NORTH HARFORD HIGH SCHOOL
211 PYLESVILLE ROAD, PYLESVILLE, MD 21132
410-638-3650
VOLUME 43 ISSUE 1
February 28 2019
Teachers battle it out for win on dance floor
CASSIDY CHANDLER Features Editor
The third annual Teacher’s Got Talent Show brought even more surprises and laughter this year than ever featuring its first-ever Lip Sync Battle. Many groups of students and teachers performed hoping to take home the Lip Sync Champion title which was ultimately earned by Mrs. Chris Jestel, Mrs. Beth Martin, and Mrs. Tara Beugel who performed a compilation of popular songs. The night started with returning hosts, Carla Harward and Jen Chandler performing a skit and lip sync performance to Meatloaf’s, Paradise by the Dashboard Light. English teacher Mr. Mike James and two seniors, Morgan Miranda and Madisyn Ames, featured Mr. Roboto while Mr. Bill Wardle performed a No Doubt song and the Mock Trial team recreated a Pitch Perfect performance. Host Mrs. Carla Harward was proud of the turnout of the event and was excited that so many people were able to get involved and make a debut on the stage. “My favorite part was just the whole thing, and seeing everything come together. Everyone was just having such a great time. It was absolutely amazing.” With this kind of impressive event, there are many people Harward would like to thank for putting in the time and effort. “Mr. Selfe is wonderful and Mrs. Chandler of course, I couldn’t have done it without her and her journalism
staff. All of the teachers really pitched in and helped. I just hope that we can make it bigger and better next year.” Junior Hannah Smith, had a major role in setting up the event and had a lot of fun doing it. “My favorite part was just trying to put it all together. We had to find all of the acts and try and get students involved to see how much of our school could come together for this event.” Smith was pleased with the show and how all of the acts turned out. “I was pleased with all of the acts and the amount of people who showed up and the amount of people who preformed. Next year I would change it by just trying to be a little more organized with the setup of the event, especially on the day of the show.” Different from last year, Smith said she was excited to see that students had the opportunity to be involved. She agreed that it helped in getting a variety of people to come. Smith says she has heard from a lot of people that they liked the event, and would come again to future events similar to this one. Harward has heard similar opinions from crowds around the school and community. “I’ve heard so many people say that they want to do it again next year, so I think that making it a Lip Sync Edition was good in getting students involved and also the teachers, it just meshed really well together. Also, I think it was easier because teachers didn’t have to think “oh my gosh, I don’t have
Photo credit: Kris Foster a talent,” because now it is just lip syncing.” There were two individual student performances. Junior Noah Dehart took the stage to battle with Miley Cyrus’ song, Party in the USA. With jean shorts and an American flag, Dehart proved he is ready win over the crowd in a few weeks at Mr. North Harford. A Dolly Parton imitator made an appearance on North Harford’s Stage. Junior Ryan Blosser performed Nine to Five. Harward and Chandler agreed that the amount of work people put into the event was awesome, and hope for the same for next year. When asked what she would change for future Teacher’s Got Talent Show’s, Harward said, “A little more rehearsing, and hopefully no snow.” She also noted how everyone was a little thrown off with all of the recent snow days. “We
had to make some changes in the script and getting to work a little more with tech crew would help the show run more smoothly. We needed to communicate with them to figure out when the music starts, stops, and when the lights need to be turned on or off.” She would also change the way judging is done. “I think they need to tally after the end of each act so scores can’t be changed.” Other performances featured John Denver’s, Thank God I’m a Country Boy by Mr. Tim Pistel and Mr. Swaboda. The journalism and yearbook staff rivalry continued as they battled on the dance floor. Chandler as Justin Bieber and senior Julia Foster as Ludacris, along with the rest of the advanced journalism staff, danced to Justin Bieber’s, Baby, in a group dance. Mrs. Harward as Katy Perry and her yearbook staff per-
formed Katy Perry’s, California Girls, with senior Nathan Robey as Snoop Dogg. Different from last year, Smith said she was excited to see that students had the opportunity to be involved. She agreed that it helped in getting a variety of people to come. Smith says she has heard from a lot of people that they liked the event, and would come again to future events similar to this one. Harward has heard similar opinions from crowds around the school and community. “I’ve heard so many people say that they want to do it again next year, so I think that making it a Lip Sync Edition was good in getting students involved and also the teachers, it just meshed really well together. Also, I think it was easier because teachers didn’t have to think “oh my gosh, I don’t have a talent,” because now it is just lip syncing.”
Students, faculty battling impending budget crisis EMMIE CATRAMBONE Entertainment Editor The current budget crisis is continuing to get a lot of attention in Harford County, and it is estimated that the school system has been alloted $35 million dollars less than the needed amount they proposed to the Harford County Council. This means the possibility of 150 teacher positions being cut throughout the county, including ten from North Harford High School, 14 from North Harford Middle School, and one from North Harford Elementary School. The North Harford District alone, therefore, will be making up over 16% of the proposed teacher cuts for the 2019-
2020 school year. Student Kayleigh Gallagher has been to several to the Board of Education meetings. “One of the big problems is just the funding going into the Board of Education because, the big thing is if they don’t have the money, they really can’t do anything.” She also thinks there are other ways that the school system can be saving money. “It’s Learning is really expensive, and then there’s Google Docs which basically does the same thing for free, so it’s like ‘why are we paying so much money for this when we could have this for free?’” When the teachers are cut, classes will have to be cut, too, leaving concerns as to which
classes are on the chopping block for next year. Chorus teacher Mrs. Angie Jones is one teacher, among many, who is very concerned about the class cuts in 2019-2020. “[If we are cutting] 10 teacher positions, each teacher teaches 6 classes, so 10 times 6 is 60. So that’s 60 classes that are going on right now that aren’t going to be happening next year,” Jones says. Unfortunately, according to Jones, many of the classes that are going to be cut next year are specialty classes, as courses required for graduation cannot be taken away. “It’s the extra things that we do that I think make our school special and high school special, that you get to do some
specialized classes that are electives, that are really interesting to students, and those are the ones that are going to get cut because they are not graduation requirements,” Jones explains. Jones goes on to say how she has already lost a class next year. “ I’ve had to cut a choir, Harmonics, which is sad... I understand from the principal’s standpoint that it’s a small class and he has to base it on class numbers because we’re losing 60 classes next year, but it’s disheartening; it’s sad, because that group is basically like a college level course, as difficult as it is. It can’t be a big group or it wouldn’t be that way; that’s the point of it being a small, specialized group.”
There are Board of Education meetings currently being held, where people can voice their opinions about the budget crisis and impending cuts. “We just want to find a way to convince the Board of Education to ask for more money for their budget from the county council, or to find a different way to save money,” Gallagher says. Though a proposed budget has already been put in place for next year, the board members are still willing to listen to public input. “Show up, write people, send emails, show up to these meetings, send your parents to these meetings; if a bunch of people don’t show up, they don’t think it’s a priority,” says Jones.
Cry of the Hawk
Opinion/Editorial - Page 2
February 28, 2019
Raining in guidance; Sustaining science in order to achieve success Providing support for all students
CASSIDY CHANDLER Features Editor
VIEWPOINT
supportive is to trust students when they say they are being bulA group of students are talk- lied. Listen when students come ing and laughing in a circle. In to you struggling with their sexuthe center of the circle is a phone al or gender identities, recognize and on the phone is an Instagram when someone may be harassed profile of a fellow student who and don’t be afraid to intervene. is transitioning from female to Although teacher support can male. Later that day the mother go a long way, students need to of that student finds him dead in feel like they are supported by his room. other students. A common soluA study by The National Al- tion to this problem would be liance on Metal Illness indicates a club. These clubs commonly that LGBTQ individuals are three called Gay-Straight Alliances or times more likely to have a GSAs, talking anti-LGBTQ mental illness. A study name-calling, bullying, done by the US Departand harassment in ment of Health and their schools. A study Human Services, in LGBTQ youth by the Gay Lesbian 2016, showed that Straight Education are five times LGBTQ youth are Network indicates as likely to have five times as likely that “having a GSA to have attempted attempted suicide caused fewer resuicide than hetports of homophothan heterosexual bic remarks, less erosexual youth and suicide is the harassment and youth. second leading cause assault because of of death for people their orientation. Stubetween the age of 15 to dents also experienced 24. a greater sense of belongIn the ideal world all educa- ing,” tors would be allies to LGBTQ The reason many LGBTQ stustudents, but very few do, es- dents have mental health issues is pecially at NHHS. Just having because they don’t have a place to something up in your room that feel like they belong. But if NHHS shows you support them can go a form a club there will be a place long way, use inclusive language to belong, students will be held when talking to your students, accountable for their actions and respond to anti-LGBTQ behavior the words that they say. in the classroom. What teachers At NHHS the only requirements don’t realize is showing that they to form a club is to have a faculty support the students in little way advisor and office approval. If it’s can help a lot. this easy to form a club, what are Other ways educators can be we waiting for.
We are a culture of obsessed people. We care about how many likes our Instagram picture gets, when someone famous breaks up with a significant other, and when the newest iPhone comes out. The access to all of this information is at our fingertips thanks to technology. While the rapid development of technology has had major positive impacts on our society, we are not using all the power such advancements have given us to change the right things. The reality is our planet is dying. Technology gives us a voice to spread awareness for environmental problems and advocate for change. We can talk behind a screen and complain for hours about what people are and aren’t doing, but that doesn’t fix our polluted air and waters, or the reality of a
Dose of relationship reality
HAILEY DEARES SSC Editor High school relationships- a lot of people have them, and most of us want them to look like a scene from High School Musical, but they’re not. I’ve been in a few relationships, so trust me, I’ve seen the good the bad and the ugly. And trust me, there’s plenty of ugly. We all know that one couple that’s been together since forever. Don’t get me wrong, it’s cute and I’m not trying to discount anyone’s love story. But if you date one person all of your high school career you can’t find out what you like or dislike in relationships because you don’t have any experience besides one person. You also are limited on
the experiences you live. Every person is different, and high school is a time to live your life and find out who you are. If you are chained to one person you’ll never have that one bad boy/bad girl love moment that I think is an important part of growing up. On the other end of the dating spectrum is people who hop in and out of relationshipssometimes weekly. This can be damaging, because some people feel the need to always be in a relationship. It’s hard to love someone else before you can love yourself. And yes that’s the definition of a cliche, but it’s true. People become relationship hoppers because they have trouble loving themselves and feel like they need to be in a relationship to become whole. It’s hard but you have to be able to depend on yourself before depending on someone else. Life is too short to force yourself to be in a relationship. Rushing into things just causes problems later on. High school is tough because you barely know yourself or what you’re doing, and having to be with someone else in that stage can be hard. You can enjoy
high school single. There’s so much pressure these days to be in relationships, from the constant #goals posts on Instagram to the typical high school experience found on TV and in films. romance between the football quarterback and the head cheerleader. Wake up people, this isn’t You can take a deep breath knowing that it’s fine to be single in high school and later in life you might appreciate that you spent your time developing friendships with people who taught you what you expect of yourself and others. The friendships that you build now will leave a lasting impression on your character well into the future. And not dating in high school comes with other benefits- not being the center of the rumor mill, no pressure to balance time between friends and significant others, and not getting mono among them. So here’s my truth about relationships. Whether you are in one or not, make sure you think about what’s best for you. You need to make that decision for yourself, and you cant let people bully you into making one over the other And don’t be afraid to walk away if it’s not healthy for you to be in that situation. Now is the time to love yourself.
detrimental influx of natural disasters. Students are taught to reuse, reduce, recycle from a young age. Although encouraging these behaviors is certainly beneficial, it is not enough to solve the crisis unfolding. Finding a way to lessen the amount of waste humans produce in the first place is essential in saving our earth. In order to do this, our workforce needs more environmental engineers, protection technicians, and conservation scientists to make the change. We hear the words “climate change” all the time. We hear about the forest fires out west that leave people dead and without a home. Most of us see it as problems that are not affecting us, so we don’t have to worry about them, but that is not the case. Humans don’t typically take things seriously until they see the consequences of their actions first hand. Maryland’s 2018 average rainfall was 72 inches, and that is an effect of climate change. Our population is growing so rapidly that we are taking advantage of our natural resources. We are building new housing developments and taking down trees to account for that growth. This is not good for humans, and it certainly is not good for any living organisms, animals and plants included.
Across the world there are species of animals that are becoming severely endangered and extinct as a result of our apathy and ignorance. There are about 80 black rhinos left in the world, and Rio’s famous Blue Macaw has gone extinct. Will humans need to be put on the endangered species list before our population starts noticing that our planet doesn’t get a second chance? Whether the problem is global warming, air and water pollution, urban sprawl, or waste disposal, we need change, and that begins one person at a time. Pursuing a degree in science will give people the confidence to answer questions that society doesn’t know the answers to. “Will the world run out of water?” “Are we going to run out of the natural resources we need to sustain life on earth”? What we need are critical thinkers, problem solvers, and leaders to take on the task of handling our Earth’s environmental health. Our generation needs to be environmentally educated and aware so that we can protect National Parks and public lands for many years to come. Keeping our waterways clean so that life can be sustained in the Chesapeake Bay for many years to come is just as important. We need innovation and ingenuity to make our planet sustainable for the future, and that starts with us.
Mid-year stress for all grades; Anxiety rampant in students VIEWPOINT In the midst of winter and class scheduling, SAT taking and college deciding every student has the struggle of stress in the middle of the year. If you’re a freshman, sophomore or junior, class scheduling might be at the top of the list of things to worry about. Many students want to challenge themselves and take that hard AP class because it’s a college credit and it’s going to help in the long run. However, don’t just stack up on AP classes because you think it won’t be that hard to manage. Unless you are prepared to do homework every single night, go to study sessions constantly, complete lots of projects and presentations, AP classes might not be the best decision for you. You might consider giving yourself a breather because chances are by this time next year the five AP classes you signed up for might be more than you bargained for. Find a class that gives you time enjoy something you love or something that you are truly interested in rather than a lot of AP classes that are just there for you to beef up your GPA. And if the stress of choosing classes is not enough, as a junior
or maybe even a sophomore, the pressure of the PSAT and SAT is hanging over your head as well. Finding time to actually prepare for the important test and work time into your schedule to actually take it can be quite challenging. And for most students, it’s not a one-shot deal; many students feel the pressure to take the test again until the score is what they believe it should be. It’s not just the time needed to take the test that’s stressful; it’s also the cost, especially if you are taking the exam more than one time. Add that cost to that of AP test prices, and there goes your summer savings. So yes, junior year is tough and senior year might look like an oasis by comparison and they both make freshman and sophomore year look like a day a Chuck-E-Cheese in contrast. But don’t get comfortable. Twelfth grade is great, but all that hard work now requires you to make life changing decisions while trying to pass AP physics at the same time. The key is finding what works for you, and no one can do that for you. It might take a few bumps in the road to figure it all out, but when you do, it will be worth all the work.
February 28, 2019
Cry of the Hawk
Opinion/Editorial - Page 3
Juul takes over school bathrooms; Medical marijuana banned in schools
Students search for solution VIEWPOINT
A straight-A-student enters the bathroom by the grand staircase before she goes to her next class for a test. She is bombarded by the smell of mangos. Almost instantly, the student begins to feel a headache setting in. The innocent smell of fruit is not the latest bath and body works scent but is instead masking the true threat: nicotine. High school bathrooms have begun to transform from a place to do your business to student Juul lounges, and there appears to be no way to stop it. According to Assistant Principal Bryan Pawlicki, the current punishment for students caught juuling is a tier of suspensions. A first offense will grant a student a five-day suspension that can be reduced to one day if said student attends a class entitled “Tobacco Cessation.” They will also receive a citation which goes on their permanent record. A second offense also grants a fiveday suspension, however this one is mandatory and cannot be reduced. Finally, a third offense grants a ten-day suspension which also cannot be reduced. Many students attending schools around the county including North Harford believe that staff members aren’t doing enough to prevent students from juuling in school bathrooms. Fallston sophomore, Morgan Kornke states, “No, they [the staff] don’t [do anything], it seems like they don’t care what we do in the bathroom.” North Harford freshman Grace Heron explains “there are no consequences in
our agendas for when people are found with vapes.” C. Milton sophomore Hannah Silton claims that her staff members are “not really doing anything. Many students have a different attitude towards students juuling in the bathrooms. Fallston junior Calvin Grier states, “if they want to risk it, I don’t care.” John Carroll sophomore Sigourney Soriano explains, “I honestly don’t care if people juul. They’re the ones choosing to ruin their bodies, it’s not my problem. However, it is nicotine and there is the risk of secondhand smoke, which is not cool.” The majority of students who say they don’t mind people juuling in the bathrooms, have a very clear “as long as it doesn’t affect me” standpoint. These students should care more, because as Soriano mentioned, you are being affected by secondhand smoke, even if you don’t realize it. The reason students continue to juul in the bathrooms may be that the benefits outweigh the risks in their eyes. One juuler says that they do it at school “because I can hit other people’s pods without having to pay.” A study from LendEDU found that the average person spends $50 on Juul pods each month. For a student who, at best, is working at just above minimum wage, this is a large sum of money. Getting just one hit, without worrying about the cost, is a huge benefit to those who are addicted. One popular suggestion from students for how staff members can help prevent juuling, was to have teachers monitor the bathrooms. FOT teacher, Brian
Dougherty agrees that this could be effective, while math teacher Hilary Stanmyer says, “I’m not going to be a babysitter, make better decisions.” She offers a different solution: no doors leading into the bathrooms. This could be an extremely effective tactic, the teacher explains that there weren’t any doors on the bathrooms at her old high school, and that it doesn’t qualify as violation of privacy. Other schools around the country have done this as well. North Harford junior Lauren Seco noted that her middle school in South Carolina, Banks Trail Middle School, didn’t have doors going into the bathrooms. North Harford Middle School doesn’t even have doors on its bathrooms. McKinney North High School in Texas took the action of removing doors from bathrooms to prevent students from engaging in sexual activity back in 2012. The school justifies this by saying they are trying to “keep kids safe.” This very same reason applies to the issues surrounding Harford County high schools now. Not having doors in the bathroom would make it easier for teachers on hall duty to smell the pods and catch students in the act. Although 57% of students say they would be “strongly opposed” to having no doors leading into the bathroom, it may just be the solution this area needs. In the end, the problem may never be completely eliminated, but certain efforts can be made to help. If every student does their part, we can work to put a stop to juuling in our schools.
Unlimited amounts of Insta‘grams’ EDITORIAL Social. Media. Addiction. Teenagers and adults struggle to control the need to be online always. Whether it’s watching cat videos or Snapchatting friends, the new generation can’t seem to put down the devices for more than five seconds. Social Media today reporter Evan Asano believes whether we’re aware of it or not, “teens now spend up to 9 hours on social platforms.” These social platforms are constantly updating and modifying their tools to attract more teens. However, teenagers aren’t the only ones we should be concerned about. As stated by Asano, “the average person will spend nearly two hours on social media every day, which translates to a total of 5 years and 4 months spent over a lifetime.” Not only are these platforms attracting the younger population, they’re also attracting the average person. According to a poll done on Instagram of 95 people who are mostly teenagers, 92% agree that social media is an addiction. 37% of those people say they spend more than 7 hours on social me-
dia. Only 10% of those people say they would or already are doing something about it. While we see that there is change that needs to be made, but most aren’t willing to do anything about it. However, social media isn’t an addiction, but it can be a problem. The definition of addiction is “physically and mentally dependent on a particular substance, and unable to stop taking it without incurring adverse effects.” First off, social media is not a substance, you can’t ‘take’ it. It’s hard to know if social media has an adverse effect on us. According to Andrew Przybylski, a senior research fellow at the Oxford Internet Institute, “many of the studies [on the effects of social media] are too small to carry a lot of statistical power.” For people who want change and are willing to do something about it, there are solutions to try such as: Track your time online. iOS 12 now has the ability for people to go into settings and simply set a limit on each app or social media all together. This way you can ensure you’re not over using, and it can also relieve stress about
wanting to know what everyone is doing all the time. Instead of having to log on to Snapchat and answer 20 other friends and then end up using up time on social media, there’s always the option of Facetiming or calling them for some one on one human interaction. You could always try and meet up in real life. Get involved. There are so many activities to participate in throughout the world that you could try. Trying something new can be very scary at first, but things like joining a sport or paint class can be ways to fill your time, so it’s not spent on social media or staring at a screen. Limit your social networking applications. There’s no need to have 15 apps to talk to people, so consider keeping only one or two. Imagine a future where what you upload to Snapchat and Instagram defines your future job, college, and income. Everything you do and say online already has consequences, but what if what you post is the only thing that matters. That’s the reality we face if we don’t get a grip on what and when we click.
EDITORIAL Students go the nurse’s office at school for anything from band aids to Benadryl. In some cases, students need to report there daily for medications that are necessary for serious conditions like diabetes and ADD. But what happens when the medication a child needs is one that schools are not able to dispense? According to Hunter Railey, a reporter, in the majority of schools in the US are not allowed to distribute medical marijuana, even if it is prescribed from a doctor or the patient has a medical card. In the same report, Railey says 31 states have legalized the use of medical marijuana, but only seven allow it to be distributed during school hours. In these seven states, there are specific policies the schools need to follow in order to give out this medicine; students using medical marijuana products have a valid medical recommendation, only non-
of temper tantrums is 50% less then when he started taking this medicine. Even his school, Kennedy Kreiger, has noticed a difference.” The medicine doesn’t just help Mikey’s tantrums, it also has helped lower his number of seizures. Medical marijuana is made up of two main cannabinoids, THC and CBD. These are oils that are found in the cannabis plant. People use this medication to get relief from their medical condition and/or alleviate certain symptoms such as depressions, nausea, seizures, and more. According to Senator Jason Gallion, the main reason medical marijuana is not allowed on most school grounds is because marijuana is still classified under federal law as a schedule one illegal substance and could result in the loss of Federal Title one funding. Title one provides federal funding to schools that serve an area with high poverty. This helps students who have a high risk of falling behind
Photo credit: Brett Levin Medical marijuana is not allowed in school at any time within 43 states. It had been passed in 7, but restrictions had been placed on the distribution of the medication. smokable marijuana products may be administered on school grounds, only parents, legal guardians, or primary caregivers administer the substance, and students cannot be punished for marijuana use on school grounds. Even though these seven states allow medical marijuana to be distributed in schools, legal guardians are the only ones allowed to distribute the medicine, and it is still not allowed to be distributed on school grounds. “Every school day at noon, I drive to my son’s high school to give him a dose of cannabis oil to prevent potentially life-threatening seizures,” said Karina Garcia, a mom who has a 19-year-old son with severe epilepsy. “To go into the classroom every day and have to grab your child, walk down the block, give them a dose and return them, it’s so disruptive.” Another 19-year-old student, Mikey Wojcik, has a severe case of autism. His father, Mike Wojcik, says “He is a different person without it. The duration and amount
academically or economically. Having medical marijuana would get rid of this extra help that is given to these students. However, students who cannot receive their prescribed medicine, such as medical cannabis, cannot even attend school because of how severe their conditions are. Clearly, there hasn’t been a balance between the two. Many people do not know the effects of medical marijuana and what impact it has on patients that use it. Creating ways to spread awareness would greatly improve the situation therefore helping students. Sending home pamphlets to parents about this topic, setting up educational events explaining all the effects of this law, and tacking this story onto another news piece will make this information more accessible, making people less afraid, but more aware. All students matter and all deserve to be safe when on school grounds, and that means providing the right medicine at the right time to the right student.
Cry of the Hawk
February 28, 2019
Page 4/ Op/Ed
No sunlight leads to seasonal sadness Negativity defeats all; New condition EMMIE CATRAMBONE Entertainment Editor It’s that time of year again snow is falling, temperatures are freezing, and the ice on the rocks in Rock State Park has officially not melted in months. Take one step outside and BAM, you’re hit with a blast of air that makes you shiver down to your very core. Forget spending any time outside; anything that requires moving out of a warm building or car means a full out sprint to the next warmest area. That being said, winter isn’t all bad. There’s plenty of snow days, which make for a pretty fun senior year, as well as skiing and snowboarding down beautiful, slippery slopes. Looking outside means a glimpse of pretty, snow-covered trees and finally venturing outside, although cold, promises a gulp of fresh, icy air. The biggest downfall of wintertime, though, is the complete lack of sunshine. Oh yes, the sun is still there, peeking through sad, grey clouds that promise more depressing snow and sleet. Remember how it wonderful it is to go outside and feel beautiful, warm air? How it looks to see the rays shining through green, leafy trees? How spending just a few days under the hot, thriving sun makes you an entire shade tanner than you are now? Those were your happy days; now with the grey gloom outside, it is hard to enjoy yourself fully, knowing that you are missing out on all the outdoors has to offer for you. Although winter is a beautiful time of year, I cannot wait for
summer to come - just so I can appreciate the warmth of the sun again. In the winter, we wake up in the morning to darkness, drive to school in the dark, and are in classrooms during the time the sun is actually shining. By the time practices and clubs are over, we are driving home in the setting sun, preparing for darkness yet again. Boom, there goes any chance of even the slightest bit of sunlight (regardless of the temperature outside). This is exhausting, and I wish I had the free time to be able to go outside and appreciate nature for what it has to offer, but even then it is frigid. Though it may sound like I’m complaining, and I may sound like every other teenage girl begging for summer to come back, there are scientific facts that prove sunlight increases happiness and general well-being. When you spend time out in the sun, levels of serotonin, a hormone that can make you happier, increase in your brain. Also, sunlight increases melatonin levels, a chemical that is responsible for helping you sleep at night. (Ever feel exhausted and sleep deprived in the winter? Yeah, thought so.) Though winter is an alright season, even a pretty one at times, the happiness that the sun brings will always outweigh the freezing, icy chills of January and February or even March. I can’t wait to step outside and feel the warm rays of the sun wash over me, instead of the icy blasts of cold, wintry wind bidding me to run to the warm shelter of the indoors.
Impact of staying positive leaves students ELLIE EVANS News Editor
Bone chilling temperatures, frozen over cars, and icy roads can leave many feeling even more stress than normal. The lack of warm weather and stacks of schoolwork can whittle down anyone’s positivity, which is why figuring out how to manage stress is even more important. Stress and negativity can often go hand-in-hand, which is why finding the sources of strain and facing them head on with positive affirmations can not only boost mental but physical health as well. Slowing down to take time every day doing something enjoyable to decrease stress levels is key. While ignoring school assignments can only cause more stress, finding ways to manage time to evenly and efficiently divide your work will only benefit you. Take a step backwards and take a deep breath to remember negative thinking can be
debilitating to your body and confidence. Instead, use the moment as a lesson to further strengthen your ability to handle these stressors and opt for a more positive outlook. Adapting to a newfound mindset will be no walk in the park, but once it is implemented it will not only help you as a high school and eventually college student but even as an adult in the workworld. Not only does stress have an effect on your body, it also can take an emotional toll on those surrounding. Spewing negativity around your family and friends can hurt those relationships. Having the ability to control stressors will have an uplifting impact and give you the advantage of being capable of managing and helping others manage. Trust me, I know that this seems a bit easier said than done but, this lifelong skill sets a clear pathway to self reflection and understanding. In our world today it seems everyone surrounding us in such a rush to gain materialistic happiness over inner peace, and as a result, all of us occasionally fall victim to the blues. While there is ultimately very few ways to remove the cold weather from our lives, melting the roots of a pessimistic mindset will send you on your way to filling your life with more happiness.
Changing school schedules improves student academics EDITORIAL Late nights. Failing grades. Sleepy days. Many studies have shown that teenagers tend to have a natural sleep schedule that consists of going to bed later at night and waking up later in the morning according to The National Sleep Foundation. The start bell for school usually rings around 7 a.m. across the country, leaving many teenagers tired and unable to perform to their full capability. Keeping engaged in extracurricular activities is important to many schools, parents, and students, however, this tends to come at the cost of students’ sleep. Adjusting the school week schedule in order to optimize students’ sleep would be a clear solution. A poll of students’ parents conducted by The National Sleep Foundation revealed that 60% of kids under the age of 18 complained of being tired throughout the day. An additional 15% complained of falling asleep during school. Students are distracted by their exhaustion, which takes away their focus from school. Teachers also are constrained to weekends or any of their spare
time to work on grading, plan- more energized. Despite students being in ning, and they don’t get much rest school slightly longer in order to either. And they are not alone. A solution that a handful of achieve a four-day school week, schools across the mid-west they’re still accomplishing evhave begun using is the four-day erything they did during five-day school week schedule. This is a school weeks except with an additional day off. good alternative for those This does pose conwho don’t want to cerns to students revert to the later who work, school start p a r t i c i pate time schedA poll of students’ in extracurule due to parents conducted by The riculars, concerns National Sleep Foundation or parents such as young conflicting revealed that 60% of kids un- of students with parents’ work der the age of 18 complained who may need child schedules. of being tired throughout care serIt allows the day. vices. In this students and situation, many teachers an extra people are suggestday to rest as well as ing that some parents catch up on any work. According to research by nea- could wind up paying more for Today, many teachers have found child care services with the new the additional day off beneficial four-day week schedule because to their lesson planning. Teach- of parents who work. Many stuers say they’re creating more ef- dents are also worried that they fective lessons now that they won’t have enough time in the have the additional day to plan evening for homework and extraand aren’t cramming their plan- curriculars with the new schedning into the weekends. Many ule because they’re in school lonalso consider the additional day ger. However, the strain that sleep a mental health day, to rejuvenate and go into the new week feeling deprivation puts on students can
be detrimental to their success in school, to mention the additional effects, which according to The National Sleep Foundation, can include increased depression in teens, poor grades, drowsy driving, tardiness, and metabolic and nutritional deficits like obesity. Mental health is incredibly important within this time of every students life, and this should be taken as a high priority. Being that sleep deprivation has statistically weakened mental health, schools need to find a schedule that fits both a four day week and time for homework. This could mean less at home assignments, and less busy work during school and more actual learning and accomplishing goals. These new schedules should help students rather than hurt students, so schools that implement them should be compassionate and caring to take constructive criticism. Schools across the country should change their schedules in the best interests of their students because it benefits them not only physically, but academically and mentally. If we could help prevent poor grades, depression, and tardiness just by changing the school week schedule, why wouldn’t we?
without choice VIEWPOINT For the current underclassmen, a new Science Pathway is a graduation requirement and will have to fit into the students’ schedules for upcoming years. Students must take three science classes chosen by the school board. There are enough graduation requirements already being pushed on students. Now schools have a STEM related path everyone must follow. Most high schoolers do not have an idea of what they want to be when they are older, so they choose classes of their interest to try to find something they like. If the school counselors want to give students the choice of picking classes based on their own interests, what is the reasoning behind requiring certain science classes? That is absurd. According to ACT in 2017, only 48 percent of high school students are even interested in a STEM career after high school. Interest in STEM related careers is less than half of the students, but according to Smithsonian Science Education Center in 2018, 2.4 million STEM jobs are unfilled. The amount of jobs available compared to the number of people filling them is very low. However, setting a graduation requirement of three chosen science classes, might spark an interest in a STEM field for some students, but some may think that the school is trying to broaden the students’ knowledge in the science and math fields. Giving the students only two paths to choose which include either Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Biology, IPC, and Earth. Some students aren’t comfortable with taking certain classes but are required to take them. Students should be allowed to choose which three science courses to take for graduation. They are already given a number for how many science credits needed for graduation, so there is no need for the school to dictate which three classes to take. If the school took away the pathway, students would have more freedom to explore their STEM related interests, in hopes to finding something they are passionate in. There would be more students graduating high school, knowing what they would like to major in if they can have the freedom to choose their own classes. Giving students little to no choice in which science classes they take will confine the range of classes students can choose to explore in order to find career interests. Schools should remove the science pathway to give the underclassman and future high schoolers a chance to find an interest in other classes offered by the school. Give students more choice, let them explore their interests, and experiment with the possibilities that high school has.
Cry of the Hawk
February 28, 2019
SNHS welcomes new members CARLY KURGAN Reporter Science National Honors Society is right around the corner. Students have submitted their applications and those aware of their acceptance are ready to take the next step towards success when they are inducted on Wednesday, February 20. Mrs. Christine Jestel, advisor to the Science National Honors society, said the organization is open to 11th and 12th graders. Jestel explains that the science honors society is different from others because students “actively volunteer.” This includes presenting to fellow scholars or working at elementary STEM nights. To be apart of the science national honors society students must maintain a 3.5 GPA or higher in their science classes and a 3.0 GPA or higher in all other classes. Students also need a teacher recommendation and a science teacher recommendation to join. Those involved in the group suggest that underclassmen interested in science and the Science National Honors Society should continue to work hard in all classes, especially science and find a particular interest in science. Junior Madalyn Kriezk is looking forward to the opportunities the society will bring. Her
interest in science and a career in the science department has influenced her to be apart of the society. Kriezk also added applications consisted of, a “video teaching a hard science topic, which was fun and interesting.” The Science National Honors Society will be having a pizza party to watch all of the participant’s videos. Junior Justin Graves says his “favorite subjects have always been physics and chemistry.” Being apart of Science National Honors society will give Graves more exposure to science and problem solving. Another science fanatic, junior Jessica Gerhardt, is also very interested in science. Gerhardt says she enjoys the “science field as a whole, not just the classes in our school and to learn about other science concepts used in the real world. Gerhardt says that the organization has many benefits and opportunities to be “more of a well rounded person within science and science skills.” With college nearing for many students Gerhardt adds benefits of being a part of the society. “In college it can help me succeed in more advanced science classes by having knowledge about real world sciences.” Gerhardt is excited to learn about sciences beyond what she’s learned already and to work with other people
Page 5 - News
Physics students produce projects;
Hardy weinberg effect created GRANT SCARBORO Reporter
At the end of each quarter, the students in Mrs. Jestel’s physics class must complete a project that is essentially a compilation of what physics concepts the students have learned throughout the quarter. Currently, Jestel’s students have completed their quarter projects for the first and second marking periods. The first involved the use of a kinematic-center catapult, whereas the second was focus on a catapult and the “Rube Goldberg machine”. First quarter projects focused on a special type of catapult. According to junior Jordan Paul, “…we had to create a catapult in order to show the use of kinematics and what [one] can kind of derive from a kinematic situation.” Kinematics is, “a branch of dynamics that deals with aspects of motion apart from considerations of mass and force.” Physics student Ben Truxel also pointed out that the catapult’s ammo was launched at a castle of cardboard boxes to knock the castle down. “We also learned about projectile motions so we could hit the castle, first try.” says Truxel. He, and his class-
mates tried many methods to pull this off, including using 2x4s, curved bows, and bungie cords among other materials. Second quarter projects featured A Rube Goldberg machine, which according to Paul is “…kind of like what the kid from Home Alone did, where he had one thing, then anoth- Photo credit: Anna Racine er thing to eventually do something physics students, the projects are as an end goal[.]” quite enjoyable, and they are inJunior Justin Graves says the centives for underclassmen who point of a Rube Goldberg ma- have not yet taken physics to do chine is to “do a bunch of com- so. plex tasks to do simple tasks.” “Everyone does well in these For Paul and her fellow stu- projects and they’re a good gradedents, this end goal was to unzip booster, but they’re also fun to do. a zipper five centimeters in a cer- Working with a team is a bunch tain direction. In order to accom- of fun because you’re building plish this, the students had to stuff instead of just doing workcomplete a process of ten steps, sheets,” says Truxel. with each step representing a Paul says that, “[The secphysics concept the students had ond ‘quarter project’] was really learned in the previous two quar- stressful, but it was also really ters. fun. So I would recommend takAccording to Mrs. Jestel’s ing physics.”
Forensic class enjoys speaker, field trips and more
HAILEY DEARES SSC Editor
This month, the Forensics classes at The Nest have been very busy. Under the direction of Kristian Jones-Knoll, the classes were able to listen to two guest speakers from the Harford County Sheriff’s Forensic Science Unit who taught the students all about how Forensics works in the real world, more specifically in Harford County. Activities the Forensics students participated in included a matching game of fingerprints to analyze very similar prints by their characteristics. They also were taught different things the FSU officers do on the job and different parts of crime scene analyzation such as how to draw a crime scene. The speakers answered questions about their field, what a typical day is like for them, and what all their job entails. Junior Justin Graves
said he enjoyed the speakers because he thought that “it was a nice change of pace compared to class.” He added that “if you’re really interested in a career like that they could give really good insight. It helps to hear things from people who do it for a living and they had some pretty good stories.” Forensic class members were also given another opportunity. Five members out of all of the Forensics classes at North Harford were chosen based on their GPAs and interest in pursuing future careers in forensics to attend the 45th annual Student Academy of Forensics at the Baltimore Convention Center on February 19. The purpose of the convention is to “bring to the attention of young people the vital importance of the application of scientific principles to the administration of justice,” according to the event program. The convention is held by the American Academy of Fo-
rensic Science which is an organization founded in 1948 and is the “only organization in the world that combines all of the various scientific disciplines involved with the administration of justice” according to the event program. It is a nonprofit organization and one of Photo supplied by Hailey Deares the worlds most prestigious orgadence to solve the crime. Stunizations of forensics sciendents will also rotate through tists, according to the packet stations that relate to forensics given to students attending. where they can meet, interact, Such scientific categories inand question experts in the clude anthropology, criminalfield of forensic science. istics, odontology, toxicology, The students who attendand many more. ed included seniors Cassidy Once the students arrive Chandler, Christine Kavina, they will be able to view an and Carly Lindhorst, and juinteractive case study that will niors Hailey Deares, and Riley be presented with where they Lavin.Only five other schools can examine crime scene eviin the county are attending
this event. It begins at 9:00 a.m and ends at 2:00 p.m. Lunch was provided and there will be several prize giveaways at this event also. Lavin said that she was excited for the event because she believes it can be a “learning experience.” The student adds she aspires to major in forensics and hopes that at the event she can “learn a lot about the field of forensics.”
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Cry of the Hawk
February 28, 2019
HCPS website provides photos; FFA hosts barn dance Justifying their closings, delays TORI GAY Reporter
ELLIE EVANS Assistant News Editor The Harford County Public Schools official website began releasing photos from the transportation department of road conditions beside the inclement weather alerts as a justification for the superintendent’s decision to close or delay schools. HCPS has a total of 5 inclement weather days this year as of February 13. Currently, this means students will remain in school until June 14 leaving only 5 more built in weather days. The new HCPS Superintendent, Sean Bulson, has made delay decisions earlier than his predecessor. Junior Ryan Blosser expresses his appreciation for the early calls and says he admires that the superintendent, “would much rather play it safe than play it sorry.” Blosser added that the use of HCPS photos displays how the weather may look in different parts of the county so that those who are critical of delay and closures have an idea of what’s happening elsewhere. He explains, “it’s extremely helpful to see how different it may look in the North Harford area compared to Havre de Grace.” Recent photos include snow covered buses and icy roads tak-
en from various locations all across the county to provide a widespread view of conditions. Parents of students can find these photos helpful because it allows them to view the road conditions to judge whether to let their students drive or ride the bus. Senior Will Eakes believes the Photo credits: HCPS Facebook page photos are a good way ents from being upset, it may be to keep parents from getting so a good idea.” upset about closings and delays. HCPS has 10 full days built Eakes explains, “Some parents in at the end of the year to help get upset because they think accommodate the snow day the roads are fine when days off cancellations if necessary. Howcan be a hassle for scheduling ever, other counties, like Baltibabysitters.” Decisions made by more County, are not so fortuHCPS and the superintendent nate. Baltimore County made were described by Eakes as, “try- the decision to close schools on ing to keep kids safe.” He added President’s Day, cancelling their that he didn’t feel their decisions previous plans to open despite needed justification but that us- the inclement weather days piling the pictures could “keep par- ing up.
they feel passionate about,” she added. This event is also in place North Harford’s Future Farmers to help start FFA week, which of America hosted a “Barn dance” began Monday, February 18. for alumni and current members FFA hosted about 100-150 people of the FFA as well as students, at the event. Prior to the event, families and community mem- Edwards said that the FFA members from NH. bers were planning to decorate The idea for the event came from with blue and gold streamers and the NH alumni chapter, which balloons. “I know a lot of them includes “everyone who ever were excited about the decoratwent through North Harford’s ing,” she added. FFA proThe alumgram,” says ni were in Ag teacher charge of the Ms. Edwards. food for the The event was event which open to evincluded eryone in the pulled pork community and mac and who supports cheese, which agriculture. Edwards said Parents and is “the best at students were these events” welcomed to She added - Mrs. Edwards, attend. that was Ag teacher This is not what she was the first time “most excited North Harffor.” ord has done Turkey Hill something like this. FFA use to was also there providing ice hold “barn dances” all the time cream at the event. about 15 years ago. “Our alumni The Barn Dance was not held at really wanted to try and bring the high school; instead it was this event back, it was truly a fa- held at the Deer Creek Overlook vorite,” said Edwards. “The event and 4-H camp located in Rocks is to help new members and old State Park to “have more space members along with other agri- and a different environment cultural fans to come together other then the high school,” said in one spot and share something Edwards.
“Our alumni really wanted to try and bring this event back, it was truly a favorite,”
Hay shortage threatens production ALEAH BIKLE Reporter
For the past couple of years, an increase in the hay shortage at local farms seems to have grown exponentially during a time when farmers need good quality hay the most. Purchasing hay based on the quality is essential to ensuring the best product for the price, but it requires being proactive and asking the right questions to the experts, according to CNN. With portions of the U.S. experiencing harmful drought conditions, some farmers, according to agweb.com, have begun considering multiple ways to prevent the shortage from affecting the needs of their livestock and winter and spring conditions. The prices for hay bales have been climbing as a result, with large bales going for $55, a 22% increase from the $45 cost in previous years. With these high prices, some
bales are even reaching upwards of $125, resulting in the tight supplies of what’s left of cattle feed. “Warm-season grasses are plentiful in hay producing areas, but rain that helped improve growing conditions following an extended period of drought is hurting the chance for more round bales,” says a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert. FFA vice president and junior Gonzalo Revilla believes that this hay shortage could expand, if it has not already begun to, into Harford County and affect various farms in Maryland. These shortages are mostly seen by the drought that North Texas was having in summer according to Michael Cotton, a ranch owner in La Grange, Texas. “Our weather conditions in Maryland have luckily given us loads of rain which is good
for farmers and the continued production of hay,” Revilla recounts. “It’s super important to be wise in choosing when to cull cattle or not.” Not only have hay bale prices begun to drop, but prices for culling or selling cows or even full herds have dropped way beyond what farmers have ever seen before, according to statesman.com. These shortages are mostly seen by the drought that Photo credit: Nakae North Texas was having in summer cattle auctions across the state. according to Michael Cotton, Beef cows culled in North Texa ranch owner in La Grange, as were averaging $55.75 per Texas. 100 pounds in early August, The emerging hay shortage according to the Agriculture is being reflected in multiple Department, down about 25
percent from $74 a year ago. Meanwhile, prices for many cuts of beef have already been slipping nationwide, fueled primarily by high U.S. beef production overall.
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Cry of the Hawk
February 28, 2019
‘Puttin’ on the Ritz’, Student participates in Polar Bear Local ladies rent dresses
CHARLOTTE MCELWAIN Reporter The hair. The nails. The makeup. They all have to be perfect. But above all, a girl needs the perfect dress. Sometimes that dream dress is not to be found or it’s too expensive, but now there is no need to worry because there are fabulous dresses students can rent for free. In Delta Borough, there is a group of ladies that put together a little store during prom season for girls to come in and try on prom dresses. It was a one-day shop called,” Puttin’ on the Ritz.” If the dress was the one for you, they let you rent it totally free of charge. The dresses come in many colors, styles, and sizes for the ladies to try on. Marcy Laferte is the coordinator of this event and she also contributes to the Delta Revitalization project. The coordinator understands that sometimes the perfect dress is a little out of the price range the girls will be willing to spend, so she
rallies her forces to collect donated prom dresses so the girls of Delta and Whiteford can wear them for free. They only reuse dresses that are in style and in good condition and she adds that sometimes that’s not easy. Laferte encourages girls to reach out to communicate properly if there are any questions, and she cannot stress enough that the shop will be only open for one day at there location listed. She wanted everyone to have a wonderful prom night with a beautiful dress to match. For more information please follow “puttin’ on the Ritz” on Facebook and contact Laferte with the number below. ATTENTION, The shop will only be open for one day from 10 a.m to 4 p.m on Saturday, March 9 on 617 Main Street. If anyone would like to donate a dress, call Laferte at 717-487-7775 to arrange for them to be picked up, or they can be dropped off at her house on 206 Main Street, Delta, PA.
LAUREN SECO OP/ED Editor
Every year, the Maryland State Police Department holds the Polar Bear Plunge to raise money for the Maryland Special Olympics. According to Junior Jordan Paul, “participants plunge into the Chesapeake Bay during January, which is the main event, but there’s also other activities you can do like a rock wall, live music, food trucks, etc.” This student’s family has been going to the Polar Bear Plunge for three years now. Describing the feeling of leaping into the Bay in January, Paul states she usually doesn’t “go as deep as other participants because it’s very crowded and cold.” She does however, “go up to [her] waist and then run right back out.” With the water temperature so low, “it makes whatever parts of your body that were in the water numb for a good amount of time after you’ve plunged.” According to Paul, as soon as you exit the water, you need to dry off and run inside a warm tent to change into dry clothes. She also describes leaping into the Bay as the “most hectic part of the event.” She would recommend going in to anyone because
Photo credit: Polar Bear Plunge it is “a great cause to donate to, and it is also really fun.” Freshman Ellie Saulsbury also attended the event. She has been participating in the plunge for three years now, and she just recently attended this January. Her favorite memory of the Polar Bear Plunge is “probably seeing [her] friend Josh, who has Down Syndrome, having a good time.” Seeing him happy makes her glad to participate in an event like this. Saulsbury also describes the
feeling of jumping into freezing water. She states, “it is really cold. It will leave you shaking.” To get involved in the Polar Bear Plunge, visit their website to sign up and donate to their cause. According to the Plunge’s website, “this year’s Plunge has raised more than $2 million in support of 7,782 Special Olympics Maryland athletes across the state who train and compete year-round.” Fundraising will continue until February 26.
Non-traditional pathway; HCPS Attendance calls change; Completing English credit LAUREN SECO OP/ED Editor
While all students take English as part of their high school course work, a few opt to pursue English courses outside of what NHHS has to offer. Nursing major and senior Katelyn Anderson took both English 101 and 102 at HCC while she was enrolled as a junior at NHHS. She adds that to the best of her knowledge, “English 101 is the prerequisite for every other english class at Harford Community College.” Anderson said that the set up of the college English course was different than that of a high school class. “The textbook has all the stories that you will read, and there is a paper to write every two weeks,” the senior explains. While she admits to not being completely interested in the subject of English, she would recommend this class to others. “In English 101 and 102, you learn MLA format. However, they do not teach about APA format, and most of your teachers ask for APA format on your papers.” Even so, Anderson did believe the college course was
beneficial to her writing. HCC student and NH senior Grace Huller has a different opinion. Huller took English 101 during her junior year in order to waive her senior year, but she “would recommend anyone to use their high school AP credit to get around taking it if possible, although it does make you all around a better writer.” She even goes on to explain that if she was going to do her senior year, she would herself have taken an AP course to gain more credit. She is continuing into English 102 this semester saying there “are more essays to write, and the level of writing is expected to be higher.” In a “memorable essay” she was assigned to write, Huller said she wrote a “five page research paper, and [she] decided to do it on the Democratic Republic of Congo.” She added that this paper required her to find a lot of scientific information from several different places, and she needed to “vary [her] sources throughout per the rubric.” This made the essay more difficult to write for her as there was a lot of attention to detail necessary for Huller to receive a good grade.
Early morning alerts for parents
TORI GAY Reporter The traditional 5pm call to let parents know their child was absent from school no longer exists. A HCPS press release notified the public late in January that the policy for attendance calls had changed. High schools and North Harford Middle School would be notified of absences beginning at 9:30 a.m., middle schools at 10:00 a.m., and elementary schools and the alternative education Program beginning at 11:00 a.m. Afternoon Pre-K will receive calls at 2:00 p.m. According to the press release, HCPS made this change because “we have heard from our community members that they want to be notified earlier in the day when their child is absent from school,” said Superintendent Sean Bulson. HCPS also says in the press release, “we are listening to your concerns, and we are making every effort possible to address them,”
North Harford attendance secretary Mrs. Kayla Harmon, believes “this really is a good thing and a bad thing; it’s great because parents are notified
“Our community members that they want to be notified earlier in the day when their child is absent from school,” - Mr. Sean Bulson, HCPS Superintendent
before it’s too late and they can still send their kids to school. However, it makes my job really tough in some ways. I have to do every student’s attendance in this school by 8:30 or so. Things definitely get a little crazy around here because of it.” HCPS is aware that there may
be some glitches however, they believe“ the benefits of an earlier call far outweigh the cons,” according to the press release. They also say that “there may be times when you receive a false call.” They are referring to a student that comes in late but is already marked absent at the start of the day. Junior Gina Lux says, “I do not think this is a great idea. 9:00 is the time where parents are leaving for work or just getting there. They are probably already scrambling and the call would just probably just push them over the edge.” English teacher Mr. Richard Pedicord says, “Kids will be kids. It does not matter what time the phone call goes out, it probably won’t change attendance dramatically.”This change with attendance is not the only policy that was modified this year. Home Access Center allows parents to more closely monitor student attendance if necessary. Teachers can keep track of attendance on here too.
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Cry of the Hawk
February 28, 2019
February 28, 2019
Cry of the Hawk
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February 28, 2019
Cry of t
North Harford Newspaper @HAWKREPORTER
Unpopular opnions: a thread Chance Libertini
@senior
Airpods ARE cool
I like wireless stuff and it’s easy to hide from teachers. I have an off-brand pair and they are pretty cool. They are definitely overpriced. I got the same exact thing for about $120 cheaper so I would recommend airpods. 9:05 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students Fine Art Prep 19 students polled 1
Troy Landers
@junior
Airpods AREN’T cool
I think Airpods are stupid. It is just a trend. And I don’t know about you, but I’ve dropped my phone many times, and my earbuds wire has saved my phone from falling. And people with Airpods cannot do the same. I prefer the wires. 9:12 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students Fine Art Prep 19 students polled 18
Julia Barstow
@senior
Love at first sight exists
I believe in love at first sight, I don’t think it’s very common, but I definitely think it happens. I feel like with some people it’s just a connection; you hit it off immediately and it might not work out then but later in life, if it’s meant to 9:19 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students Marine Science 26 students polled 1
Gavin Taylor @junior
There is no such thing as love at first sight
I don’t believe in love at first sight because you have to know their personality and you can’t learn that just by looking at someone. 9:20 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students Algebra 2
25
26 students polled
Ben Ewers @sophomore
Avacados ain’t all that
“ Ew. I don’t like the texture. Avocados are slimy and don’t taste good.” 9:39 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students Honors Chemistry
7
12 students polled
Connor O’Callaghan @sophomore
Avacados ARE all that
“I think avocado can be made into a bunch of different thing like guacamole, which I love. Plus, avocado has a bunch of nutrients and benefits. I’m pretty sure you could survive off of solely avocado.” 9:35 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students Honors Chemistry
5
12 students polled
Emily Casazza @senior
A sorority is a cult
I see how it is a cult because I’ve seen rules online that you can’t wear certain things or do certain things. It’s also like paying for friends when you join one. 9:42 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students
7
21st Century English 26 students polled
Julia Fiacco @senior
A sorority is NOT a cult
I don’t think it’s a cult because you build lifelong friends within the sorority by finding girls like yourself and sororities also help raise money for charities so they’re doing good for the community. 9:45 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students 21st Century English 26 students polled 19
10-11 - Features
the Hawk
Gonzalo Rovilla
@junior
Pineapple belongs on pizza
Pineapple on pizza is amazing and whoever thinks otherwise is just wrong and has not given it a chance. It’s the best pizza topping. Not pepperoni, not sausage, and definitely not olives, pineapple comes first, and that’s a fact. 9:52 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students Symphonic Band 52 students polled 28
Malinah Jerscheid
@freshman
Pineapple does NOT belong on pizza
Pineapple definitely does not belong on pizza. With pizza being a more savory type of food and pineapple being a sweet, sometimes sour fruit, it just doesn’t work well for me when combined with the other ingredients. 9:59 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students Symphonic Band 52 students polled 24
Savannah Marks
@junior
Cheerleading is a sport
Cheerleading is most definitely a sport. The team completes a bunch of exercises when preparing to compete or when they are performing. That movement mixed with competing proves it takes hard work and dedication. 10:01 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students 13 students polled 9
Noah Dehart
@junior
Cheerleading is NOT a sport
Cheerleading is not a sport. The only reason, in my opinion, is that sports need to include a ball and last time I checked, cheerleading doesn’t. Which, by default, makes it not count 9:12 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students 13 students polled 9
Ian Jones
@senior
Parcs and Rec is better than The Office
I prefer The Office. It’s a classic that everyone knows and loves. I personally believe that Parks and Rec is a rip off of The Office. You can never beat Jim and Dwight let’s be honest. 9:12 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students British Literature 13 students polled 9
Ross Mace
@senior
The Office is better than Parcs and Rec
I love Parks and Rec. It is so good there’s no denying it. They actually do things other than sit in an office. And it has Chris Pratt. You just can’t beat that; the man’s a God. It’s funny and has a great plot too. 9:12 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students British Literature
9 Charles Zeller
13 students polled
@junior
Winter is better than summer
I like winter better. I love the snow and all the fun activities that come with it. Not to mention you don’t have to go outside and do yard work. My most favorite thing about winter is probably that they don’t make us go outside and run on the track 9:12 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students British Literature
3
Casey Divinti
15 students polled
@junior
Summer is better than winter
“Summer is just better all around. It’s warm outside, you can go to the beach and the boardwalk. And you don’t have to worry about snow or school.” 9:12 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students Marine Biology
12 Drew Bauerle
15 students polled
@junior
Chipotle is better than Qdoba
I definitely like Chipotle better because the meat tastes better than Qdoba in my opinion. 9:12 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students Crafts
Lexy Smith @junior
3
13 students polled
Qdoba is better than Chipotle
“I prefer Qdoba because the queso is better than chipotles and they have a bigger selection of food at Qdoba.” 9:12 AM 2 February 2019 Twitter for Students Crafts
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13 students polled
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Stars hitting red carpet: Emmys, Grammys recognizing celebrities Rags to riches: CHARLOTTE MCELWAIN Reporter
directors, and some popular of the best of the best of the music would. The Emmys and the Grammys. The Emmys’ “The Primetime The biggest nights in television Emmy Award is an American features some of America’s faaward bestowed by the Acadvorite actors and actresses, emy of Television Arts & Scifamous movie producers and ences in recognition of excellence in American primetime television programming” and the Grammys’ are “awarded by The Recording Academy to recognize outstanding achievement in the mainly English-language music industry” according to quora.com. The Emmys aired on September 27 of 2018 and it is the 70th Primetime AnnuPhoto credit: Creative Commons al Event; according to deadline.
com the “ceremony really shows its age.” The hosts of the television award show were Michael Che and Colin Jost. Some of the most well known actors, actresses, directors, movie producers, and many other important people in the television industry were recognized during the show. For example, “The big winner was Amazon’s The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, which took a leading five trophies including Outstanding Comedy Series, and HBO’s Game of Thrones, which won Outstanding Drama Series and Supporting Actor for Peter Dinklage” according to deadline.com. Many of the public’s favorite shows were honored due to the power of the movie and shows large fan groups. Movie and TV shows aren’t the only ones with passionate fans, the music industry also has an incredibly large following. And these artists are awarded for all their hard work during the Grammys’ live premiere. On February 10, the hottest names
in the music industry gather together to congratulate and award one another for their accomplishments throughout the year. Just to be nominated is a great honor, but to win is another story. Many fans were shocked when Post Malone’s “Beerbongs & Bentley’s” lost to Kacey Musgraves “Golden Hour” for best album of the year. The event went on to recognize many other artists including Ariana Grande, Drake, Shawn Mendes, and P!nk. But the talk of the night wasn’t the Grammy winners, the popular female rapper Cardi B and rapper Offset PDA on the red carpet. Because of this, the only thing people have been discussing is the kiss, not the winners. But no matter what happens the night of the event, the public and the fans enjoy watching all of their favorite movie and artist be honored for their hard work.
Ted Bundy premiere stars Efron; Critics review glorification ALEAH BIKLE Reporter
Ever since it premiered at Sundance, an independent film festival held in Park City, Utah, the thriller Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile has stirred up some controversy when it supposedly focused too much on Ted Bundy, a famous serial killer whose sociopathic urges were kept behind a fake persona, and his home life, which overshadows the crimes he committed. Ted Bundy has recently become a hot topic again after multiple movie features, Netflix exclusives, and Twitter hashtags have recognized the 30th anniversary of his death. Aspects of his trial and never before seen interviews have been released and which allow those interested to dig a little deeper into how Bundy could have done such horrific things. Bundy was a serial killer who sought after his temptations starting in 1974, where the states of Washington and Oregon began to panic when women from state colleges were disappearing at an alarming rate, with no leads as to who was behind it. Police hardly recognized Bundy as the possible suspect due to his clean-cut image, polite personality and dreams of becoming a law student. These assumptions about Bundy benefitted him many times in his murderous career, during which he killed, raped, and muti-
lated over 30 victims, with some and without any thought. “Some people I’ve talked to and those still never being accounted for. According to MTV, the film who are on social media are uptries to understand how Bundy set that the film chose Zac Efron was able to commit so many to play Bundy, saying he is being atrocities, across so many state used to attract the wrong audilines, and be able to hide it for ence. Junior Anna Faulhaber is torn. such a long time. With Zac Efron portraying She knows Efron’s good looks Bundy, multiple critics have will portray a great Bundy but claimed that including Efron in feels “conflicted” as she “can’t the film will romanticize Bundy’s have this role ruin Troy Bolton twisted image and a generously for her,” referring to Efron’s leadattractive actor will distract ing role in High School Musical in viewers from the terrifying acts 2006. The director picked Zac Efron and murderous mind of the serial killer. However, others believe that Bundy was a persuasive individual, who was able to provoke his victims due to his attractive appearance and “charming” ways, making it easier for him to lure victims to their death. Thus they see Efron as the perfect choice to play the character. Junior Paige Clark believes that the controversy surrounding the actor choosing Photo credit: Jason Hargrove is “ridiculous”
because Ted Bundy was “good looking” and his looks “led him to continue his urges.” The director of the film, Joe Berlinger explains that Efron would have never been considered had it not been for his “amazing acting skills” and this role would change his acting position substantially. However, Berlinger says that Bundy “operated by deceiving his victims because he was good looking and charming, and who better to explore that dynamic than Efron?”
country star rises to fame LIZZIE CATRAMBONE IDR Editor
Luke Combs is now one of the most famous country music singers in the world. According to wikipedia, he had four runs as number one on the billboard for multiple weeks. However, he did not start out so successful in his early life. Before his career took off, Combs was working two mediocre jobs in North Carolina while attending college at Boone at Appalachian State University. To start his career off, Combs began singing in a band that performed gigs in many of the North Carolina college towns. Soon, however, people started loving his voice and a fan-base formed. Combs released a few EP’s that became popular so quickly that he moved to Nashville and “vowed to never work again,” according to the Rolling Stone. Combs released his hit single “Hurricane” in 2015, and the song soared to number one on the billboard for two consecutive weeks following its release. Today, Combs is one of the most popular country artists, and is now launching a world wide tour called “Beer Never Broke My Heart”. The tour is taking place in places ranging from North Little Rock, Arizona to Ipswich, Australia. The concert taking place in Hershey, Pennsylvania was just one of the 23 other venues that sold out within the first weekend that they were available. Junior Isabella Messick is one of the few who were able to score tickets to this concert, and is “really looking forward to spending the night with them (her friends) and having fun (at the concert).” The concert will take place on February 21, at the Hershey Giant Center. Because of the huge demand for the concert, ticket prices jumped to $700.00 per ticket in the arena. However, Messick was able to score tickets for lawn seats for only $60.00. Combs rose to popularity extremely quickly, taking even himself by surprise, according to wwd.com. Messick believes that people love his music because his music is “very personal and has a lot of meaning behind it. You can definitely tell the amount of time he put into it.” In 2017 Combs was rated by Sound Like Nashville as one of the “Artists to watch”. This is unsurprising, as his tours sold out so rapidly.
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New coffee spot in town: Z Vault attracts customers ELLIE EVANS News Editor
smile. Having fresh and organic ingredients to blend into smoothies seems to be a priority for the workers as well. The ambience of the shop is extremely sleek and modern.
In early December the newest coffee shop in Bel Air opened up in the building previously occupied by a bank. They have attracted many customers old and young either looking for a refreshing smoothie bowl or a pre-work order of coffee to start their day. Z Vault offers numerous options for those who may have dairy or gluten allergies for their coffees and smoothies. Being able to swap out regular milk for coconut water, oat, coconut, or almond milk is very convenient for those not so accustomed to a dairy-filled diet. Their coffee choices including americanos, espressos, cappucciPhoto credit:Ellie Evans nos, mochas, and iced lattes are enough to Their polished marble tables and satisfy any caffeine lovers needs. Being a new business, Z Vault natural lighting through big glass runs very smooth and all staff windows gives the store a classy members have a very professional city vibe. The furniture provides sense for the ingredients they are a good study space or a place to working with. Not to mention catch up with a friend over cofbeing extremely friendly to all in- fee. With a relaxing feel to it, Z coming customers, whether you Vault encapsulates the ideals of are a regular customer or a new- a smoothly run business with bee the staff seems very willing many happy customers. Z Vault’s smoothie seto answer any questions with a
lected ranges from tropical to acai with organic fruit and optional blend ins to spice up the drink. The additions include protein powders, chia seeds, aloe, and even THC-free CBD oil. You can settle for sipping on these delicious drinks or turn it into a smoothie bowl for an extra two dollars. These smoothie bowls are topped with fresh fruit, granola, coconut flakes, chia seeds, bee pollen, and honey. Not only are these bowls extremely tasty, but very aesthetically pleasing to all customers, many even decide to snap a quick picture to post on social media before indulging. The store is in a great location for locals of Bel Air to stop in and grab something. Their drive through also provides a quick way for customers on the go to get their products without having to leave the car. Overall, Z Vault is a great new business with enjoyable products and a happy staff.
Glass movie combines Unbreakable, Split, into one MADISON ZDON Sports Editor From the two previous movies Unbreakable (2000) and Split (2016) a new movie called Glass combines the two films into one. The film is about David Dunn (Bruce Willis) from Unbreakable who finds out he has superpowers by seeing visions after touching people. Kevin Wendell Crumb (James McAvoy) from Split has multiple personality disorder and kidnaps three girls. Samuel L.Jackson (Mr. Glass/Elijah Price) is very smart, but also a villain of some sorts. In Glass, James McAvoy, Bruce Willis and Samuel L. Jackson are being held in a mental hospital waiting to be on trial for crimes they’ve committed in the past, thinking that they’re superheroes while the institution tells them that they’re not and that they are all mentally ill. David and Kevin don’t believe it and fight off treatment or any type of help from the mental institution.
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Glass really synthesizes the two films seamlessly. McAvoy played the role of Kevin (who has a multiple personality disorder) who
fit perfectly because he was fluently able to switch between one person to the next in one scene. The cinematography in the film was incredible, and the live
action film had many emotions and featured plot twists throughout the movie. Junior Isabella Messick said the best scene of the movie was “the ending because the fight scene was very unexpected and had so much action the whole time and kept me on the edge of my seat.” Another good scene in the movie was the climax which was sort of confusing, but at the end it all tied to together so well and everything made sense. The movie has many unexpected scares so if you’re not a fan of scary or twisted themes then this is not the film for you. However, the suspense and thrills make it well worth the price of admission. Despite the movie’s length of two hours and the sometimes drawn out scenes, the movie is worth investing in. Overall the movie was suspenseful and had a full circle effect making the end of the film into a feel good movie that the audience was not expecting.
Bachelor update:
Where are they now? CASSIE RICKEY News Editor Aerie Luyendyk: Aerie was on Emily Maynard’s season of The Bachelorette (Season 8), His journey on that season as runner up, losing to Jef Holm’s . The couple split up in October 2012. Aerie later made an appearance on season 22 of The Bachelor. Aerie ultimately chose Becca as the winner during the show and they got engaged, however during After the Final Rose, it was revealed that Aerie broke up with Becca and got back together with runner up Lauren Burnham. Aerie then proposed to Lauren during After the Final Rose, and she accepted. The couple announced they were expecting in November of 2018, and announced that they would be having a girl in January 2019. The couple got married on January 12, 2019. Jared Haibon: Jared appeared on Kaitlyn Bristowe’s season of The Bachelorette and placed fourth. After the heartbreak from The Bachelorette he went on to appear on season 2 of Bachelor in Paradise, where he met Ashley Iaconetti. Ashley appeared on Chris Soules season of The Bachelor and went home week 6. Previously to appearing on Paradise, Jared caught Ashley’s eye when she saw him on Kaitlyn’s season, leading him to be someone she was looking forward to see on Paradise. Throughout the season Ashley pursued Jared but in the end the feelings were not reciprocated and Jared ended things with Ashley. After Paradise, the two went to events for The Bachelor and occasionally hung out together. They started to date a little in 2016 but Jared ended things because he was in a confusing place. They then both appeared on season 3 of Bachelor in Paradise. Jared started to hang out with Caila, another contestant on Paradise, however Ashley still had feelings for Jared but tried to move on and date Wells on Paradise. Neither of the twos relationships lasted on Paradise. In 2017 Ashley decided she needed to move on from Jared, but the two still remained friends. Then, in 2018, Ashley decides to go on Bachelor: Winter Games, Where she meets Kevin Wendt. The two left the season as a couple. After hearing that Ashley was going on Bachelor: Winter Games, Jared decided to appear on Bachelor in Paradise: Australia. Jared did not find anyone there he wanted to date. Then in January 2018 Jared and Ashley go on their annual Bachelor trip to St. Lucia with friends Jade and Tanner Tolbert, who also met on Paradise. At this time, Ashley is still dating Kevin, but Jared realized he had feelings for her and told Ashley about those feelings. He later kissed her at the airport. After this Ashley continues to date Kevin but they eventually break up in March 2018. Then two months after her breakup with Kevin, Ashley and Jared announced they were a couple. The two are now engaged and are planning their wedding. Kaitlyn Bristowe: Kaitlyn appeared on Chris Soules’s season of The Bachelor, where she ultimately placed third, losing to Becca Tilley and winner Whitney Bischoff. Chris and Whitney broke of their engagement in May of 2015. Kaitlyn went on to star in season 11 of The Bachelorette, where on the first night there were two bachelorettes. The guys voted at the end of the night which bachelorette they wanted to stay and Kaitlyn won. Later that season Kaitlyn allowed Nick Viall to join the season when she ran into him on a group date in New York; he asked if he could join the season. She gave him a chance and the two ended spending the night together during the show, and Kaitlyn had to tell Shawn Booth, the other contestant, what happened. In the end, Nick was the runner up leaving Shawn to propose to Kaitlyn. The two were engaged for 3 years but broke it off in November 2018. Kaitlyn has recently started dating Jason Tartick, who was the runner up on Becca’s season of The Bachelorette. Sean Lowe: Sean appeared on Emily Maynard’s season of The Bachelorette. He placed third on The Bachelorette, after turning down Emily’s overnight date card she sent him home at the following rose ceremony. Sean went on to The Bachelor on season 17, where Sean proposed to Catherine Guidici. The couple got married on January 26, 2013 and the event appeared live on TV. The couple currently has two kids, Samuel Thomas Lowe born in 2016 and Isaiah Hendrix Lowe born in 2018. The couple is currently still together.
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February 28, 2019
What students love about North Harford CHARLOTTE MCELWAIN Reporter
“I really like hanging with all the animals because I am in the Ag program.” Cole Wardle, sophomore
Things students want to know but are scared to ask
COMPILED BY Madison Zdon
What’s the difference between... Pro-Life Pro-Choice
-People who are pro-life believe that life begins at conception and that when you abort an embryo, you are killing its life. -Someone who is “pro-life” believes that the government has an obligation to preserve all human life, regardless of intent, viability, or quality-of-life concerns.
Chemotherapy
“Track is the best because I get to hang with all my friends! Oh and prom is coming up and I can get skinny and hot for prom.” Hannah Hatfield, junior
“I like working in the preschool and being with the kids.” Kayla Michaliski, senior
-People who are pro choice believe that life begins at birth, and that when you abort an embryo, you are not actually killing it because no life exists -People who are “pro-choice” believe that individuals have unlimited autonomy with respect to their own reproductive systems, as long as they don’t breach the autonomy of others.
-Chemotherapy is the process in which drugs are used to treat cancer. - It’s a treatment that works throughout the whole body to prevent the spread of the disease, chemo can be delivered into the Photo credit: Khuong Hobody orally, or by an injection in to ang, Getty a muscle, artery, or vein.
Radiation therapy
-Radiation is the use of high-energy particles or waves to destroy cancer cells. - It’s used by special equipment that sends high doses of radiation to the cancer cells or tumor. Radiation however can also affect healthy cells, but normal cells can repair themselves while cancer cells can not.
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February 28, 2019
ICE, ICE BABY
Iceland: myth vs. fact COMPILED BY Cassie Rickey
Myth: Most people think a group of Norwegian Vikings fled after war broke out and landed on a grassy island. It is believed they sent word back to Norway that they were on an icy island, leading to the name Iceland. Fact: According to National Geographic, a viking named Naddodd wanted to sail from Norway, but they were driven out westward and ended up on Iceland. The island was not inhabited at the time, so due to snow capped mountain there Naddodd named the island Snowland. Then a Swedish Viking came upon the land and it after himself ( Gardar’s Isle’) even though he knew it was called Snowland. The true name Iceland was then given by Floki Vilgerdarson who set sail to find Gardar’s Isle’. He settled there for the winter but neglected to gather food for his livestock, they starved to death that winter. The following spring was cold and drift ice trapped him on the island. This lead him to curse the island and had nothing good to say about the land covered in ice, which lead to the name Iceland.
“It’s a really good movie. I really like the singing portion, especially Let It Go. I sing along because it’s so good. It’s a great movie for kids to watch. I know my brothers like it a lot. We always watch it together.” - Hannah Hatfield, junior
“I love the sister bond, and I really like the snow and everything about the movie. I also like the love that brings everything together in the end.” - Anna Boegner, sophomore
“Fantastic movie. Great animation. Elsa is a queen and my spirit animal.” - Brennan Stewart, junior
r e v o g Flippin
’ n e z ‘Fro
COMPILED BY Lauren Seco
“I dislike it because it’s way too lovey and cute and it makes me angry; I just want to punch Olaf.” - Ted Rush, sophomore
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February 28, 2019
Ice realated health
COMPILED BY Emmie Catrambone
Raynaud’s Disease is a syndrome when blood flow is limited to some areas of the body, most commonly fingers and toes, which causes the affected areas to become white or blue in color and cold to the touch. According to mayoclinic. org, this happens because the blood vessels required to carry blood to the skin narrow, and the result is discoloration of the skin. Raynaud’s Disease is most common in women, and is common in areas where the temperatures are lower. The disease also commonly starts between the age of 15 and 30. Oftentimes, a Raynaud’s attack is triggered by cold temperatures, but in some cases, an attack can also be triggered by emotional distress. Usually, the affected area can be cured by warming the area for about 15 minutes. Blood flow should then return to the fingers or toes and normal coloration should come back to the body parts. Though the disease often does not require treatment, if the areas that lose circulation become painful or covered in blisters or sores, seek medical help immediately.
Driving on ice
COMPILED BY Lizzie Catrambone
Speed is essential to this generation, but it’s not always possible or safe in certain conditions. According to wikihow.com, the most important thing to remember when driving on ice is to remain calm. The worst thing to do in this situation is to slam on the brakes and yank the steering wheel in any direction. The best bet is to avoid using the brakes; instead, just let off of the gas completely and decelerate slowly to help prevent a skid. Keeping the steering wheel straight is also a key factor in sliding smoothly over the ice. However, passing smoothly over ice is difficult to accomplish and may not always happen. If one does skid or slide on ice, never touch the brakes unless the skidding is extremely dangerous. In a skid, one should keep steering in the direction they want to go in, and (if necessary) pump the brakes. Driving on ice can be a very scary, dangerous encounter. To stay safe, drive slowly on icy roads and keep the following distance between cars as far as possible. It is also beneficial to keep the windshield clear of any snow, dirt or salt to help see any potential ice.
Student perspectives: I.C.E
COMPILED BY Grant Scarboro
“So I think they should be around because illegal immigration isn’t good and they [illegal immigrants] can smuggle things like drugs and stuff, but I believe there should be regulations on what they [ICE] can do. I think an alternative solution might be better, but I don’t know what exactly it could be, but something that will get them [immigrants] to safety.”
- John Wu, sophomore
“I don’t think that ICE should be abolished, but I think that the entire process of dealing with illegal immigrants is a little bit chaotic in the sense that we don’t make the process very easy for people coming into America. But we blame them for trying to find ways around it, when we could just try to make the entire process easier. It could take less time, and we could help them [immigrants] out. Instead, the country’s [appears to act as it’s] borders are closed off to everyone, when our motto is kind of about freedom. I don’t think that ICE should be abolished, I just think that it should be refurbished and should deal with it [illegal immigration] in a different way because I think that the organization is needed, but I don’t think that the methods we use do what [we’d hope] they do.
- Asia Ulbright, junior
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February 28, 2019
Hope for polluted planet CASSIDY CHANDLER Features Editor Plastic takes decades or even hundreds of years to decompose. According to Sky News and a report by London’s Kew Garden, a new fungus found in Pakistan could help decompose waste faster and help solve the plastic waste problem the United States and many other countries are facing. In Islamabad, Pakistan, an experiment was conducted in a waste site. A fungus was able to break down the chemical bonds of plastic successfully. It only took two months to biodegrade a type of plastic called polyester polyurethane (PU) into smaller pieces.. The fungus is called aspergillus tubingensis and it could change the way most countries manage waste in the future. The plastic that the fungus was able to biodegrade is used in fridge insulation and synthetic leather. In order to digest its food, fungi secretes enzymes and absorbs
the dissolved material, which is organic, back into the cell. Biodegrading plastic is not the only benefit this fungus would have on our environment. Fungi can help with oil spills by feeding on the pollutants, toxic chemicals like sarin nerve gas and TNT, and even radioactive waves. Science teacher Mr. Brady Green has heard of this monumental development. “I think this is really cool. Plastic is a huge problem and it doesn’t biodegrade well. I’ve also read about a bacteria that might also help with waste and plastic management,,,” Scientists that report to the Kew’s Royal Botanical Garden say there are so many different fungi that have not even been classified yet. Fungi have provided food and medicine for centuries, and evidently, there is more that they can do. Many scientists believe there is hope for the future in discovering more fungi that will help us solve the very severe plastic crisis.
Contracting in the cold; Calculating car changes ANNA FITZHUGH Business Manager
Earth has both a magnetic north and a true north. The magnetic north is where the magnetic field on our planet’s northern hemisphere points directly down; this is where the compass points to show north. However, true north is determined by the point of the earth’s axis. True north is set on an axis and does not ever change positions, however magnetic north is not attached to this. Magnetic north is constantly moving. Science teacher Mr. Tim Dougherty says, “The magnetic north is always moving and it’s moving in this kind of pattern, however, it has been accelerating and we don’t know exactly why.” Mother Nature Network reports “It didn’t move much between 1900 and 1980 but it’s really accelerated in the past 40 years.” How Stuff Works adds that the movement is because both the earth and core rotate, however they rotate at different rates creating conventions and currents within the core, which cause a magnetic field.
When the rate of the rotation of the core changes, the magnetic position of the poles changes. The magnetic North is currently heading towards Siberia. Mother Nature Network also adds the change in the magnetic field is causing major problems for navigation of migratory animals
a n d even our aviation. Migratory animals use the magnetic field to know which direction to travel to get to their destination, however, shifting north changes the position of the magnetic field, which can cause the animals to travel to-
Why is it that the annoying little light only seems to light up the dashboard in winter? As temperatures drop at rapid
It seems that whenever the temperature drops an annoying yellow light appears on the dashboard. For senior Sara Casazza, “the tire pressure light comes on every week.” Junior Robert Duffy explains his “light is on right now.” The annoying light isn’t the car complaining Photo credit: Paul Lucas about being driven in the cold. It is reminding the driver to check rates, so does tire pressure. Acthe tire pressure. Casazza and cording to Napa Online, colder Duffy both claim, “It probably weather causes the air molecules has something to do with the in a tire to contract. Drivers may cold, the light only comes on in not notice the change in the atmosphere. However, inside of winter.” a highly pressurized tire, the contraction of air is much more significant. As a general rule of thumb the psi (pound per square inch) drops 1 for each 10 degree temperature drop, in Fahrenheit. Not only is the drop of air pressure a problem, but, as a car sits
North shifting may cause major changes in future CASSIE RICKEY News Editor
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wards the wrong destination. Additionally airports ,such as Tampa International Airport have had to rename runways so the correspond correctly with their position to magnetic north. In the long term scientists believe these shifts could eventually lead to a total pole switch. This means that our compasses would point towards the south instead of north. Scientists report that pole shifts in planets are more common than they sound, They happen about every 400,000 years, and earth has not had one in 780,000 years. A full pole reversal takes about 100,000 years. Dougherty added that scientists have always been worried that it will flip, and that “we know it’s done this many times in the past and we don’t know what would happen if it does.” He explained that because of all the technology we have, “that’s part of why we watch this thing seemingly zooming towards Siberia and wonder does that mean something’s up, is it going to do something crazy.”
with one side in the sun, and one side in the shade, the tires sitting in the sunshine will not contract as dramatically. This can lead to unbalanced tires, which causes maneuverability issues. When a tire does not have the amount of psi suggested, the weight of the car will result in a bow in the middle of the tire, putting more weight on the outside edges, causing uneven wear. Without the middle part of the tire making direct contact on the road, the tire’s ability to grip the road and channel snow, slush, and rain is hindered. Ultimately, it is important to check tire pressure throughout the colder months; to prevent uneven and possibly dangerous distribution of weight on the tires. According to Desjardins Insurance, a tire can be 30% under inflated before appearing in need of air. Incorrect tire pressure can also decrease a vehicle’s gas mileage.
February 28, 2019
Reynolds rallies for rugby CASSIDY CHANDLER Features Editor
There are not many high schoolers, girls in particular, who can say they play rugby, and at the highest competitive level. But junior, Keirsten Reynolds can. Reynolds began playing rugby after she switched from cheerleading. “When I started playing I was looking for something more active than cheering.” For Reynolds, “rugby is a way to put energy into something productive.” She felt a different kind of energy and excitement than what cheering provided her. The junior plays for the local team, North Bay Rugby, which has a youth club, a boys U19 team, a girls U19 team, and a men’s club team. She describes how much she enjoys playing and just being with the team. “I just started to love it because it is just such a big family and everyone loves each other.” Reynolds mentions how she is very close to her teammates. “Most of the girls are just awesome. We are one big family and we do everything together. We go out to eat, have family dinners, and we are just a bunch of weirdos.”Since there are not many local rugby teams, the North Bay Rugby Club has to travel very frequently. “There aren’t a lot of teams in Maryland so we go to Pennsylvania and Virginia a lot,” said Reynolds. The team Reynolds is a part of is extremely competitive and has been very successful in the recent past. “Two years ago we went to nationals in Indiana and we were D2 that year. We got first place and it was so awesome. It was insane.” She continued, “We were moved up to D1, and we got 2nd place. We lost against a Hawaiian
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Indoor team takes the track, Several students run at States HAILEY DEARES SSC Editor
Photo Supplied by: Keirsten Reynolds team so it was pretty cool to see and meet people from around the world.” Although the club does a lot of traveling, Reynolds says they sometimes just play teams from around our area. “It’s nice to have different kinds of competition. The culture is just so amazing.” They have played teams from all over the world, and were even matched up against a team from New Zealand at Nationals. A lot of rugby teams are associated with private schools, but there are plenty of public schools across the country who have teams as well. Reynolds comments, “I think it’s really upsetting that high schools don’t have rugby teams; I would love it, it would be awesome.” She believes most schools don’t offer the program “because it is a huge liability and a lot of girls or boys would get hurt and they just don’t really want to deal with that.”Obviously, rugby is an aggressive, rough, and competitive sport, but Reynolds says that there are not always as many injuries during a game as one would expect. “Injuries aren’t as common as
you would think. My first game, I was carried off in a stretcher, but that was my first game. It’s when you don’t know the right technique, that’s when you get hurt. If you practice and you know what you’re doing, and you’re in shape, that’s how you avoid it.” Reynolds says, “somebody gets hurt at least every game, which sounds like a lot, but they aren’t always super severe injuries.” She agrees that having a rugby team in high school would be a risk, but with the right precautions and rules, it would be the same as any other competitive contact sport, and incredibly fun. \ Reynolds plays football with the school’s varsity team as an alternative to rugby, but hopes that at some point, high schools will offer rugby as a sport or even a club Reynolds notes that she definitely wants to continue to play rugby in college, or even further if she can do it. Currently, she is looking at South Carolina, Clemson, and a few schools in Georgia, where she will able to play rugby at the intense and competitive collegiate level.
upcoming season.” Regarding her quick tranOn February 4, the indoor sition into vaulting, the athlete track team traveled to the Fifth said, “It was definitely very scary Regiment Armory in Baltimore and nerve-racking going into for the MPSSAA 2A Regional something [she] haven’t had Championship. This team has much practice with.” She added been the biggest team in North that her gymnastics background Harford Indoor history accord- aided with her quickness of learning the steps. Junior Will ing to coach Jimmy Cachola. 12 girls and 5 boys out of the Tikiob placed 2nd (4:41) in the team qualified for this meet, in 1600 meter run and will be head events ranging from pole vault ing to States. The 4 by 800 relay team conto hurdles to relays. The women’s team placed 6th out of 11 sisting of senior Alyssa Santoro, teams racking up 26 points, and senior Natalie Jacobs, sophothe men’s team placed 8th out more Laurel Brown, and sophomore Lina Goetz placed 3rd of 14 teams with 24.50 and qualified for States. points. “The This is Goetz’s first The first event finals year in the indoor was the 55 meter track team and hurdle prelimiwere very nerve track in naries, which wracking but over- running general. The included Jillian all a fun time.” sophomore said Ostrowske and “it was a great first Hannah Burgess, -Ostrowske experience” and that both sophomores she was “glad” that she as well as Hailey got to be apart of the team. Deares, junior. Ostrowske made it to the finals in which she Other relay teams also did well, both the women’s 4 by 200 and placed 7th (11.56 seconds). Ostrowske said the experience 4 by 400 placed 7th. These teams of making it to finals was “very consisted of Brenna Rose, Hannerve wracking but overall very nah Burgess, Jessica Gerhardt, fun” and that she was “glad” she Jillian Ostrowske as well as “got to be there with [her] team Hailey Deares, Alyssa Santoro, Natalie Jacobs, and Aliyah Goto experience it.” Pole vault was an event that mez respectively. The boys 4 by gained the team many points. 200 relay consisting of senior Vaulter Garrett Ulmer, junior Christopher Robinson, Justin placed 4th and qualified for Graves, Ryan Webb, and Garstates (10’ 3”). Darien Hauf has rett Ulmer placed 8th. The boys only been vaulting for 3 weeks 4 by 400 relay team consisting and placed 5th (7-4). Hauf said of Justin Graves, Will Tikiob, regionals was an “awesome ex- Ryan Webb and Christopher perience to set the season up Robinson placed 5th. While for outdoor track.” She add that most students were relaxing on there was “a lot more competi- their day off on Presidents’ day, tion there than at other meets some select athletes were runand it helped to see where [she] ning at the state competition in should work up to be during the Prince George’s County.
Spring sports welcomes new coaches for upcoming season TORI GAY Reporter New season, new opportunities, and new coaches. The Nest will welcome 8 new coaches for this year’s spring teams including tennis, softball, boys lacrosse, and girls lacrosse. Ms. Meagan Varga is taking on the role of varsity tennis assistant coach this year. Varga played tennis in high school for three years and she played club tennis at Penn State Berks. Varga said her favorite was playing doubles and as a coach she said she is most excited “about working with students in a differ-
ent environment.” She adds that as a teacher she obviously spends a lot of time getting to know her students in an academic setting. She thinks “it will be a neat experience working with students outside of that environment.” Varga hopes to see motivated players having fun while working towards their goals. Another one of our new coaches is Mr. Sean Conway who’s will be coaching JV tennis. Conway has coached a various number of sports over the past 20 years and played on his high school football and golf teams and intramural sports in college. “Sports have
guided my career in strength and conditioning and I look forward to bringing my knowledge and passion to the students of North Harford,” says Conway. “The most rewarding thing about coaching is helping the athletes develop on the court, in the classroom and as people.” JV boys lacrosse welcomes head coach Mr. Russell Smith. “ I have coached multiple sports at the rec level and lacrosse at the rec, club and last year as an assistant coach on varsity team. I have been coaching at least one team per season for the past 12 years and at times have been on
multiple coaching staffs during a season,” says Smith. He plans on getting the young men ready to compete at a varsity level this season and with hard work he thinks they will be able to achieve this goal. Smith graduated from NH and he says, “it is with great pride that I have this opportunity to return to my roots. I played on the lacrosse team here as a goalie and am very excited to be back on the field and sharing my passion for the sport and this school.” Another addition to our boys lacrosse team is new varsity head coach Mr. Richard Tabeling. Ta-
beling played and coached at the rec, high school, club, and collegiate level. He plans on “developing our culture of accountability and success.” He is also planning to “be laser focused on preparing and always driving towards MPSSAA 2A Lacrosse Championship play/” He has been assisting under Mr. Brady Green for the past 5 years. Tabeling finds “having the opportunity to develop young men into outstanding athletes, teammates, leaders and responsible men, that are always driven to do the right thing at all times” is the rewarding.
Cry of the Hawk
February 28, 2019
Hawks cheer reaches new heights;
Team places in Maryland semi-finals ELLIE EVANS News Editor This winter season, the members of the Hawks cheerleading team learned first-hand what the outcome of dedication and hard work can be. Gaining a place at the semi finals, third place at the UCBAC Counties and second place at the Dulaney Invitational is proof of this team’s tenacity. With girls ranging from freshmen to seniors who had yet to see what gaining these spots at competitions felt like, these successes were a result of “the motivation to succeed,” said senior and captain Cassie Scarborough. The team started the season with over 20 girls and 10 capable of competing by the second competition. Scarborough explains this “left the team at first a little defeated but a lot stronger,” by using these misfortunes as a way to gain strength left them with more motivation. Freshman Kaylyn Shew explains, “even if we had rough days everyone on the team was truly dedicated and wanted to take the win.” The success of their team was tested as they team had to overcome injuries and other mishaps as the season continued. The team’s victories were almost historic to a majority of the girls, especially the seniors. This included captain Madi Gress who expressed, “we left a huge mark on Hawks Cheer, and started a new beginning.” She and the other four seniors said they had a lot to be proud of. They admired their teammates’ “motivation and dedication to make this season the best one yet,” senior and captain Eden
Every decision leads to an outcome, good or bad. Athletic Director Mr. Tim Larrimore has had to make his fair share of hard choices. As AD, Larrimore has the task of making sure that rules are enforced when it comes to athletes who participate in sports. Missing practice is a common downfall for some high school athletes. Larrimore says “each team has their own set of rules when it comes to missing practices.” They “all must have some sort of progression of penalties for missing practice.” This can vary from not starting in a game, suspended from the team for a few days, or removed from the team completely. Another downfall of sports in high school can be bad sportsmanship. The AD explains that many students receive fouls for “bad language or technical fouls.” Larrimore also adds “if a player is ejected they must sit out a game
KS W A H TS U O T U O H S Josh Mitchell
earned his 100th win in wrestling
Swim Team
broke several school records including the 400 freestyle relay, 200 freestyle relay and 200 Medley relay
Lizzie Catrambone broke school record 200 IM
Al Cesky Athletic Scholarship Nominees
*Brooke Ciampaglio, Olivia Walton, Emmie Catrambone Lizzie Catrambone, Anna Racine, Natalie Jacobs, Caroline King, Maddie Schwarz, Lauren Palmieri , Cassidy Chandler, Brenna Duley, Marley Copes, Jess Smith, Matt King, Sam Macatee, Paul Keeney *Al Cesky NH winner
Teammates basket toss senior captain for one of her last times at the Dulaney Invitational. Photo Supplied by: Eden Ryan Ryan explained. The struggles of injuries and quitting teammates was one of the things Scarborough believes made the team so willing to fight for victory. She explains, “By the end of the season we were .2 away from qualifying for states and most of the team couldn’t even be upset because we achieved so much.” Junior Paige Clark explains dedication and willingness were huge factors contributing to their success because “everyone was so open to do everything they needed to and gave their all every practice.” All five seniors, Taylor Diem, Sierra Giordano, Gress, Scarbor-
ough, and Ryan were captains in the winter season. Freshman Tori Hanna attributed the success of the team with “the amazing captains” and their motivation towards the other girls on the team. Hanna also added, “we went to the competitions with the intent of winning.” Clark emphasized that “all season, we wanted it.” She agreed that their enthusiasm helped the team rise to the top and become very close to qualifying for States. Scarborough expressed the importance of their accomplishments by explaining, “It definitely was the best last season I could’ve asked for.”
Making the suitable call CARLY KURGAN Reporter
Page 20/Sports
and take a sportsmanship course on nfhslearn.com.” Grades can also have an impact on eligibility on a team. “There are appeals for students that are ineligible. The committee will listen to the appeal and then can decide to make the student eligible or not,” explains Larrimore.
“Take advantage of the opportunity and participate and work hard to make your high school experience the best” - Mr. Tim Larrimore
H e adds “if the committee decides not to award the student eligibility then the student can appeal Principal Carr, who can uphold the committee decision, make the student eligible or put the student on a contract where their grades will be checked weekly.”
If an athlete is no longer able to be a part of a team, Larrimore has a rules sheet that is followed to remove an athlete. After removing an athlete, the necessary steps include informing the coaches, administration, and parents. Larrimore says that following the rules sheet “keeps everyone on the same page with what has to happen when an athlete can no longer participate on a team.” Larrimore adds that removing an athlete from a team is the “last straw.” “Everyone gets one shot at high school. Take advantage of the opportunity and participate and work hard to make your high school experience the best.” He believes that working hard at something will pay off in some way and getting involved in high school activities allow for many different opportunities. Making decisions can be challenging. Each situation is solved in its own way. Mr. Larrimore has used the rules page to work with making tough decisions.
Students strive in sports; Working inside, outside of school OLIVIA BECKER Sports Editor North Harford students maintain a busy schedule, from clubs, honor societies and sports to keeping up their grades in the classroom. On top of this heavy load, students also participate in intramural, recreation and club sports. Seniors Mike Reaves and Jay Dilworth are part of a indoor recreation soccer program. Dilworth, who has been on this team for five years, says they play one game a week and it is the most fun because he “gets to play with his friends.” Reaves adds that he has “a great time playing because he gets to show off his skills and have fun while doing it.” They agree that being a member of this team makes them feel they are a part of the community. Dilworth even says that he plans to participate in club volleyball in college. In addition to playing for fun, some Hawks have been participating in recreation leagues to prepare and train for the high school season. The women’s lacrosse team participates in a Saturday and Sunday league called Full Throttle. Senior Kaleigh Sasdelli says that the indoor games gave the team a chance to warm up preseason and get used to the sport again. She adds that her favorite part of the games “was getting to play without worrying about the scoreboard.” She finishes by saying that indoor runs at a faster pace “so participating in the league has surely increased the team’s endurance and prepared them well for the season.” Another senior lacrosse player, Julia Barstow, says that the
games allowed conditioning along with friendly competition. She adds that it gave the team a “sneak peak of the players and their strengths and weaknesses.” Barstow’s favorite part of the league was playing with people she doesn’t usually play with, she enjoyed playing against her friends from opposing teams. Looking forward, the senior says the team transitions up the field well and works well together in general. Some athletes even participate year round, on club teams. Junior Hannah Smith is a defender for Looney’s Club Lacrosse Team. The eleventh grader feels that she gains a better connection with her club team than her high school team since they are playing year round. She says this connection helps with the team’s game sense on the field. She adds that club had affected her in high school games by allowing her “to execute certain skills such as shooting and dodging.” She says that “It also helps that club players have their sticks in their hands more often which translates to good stick skills on and off the field.” Smith says her favorite part of club sports is playing with a bunch of girls from different schools. Her favorite part about playing in high school is “being able to play with a bunch of girls that I’ve[Hannah] played with since first grade on up.” Smith believes that club affected her future in many ways, by meeting a lot of new friends and by helping her in her recruitment, allowing her to continue her academic and athletic career at Shenandoah University in 2021.