look forward to implementing in the future.”

Culotta asks students to continue to “keep doing all the things that make Coastal the special place that it is.”

“Never take our time together for granted and that God continues to grant us the will to walk in the grace He provides,” Culotta conluded.

INK TOI

Spiking the Funds

N SIG H T S

OUTREACH 360 GETS CREATIVE WITH FUNDRAISING

Staff pursue writing opportunites

by Ryan Burton

Worldview Seminar

Josh Lawrence

The Equipped Music Worship Leader: A Practical Guide

Sam Marsh

Traditum leader Sam Marsh is a skilled musician and worship leader. She recently released a book sharing her knowledge with other worship leaders. Topics include how to lead a rehearsal, caring for volunteers, what matters in songs, music theory, Sunday prep, and much more. Her book can be found on Amazon.

Sculpture and Ceramics Workbook: For the Classroom

Heather Hughes

Alumnus Coleman Williford (‘15) and his teammate took the Competitive Division title, with second place going to Alumni Eli Bright (’23) and Sam Morgan (’23).

The Intermediate Division title went to Freshmen Danny Mack and Levi Tamson.

Dean of Students, Dr. Josh Lawrence, earned his Doctorate of Ministry in Faith and Culture last year from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. His dissertation, Developing a Seminar for Select Dual-Enrolled High School Students to Know, Identify, and Analyze Worldviews, covers the role and influence of education in worldview development, and how culture and worldview affect an individual. His dissertation is available in book form at the Southeastern Library and https://dissexpress.proquest.com/. Additionally, Dr. Lawrence previously authored a book on behalf of the Bridge church during his time there about Discipleship.

When compiling resources from other artists left Art Teacher Heather Hughes dissatisfied, she took measures into her own hands and created a workbook for her students. It contains lessons, easy grading guidelines, project trackers, and more. She also has published Pottery Journals for professionals and students alike. All books are available on Amazon.

O

n Saturday, October 15th, members of the Coastal Christian community participated in “Spiketober,” a brand new event to raise funds for The Outreach 360 mission trip to Costa Rica second semester.

Current students worked with advisor Mrs. Lecci and Alumnus Caleb Cottle (‘23) to organize the event. Teams signed up in the Intermediate or Competitive category, depending on their experience. Senior Caroline Meehan

played with Senior Emily O’Shields in the Intermediate division.

She recalls, that “it was a great time playing with one of my good friends in a competitive atmosphere.”

The event drew in current students, alumni players, community members, and students from universities. The event started as a pool play tournament which led to bracket seatings in each division. From there, teams competed against the double elimination ruling to rise to the top.

A lighthearted game of intense water tag, the game Senior Take Down began the first day of school among the senior class. The rules are simple: tag someone without getting out yourself. The method? Water sprayers, water guns, and even water dinosaurs! Students each picked names at random for their targets, and went from there to track them down and get them out. The rules dictated that the school and school events were safe zones, so they had to get creative about finding their opponent. Additionally, if found wearing a pool float or swimming goggles, the person was marked safe.

No one thought the game would last as long as it has, as many students had assumed there would be a winner before October. However, the remaining six seniors have outwitted their opponents and lasted longer than the rest. Who will ultimately come out on top? Time will tell.

Rachel Ward

Anna Edwards

Caroline Meehan

Taylor Rivenbark

Marissa Short

First and Second Place Competitive Division

Service to honor Veterans unites community

by Sam Powell

T Ethan Arnette

First Place Intermediate Division

FOLDING THE FLAG

Senior Take Down A mid-year check-in: Who’s in, who’s out, and what’s it all for?

Outreach 360 is hopeful that the event can return in future years. “We had a lot of positive feedback from people from UNCW and Appalachian State and they were very interested in coming to another event, so we’re hoping this can be an annual fundraiser,” Adviser Kelly Lecci remarked.

his year for Veterans Chapel, the performing arts department, administration, and student leaders came together to put together a memorable service honoring veterans in our community.

A new element was added to enrich the traditions in place: the folding of the American Flag. Before chapel, students learned about what each of the 13 Folds represent.

After the folding, the choir sang a piece about the importance of the flag. Additionally, freshman Kiara Haasbroek spoke about the importance of the flag in a monologue.

Sophomore Evie Munroe was part of the instrumental ensemble and played drums for the

second year at Veterans Chapel.

“The folding of the flag was especially memorable this year, and that [song] was my favorite piece that I played,” Evie said.

After chapel was over, students were joined in classrooms by honored guests who shared about their veteran experiences.

“It was really cool to listen to Mr. Powell speak about his service in our small group after chapel,” Evie said.

Freshman Liam Colbert, who played saxophone

at the service, said his veteran shared stories about “taking care of underground missiles and living on base.” He recalls that that listening to him provided more “recognition of what people go through living on military bases.”

Day even more special for the residents with a time for fellowship.

From the veteran breakfast to the music, flag folding, and more the event truly honored those who have served.

Vessel and Cornerstone also volunteered their time and sang three songs for the residents at Trinity Grove Nursing Home the following day.

While there, they also helped to make Veterans

VOL 1 / ISSUE 1 05

SURF’S UP, CENTURTIONS.

CATCHING WAVES

By Ryan Burton, Jud Davenport, and Chase DeHart

M

assive waves. Perfect temperatures. Total tranquility. These are the aspirations of many members of the surfing community. Living on the cusp of the coast, beach life, especially surfing, is not just a hobby for some Wilmington residents, it’s a lifestyle.

Surfing has grown especially pertinent within the Coastal Christian community. Over the past three years, Science teacher Benjamin Treece and Spanish teacher Wayne Carpenter have helped to foster the development of a thriving surf club, who have not just grown in their own surfing abilities, but have achieved a global and spiritual outreach beyond what most others accomplish.

While the club had a thriving start years ago, there was a time where the club was at risk for fading away. Luckily, it was revitalized in 2021 by Alumnus Jackson Travis (‘23). The club’s inception consisted of a fairly slow start. However, as years progressed, growth came with it.

“everybody’s just kind of hanging out with each other, it’s a lot of fun” Carpenter attributes the rise of the club to a new class of freshman. “I think the new group of surfers are more interested in surfing together, than our [previous years]” he remarked, agreeing that community among the surfers was instrumental in the growth of the club.

Freshman Smith Dorosko is no stranger to surfing, and has been riding his board for over a decade.

He is, however, new to Coastal’s club. He’s already enjoying the dynamic. He participated in a Masonboro camping night, where the club spent an evening surfing, praying, and camping out on Masonboro Island.

Sophomore Will Santaniello enjoys the community surf club brings. Santaniello prefers surfing with his friends rather than alone.

“The first year we would usually have three, four, [or] five people come out to a surf day. “This year we’ve had fourteen, fifteen, [or] sixteen, every time,” sponsor Wayne Carpenter said.

“Everybody enjoys surfing and wants to be out there, and not by themselves so we can cheer each other on and enjoy the moment,” Santaneillo explained.

06 TIDAL WAVE

Freshmen Laura Bella Torian & Kiara Haasbroek wade into the water of Masonboro during a club camping trip. Photo: Ben Treece

“Everybody’s just kind of hanging out with each other, it's a lot of fun,” Dorosko said.

The club now meets bimonthly, and occasionally over the summer.

On the Cover: Hudson Nichols Cover Photo by: Heather Hughes

Sophomore Braden Eddy spots a wave on an early club meet up. Photo: Ben Treece

CCHS Athletic Trainer Savannah Holland gives surfing lessons in El Salvador. Photo: Wayne Carpenter

The team gather together during surf camp.

Photo: Wayne Carpenter

“Surfing is a really easy going thing. And you find a lot of easy going people with it” Junior Caleb Martin, a surfer of five years, enjoys surfing with his friends from school through the club. While the club doesn’t have any specific student leaders, optional meet ups provide opportunities for students who truly want to go to get involved.

“Pretty much just everyone does their own thing; it’s just the culture of surfing,” Martin commented.

The club also makes a point to integrate spiritual development into their Saturday morning ventures.

Junior George Robertson rides a wave at Carolina Beach on Saturday November 18th. Photo: Liam Reese

“We usually try and get a speaker to come out and share their story, and depending on who speaks they may have different experiences to relate,” co-sponsor Benjamin Treece remarked.

While surfing is one of Treece’s most fervent hobbies, he does see pitfalls in the culture’s approach to Christianity.

“We got to light off a bunch of fireworks and celebrate the new year in a different country. I also enjoyed bonding with the kids during the surf camps,” she said.

A critical part of the mission trip was the installation of water filters. As filtered water is sparse in the country, healthy drinking water isn’t a givenit’s a luxury.

Before installing the filters, the volunteers make sure to ask residents for permission, and follow up by drinking some of the water to show that it’s filtered and safe to drink.

Clean water is “a big thing there because there's water pollution and actually no access to filtered water.

So, having an effective water filter that you can fill up at the beginning of the week, and have clean water for the week is exactly what we're trying to do,” Sophomore Corban Cazier said.

Cazier is an active member of the club. He’s found great company over his two years as a member.

“Surfing is a really easy going thing.

And you find a lot of easy going people with it. So the kind of people that are in the club make it just as easy. You can talk to anyone; you can hang out with anybody,” he reflected.

“The surf culture sometimes is kind of like [...] ‘Christianity isn’t cool‘ kind of crowd, so sometimes people might share about the surf culture and being a Christian.,” Treece reflected.

Sophomore Dylan Manning rushes to the waves to pursue a wave on a Saturday club meeting. Photo: Benjamin Treece

The club is currently preparing to return to El Salvador for a second trip, with a goal to install fifty water filters, double the previous installment. Eight students, Senior Caroline Meehan finds solace accompanied by chaperones Ricky in the encouragement the club brings, Ritter, Benjamin Treece, Wayne Carpenter, and Savannah Holland will ultimately helping her to further be making the trip. pursue her passion for surfing.

“I think that dedication, patience, and love are definitely the biggest aspects driven by Christianity. Out of these, I would say that love is paramount. Love for the sport, each other, and most importantly, God,” Meehan reflected.

Meehan feels the club has helped her not only to grow towards an improved surfing style, but also her mental discipline.

Savannah Holland, who also attended the first trip, is excited to return to El Salvador.

“I’m excited to go back for a second time because now I know what to expect so I’ll be able to see it through a different lens, ” Holland commented.

While the club is only in its third active year of substantive meeting, the interest, participation, and chatter Last year, over Christmas Break , the regarding Surf Club ensures a prosperous future for the surfers of club led a one week trip to Coastal Christian.

El Salvador, where they taught surf camps, administered water filters, and One thing’s for sure: with the spread the gospel to both children Centurions, it’s always surfs up. and families.

Junior Cheyanne Grevin described the trip as “exhilarating” and “eye opening.” She especially enjoyed being able to ring in the New Year with her surfing friends.

“Dedication, patience, and love are definitely the biggest aspects [of the club] driven

by Christanity.”

VOL 1 / ISSUE 1 07

sports

P A C E R S T R O P S L L T A F

by Dom Libretto

his year the Coastal Christian Centurions Fall sports teams spent all off-season preparing to face their competition.

The Varsity Men’s Soccer team, coming off a strong season, strived for even better results than last year. This drive was clearly seen before and throughout the season where Coach Brian Kurtz led his team to a 10-8 season finishing 2nd in the conference.

BEHIND THE WHISTLE Meet the coaches in command

By Will Santaniello, Loralai Dengler, & Ellie Forrester

Jimmy Devane

Lori Eggleston

“I impacted the team by influencing the younger players in a positive way and showing them that you can be a

Maxa Baxter Cross Country, Track & Field Maya Baxter has been coaching at Coastal for ten years for the track, indoor track, and crosscountry teams. She ran cross-country and track in high school and continued her track career at UNCW, where she continues to hold spots on the record boards for relays. Coach Maya has won six state rings as a coach for Coastal. One of the things she says to push her athletes is “if it doesn’t challenge you it doesn't change you.” Whether it is teaching or coaching, Coach Maya pushes everyone around her to be their best.

John Freshwater

leader without being on the field,” Senior Jay Forrester said.

The JV Men’s Soccer team, led by newcomer Coach Sallie Newton achieved a 9-4-2 record. Lots of young talent on the teams help secure the future of Coastal soccer.

Inside the gym, Varsity Women’s Volleyball was led by Coach Georgia Davis, winner of Coastal Preps Fall Coach of the Year Award.

The team achieved an outstanding 26-7 record and went undefeated in the conference.

Georgia Davis Varsity Volleyball New to coaching at Coastal, Georgia Davis took on the Varsity volleyball team. She previously played for all four years in high school and then went on to play at King University to continue her athletic career. This past year she won CPIC Coach of the Year, with a coaching record of 26-7. Aside from her many achievements, Georgia Davis says the reason she coaches at Coastal is because being surrounded by believers has helped to shape her and grow her relationship with Christ. “I want to be able to give that back to the community and help young athletes grow in their relationships with Christ while also striving for athletic excellence,” Davis said.

Cheri Grassi

Men’s & Women’s Tennis

JV Cheerleading

Men’s & Women’s Golf

Men’s & Women’s Swimming

Jimmy Devane has been the coach of both the men’s and women’s tennis teams at Coastal for seven out of the ten years he’s been coaching. He previously played tennis at New Hanover High School.

He coaches tennis because he enjoys sharing his love of the sport to young players. “The reason that I coach at Coastal, though, is because the Lord opened the doors for me to become a coach [here] and have such a great group of players and support from a great school,” Devane said.

Always cheering the Centurions on, Lori Eggleston has been coaching the Coastal JV cheer team for 2 years.

Overall, she has had fifteen years of experience coaching previously in Virginia.

“Coaching at Coastal allows me to share my knowledge of a sport I love while hopefully making a difference in the lives of those I coach, through the Lord,” Eggleston reflected.

John Freshwater was the tennis coach at Coastal for around eight seasons, beginning in 2009, but when they added a golf team he jumped at the chance to try something new. Ironically, out of the many sports Freshwater has played in the past, golf was his worst. But he never hesitated with his decision to coach it. “Golf is fun to coach, being one of the most mentally challenging sports there is. I love the opportunity to walk miles side-by-side with the players and the conversations that go along with it about school, life, and God,” Freshwater said.

Cheri Grassi swam competitively beginning at the age of eight and continued through college.

She jumped at the chance to begin coaching at Coastal when the swim program was started in 2022. “I love to coach because I enjoy seeing the swimmers work towards their personal goals and grow as individuals and as a team! I have coached many places and ages of swimmers throughout my life and coaching at Coastal has been my favorite! The swimmers as well as the whole Coastal family make this just a fun and uplifting experience,” Grassi exclaimed.

08 TIDAL WAVE

Serving it

with

Player of the Year

Emma Anderson

Senior volleyball star, Emma Anderson was awarded player of the year in the Coastal Plain Independent Conference for the 2023 season. She ended the year with 217 digs, 47 aces, 25 blocks, and 240 kills, which are all significantly higher than the national average. With these stats, she helped carry the team to the State Semifinals.

“They pushed us to our fullest potential and never let us fail when they knew we were capable and made us work hard and build our team trust to its fullest extent,” Senior Emma Anderson said.

While the program had no seniors this season, the team is hopeful to continue to grow and progress in the coming years.

Last but certainly not least, the Men’s and Women’s Cross Country The JV volleyball team achieved a record teams, both were led by Coach Maya and Coach Rainey. of 10-3. The team was led by Coach Stephanie Howard.

The Men's Cross Country team ran Similarly, the Women’s Tennis Team had hard and won their conference meet, placed 2nd at their county meet, and a very successful season going 15-6; came in 2nd place at their state meet placing 2nd in their conference. with Sophomore Corban Cazier and Senior Thadd O'Neill as the lead “The bond between the upper and runners for Coastal. underclassmen was evident in the team's positive culture,” Senior Morgan Fritz “We do our best in the workouts reflected. and do not give up easily,” Senior Aiming down the fairway, the Women's Bradley Arnette said.

Golf Team had a historic season.

The Women's Cross Country team Sophomore Julia Cowgill made it to the worked extremely hard, placing 2nd NCISAA State Championship, where she in the conference and 7th in the State placed 28th, unprecedented for Coastal’s Championship Meet.

Women’s Golf.

George Green

Jill Hall

Stephanie Howard

Kickin it Up a Notch Top Scorer

with

Liam Reese

Junior Liam Reese led the Centurions in goals this season, coming in with 10- most of which were in conference play. The highlight of the season for him was “scoring both goals against CFA, making the score 2-0.”

Tee’d Up

State Finalist with

Julia Cowgill While Sophomore Julia Cowgill represented CCHS last year on the golf course, this was the first official year that Women’s Golf was a team sport.

Julia returned as the star player, making her school proud as she made the NCISAA State Tournament where she finished 28th.

Brian Kurtz

Men’s Basketball

Varsity & Competition Cheer

JV Volleyball

Varsity Men’s & Women’s Soccer

George Green has been coaching at Coastal for nine years and he has been a coach for fifteen years in total. He played all four years of high school and then went on to play at the Collegiate level. He first started coaching at Coastal to see if he could coach at the high school level. “I coach at Coastal to teach life lessons through the vessel of basketball,” Green said.

Jill Hall is the Varsity cheer coach at Coastal.

She has been coaching cheer for nine years at Coastal, RBA Vikings, and Pop Warner.

Growing up, she cheered throughout high school and had a background in dancing as well as competitive gymnastics. “Coaching is an opportunity to serve and to be an influence on the lives of the athletes. My prayer is to be used to minister and share the joy of Jesus while coaching cheer,” Hall said.

In middle school Stephanie Howard was introduced to the sport of Volleyball and fell in love. She played in high school and was captain of her team. She then went on to play beach volleyball in college. “When I started pursuing my career in school counseling I knew I wanted to begin coaching volleyball since I have had such amazing coaches make a positive impact on my life,” she said. Howard explained that coaching Coastal volleyball has brought “so much joy” to her life.

Leading the soccer teams, Coach Brian has been coaching for ten years. While in high school he played on his Varsity Team for all four years and had been playing since he was four. “I like to be out on the field, coaching players, and watching players get better and compete,” he says. He continues to coach at Coastal because he likes to impact players in a meaningful way and because he likes to encourage athletes to become better people.

Josh Lawrence

Sallie Newton

Mike Scheffel

Rainey Scrocco

Baseball

JV Men’s Soccer

Women’s Basektball

Cross Country, Track & Field

For the last five seasons, Josh Lawrence has been assistant coach for the Men’s Baseball Team.

This year he was given the opportunity to be head coach. Lawrence played baseball in high school, but decided not to continue in college. Later, he was given the chance to help grow the sport in Malaysia and to play on a semi-professional team while he was there. “I wanted to be a coach because I truly enjoy the game of baseball and it is a great opportunity to continue to build relationships; hopefully my players know and love Jesus more each day,” Lawrence concluded.

Sallie Newton served as the head coach for the JV Soccer Team this year after serving in an assistant role last year.

She has been coaching for five years at numerous places over the years. She attended Georgia Southern University where she played Goalie for four years. Coach Sallie says she decided to coach at Coastal because “I enjoyed my experience at Coastal and wanted to share it with other athletes.”

Additionally, she serves as an assistant coach for both Varsity Men's and Women’s Soccer and Women’s Basketball.

Out of his nineteen total years as a coach, Mike Scheffel has spent seventeen of them here at Coastal. He coached women’s soccer for eight years, men’s soccer for sixteen years, and women’s basketball for seventeen years! Regarding his career as a coach, Mike Scheffel says that, “I want to simply know God and seek to show His love in a practical way each day, and God has called me to high school athletics as a place to live that out. Specifically He has called me to Coastal Christian where it is a privilege and gift to work here, something I never hope to take for granted!”

Coach Rainey Scrocco is a coach for the cross country and track team. She has been coaching for six years at Coastal, and has been coaching for over thirty years total. She ran throughout high school and went to Winthrop University to continue running at the collegiate level. “Coastal is such a special place. I appreciate each student, parent and the amazing support from my other coaches, athletic director and administration,” Scrocco said.

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Pumpkin Party Freshmen and Sophomore guys enjoy the Harvst Party.

Show Them We Care Outreach 360 Club members load care bags into a van.

Order in the Courtroom Mrs. Matthew’s class visits the courthouse downtown.

Raise a Hallelujah

Traditum leads the school in worship at the weekly chapel.

1

2

Just Keep Swimming Lucy Collins swims swiftly through the water at this year’s first swim meet.

Bear Hug

Senior friends embrace after sharing and prayer at Spiritual Enrichment Day.

Melodious Moment

The Men’s Combined Choir sings at the Annual Fund Banquet.

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6

Rock Climbing Club Eli Salvant, a freshman in the Rock Climbing Club, scales the wall at the Wilmington Rock Gym in Ogden.

Liberty On Ice

A small group of upperclassmen went to Liberty University and got to watch an ice-hockey game.

Up in Arms

Freshman Annie Grace Kuhne and Sophomore Finn Russell go crazy for the volleyball players.

Soaring Through the Air At the Freshman retreat, students got to jump of the dock on to the blob.

Spirited

Mr. Treece, Audrey Borges, and Naomi Solano win the dance off at the Winter Pep Rally.

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Going Bananas

Red Tide members Bradley Arnette and Jake Garrett celebrate the Centurions.

Red Out Red Tide is out in full support of the basketball teams as the season begins.

Lay Up

Senior Aidan Davies dominates the court in the first game of the season.

Harvest Time

Freshmen girls enjoy their time at the annual Harvest Party.

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faith KEEPING THE FAITH holding on to christ in college

HOW DO YOU KEEP YOUR FAITH IN COLLEGE? alumni weigh in

with Grant Forrester Interview conducted by Lauren Bretzloff and Hannah Grassi

How do you think taking Apologetics can help people going to college?

All genuinely Christian students are going to be challenged by counter evidence during their season of higher education. Apologetics prepares students for that inevitable situation. Also, the way we do apologetics at CCHS includes a heavier emphasis on logical/critical thought. The goal being to help you think better. Apologetics equips students with evidence for the objectivity of truth, arguments for the existence of God, and defenses for the truth of Christianity. Every Christian practices apologetics at some level. The question is, “Are you good at it?” If not, study with me.

What resources do you recommend for people to learn how to defend their faith who didn't take apologetics?

For those who didn’t take the class, they could still read the material. For anyone who would like to learn apologetics they should read these books: I Don’t Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist by Frank Turek, Tactics by Greg Koukl, God’s Undertaker: Has Science Buried God? by John Lennox, and Cold Case Christianity by J. Warner Wallace.

These four books would cover the major areas of attack for Christians.

If you can only stomach reading one of these, then read Frank Turek’s book. If you would like to know of more resources, or you’d like specialized resources, you can come see me anytime.

How do you recommend interacting with professors who have strong viewpoints that differ from yours?

Questions. Questions. Questions.

Never make a point with a statement when a question can make the same point. This is something Greg Koukl addresses in Tactics (just saying).

Questions to always be ready to ask are, “what do you mean by that?” and “how did you come to that conclusion?” Things to remember when engaging with a professor; 1)

12 TIDAL WAVE

You won’t “win” the debate withthe professor, they are more educated and ready to deflect your argumentation. Instead you should focus on being a willing voice of disagreement in hopes to persuade your fellow classmates. 2) You don’t always have to engage when a professor takes a shot at Christianity.

3) The movie God’s not dead is fiction and you shouldn’t expect a similar experience. All in all, keep in mind that the truth is on your side even if you don’t feel like your “winning” an encounter with a professor.

How do you turn away from temptations in college as a Christian?

Always remember that temptation will come, it can’t be completely avoided. So to turn away from it, one of the best things someone could do is have an accountability group. A group of 2-3 people (guys with guys / girls with girls) that meets weekly or more to confess sin in detail and to be friends to lean on when temptation becomes difficult.

Luke Ward Class of 2020 UNC Chapel Hill “From my experience at UNC Chapel Hill, the best way to keep your faith in college is to find a community of other believers who are striving to know Jesus just like you. Yet, in order for this to work, you have to be the one who takes the initiative to find this community. Don’t expect it to fall in your lap. Another very important way to stand firm is to maintain your daily spiritual disciplines, such as reading Scripture and prayer. These will keep you grounded in the faith and push you to live like Christ each day. Ultimately, it’s up to your choices, but living for Jesus and increasing my knowledge of Him has been the most important aspect of my college career.”

Sadie Luscher Class of 2021 UNC Wilmington “One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to join a college group. Having a community of like-minded individuals is crucial for support and maintaining a strong foundation. With all the activities and distractions in college, it's easy to lose focus, but it's important to set aside dedicated time for your personal relationship with Jesus as well. Make sure to prioritize that time with Him. That is something I wish I was told. Always remember He comes first and remember you are who He says you are not what the world says!”

What is your best piece of advice when going away to college?

Find a GOOD church!! Not one where you just show up and no one knows who you are week in and week out, but a church where you will be known and you can get to know the people in said church. This way you’ll actually have local people you can go to when things get hard.

What are some things you should look for when finding a new church away from home?

These are all such good questions.

First and foremost you want to find a church that is preaching verse by verse through books of the Bible.

You want to find a church that will be centered in scripture and not politics or something else. You’ll want to be known by the church as well as know the church yourself. A community that’s tight knit will be exactly what you need when your time away from home gets hard. Not if it gets hard, but when.

Caroline Taylor Class of 2022 Appalachian State

Davis McGowan Class of 2023 UNC Wilmington

“My advice would be to stay disciplined in your quiet time in college. Set aside a personal time for you to pray and read your Bible on your own time.

Just that personal and intimate moment with you and Christ is gonna make all the difference in your faith.”

“The people you choose to surround yourself with are going to be one of the biggest make or breaks of your faith in college. It will really help you out if you try to get plugged in with a group of people that are also trying to grow their faith early into college.”

Meetings on Mondays at the Azalea Coast Room Fisher University Union (601, South College Road) Email UNCW@ratiochristi.org for information.

Chapter Director: Tom Jaski

Retreating to Christ

Class retreats unite and inspire students

by Braelyn DeHart, Ava Fowler, and Sommer Bradley

Coastal retreats have been a tradition that is very special to students and staff.

Each grade visits different locations with activities for students to engage with, like Mountain Top Youth Camp and The Swamp Park. For many students, retreats are not just fun place to go, but a chance to grow closer to Christ with a community to encourage and support each other.

by:

Reflecting on her time at the Senior Retreat, Ziggy Smith says she also “got closer to people I wouldn’t normally talk to.”

Further engagement between classes is one of the primary goals of Coastal retreats.

Students are often paired with people outside traditional friend groups for activities to encourage connection.

“I didn’t know a whole lot of people at Coastal at the time of the freshman retreat, but that time of worship made me realize that wherever God leads me in life, He will always give me people to praise and worship Him with,” Freshman Anna Maino exclaimed.

Each class takes a retreat each year, and when the class comes back many students feel refreshed and always have wonderful stories to tell about how God worked in their lives!

While the Sophomore class retreat has yet to take place this year, there is no doubt their time in Myrtle Beach listening to speakers and having fun will be enriching.

The Junior class goes on a college tour instead of a retreat, but this doesn’t stop students from bonding. Nathan Richmond says he “got closer to my friends by talking about what we want to do in the future.”

The friendships and fellowship are truly a blessing for Coastal students. Being able to fellowship and grow our relationship with Christ in a communal setting is special, and something students should take advantage of when they can.

The senior class spends a day rock climbing on their retreat to Mountain Top Youth Camp. Photo: Cole James

Growing Together

SERVICE SPOTLIGHT

A Look into Willowdale Urban Farms

by Ellery Smith

W

illowdale Urban Farm is a non-profit organization that has been providing fresh vegetables to the Wilmington community for about six years.

The farm, located in downtown Wilmington with around 2 acres of farm space, was started by David Brenner, a retired mechanical engineer, who began volunteering at the New Hanover County Arboretum and developed an interest in sustainable community gardening. Before founding Willowdale Farm, Mr. Brenner helped to renovate ten communities throughout Wilmington.

Willowdale Urban Farm was started with land from First Pentecostal Holiness Church and Pastor Paul Evans. The focus of Willowdale is to provide food with minimal chemicals year round to people in need, charities and also people in the community who just want fresh vegetables.

Volunteer Coordinator, Bettina Masschaele’s role is to encourage children and families to come and learn about gardening and helping

people in the community, especially in food insecure areas, to have access to fresh, organic food.

Volunteer groups from around Wilmington, including Coastal Christian, help to plant, irrigate, and harvest vegetables like cabbage, carrots, broccoli, turnips, collards, and more.

Local charitable organizations like Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard, local ministries and community members are able to benefit from what the garden produces.

Coastal students have volunteered during our annual Outreach days in large groups, and as members in our club, Outreach 360 which sends students to the farm multiple times a semester. While the work is hard, the reward of seeing the community taken care of is well worth it.

If you would like to volunteer at Willowdale, you can contact Bettina Masschaele at bmasschaele@icloud.com.

Willowdale Urban Farm is located at 301 N 30th St. Wilmington, NC 28401

VOL 1 / ISSUE 1 13

opinions

The Path Ahead

by Sara Biagini

GPA The first step is maintaining a high GPA. You can challenge yourself by taking more advanced classes. This will look good when you begin writing your applications.

Write the Essay The second step is coming up with a theme for your college essay; this should be done at the beginning of your junior year. Then you will begin writing a 650-word personal college essay and sharing it with your English teacher; this should be done in your senior year.

CommonApp The third step is, at the beginning of your senior year, to fill out the CommonApp and add schools to your “applying list.”

Track Deadlines The fourth step is keeping track of application deadlines and submitting them on time.

There are four steps to start planning for college.

Starting freshman year, you should begin to look at schools and schedule tours.

Then, during your sophomore year, create a list of schools on SCOIR that you wish to learn about. At the end of your junior year, request two letters of recommendation from teachers. Lastly, during your senior year, take the ACT and/or SAT before graduation. You should start to apply to at least three schools come August 1st of your senior year. The three schools you apply to are called your Reach, Safety, and Target schools.

Your Reach school is a college where you have less than a 15% chance of admission. Your Target school is a college where you have a 15-70% chance of admission. Your Safety school is a college where you have greater than a 70% chance of acceptance.

If you want to go somewhere cheaper than a university, a community college is always an option.

Community College is a

n... a m o R Dear My al Mentth d illifor l a Lilly W e y b H mn A colu

M

ental Health is something many people struggle with. Being able to share your feelings and opening up to people releases so much stress off of your shoulders.

Senior Lilly Williford is here to answer some questions regarding anxiety.

I’m dealing with problems at home and don’t know how to let it not affect me at school. I’m so angry with God and don’t know what to do about it.

Struggling with problems at home can always take a toll on someone. Not being able to get it out of your head when trying to focus gets so aggravating. I suggest putting God first in the midst of it even though you may be angry with

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two-year local college that offers classes cheaper than a university. The majority of these classes will transfer to any four-year college/university.

An early action and early decision plan is how you can get a head start on applying early. Early action is nonbinding, but early decision is binding, and if accepted to the school, you must withdraw all other applications. You can typically apply to multiple schools under an early action plan. Early decision, however, is a binding agreement between you and one school.

If you are looking for resources to pay for college then you should begin to look for scholarships junior year or earlier; as some scholarships are open to juniors. When it comes to scholarships, you will need some time and research.

Make sure to look into college-specific scholarships and speak with their Financial Aid department.

If you follow these steps you will be on the right track to a successful college career.

Ring! Ring!

Does the new cell phone policy make sense?

by Ashleigh Dries

This year Coastal had a change to our cell phone policy. For the past years, the phone policy has been phones are turned off and stored in lockers from 8:25-3:30. This year, however, students are allowed to have their phones in their pockets if they are powered off or if they are on do not disturb.

The change was made this year because it was very difficult for the administration to discipline students who had phones in their pockets but were not using them.

However, according to the administration, the number of cell phones taken has stayed about the same this year compared to last. The policy also changed due to safety concerns following lockdown procedure evaluations, so that students could call or text their parents if something

Him. He is okay with you being angry and wants you to talk to Him about it. He lets you go through these trials to see if you will lean on him or not. You can always reach out to a teacher or a friend at school to let them know what is going on in your life. Ms. Howard is always willing to sit down and talk about anything with anyone. A Bible verse that fits so perfectly is Psalm 55:22, “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”

I’ve been avoiding going to school events because I struggle with social anxiety. It just feels so overwhelming not knowing if I will know someone that will be there. What if I show up and nobody talks to me? I want to be involved, but can’t seem to make myself go.

Help!

were to happen. Teachers, however, have noticed a difference in the quality of work for students who have their phones on them vs. those who don't, as well as an increase in distractibility in many cases.

I think other students along with myself feel better about this policy in case there is an emergency.

I also feel better about having my phone on me and not leaving it in my locker where it is unattended. I think that with time and redirecting students can learn how to use cell phones appropriately. Shouldn’t that be the goal? To show us how to use phones well rather than prohibit them?

It seems that perhaps this year may be a trial run, and the policy is open to going back or adapting next year.

One thing is certain, everyone has an opinion about this policy. What is yours? Let us know!

Struggling with the worrying of taking a test can always get your anxiety stirred up. Something that I hear a lot when asking people how they feel on a test just taken is, “it is just one grade, it does not define who you are.” After hearing that just one time, it has stuck in my head and I like to repeat it to myself before any test I get anxious about.

How do you find a therapist? I know I want to talk to someone, but how do I find someone that I would be comfortable with?

Our Guidance Counselor, Ms. Howard would love to share therapist recommendations. That would be a great start to your journey looking for therapist, and then keep in mind that you can try several before seeing one consistently to make sure you get the right fit for you.

People here at Coastal go big for Red Tide.

Showing up with the fear of not having anyone to talk to is okay, there are leaders who are looking and making sure everyone is involved.

With how chaotic it gets in the student sections at games, it might help to just find one person to talk to. Then when the craziness begins you have someone to cheer with and help each other feel comfortable.

It is common to feel the way you do! I would also say keep in mind you likely aren’t the only one feeling this. Think about how you could help someone else in this situation. Another thing you can do is start by attending small club gatherings to meet and get comfortable with more people before jumping into big events.

I find myself feeling really anxious before I take a test and it makes me forget everything I’ve studied! Any tips on how to calm myself down?

Ms. Howard and Lilly discuss resources for mental health.

Submit your questions about School/ Life Balance for our next issue to the box at the front office.

Caroling

Elf on the Shelf Chloe Carter doesn't really Riley Robertson enjoy the idea of loves the the Elf on the traditional shelf. elf on the shelf. “It's creepy, and I “I like it because don't think there is I think it keeps purpose looking the Christmas for a toy elf.” spirit alive.”

Love It or Leave It?

Presents on Christmas Eve

Leaving food for Santa and the reindeers

Evie Monroe enjoys opening at least a few presents on Christmas Eve. “It gets me excited for what is coming up for Christmas Eve.”

Enya Benito-Arapiles loves being able to Maggie Carter participate in leaving doesn't really enjoy out the cookies for Santa. “I like being to be the idea of leaving Christmas cookies able to bake with my mom, and it just brings out for Santa. “I've never grown up the Christmas spirit.” doing that certain tradition.”

Fruit Cake Brody Wilson enjoys eating fruitcake. “ It’s yummy and fruity.”

Julia Cowgill enjoys caroling Cole James says, “going to someone’s during Christmas house with the season, saying “Its joyful.” intent to annoy them probably isn’t great.”

Lauren Adams has never really been a fan of the idea of fruit cake. “ I just think it's gross and the fruit is mushy.”

Hasting Smith likes to wait until Christmas day to open all the gifts she received. “I like the anticipation of waiting and not opening the night before.”

Hallmark Movies

Pictures with Santa

Candlelight Service

Maya Scarola doesn't Gunner Getz likes the idea of taking like having her picture with Santa. pictures with Santa at the mall. “He is “It makes me magical and his lap uncomfortable” is comfortable.”

Anna Marino likes the classical church tradition. “It feels a lot closer to the Lord.”

Lawson McInnis isn't a fan of the candlelight service.

“It’s boring.”

upcoming WINTER Competition Cheer

Holt Fuller is not a fan of Hallmark Christmas Movies. “ I think all the movies are very practical.”

Cheyanne Grevin likes to have the Hallmark Movies on to help her get into the Christmas mood. “We like to have those movies playing while baking Christmas cookies to really set the mood.”

TIDAL WAVE

SECOND SEMESTER Men’s & Women’s Basketball

COASAL CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL’S

1/24 Open House #2

MAGAZINE

2/3 Homecoming Game

1/20 NCCCA Competition in Raleigh

12/12 Liberty Christian JVB, VG, VB 4:00/5:30/7:00

2/2 Homecoming Dance

3/4 Port City Classic at the Convention Center

12/20 Westchester Country Day VB 6:00

3/8-10 Seussical: the Musical

2/10 Conference Competition at Coastal

1/9 Epiphany School JVB, VG, VB 4:00/5:30/7:00

3/29- 4/7 Spring Break

Indoor Track 12/12 @ Coastal 3:45 12/13 @ UNCW 4:00 1/10 @UNCW 4:00

Swimming 12/13 @YWCA 7:00 1/16 @ YWCA 4:00 1/19 @UNCW 4:30

SPRING Men’s Golf 3/14 @ New Bern Golf CC 3/20 @ Kinston CC 4/17 @ Kinston CC 4/29 CPIC Champs @ Pine Valley

Outdoor Track

3/7 CFA @ UNCW 4:00

3/13 CFA @ UNCW 4:00 3/23 CFA Relays @ UNCW TBA

1/12 Wayne Christian School JVB, VG, VB 4:00/5:30/7:00 1/16 John Paul II JVB, VG, VB 4:00/5:30/7:00

4/19 Prom 4/24 Fine Arts Extravaganza

1/30 Arendell Parrott JVB, VG, VB 4:00/5:30/7:00 2/1 @ Cape Fear Academy* Away JVB, VG, VB 4:00/5:30/7:00 2/2 HOMECOMING JVB VG, VB 4:00 /5:30/7:00

Men’s Tennis

3/1 Wake Christian 4:00

3/5 Southeastern Homeschool 4:00 3/7 Whiteville High 4:00 3/13 @ Ashley High AWAY 4:00 3/14 St. David’s School 4:00 3/18 Southeastern Homeschool 4:00 3/20 @ Ashley High AWAY 4:00

5/21 Yearbook Distribution 5/22 Field Day 5/24, 28-29 Final Exams 5/31 Class of 2024 Graduation

Women’s Soccer 2/20 Scrimmage vs. North Brunswick 4:00 3/7 @ New Hanover AWAY 5:00 3/11 Arendell Parrott 4:00 3/12 @ Wilmington Christian AWAY 4:30

3/19 John Paul II 4:00 3/22 Greensboro Day 4:00

3/26 Wayne Country Day 4:00

4/9 Arendell Parrott 4:00

4/27 UNCW HS Invitational @ UNCW

4/12 Grace Christian of Raleigh 4:00

4/18 Cape Henlopen HS 4:00

5/2 CFA @ UNCW HOME 4:00

4/16 Epiphany School 4:00

4/23 Cape Fear Academy 4:00

5/9 CPIC Conf. Champs. @UNCW 4:30

4/18 Wayne Country Day 4:00

4/26 John Paul II 4:30

4/23 Cape Fear Academy 4:00

5/3 @ Cape Fear Academy AWAY 4:30

4/30 Greenfield School 4:00

3/14 Village Christian 4:00 3/18 Greenfield School 4:00

3/26 Arendell Parrott 4:00

4/18 @ County Champs AWAY 4:00

We reserve the right to edit all letters for length and grammar.

Thank you

3/12 Wayne Country Day 4:00

4/9 @ Wilmington Christian AWAY TBD

4/11 Greenfield School 4:00

5/13 CFA Last Chance @ UNCW 4:00

Baseball

3/15 Carmel Christian 4:00

4/12 Grace Christian of Raleigh 4:00

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

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.

5/23 Spring Reading Day

3/28 @ Cape Fear Academy AWAY 4:00

3/28 CFA @ UNCW 4:00

400 copies are printed and given out to students and staff. Digital copies are available to community members and all alumni.

5/4 Talent Show

1/23 Cape Fear Academy JVB, VG, VB 4:00/5:30/7:00

Tidal Wave is published semiannually by the students of Coastal Christian High School’s two yearbook classes. It is printed by New Hanover Printing in Wilmington, NC.

4/12 Grace Christian of Raleigh 4:00 4/25 Epiphany School 4:00 4/26 Wilmington Christian 4:00 4/30 Southeastern Homeschool 4:00 5/2 Wayne Christian School 4:30

Thomas Construction Coastal Preps

art

Gallery of Glory

Octopus Vase, Savannah Gibbs, Stoneware

Converse, Arion Hernandez, Graphite and Charcoal

Sisters, Sarah Bloodworth, Acrylic

Judah, Anayah Rennie, Acrylic

Prowl, Ella Moore, Photography

Innocence, Sage Creech, Acrylic

JUMP Poster, Aidan Davies, Digital

I Wish I Could Visit You Lexie Browning

I wish I could visit you Up in Heaven and talk about what’s new I wish I could ask for your advice so you could tell me what to do I wish I could give you one last hug and play like we used to There’s so much I want to say If only we could talk I would tell you about my life, and ask about your day I know we can’t right now So I’ll continue to pray

Performers at Play 1. Lauren Bretzloff and sister Lily at Artist Simply Human in Greenville, SC 2. Savannah Gibbs in Chicago 3. Lucy Walsh playing Bass 4. Liam Colbert playing Saxophone 5. Aubrey Lee playing Bass 6. Ava Kirby playing Viola 7. Gabe Tepper playing Trumpet 8. Reagan Shumate as Anne in Diary of Anne Frank

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We would laugh and we would cry and maybe this time I would get to say goodbye and we would talk and we would smile because we’d get to see each other, in a little while I wish I could visit you Up in Heaven because time really flew but I know I’ll see you again someday and for now, that’ll have to do

The Pessimistic One

Student-Submitted Prose

Between the lines

by Lily Massengill

As Circe walked throughout the garden of her beautiful home of Aeaea, she searched for her majestic lion who was lying in the warmth of the sun.

Clouds rolled in, and without warning a heavy rain started to downpour and soak all of the lush plants in her garden. She immediately ran into the house to save herself from the flood surrounding her.

Drenched, her regal lion traipsed along into the house following her. As she dried her long, luscious brown hair in “lovely braids,” Circe thought of her childhood.

Oh how she’s torn whether to miss it, or never to think of it again. She reminisced about the family she once had. Her beautiful mother, with the same lovely brown hair as Circe now has; she was an ocean nymph named Perse. Helios, her father, the god of the sun, was a handsome, beardless man. Her three siblings, who she misses dearly, Aeetes, Pasiphae, and Perses. She missed the warmth of the family feasts in her household every week. She longed to go back to the grand dining table where she once sat with her parents along with her brothers and sister and told tales of the Greek gods and goddesses. Circe craved the nearness she formerly had with her family. She now yearned for the days when her sister was her best friend, and her brothers were her most loving playmates. They spent hours outside playing with spinning tops and marbles. They would enjoy listening to music as a family, going to festivals, and celebrating the Greek holidays together.

During this period of her childhood, all was right in Circe’s life. She knew no troubles or hardship. She had no idea what was yet to come in her life, what disorder loomed in the future. Looking out at her kingdom of plants, she viewed the deluge of water and was reminded of the heavy rain that was present on the night that altered her life forever. ✼✼✼ “I don’t understand why you feel this way!” Perse said as tears began to stream down her soft face and into her locks of long, brown hair.

Helios responded with a loud thunder in his voice, “I’ve dealt with this many years now. It’s been long enough; I can’t handle it anymore!”

“What about me? What about our children? Do you not care about us at all?” Unknown to Perse and Helios, Circe listened to this fight that would wreck her childhood and cause her father’s eternal absence in her life.

She thought to herself, “Is this my fault? What have I done to make my father feel this way? How could he leave me?” Circe wondered why her father could possibly want to abandon them, and how they could ever survive without him. “What are you doing?”

Aeetes whispers to Circe as Pasiphae and Perses quietly follow behind. Circe jerks her head around to Aeetes and shushes him, “Be quiet! I’m not doing anything. Mother and Father are having a serious conversation. Go play marbles with your brother and sister.”

Circe’s attention reverts back to Perse and Helios, “Please don’t leave! What can I do to make you stay?”

Perse pleads with Helios.

“Nothing! I am choosing to leave no matter what.

It’s too late now. I cannot continue this life here. I must go.”

“Fine! I will raise these kids on my own,” Perse exclaimed.

Circe wept and she came to the realization that she would never see her father again, and she and her siblings would have to be raised alone by her mother. ✼✼✼ As she blinked back into reality, Circe reflected on her powers as a sorceress, and she was reminded of the hatred she has for men that her mom raised her in. Growing up, after her dad left, her mother became extremely bitter of men. Her experience with one man affected her mindset towards all men. She projected these thoughts and feelings onto Circe as well as her siblings. Although Aeetes and Pasiphae went on to be kings and queens, Perses became a god of destruction, but then eventually the king of Colchis.

Being a sorceress, Circe had the power to do many things. Those powers included the ability to turn people into animals. Specifically men, and specifically swine. As she aged, she was taught that men were pigs, so why not physically turn them into pigs?

Circe’s hatred for men stemmed from her father’s disappearance and her mother’s emotions about the situation. Circe had been taught from the beginning to trust no man ever. This is why she transforms men into swine.

Without fail, every man Circe comes into contact with, she immediately attempts to turn to swine. She chooses to trust no one and give no man a chance, no matter if they show signs of danger or kindness. She provides no mercy.

Though this may seem cruel, it is all she has ever known. Circe has been brought up to protect herself from any potential pain or harm from any man. She will never risk the feeling of abandonment from another man again. ✼✼✼ As Circe pondered further in her contempt, she gazed out the window and spotted men heading toward her home. She witnessed these men brushing against her wolves outside, them nuzzling to the men.

The men called out for her. She was immediately terrified and knew there was only one thing for her to do.

Circe flung open her radiant doors of her home and welcomed them in with an attitude of innocence. She escorted the men to her “high-backed chairs” to sit in.

God’s SeedEmilie Ghazalian

In God's embrace, we seek the way, No practice of sin, night or day, All is perfect in His kingdom, no hearts in fray.

Born of God, a seed within, We can escape our own dark sin.

Doubts don’t rise in His flawless kin.

So this is what it’s come to, A life without You. My pockets are empty, my debt is due.

In scripture's verse, we find our guide, A path to walk, no need to hide, No shadows of doubt by our side.

On judgment day I will face Him. There I’d lay, in tears I swim, I’ll weep in knowledge that my fate is grim.

But I stand apart, I believe a lie, In the absence of light, my faith will die.

But that’s not His fault, it must be mine.

Like a seed forgotten, Unattended, it is rotten.

I might as well be misbegotten.

As she started conversing with them, she began preparing an elixir to slip into their food. She arranged “cheese, barley, and pale honey mulled in Pramnian wine.”

She brewed into the mixture her elixir of evil drugs and stirred it all up. As soon as all of them had every last drop and crumb of her concoction, she took a strike with her wand and activated her potion. This drove them into pigs. The men were turned to swine in their bodies, but still held their minds.

As Circe first watched the men suffer, she began to feel a sense of guilt, like she always did. She had been doing this forever now, only to protect herself.

“Why does this always happen to me? I didn’t do anything wrong. I hate this,” Circe thought to herself as she watched the men as pigs roam.

She hated the shamefulness and regret that sat heavy in her heart, although she knew this was the only decision she could make. As time went on, she had gotten used to her guilt and had learned how to deal with it, but from the beginning, it had torn her apart. She hated taking responsibility for her actions and choices, as most people do. For years, all she had ever wanted was to be brave and not have to fear every man she could think about, but that wasn’t the way things were. That wasn’t the way her dad was.

That wasn’t the way her mother raised her. As much as she wanted to never be fearful again, it just wasn’t the opportunity she ever had. She wondered to herself, “Will things always be this way? Will they ever change somehow?”

In the end, she came to the conclusion that this was her only option and there was nothing else to be done, but she sighed as she knew she would have to face the burden of forever assuming the worst of men and having to protect herself in such a harmful way to others.

Arts submissions are welcome from any current student.

Please send artworks, pictures of performances, comics, short stories, or poems to HughesH@CoastalChristian.net for consideration in an upcoming publication.

PHOTO CONTEST! Hey, photographers! Submit your original photos on the theme “Man Meets Nature” to Mrs. Hughes for entry into the contest. The top three photographers will have their photos published in the next issue, with first place receiving an additional prize!

In hell I’ll burn, that’s what I get, Soon enough His will is met.

I’ll be taken away, gone the threat.

An eternity I will spend, But His grace, I can't comprehend.

A chance for redemption, I’ll seek to mend.

VOL 1 / ISSUE 1 17

alumni

M

att Holdsworth graduated from Coastal in 2019.

He now works for the Reformed University Fellowship in Charlottesville, Virginia.

R.U.F. is a campus ministry that reaches and equips college students to serve Christ.

He joined R.U.F. as a freshman in college and found a passion for talking about the truth, beauty, and goodness of God with his peers. Now, as he works for RUF, he is trained and works full-time, building upon what he loved as a student.

Matt is on staff under his campus pastor. He ministers to students in one-to-one settings daily, as well as in weekly small and large group events such as Bible studies, worship nights, meetings with student leaders, and hanging out over pickle ball.

His favorite thing about working full time in the ministry is having a front seat to God’s work in the lives of His people through countless meaningful conversations each day.

Matt feels confident that he is where God wants him to be, and has grown during his time with R.U.F. He feels

Meetings on Tuesday Night at 7:30pm in Cameron Hall 105, on the UNCW Campus.

Email sam.kennedy@ruf.org for information.

Campus Ministers: Sam and Shaunna Kennedy

ON THE BATTLEFIELD

Matt Holdsworth

with

like it’s the perfect job to have before he pursues pastoral training in seminary.

by Audrey Pate

He describes his boss and coworkers as very humble and gracious people who help him to feel challenged and appreciated in his job.

He grew comfortable with talking about his faith and sharing the gospel through his love for Jesus.

“The more you taste and see the goodness of the Lord, the more you will be less concerned about barriers to sharing your faith, like fear of man, and the more you will simply overflow in joyful reflection on God’s work in your life throughout conversation,” Holdsworth explained.

He prepared for this role in ministry by reading the Bible and other knowledgeable books. He advises to meditate on the Bible often, and in community, so you have something to share with others besides yourself.

He found pastors and mentors he trusted and started reading as many books as they suggested so he could be educated on how to be a minister and grow his affection for Christ.

Matt admits to his struggles within working. He admits his work is hard and he is sinful. His job is also very personal, which also means it’s very prone to rejection. He feels his pride can often get in the way of what he is doing, and he can become much more discouraged or fearful.

This job has impacted Matt’s life in many ways. It has made him become much more aware of his dependance on God and “His work in my life and the lives around me.”

Matt (second from left) with his RUF team. Contributed photo.

“The more you taste and see the goodness of the Lord, the more you will be less concerned about barriers to sharing your faith” “I can become so easily desensitized to God’s work, but talking with so many people about what the Lord has done for us has been a wonderful experience,” Holdsworth commented.

He says that to be a missionary means a good deal of taking up our cross and denying self.

However, he reminds everyone that “Jesus is so worth it.”

“To be used by God in His work of redeeming the world is a great privilege, and God is a generous father who delights to lavish grace and mercy upon his people.”

.

18 TIDAL WAVE

Matt says he would not be able to do his job without the support of God’s people. He trusts that as the psalms say, unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain.”

If anyone feels led to come alongside him in the work of God, financial support is greatly appreciated. You can reach Matt at matt.holdsworth@ruf.org.

RETURNING CENTURTIONS

Hannah-Grace Hedrick Mrs. Hannah-Grace Hedrick graduated from Coastal in 2018 and attended UNCG to achieve a major in Art with a concentration in Art History and a minor in Communications. “I met my husband during the first 2 months of college, we graduated in 2021, got married this past January, and we just recently moved back to Wilmington so that I could start teaching at Coastal,” Hedrick shared. At Coastal, she teaches Introductory Art and Honors Drawing & Painting.“That’s really the medium I enjoy the most and feel most equipped to teach students. In Art 1, though, I want to expose students to as many types of art as possible,” she continued. The reason she came back to Coastal to teach was because she loved the idea of continuing to make and study art. “I absolutely loved my art class and my art teacher as a student, and wanted to take the opportunity to have some of the same influence on my students that my teacher had on me,” she concluded.

So, set your eyes upon Jesus, be zealous to grow in understanding and adoration of Him, and thank God that he delights to use you to equip His saints and rescue the lost,” he explained.

Kara Quigley

Alumni renew their place as faculty

Ms. Kara Quigley graduated from Coastal in 2016 and got a BA in Spanish Education, and taught at a public school in Ohio after she graduated from college. She says she teaches Spanish “because God has given me a missionary heart that longs to share Jesus with others. Teaching gives me abundant opportunities to share the hope and life he brings. I absolutely love being there for my students and pouring into them when I can.” Ms. Quigley shares that she wanted to become a teacher ever since she was 6 years old. She said,” I used to wait to do my homework until I got home from school so that my mom could make a copy of it so that I could use it to teach.” Ms. Quigley says that the students are her favorite part about being a teacher at Coastal.

Sallie Newton Coach Sallie Newton graduated from Coastal in 2018 and attended Georgia Southern University. While there, she played collegiate soccer.

Sallie pursued a major in Criminal Justice and Criminology. After college, she moved back to Wilmington and "started subbing while [she] looked into different jobs including being an FBI agent, becoming a US Marshall, and looking into crime scene investigation jobs.” She shares that she, “fell in love with teaching and being a support system for students. So I had to give it a shot." After subbing at Coastal for a while, she decided to become a teacher here. She says she "enjoyed my experience here as a student. I have always wanted to work somewhere that I could impact the lives of people around me." Sallie now teaches Geometry and Forensic Science.

Shelby (Smith) Buterbaugh Class of ‘11

Caleb Ward

Caleb Ward and wife Becca had their first child on September 28th , 2023. Her name is Elanora Ward.

Shelby Buterbaugh and husband Ben (with pup Bristol!) welcomed twins into the world on July 3rd, 2023. Their names are Abigayle Grace and Peyton Thomas.

Chandler Ritter

Class of ‘13

Ally (Vernon) Clark

Class of ‘13

Hannah-Grace (Miller) Hedrick

Class of ‘14 Abby Hall and husband Matthew Hall welcomed baby girl Sadie on March 7th. Abby is set to graduate pharmacy school in May!

Alexandra (Henderson) Caldwell

Cassie Crisp & Skyler Davies Class of ‘20 Cassie Crisp and Skyler Davies were engaged April 7th, 2023. The wedding is set for June 9th, 2023.

Class of ‘18

Class of ‘21

Cole Morganti married his wife Rinsley Morganti on April 29th, 2023. Cole is serving in missions with Ratio Christi at Snow College in Ephraim, UT.

Julian Wright and Anna Kate Vernon were engaged on May 8th, 2023. They are both pursuing degrees at Palm Beach Atlantic University.

Stevie Henderson Class of ‘19 Ashlyn Cowell got engaged to be married to Fiance Christian Butler on July 8th, 2023. The wedding is set for December 10th, 2023.

Alexandra Caldwell and husband Anderson Caldwell welcomed their baby boy, August Alexander Caldwell to the world on November 3rd, 2023.

Coleman Williford (current Senior Lilly Williford’s brother) and wife Mackenzie (Staff members Chris and Cindy Kuhne’s daughter) welcomed their first child into the world on April 3rd, 2022, named Asher.

Olivia Talton married her husband David Talton on April 22nd, 2023

Anna Kate Vernon & Julian Wright

Ashlyn Cowell

Class of ‘14

Class of ‘15

Class of ‘19

Hannah-Grace Miller Hedrick and Justin Hedrick were married January 27th, 2023 at Myrtle Grove Presbyterian. Among the wedding party were fellow alums Jeremy Miller (2015) and Samantha Stanko (2018).

Cole Morganti

Abby (Mintz) Hall

Olivia (Edwards) Talton

Class of ‘18

Madison Lanier and husband Jonathan Lanier (ASL teacher, Susan King-Lanier’s son) welcomed their son William Connor into the world on July 31st, 2023

Coleman Williford

Class of ‘17

Alumni News

Ally (Vernon) Clark and husband Randy Clark welcomed their first child into the world on November 7th, 2022. Her name is Airlie Mae Clark.

Chandler Ritter married his wife Wesley on March 3rd, 2021. They have two sons, Russell and Alden. Alden was welcomed into this world July 7th, 2023.

Madison (Norris) Lanier

Class of ‘15

Gable Knight

Class of ‘19 Gable Knight married his bride Rachel on June 17th, 2023. Among the wedding party were fellow alum Cole Morganti (2018), Jackson Russell (2019), and Matthew Holdsworth (2019).

Class of ‘21 Stevie Henderson successfully completed cosmetology school in August. She is now immersed in an apprenticeship at Tropez Salon in Wilmington.

Submit your updates!

Please send life updates (engagements, weddings, baby births, adoptions, big job changes, moves, awards, etc.) to hughesh@coastalchristian.net. Indicate your graduation year important dates, and include a photo. If other alumni are a part of the event, please include their names and graduation years as well. We will do our best to publish as many submissions as space allows.

VOL 1 / ISSUE 1 19

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