Devil's Advocate (Volume 36, Number 4, April 2020)

STANTON COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

DEVIL’S ADVOCATE Leaving duuuval APRIL 2020

Stanton’s Jacksonville residents have mixed feelings about their city and its vitality

By FABRIZIO GOWDY

DEVIL’S ADVOCATE Adviser: Larry Knight Editor-in-Chief: Tatyana Esquilin Managing Editor: Phong Huynh Managing Editor: Katie Stevens Layout and Design Editor: Jake Nachman Business Manager: Ysabella Rodriguez Photography Editor: Prachi Misra Digital Media Editor: Zachary Genus Public Relations Manager: Christa Assi Assoc. PR Manager: Angela Villanueva Art Director: Caroline Robbins Senior Videographer: Dylan Janson Section Editor (Features): Katelyn Colley Section Editor (Opinions): Kennedy Cottle Section Editor (Sports): Seth Abouhalkah Section Editor (Student Life): Tatum Bowen Staff Artist: Eden Kershner Staff Writers: Reem Abdelmagid, Brenna Dupries, Elise Gideon, Fabrizio Gowdy, Aulani Marley, Charlotte Rogers, Janelle Tengco Staff Photographer: Austin Mendillo Staff Photographer: Tyler Pottenburgh

Contributing Advocates The Devil’s Advocate is searching for contributing writers, photographers, artists and filmmakers. Contact Editor-in-Chief Tatyana Esquilin at tatyanaesquilin@gmail. com, Opinions Editor Kennedy Cottle at kennedybcottle@gmail.com or Digital Media Editor Zachary Genus at zacharygenus301@ gmail.com.

Ads and Sponsorships The Devil’s Advocate is dependent on our advertisers and our sponsors. When you purchase an ad with us, it reaches a diverse student population that can help your business.

We can also design your ads. Our prices are: $45 (1/4 page), $70 (1/2 page), $75 (insert), $135 (full page), $150 (back page). For an additional $5 fee, we can advertise your business on our website. Contact Business Manager Ysabella Rodriguez at rodriguezysabella16@gmail.com or our adviser, Mr. Larry Knight, at knightl1@ duvalschools.org.

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photo by Tyler Pottenburgh

Other

3 THE RECORD The names, numbers, and notions you need to know.

Student Life

4 OBSTRUCTING CREATIVITY The standardized testing culture at schools like Stanton can force students to choose between their creativity and their grades.

6 BEST OF JAX Of all places located in Jacksonville’s 875 square miles, here are the top student-voted hotspots.

Sports

8 SIGNING SENIORS As seniors prepare for college, several studentathletes commit to play their sports collegiately.

10 SPORTS IDOLS Stanton student-athletes have idols they admire and model themselves after as they continue their involvement in sports.

Arts and Entertainment

18 COMICS

Features

The latest adventures of “The Nerd Herd,” by Caroline Robbins, and “Mane Event,” by Eden Kershner.

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LEAVING DUUUVAL

KEEPING IN TUNE

A large and diverse city, Jacksonville is the cherished hometown of some students, while many others are itching to leave.

Student artists are finding new and creative ways to engage in the music industry.

Photography

16 DUVAL ‘TIL WE DIE Photography highlighting life in Duval County from the heart of Downtown.

24 PERSPECTIVE PHOTOGRAPHY Photos taken at specific angles to help you look at things in a different way.

Opinions

21 EDITORIAL The Editorial Board’s take on the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.

22 OPINIONS Columns on teenage love, the connotation of words, the demolition of The Jacksonville Landing, and the consequences of the Jaguars’ extra game in London in 2020.

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The Record

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photos retrieved from Google Images

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STUDENT LIFE Schools are seen as a hindrance to creativity because of the lack of funding for the arts and the rigid styles of learning.

OBSTRUCTI CREATIVIT iiiiiStanton College Preparatory School gains much of its prestige from students’ aboveaverage test scores, making testing culture an integral part of its environment. Amidst preparing for these tests, students must also work to maintain their grade point average (GPA) while keeping up with the academic rigor of high school, which may force students to sacrifice their creativity for the sake of their grades. iiiii“Stanton overall is solely academic,” said

senior Yoe Moo. “It’s very competitive. You can see artwork in the hallways that shows creativity, but at the same time, it’s all about academics and getting into the college of your dreams.” iiiiiStandardized tests and GPA play a large role in getting accepted to the college of a student’s choice. Some students feel this standardization can leave little space for creativity. Certain skills can create a mindset where there is only one way to

solve a problem. This promotes an inflexible way of thinking that can limit students’ cognitive abilities. iiiii“While some students can strive with standardization, not all are able to,” said sophomore Ansley Mercer. “When students are taught more freely, teachers can adapt to an individual’s needs. Through a more freely taught class, students would be able to more efficiently absorb the material.” iiiiiHowever, while some students struggle

illustrations by Eden Kershner

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VOL. XXXVI, NO. 4

ING TY

By REEM ABDELMAGID, Staff Writer

art by Summer Bridge students edited by Austin Mendillo

with standardization, others see it as an organized way of education that benefits them instead of limiting them. iiiii“Standardization provides a very clear framework for progress and development, and more importantly, it holds students accountable for their development,” said senior William McCoy. iiiiiStandardized tests grade students based solely on academic intelligence instead of including other skills. Dr. Robert Sturnberg, a professor at Cornell University was quoted in a 2015 article on Hamilton College’s website saying these tests are “often trivial with little use outside an academic setting,” and that they “don’t find the people who are going to change the world.” Students often feel the standardization of curriculum in favor of these tests results in a lack of growth in creativity and inspires disillusionment with the school system. iiiii“The extensive workload can often hinder any creativity outside of school work,” said Mercer. “I often do not have the time I wish I had to independently write and create. I find

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myself devoting the majority of my time to schoolwork and, in turn, I do not get to do as much creative projects for fun and growth.” iiiiiAs standardized testing becomes a more common way to determine an individual’s growth and learning potential in the United States, many high school students face a “creative crisis.” According to a study conducted in 2011 by Dr. Kyung Hee Kim, a professor of education at the College of William and Mary, more than 85 percent of children from kindergarten to 12th grade scored lower on the Torrance Test of Creative Thinking (TTCT) than the average child in 1984. Current educational systems seem to be struggling to provide the necessary environments and materials that allow students to flourish as they once did. iiiiiStanton is unique in its intense focus on academic rigor, but for students who feel this kind of environment may limit their creativity, there are schools such as Douglas Anderson that focus solely on the arts. Some classes, such as dance, cinematic arts, and orchestra, provide students with an opportunity to be innovative while not suppressing their academic strengths. iiiii“The administration is so heavily involved in each arts area and encourages students on a daily basis to work towards their passions,” said freshman Jacob Skidmore. “Even academic teachers respect and acknowledge the creativity of students and often present opportunities to really let their skills shine in class.” iiiiiPublic school systems help adhere to students’ creativity by providing more artistically based education through schools like Douglas Anderson. iiiiiAlthough Stanton is an academic magnet with a heavy workload, the International Baccalaureate program works to include creativity in the requirements for a diploma.

There are four programs within IB that do this: the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme, the Diploma Programme, and the Career Programme. Even though there are students who feel bogged down by work, educational systems are making an effort to promote well-rounded students that have more than just intelligence to include in their college resumes. iiiii“IB encourages, but also requires, creativity,” said Mr. Benjamin Nasrallah, Stanton’s IB coordinator. “The CAS program encourages students to explore their creative energies and expand on the things they’re doing and learning through reflection and deliberate practice.” iiiiiWhile schools are not always perceived to play a leading role in promoting a student’s creative process, the sacrifices they make

for students are not overlooked. In 2018, the Duval County School Board made $62 million in cuts in order to stay below their $1.7 billion budget, which resulted in district changes.

While the Board reduced staff, reverted back to seven-periods a day, and lost 50 districtlevel positions, it managed to save art, music, and physical education classes from budget cuts. iiiiiAs the academic climate of schools increases in rigor, students at schools such as Stanton are expected to reach higher standards year after year. Some students are able to develop creativity by taking classes in the arts or participating in extracurriculars, but often academics still take precedence.

Structured education systems in America may be designed to help students succeed in life, but by not accommodating to their imaginations, generations of students could lose their drive for creativity.

infographic by Tatum Bowen

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VOL. XXXVI, NO. 4

best of Jax

Jacksonville is 875 square miles wide with a variety of special places, but here are the top voted student hotspots.

By BRENNA DUPRIES, Staff Writer photos by Austin Mendillo

Indoor Attraction Top Golf

iiiiiTopgolf has been a staple of active entertainment in Jacksonville since its opening in late 2016. The company, which was started in the United Kingdom by the Jolliffe brothers in 2000, has now expanded internationally. The company began expansion into the US in 2005 and has now opened 28 locations across the country and many more worldwide. iiiiiWhen I got to Topgolf there was a 45-minute wait, much to my dismay, but there are activities such as pool and table shuffleboard that kept me occupied until I could go to my bay. Upon arrival at the bay, we were attended to by our server rather quickly and could begin our time almost immediately. iiiiiFor the most part, the atmosphere was great, even if a player performed poorly, it did not feel as though judgement was being passed. There was a customer who became sick in the bay next to us but the staff worked quickly and efficiently to clean everything and make sure we were not disturbed significantly. iiiiiOverall, despite the wait, Topgolf offers fun entertainment for the good, the bad, and the in between.

Outdoor Attraction Jacksonville Beach

iiiiiJacksonville Beach became a center for entertainment in the 1910s. Since the so-called “boardwalk era,” the beaches have been filled with dance pavilions, shooting galleries, and numerous restaurants which accompany the crowd-attracting ocean.

Following the initial cultivation of Jacksonville Beach, the area has risen to the community that is loved by so many today. iiiiiJacksonville Beach is a great place to hang out with friends, there are a multitude of shops and activities that will keep you busy all day long. The beach itself is average, the sand is not necessarily soft but you are not cutting your feet either. A downside to Jacksonville Beach is how crowded it is and the large amount of traffic, which can take away from your enjoyment of the area. iiiiiHowever, if you do not mind the traffic and crowds, Jacksonville Beach is the perfect place to spend a day with friends or by yourself.

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Restaurant Chick-fil-A

iiiiiChick-fil-a was founded in the 1940s and, since then, it has grown to generate the most revenue per restaurant of any fast food chain. In the past, Chick-fil-a has received some backlash for supporting charities that took anti-LGBTQ stances, but more recently they have agreed to give to charities that do not hold such anti-LGBTQ stances. iiiiiDespite the controversy, the service at Chick-fil-a was impeccable. Even when they make a mistake, they do everything they can to fix what went wrong. For instance, they forgot to give me my drink when I ordered, but as soon as my food came out, an employee saw that I did not have a drink and brought one immediately. iiiiiConsidering that Chick-fil-a is a fast food chain, the food is above average. Everything was cooked and delivered just as I ordered. While I was attempting to enjoy my food, however, I was constantly distracted by the noise and the lack of etiquette shown by my fellow patrons. iiiiiAlthough the service may be great and the food delicious, not much is different about the atmosphere compared to similar fast food restaurants.

Homework Spot UNF Library

iiiiiThe library on the University of North Florida’s campus officially opened in 1980 and was renamed the Thomas G. Carpenter Library in 1981. The library currently holds over 500,000 physical books and over 800,000 electronic books making it a great source for all your research needs. iiiiiThe Carpenter Library has a wide variety of seating and amenities that are available, free of charge not only to UNF students, but also civilians. There are booths with outlets, a couch for television viewing, secluded offices with dividers on three sides, and high top tables and chairs with laptops. Additionally, the establishment offers a multitude of resources that can be utilized by anyone who visits, making it a great spot to research topics for International Baccalaureate (IB) requirements such as extended essays and internal assessments. iiiiiThe entire time that I was in the library, everything remained relatively quiet and peaceful as a handful of students worked on a wide variety of things. I would definitely recommend checking the Carpenter Library out if you need a quiet place to do homework or research for papers.

Dessert

Cold Stone Creamery

iiiiiCold Stone Creamery was founded in 1988 by Donald and Susan Sutherland in an attempt to create the perfect combination of soft serve and hard-packed ice cream. Cold Stone Creamery first opened in Jacksonville over 25 years ago and has been a local icon for desserts ever since. People from all over Jacksonville visit Cold Stone Creamery to enjoy the ice cream, making it a favorite sweet spot in Jacksonville. iiiiiThere are a few locations in Jacksonville but I visited the Cold Stone Creamery on Beach Boulevard. The location was great, as was the service. There was no wait when I arrived and they made my order perfectly. The ice cream was a creamy delight. The only issue was the atmosphere: Cold Stone is a popular place and there were quite a few people making the small location rather cramped. iiiiiAlthough I would not recommend hanging out inside Cold Stone on a busy day, the ice cream and service were both great.

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SPORTS

SIGNING SENIORS Some student-athletes choose to further their athletic careers by committing to play their respective sport in college.

By CHARLOTTE ROGERS, Staff Writer As the time on the scoreboard approached zero, student-athlete Leena Vashi knows her senior season of girls’ varsity soccer is coming to a close.

However, it is not the end of her soccer career.

Vashi is one of several Stanton College Preparatory School students who solidified their futures as student-athletes by signing to play their respective sports in college.

Recruitment to play a collegiate sport is a viable alternative to the traditional college application process, and it gives student-athletes a better chance of getting into college for something they excel in. Sufficiently talented student-athletes are recruited by college representatives who guarantee them an athletic scholarship and position on a Division I, II, or III team. On Feb. 5, 2020, studentathletes around the world participated in National Signing Day, where they committed to playing at their future colleges.

Stanton students in the class of 2020 officially committed to various colleges for a range of sports, including basketball, soccer, swimming, volleyball, and bowling. Signing to play a sport collegiately is a goal some student-athletes have been chasing for years. These athletes have devoted hours upon hours to practicing and perfecting their skills in order to achieve this feat.

“I was dead set on bowling in college,” said Stanton senior and bowler Emily Ziegler, who signed to Midland University in Fremont, Neb. “The amount of time you have to spend studying the game is insane — there is so much more to bowling than meets the eye.”

For Ziegler, who has been bowling for over three years, choosing to sign with Midland University was the obvious choice.

“Midland was my first choice,” said Ziegler. “I had a couple of other schools wanting to recruit me but once I visited Midland, every other school seemed to fall short.”

Stanton alumni David Wrenn, who graduated in 2019, went through a similar experience when committing to Stetson University for cheerleading.

“Stetson was my first choice for cheerleading because it was the best fit for me,” said Wrenn. “I have actually developed more skills and enhanced my strength since I’ve been at Stetson.”

While many student-athletes end up playing at colleges they love, the recruitment process can be difficult. For Annelisa O’Neal, a former Stanton student who now plays volleyball at John Hopkins University, signing was full of uncertainty.

“There was a lot of confusion, so I wasn’t sure until the last minute that I had a spot on the team,”

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said O’Neal. “I was being recruited in the midst of a coaching switch. Eventually, I was given the okay to apply with the intent to join the team — that was probably the best phone call of my life so far.”

When determining her own path in college, O’Neal did not immediately know if playing a sport collegiately would be harmful to her academics.

“I was full of concerns when deciding to commit, and even after I sent in my application to Hopkins, I had doubts,” said O’Neal. “I was worried that the environment of playing sports at a top tier academic university would turn into a pressure cooker for me.”

However, O’Neal, like many other college athletes, found that playing a sport actually supplemented her performance in school. Many universities make an effort to aid their studentathletes outside of their sport. Alex King, a Stanton alumni and soccer player at Florida International University in Miami, Fla., feels that her college has done a lot to help her academically.

“I actually think that playing a collegiate sport has helped my academics,” said King. “FIU provides

[tools] to make sure I am performing well in and out of the classroom. They always say we are a student before an athlete.”

Signing to play a sport after high school is not always a student-athletes’ original plan. Some students who eventually chose to play a sport collegiately previously never considered it as an option.

“I didn’t really know I wanted to play college soccer for sure until senior year,” said King. “I was talking to a few colleges and got some offers but I didn’t want to make a decision too early. I had no idea what FIU was, but now that I’m here I love the school so much.”

The recruitment process is not always a student’s first choice. However, signing to play a sport collegiately can extend a student-athelete’s time with the sport they love, and provide academic benefits in college. Whether it is for bowling, volleyball, or some other athletic pursuit, students from Stanton are continuing to practice their sport into and throughout college.

photo by Freddy Farah

Four Stanton seniors, (from left), Leena Vashi, Camille Prosswimmer, Imani Ashman, and Breckin Armes-Johns participate in signing day.

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SPORTS

LEENA VASHI

Since the age of five, Leena Vashi, a senior at Stanton College Preparatory School, has dedicated her time and effort to the sport of soccer. Recently, Vashi signed to play soccer collegiately at New York University.

“NYU was always on my radar since I was young,” said Vashi. “The school’s name brought interest to me, but I never truly looked into them until they wanted to pursue me for soccer.”

Vashi’s interest in soccer manifests outside of Stanton as well. She plays on a club team at Jacksonville Armada FC, of which she is the captain. Her club team has traveled to various places, providing her the opportunity to catch NYU’s attention.

“Our team goes to showcases all around and college coaches are spectators at all of our games,” said Vashi. “NYU reached out to me after one of these tournaments and said how they would love to see me play more.”

Vashi was not always sure that playing soccer collegiately was something she wanted.

“I was always uncertain of my decision to play college ball,” said Vashi. “Early into my junior year, however, I realized that I was in no position to give up a sport I loved so much.”

After Vashi visited NYU on several occasions, her decision to play soccer in college was solidified.

“When I went on my unofficial and official athletic visits, I got that ‘this is my school’ feeling,” said Vashi. “This was unmatched by all the other places I visited.”

Vashi looks forward to next year and the soccer seasons to come at NYU.

EMILY ZIEGLER

photo by Fabrizio Gowdy

Senior Emily Ziegler started bowling in her freshman year at Stanton. Despite playing what some may view as an unconventional sport, Ziegler was recruited for bowling to Midland University in Fremont, Neb. “People are constantly telling me that bowling isn’t a sport, but there is so much more to it than meets the eye,” said Ziegler. “The smallest details can make a huge difference.”

Ziegler has bowled for the past three years. She caught the eye of the Midland bowling coach while attending tournaments around the country.

“I went to a national tournament called Junior Gold, where they always have a lot of college recruiters because it’s the only way to get scouted,” said Ziegler.

“At first I wasn’t interested in going to Midland, but once I talked to the coach I knew it was the place for me.”

After meeting the Midland bowling coach and touring the school, Ziegler knew that it was the right college for her to pursue her sport at. However, she acknowledges that there are some concerns with taking this path.

“All of the schools that offer bowling are small, private colleges and don’t offer as many majors as big universities,” said Ziegler. “Also, Midland is up north so it’s going to be cold all the time, and I’m not used to that.”

Despite the distance, the cold, and the new environment, Ziegler looks forward to her future as a Midland student-athlete. photo by Sandra Ziegler

COLBY CUMMINGS

photo by Fabrizio Gowdy

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Senior Colby Cummings is another student from Stanton who signed to play a sport collegiately. Cummings has played basketball since he was five, and held the position of captain of Stanton’s Boys varsity basketball team through junior and senior year.

Now, he is committed to play basketball for Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, N.C. “Belmont was the first school to offer [a spot] to me,” said Cummings. “They had a place in my heart because they were the first to believe in me, and after my visit I just fell in love.”

Recruitment was not always Cumming’s plan for college, and he did not expect to attend Belmont.

“It definitely was not my first choice going into senior year,” said Cummings. “I thought I’d probably just go to a state school and try to walk on.”

Now, however, Cummings is excited for his career at Belmont. Despite the love he feels for the school, though, going to a new college elicits concerns.

“My concern is mostly about going somewhere where no one else is,” said Cummings. “I have to make a lot of new friends.”

The decision to recruit with Belmont has helped alleviate that worry for Cummings, as he knows that he will become close with his new team.

“Being on a team with a bunch of new people pretty much forces you to make friends,” said Cummings. “I am excited to see what the future holds.”

While Cummings may not have known at first where he wanted to go, he is now exuberant about his recruitment to Belmont Abbey College.

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SPORTS IDOLS

Stanton athletes have idols they admire and model themselves after as they continue their involvement in sports.

By

By JANELLE TENGCO, Staff Writer

illustration by Prachi Misra

iiiiiThe elevated popularity of certain sports prodigies is driven by fans and spectators who view them in an idolizing light. From watching their games on television to donning their merchandise, fans gravitate toward these players due to an admiration for their skills, personalities, or lifestyles.

The character of such individuals has caused fans worldwide, as well as Stanton College Preparatory School’s student-athletes, to dub them “sports idols,” players who are regarded with high esteem for their skills and competitive nature. iiiiiPlayers identified as “idols” often display appealing personality characteristics or abilities that attract the interest of many student-athletes.

These desirable traits and skills can affect an athlete’s perception of a respected figure, creating an idealized image. iiiiiSophomore Leonard Malobay, a member of Stanton’s swim team, admires Filipino-American youth swimmer, Clark Kent Apuada. Apuada set a new record for the 100-meter butterfly race in the Far Western Long Course Championship in 2018, beating the time of former American Olympic swimmer, Michael Phelps, by one second. iiiii“He works really hard to beat the records of people older than him,” said Malobay. “Swimming is very static — people believe there is a set

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technique to swim. [Swimming idols are athletes who] should look for innovations in swimming. They should not just make themselves faster through their physicality, but also through their techniques.” iiiiiIn addition to their skills, idolized players are commended for having a significant impact on their fans. The influence of these sports celebrities can leave a lasting impression on student-athletes and become a factor for shaping their performance during a game. iiiii“The person I admire the most is Michael Jordan,” said junior Simeon Womack, a point guard on Stanton’s varsity boys basketball team. “His mindset inspired me. He always wanted to win, he

“Michael jordan always wanted to win and he always played his hardest. That inspires me to play my hardest.”

really cared for his team, and he always played his hardest every time. That inspires me to play my hardest every time.” iiiiiThe discovery of such revered figures can be influenced by outside sources. These icons are introduced to athletes through mainstream media or through their peers who might have a shared interest in a particular sport. iiiiiFreshman Elijah Coulanges, a midfielder on the school’s boys lacrosse team, was introduced to American lacrosse player, Paul Rabil, by his friends before joining the sport. Coulanges used streaming platforms, such as YouTube, to refine his skills by observing the professional. iiiii“In seventh grade, a lot of my friends started playing [lacrosse] and I would watch them play,” said Coulanges. “One of my friends told me that if I wanted to play, I should watch Paul Rabil. He has a lot of videos on YouTube to help beginners and, whenever I had free time, I would watch them to learn how to improve.” iiiiiStudent-athletes, before playing their respective sports at Stanton, may have had idols they watched and respected. Sophomore Victoria Quintero, a forward and midfielder on Stanton’s varsity girls soccer team, admires United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) soccer player, Alex

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“Having idols that you look up to can help you learn not only athletic values, but how you should act as a person outside of the sport.”

Morgan. Morgan’s time as a forward on the national team has helped shape Quintero as a player from an early age. iiiii“I admire Morgan because I grew up watching her,” said Quintero. “Having idols, [like her], that you look up to can help you learn not only [athletic] values within a game, but how you should act as a person outside of the sport.” iiiiiHaving sports idols is not limited to student-athletes; it can extend to coaches as well. Stanton’s coaches have identified athletes they have respected from the time they were a player to their current occupation of mentoring varsity teams. iiiiiMs. Tangela Ennis, the head coach of Stanton’s varsity girls volleyball team, began playing volleyball in high school before pursuing it at the collegiate level. She first admired American volleyball player and coach, Karch Kiraly, before shifting her focus to Olympic gold medalists, Kerri Walsh Jennings and Misty May-Treanor. These players, along with many others, have defined her work ethic as a coach through the qualities they exemplify. iiiii“I admired their dedication to the sport and their passion to get their job done and help their team win,” said Coach Ennis. “The passion that keeps you going and the competitiveness are the [values] that I depend on the most in my coaching.” iiiiiAn athlete’s preference for an idol is not restricted to only figures popularized by the media, but can include individuals who are not necessarily involved in sports and have made a meaningful impact on their lives. Family members, community leaders, or friends with desirable characteristics are possible icons to athletes. iiiii“My biggest role model is my mom because she is strong, athletic, and fast,” said senior Connor Kuhn, who is a member of Stanton’s varsity girls basketball, volleyball, and flag football teams. “She inspires me every day to go to practice, work hard, and do my best. She taught me the importance of commitment and showing up to a sport, even when you don’t want to.” iiiiiUnlike athletes who have family members, peers, and celebrities they regard with appreciation, there are students who do not idolize a specific individual. Senior John Wright Stanly, a member of Stanton’s cross country and track teams, finds that the bonds forged among his teammates and “physical exertion” of the sport will suffice as motivation to continue his involvement. iiiii“There are great teammates and alumni that I look up to,” said Stanly. “We also have a great team and a great environment, so a lot of my teammates are sources of inspiration.” iiiiiThe concept of sports idols is universal across the athletic activities students participate in. Although they are not necessary for involvement in a sport, these influential icons can become a driving force of inspiration and motivation for players continuing their pastime. Sports idols ranging from professional players to family members leave an immeasurable impact on aspiring student-athletes, who have the potential to someday be one themselves.

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illustration by Caroline Robbins

REMEMBERING KOBE

By JANELLE TENGCO, Staff Writer iiiiiOn Jan. 26, 2020, five-time National Basketball Association (NBA) championship winner and two-time Olympic gold medalist, Kobe Bean Bryant, passed away in a fatal helicopter accident. Along with the basketball player, the Bryant family lost their second eldest daughter, Gianna Bryant. The nine victims of the crash included John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli, Sarah Chester, Payton Chester, Christina Mauser, and helicopter pilot Ara Zobayan. Bryant started his 20-year career in the NBA as a shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. He would soon become an icon for aspiring basketball players and the pride of his team and city. iiiiiThe sudden loss of the basketball legend resulted in a shock that resonated with Stanton College Preparatory School’s sports fans and was met with disbelief by the school’s basketball players. This initial reaction gradually shifted into one of acceptance of Bryant’s passing and a desire to continue his legacy with the passion the school’s players have for basketball. iiiii“I will continue Kobe’s legacy and my passion for basketball by never losing the love for the game,” said senior Sahith Valluri, a power forward on Stanton’s varsity boys basketball team. “When I first heard about Kobe passing, I was so shocked. It still feels unreal to me today and whenever I think about it, I get reminded of all the memories I have of watching him master the game.” iiiiiBryant began his NBA career when he graduated from high school in 1996. He spent his first years with the Lakers playing alongside his teammate, Shaquille O’ Neal. His success with the Lakers continued to grow as the team scored their 16th winning title in the 2010 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. This established Bryant’s status and versatility as the Lakers’ main shooting guard who was pivotal to their game victories. In 2016, he retired from professionally playing for the Lakers. iiiiiIn retirement, Bryant often gravitated back to the courts through his charity work.

He hosted basketball camps in a partnership with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and participated in the NBA Cares program to build courts for the disadvantaged. His philanthropic work was also internationally expanded when he founded the Kobe Bryant China Fund to sponsor sports and academic programs to aid Chinese and American children in 2009. iiiiiBryant became an epitome of persistence and generosity as he continued to uphold his passion for the sport while offering his support to aid communities. On and off the court, he displayed his drive for playing basketball and shared his spirit with others.

His legacy is remembered by many and, with the help of his fans and rising basketball players, will be known to future generations.

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LEAVING DUUUVAL r

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By FABRIZIO GOWDY , Staff Writer

From die-hard Duval lovers to those hoping to leave, Stanton’s Jacksonville residents have mixed feelings about their city and the vitality within it.

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FEATURES iiiiiUnlike neighborhood schools, Stanton College Preparatory School is a magnet high school, drawing students from all across Jacksonville’s 875 square miles. Cut in half by the snaking waterways of the St. Johns River, sun-soaked Jacksonville is the largest city by area in the contiguous United States. From the rural Westside, to the historic Urban Core, and the rapidly developing suburbs on the Southside, the vast “Bold New City of the South” can feel like several different cities in one. iiiiiWith the exception of the Beaches and Baldwin, which maintained partial autonomy, the city and county governments merged after Duval County residents voted in favor of consolidation in a 1968 referendum. This unusual setting has caused Stanton students to develop polarized opinions; some love Jacksonville and its unique attributes, while others feel the city has nothing to offer and cannot wait to leave. iiiii“It is amazing that the biggest city in the continental U.S. has nothing to do anywhere,” said sophomore Jack Hernandez. iiiiiThis attitude is common at Stanton, where many students feel Jacksonville lacks attractions and destinations. Unlike nearby Savannah, Ga. and Charleston S.C., which have vibrant downtowns that serve as the city core, Jacksonville’s inner city is notoriously underdeveloped. iiiiiWith just 5,200 inhabitants and few destinations, Downtown Jacksonville’s struggles are punctuated by an abundance of vacant buildings, such as the towering Berkman Plaza II high-rise, an unfinished building that has occupied riverfront property and been emblematic of the city’s struggles since construction was permanently halted in 2007. iiiiiAccording to Lori Boyer, CEO of Jacksonville’s Downtown Investment Authority, the historic central business district was once a bustling area home to large department stores until the 1970s.

She attributes its demise to the rise of suburban outlet malls like the St. Johns Town Center. iiiii“The rise of suburban shopping centers started with the Regency Square Mall and Orange Park Mall, and you saw the death of the Downtown department stores,” said Mrs. Boyer. iiiiiNestled in the heart of Jacksonville’s sprawling suburbia, the Town Center has what modern

infographic by Katelyn Colley

Downtown Jacksonville lacks as an easily walkable, flourishing business locale with 170 commercial establishments, from restaurants and clothing outlets to tech stores. iiiii“It is a central location and has plenty of food and shopping options so everyone can find their niche,” said 2019 Stanton graduate Caitlin Weigert. iiiiiStanton students widely see the Town Center as more appealing than Downtown. A February 2020 Devil’s Advocate poll of 357 Stanton students found 91 percent spend time with friends at the Town Center more often than in Downtown. Only 37 percent had been Downtown in the past month. iiiii“Downtown is gross,” said senior Maria Dyro.

“Our downtown isn’t like other cities, where there are cool coffee shops and places to go. It’s lame.” iiiiiThis preference for the Town Center could be explained by the fact that the average Stanton student is more likely than the average Jacksonville resident to live on the Southside, where the Town Center is located. In a February 2020 Devil’s Advocate survey, 45 percent of students reported living on the Southside, whereas only 28 percent of Jacksonville residents are Southsiders, according to United States Census Bureau data. iiiiiStanton’s population is especially skewed toward four zip codes on the far Southside that

photo by Tyler Pottenburgh

Recreational boating and fishing competitions are a highlight for residents who take advantage of the iconic St. Johns River.

14 | devilsadvocatepaper.com

have seen some of the most extensive suburban sprawl in the past decade. Living in these distant suburbs, far from the city’s center, can make it difficult for students to interact with the Urban Core, creating the impression that Jacksonville is entirely suburbanized and boring. iiiii“I don’t like how everything is far away,” said junior Antonio Duford, who eventually wishes to live in a more urban city. “If I want to go somewhere, it’s a 30-minute drive.” iiiiiLong commutes are a reality for residents of Jacksonville, one of the most car-dependent metropolitan areas in the country according to Walk Score, a walkability index for American cities. Walk Score routinely ranks Jacksonville as one of the least pedestrian-friendly cities in America, and in 2011, gave it the dubious honor of being America’s least walkable city. iiiii“Living in Cincinnati, I could easily walk places.

Jacksonville is very spread out, so it’s hard to get where you’re going,” said senior Aidan Mitchell, who hopes to eventually live in New York, N.Y. iiiiiDespite the issues caused by consolidation, there are plenty of Stanton students who are fond of their hometown and have no intention of leaving.

These students embrace Jacksonville’s character and cozy, southern atmosphere. iiiii“I love this city,” said sophomore and lifelong Jacksonville resident Collin Davis. “It has the feel of a small big town. It’s the largest city in the country, and yet it feels like a small town.” iiiiiJacksonville’s extensive water access is among its most commonly cited positive attributes, with its beaches being a favorite of locals and tourists. iiiii“Having a coastline provides us with a great place to cool down during the hot Florida summers,” said junior Henry Hunter. “If I was living without a beach, I would definitely miss it.” iiiiiIn addition to Duval County’s 15 miles of coastline, inland Jacksonville boasts 116 square miles of water, an area larger than the city of Tampa, Fla. The St. Johns River accounts for much of this area and provides residents with recreational opportunities and pleasant scenery. iiiii“My friends and I were always near the water.

We would go to the beach, pools, and spend time on the river,” said 2013 Stanton graduate and Jacksonville native Leslie Gray. “One of our favorite restaurants was on Goodby’s Creek, and we’d eat with a view of the river.”

VOL. XXXVI, NO. 4

iiiiiUnlike Jacksonville natives, students who have lived in other cities have experiences that provide a useful comparison. Home to two military bases and thousands of military families, Jacksonville has many students who have had to move frequently as a result of their parents’ military service. iiiiiCorbin Gustafson attended Stanton last year as a freshman and currently lives on a United States Navy base near Naples, Italy. Gustafson has lived in Illinois, Virginia, Louisiana, Guam, and Iceland due to his parents’ involvement with the Navy. iiiii“I have lived on three continents and in four different countries, and I would still choose to move back to Jacksonville any day,” said Gustafson. “It has all the things you would want in a big city, but is spread out enough that it feels like home.” iiiiiLike Gustafson, sophomore Gavin Grady has a father in the Navy and has lived in Virginia, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and Hawaii. He eventually wishes to move back to Virginia, but he notes the

Landing and old City Hall Annex building have already been demolished as city leaders try to draw businesses downtown. iiiii“We are working on a food and beverage enhancement incentive package for people who want to convert older vacant buildings into establishments that would serve residents and create on-street vibrancy,” says Mrs. Boyer, who says there has been an encouraging surge in Downtown residents recently. iiiiiIn the meantime, Stanton students seeking to escape the blandness and artificiality of the suburbs prefer visiting Riverside, San Marco, and Springfield. With small businesses, historic landmarks, riverfront views, and public parks, these neighborhoods offer a more “organic” alternative to generic suburban shopping malls. iiiiiStanton class of 1999 graduate Bill Hoff, believes suburbanites are deprived of certain experiences that come with living in Downtown.

teems with potential. Home to the third largest port in Florida and three railroad companies, the city is a major transportation hub. The financial services industry is particularly prominent, with Fidelity National Information Services and Vystar Credit Union headquartered in Jacksonville. The city’s hospitals, including Wolfson Children’s Hospital and Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, provide opportunities for aspiring doctors and nurses. iiiii“As a registered nurse, there are many options for inpatient and outpatient nursing as I grow my career,” said Mrs. Gray, who returned to Jacksonville after attending the University of Florida. “My husband was also eager to move here because he recognized that there were ample opportunities for him in the finance world.” iiiiiJacksonville is also an inexpensive city to live in, with the median home price being $180,000. This improves the standard of living for recent college graduates, who tend to have lower incomes.

“I have lived On three continents and IN four countries, and would still choose to move back to Jacksonville any day.”

Jacksonville Jaguars as a bright spot for the city. iiiii“Jacksonville is the only city I’ve lived in with an NFL team,” said Grady. iiiiiThe fact that Jacksonville has a National Football League franchise is somewhat of a miracle. When the league unexpectedly awarded the city a team in 1993, Jacksonville became the second smallest NFL city in terms of population.

Despite its recent lack of success, the team remains a point of pride for Stanton students; spirit weeks frequently feature a “Duval Day,” where students are encouraged to wear their Jags gear. iiiii“Without the Jags, the city would be nothing,” said freshman Gabe Stanley. “They represent a fighting spirit and motivate me to work hard.” iiiiiThe stadium district where the Jaguars play and the broader Urban Core area could soon see upgrades as the city attempts to rejuvenate the area. Jaguars’ owner Shahid Khan has helped set in motion plans to tear down the Hart Bridge Expressway to make way for an entertainment district near TIAA Bank Field. The Jacksonville

iiiii“There are not a lot of unique experiences in the suburbs. There’s not a lot of history, it’s not walkable, and there are not a lot of opportunities to organically form a community,” said Hoff. “If you grow up on that side of town, then your perception of the city is going to be skewed.” iiiiiIn time, students looking for a fun place to hang out on weekends will soon become alumni looking for jobs. Everyone will have to decide if they want to leave Jacksonville or stay and pursue a career here. A few Stanton alumni note the lack of job opportunities within the city. iiiiiStanton alumni Wilhem Willie, a senior at the University of Southern California who is set to move to San Francisco, Ca., says a career as a technologist in Jacksonville is unfeasible. iiiii“I’m pursuing a career in software engineering and technology entrepreneurship,” said Willie.

“Jacksonville has almost zero opportunities for that. All of the money, job opportunities, and career growth is centered in big cities.” iiiiiFor other industries, however, Jacksonville

iiiii“Having stayed in such an affordable city has brought tangible benefits,” said 2007 Stanton graduate Blair Brown. “I was able to buy a condo at the beach at age 24 and a house in San Marco at age 29, which likely would not have been possible in a city with a higher cost of living.” iiiiiClass of 2013 Stanton graduate Alex Morgante, who recently moved to Charlotte, N.C., has advice for students currently weighing their options. iiiii“You are capable of living and thriving wherever you want to be,” said Ms. Morgante. “Your friends and family will still be your friends and family if you don’t see them every week. Go where you want.” iiiiiFor those with strong opinions of the city, the decision will be easy; for others, it will involve much deliberation. It is a choice that is driven by more profound considerations than the potentially shallow factors that seem important while in high school. Affordability and career options often shape the decision. For some, Jacksonville simply does not provide adequate opportunities, while for others, Jacksonville is and always will be home.

The stadium is home to the Jacksonville Jaguars, whom many feel are the athletic backbone of the city.

photo by Tyler Pottenburgh

APRIL 2020

DEVIL’S ADVOCATE | 15

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

The Nerd Herd By CAROLINE ROBBINS, Art Director

C O M I C S The Mane Event By EDEN KERSHNER, Staff Artist

18 | devilsadvocatepaper.com

VOL. XXXVI, NO. 4

Keeping in TUNE Student artists are finding new and creative ways to engage in the music industry.

By AULANI MARLEY, Staff Writer iiiiiWhether it is while walking through the halls, riding on the bus, or studying, a pair of earbuds can provide an escape for students at Stanton College Preparatory School in the midst of a long school day. Listening to music can be a method to relieve stress or to find a way to cope with the difficulties individuals are dealing with in their lives.

Some take it another step further, using music as a means of expression by creating, composing, and performing. Student artists find ways to display their musical talent, using various platforms to express their opinions and share their creations. iiiiiStanton’s musical artists are individual producers or performers who make and publish music as their own entity. They showcase their music on platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud to gain popularity and reach an audience with similar music interests. iiiii“I try to align what I release to the sound of who I listen to, the people I view as my inspirations,” said sophomore Akiel Smith, who creates and publishes his own music under the name Akiel the Prodigy. “The biggest factor that determines which artists are popular is definitely the hit factor.

Instruments such as the piano allow students the opportunity to express themselves musically and to build motor and intellectual skills.

If you put out a catchy song everyone is listening to, you’re just going to keep growing.” iiiiiStudent artists often integrate their personal inspiration into their music to have a more person-

photo obtained from Jordyn Sitson

Students like junior Jordyn Sitson find personal enjoyment from practicing music, giving them the chance to express themselves and de-stress.

APRIL 2020

photo by Caroline Robbins

alized, unique meaning. Each song has a different theme and sound, influenced by the artist’s personal experiences and emotions. iiiii“I think none of my tracks are the same and each track has some sort of inspiration or feeling of my own behind it,” said sophomore Ansh Parikh, who produces his own music under the name XNSH. “Whether it’s a mellow Rhythm and Blues-style (R&B) instrumental or a heavy-bass trap beat, there is always some sort of emotion I try to [convey] through it.” iiiiiVarious artists take inspiration from other individuals and the major events in their lives that elicit creativity and thought. These artists also make an effort to produce music with their own unique sound or element that sets them apart from others. iiiii“I try to deviate my music from current industry trends by experimenting with chord progressions, collaborating with a variety of other artists and producers, and arranging my tracks in a way where it’s fit specific to each song,” said Parikh. iiiiiBy making an effort to differentiate one’s own music from other typical or mainstream productions, student artists are able to create a distinct identity for themselves. Just as people listen to various types of music that fit their style, student artists also create various sounds, with each individual having their own specific taste. When artists use unique beats they can also draw in a new and wider audience, further influencing the musical interests of an individual or a whole group.

DEVIL’S ADVOCATE | 19

photo obtained from Christian Manuel

Stanton’s Marching Band taking pride in their performance on the bleachers during a sports event. iiiii“I think a lot of us are influenced by others’ music tastes because we hear the same songs on the radio and share these songs with each other, increasing music popularity through this circulation,” said sophomore Elizabeth Moles. iiiiiWhile there are student artists who choose to produce and perform music on their own as an individual, others express themselves musically through school programs. Musical activities are available for students to participate in within the school day, such as band and chorus. These two major musical programs focus on different kinds of music, with chorus incorporating classical pieces, while the band tends to broaden its musical styles.

Students involved in these organizations also participate in activities outside of the school day, performing at sports games and other events. iiiii“This year, we’ve started playing in parades [such as] the Veteran’s Day Parade and the Martin Luther King Day Parade that ran from the TIAA Bank Field to the Prime F. Osborne III Convention Center,” said junior Melanie Doyle, who performs in the Stanton marching band’s drumline. iiiiiAs the band varies where they perform, they develop their reputation in Jacksonville. Events such as the Martin Luther King Day Parade receive television coverage, enabling them to gain familiarity and expand their performance range in Jacksonville. iiiiiIn their performances, Stanton’s band must determine what musical themes they will choose for the year, dictating what types of songs they present throughout the year. The band tends to draw on what is popular or what has been popular in the past, then using these songs to inspire their creativity and develop unique sounds. iiiii“We tend to cycle through different [songs] depending on the band’s ability to play them from year-to-year,” said Doyle. “The band director, Mr. [Galen] Peters, picks the theme based on music that stays pretty popular because they’re good songs and classics that most people have heard; last year, [the theme] was ‘Les Misérables’, and this year, it’s the Beatles.”

iiiiiBy drawing inspiration from artists like The Beatles, who have remained popular and widely known for years, it connects to a larger audience.

Incorporating previously popular music establishes familiarity with the older generations, while still doing something different that is not as predictable as the current trends or patterns in modern music.

Steering away from mainstream trends also offers the benefit of standing out from other bands in competitions, such as the Music Performance Assessments (MPA), which tests the skills and performance abilities of various bands from different schools. iiiii“Mr. Peters tries to avoid themes that a bunch of other bands are doing so we don’t end up playing a similar half-time show as other schools at the MPAs,” said Doyle. iiiiiOther programs such as chorus also offers students the opportunity to become musically involved during the school day. In their various performances, their style choices typically adhere to classical music, featuring artists such as Allan Robert Petker and Allister Macgillivray. Offering a program where the classical music style is the main focus expands the available opportunities for students of various musical interests. iiiii“In chorus, we mainly do contemporary and some classical,” said sophomore Samar Sahsah, who sings soprano in Stanton’s chorus. “We usually try to balance our styles during performances by doing one piece that is a slow tempo, and then another piece that is more upbeat.” iiiiiStanton’s performers and producers take on different means of showcasing their musical talents. Some choose to take on their creative path as their own individual artist, integrating their musical style and personal emotions into each one of their pieces. Others thrive, perform, and create music through Stanton’s various programs and organizations. Student artists explore music in a variety of ways, regardless if it is among the beats they created in a track or with other like-minded individuals during a performance, Stanton’s artists continue to have their voices heard. infographic by Caroline Robbins

20| devilsadvocatepaper.com

VOL. XXXVI, NO. 4

OPINIONS

COVID-19: The 2020 Pandemic

By THE EDITORIAL BOARD

iiiii For many, the start of the decade was supposed to bring good fortune in new beginnings, but the recent coronavirus crisis has spoiled most plans. The new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, began to wreak havoc in China in late December of last year. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the virus a pandemic, sending the world into panic. The unprecedented disease has brought unprecedented consequences, both good and bad, whose repercussions may be felt in decades to come.

bipartisan efficiency to Congress, most evident in the recent passing of the CARES Act by the Senate which allocates $1,200 to every citizen or $2,400 to every couple with a $500 bonus for each child the couple shares. The focus of politics has also changed, as the American people have been hearing more from Vice President Mike Pence due to his position heading the Coronavirus White House Commission. During this national crisis, the constituents voting in the upcoming election have much to consider.

iiiii Many have felt overwhelmed with information regarding the spread of the virus and its respective effects, regarding the media’s coverage of the ever growing disease. Without the media’s coverage, though, the extent of the problem and the best measures to protect one’s self would not be as widespread as they are today. How the information is used is not the responsibility of journalists who risk their health to report; panic is a result of how individuals choose to react. Journalists work to spread information so that it is available to the public, and unfortunately, readers may choose to create chaos. Although journalists work tirelessly to ensure the knowledge being spread is accurate, part of that responsibility falls on the reader.

iiiii Many clamored on the internet, expressing how cancellations would affect events such as graduations and award ceremonies. They deserve to be upset, but one must look at all of the other flaws in the educational system that COVID-19 has put on display. As the long lines for district-provided laptops and hotspots at neighborhood schools demonstrated, the need for equity in education has never been fully addressed. It is acknowledged that Duval County Public Schools has attempted to alleviate the issue by providing free internet hotspots for students to use and hosting sales of school laptops that are no longer in use. However, it was not enough, and many students went without many of the tools that have now become integral to receiving an education. That is not to say that the district is solely responsible for this lack of equity in education. iiiii In the 2008-2009 school year, Florida’s state government had allocated close to $25 billion towards education, but after the 2008 economic recession, the education budget was quickly cut. In the 2019-2020 school year, the request was nearly $5 billion short of what it was only eleven years prior.

The cuts in school funding have made it difficult to allocate funds to make the school experience equal for all students, regardless of their backgrounds.

After the devastation of COVID-19, more funds will likely be taken from departments, including education, to allocate for public health.

Media

Socialization

iiiii Amusement parks, restaurants, coffee shops and other places of social interaction were restricted or closed in mid-March and all events classified as “gatherings of more than 10 people,” were canceled. Social distancing, while necessary, has transformed the culture of society. Despite the perfect weather, the once lively city of Jacksonville looks more like a ghost town. As a result, the economy is in shambles. Without customers, companies cannot afford to pay their workers and, for some, even the rent. iiiii Another issue is the inescapable human instinct to point fingers at anyone who even looks to be a part of the problem. Increasing xenophobia and anti-Asian racism has been seen in many parts of the world. Recently, bystanders on a street in Sydney, Australia, refused to help a 60-year-old Asian man suffering from cardiac arrest because they feared he might have the coronavirus. Even President Donald Trump has repeatedly referred to the disease as the “Chinese virus.” While the coronavirus pandemic is something to be fearful of, we should not allow the world to lose its humanity.

Sports

iiiii Among all of the events canceled, for many, sports cancellations were the most disappointing. From the NCAA March Madness tournament to the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics, sports organizations have canceled or postponed matches, tournaments, and entire seasons. Originally, the National Basketball Association (NBA) planned to continue its season without fans; however, after the irresponsible actions of Utah Jazz defensive player Rudy Gobert, the NBA suspended its season. Video footage was released of Gobert touching media equipment with apparent disregard for sanitary precautions, and he later tested positive for the coronavirus. Gobert’s actions were a reminder of how important it is to take these kinds of situations seriously. He put a large number of individuals at risk for infection, even though he never intended to, and this shows how to distance oneself from a situation that doesn’t have a direct impact.

International Relations

iiiii One of the tactics being used to reduce the spread of the disease is to close off borders. International travel and commerce is at an all time low, and many countries are taking an enormous economic hit. This is especially true for many countries that rely on tourism as a large source of revenue. iiiii Countries in Africa and Latin America are at a considerably higher risk than other, richer countries. According to the Associated Press, the West African nation of Mali has only one ventilator for every million people, and Peru has only 350 beds in intensive care with a population of over 32 million. The threat of the coronavirus to these nations is far more severe than anywhere else in the world, and their only form of protection is to restrict travel in and out of the country and hope for the best. The result of the pandemic could have an effect on international relations long after it is over.

Politics

iiiii Although it is easy to be selfish in emergency situations like these, it is often the case that groups that were once divided must come together for a solution. Politics is an example. COVID-19 has brought unprecedented

APRIL 2020

Education

Takeaway

iiiii The suggested form of action is simple: social distancing, sanitizing, and staying clean. As events are canceled and businesses closed, most of the population is adhering to the precautionary measures outlined by their governments. However, as fear grips the minds of many, some people are overreacting, adding to the chaos. One thing is for sure, the coronavirus pandemic has set a tone of uncertainty for all aspects of society.

DEVIL’S ADVOCATE Est. 1983 I Stanton College Preparatory School

2019–2020 Editorial Board Tatyana Esquilin Phong Huynh Katie Stevens Jake Nachman Zach Genus Ysabella Rodriguez Prachi Misra Christa Assi

Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Managing Editor Layout and Design Editor Digital Media Editor Business Manager Photography Editor Public Relations Manager

iiiiiThe Devil’s Advocate serves as the official newspaper of Stanton College Preparatory School. It is produced quarterly by members of the Journalism class. The editors reserve the right to edit any material submitted into the paper for content, grammar, length and accuracy. iiiiiThe Devil’s Advocate is a public forum for student expression, which encourages free exchanges of opinions concerning controversial and noncontroversial community and school related issues. The advertisements and ideas expressed within the newspaper are not necessarily those of the newspaper adviser, newspaper staff, Stanton administration or the Duval County Public School Board. iiiiiThe Devil’s Advocate accepts advertisements from all businesses in the Stanton community. The ad format can be given to the staff or the adviser, Mr. Larry Knight. iiiiiReaders may contact the staff and adviser at (904) 630-6760 ext. 012204 or at knightl1@duvalschools.org.

DEVIL’S ADVOCATE | 21

Teenage Love in 2020

ILY vs. I Love You

By SOPHIA MAGGIORE, Contributing Writer

By KIMBERLY MACKOUL, Contributing Writer

iiiiiIn our modern world,iiiiiiwhat counts as saying “I love you?” A quick chat message t h r o u g h Snapchat that disappears in seconds?

A DM on Instagram or Twitter? A text message? iiiiiOur generation has grown up in the digital age, tweeting, texting, posting, liking, and now “Tik Toking.” Social media instantly connects us to thousands of people whom we can share our thoughts with.

However, a 2017 survey conducted

by Cigna Health Insurance found that participants who are online most frequently–defined as 50 or more visits a week–have three times the odds of perceived social isolation as those who go online less than nine times a week. iiiiiThe irony presented is almost comical; the word “social” is literally in the term “social media.” But how does this translate to love in our generation? We have only known an age of social media. iiiiiThe isolation of social media has created an ever-increasing desire for companionship due to consistent exposure to “perfect couples.” But with social media, what’s truly real is never fully known; that is where the photo by Laura Evans

issue stems from. Social media users do not post about the hard work it takes to be in a relationship, nor the struggles they face on an everyday basis. Teenagers are vying for the perfect relationship, either with friends or partners, but unbeknownst to them, those relationships are never what they seem. Because of this, reality has become distorted as distance is created on social media. iiiiiYou can ask someone out on social media or text, without the reallife embarrassment of rejection. You can get angry at someone all while never speaking a word to them. And you can tell someone you love them without ever looking them in the eye.

We need to get back to making those genuine human connections, without the cellular middle man. iiiiiSo the next time you see a post about that “perfect” relationship, remember that the real human connections you have with those around you are what really matters.

The people around you, your friends, families, partners, teachers, teammates, those are the people that matter.

So take a friend to coffee, tell your crush you like them in person, and show the world some bona fide lovin’!

iiiiiWords are weird. They can mean so many different things depending on how they’re used or what context they’re put in.

No wonder English is really hard, the language is as complicated as the people. We say things like “I love you” so casually to our friends, but when we’re talking to our significant other, those three words suddenly hold the weight of the world. iiiiiWe call each other names and profanities when talking causally with our friends and peers, but when it’s used in an aggressive way, all of those lighthearted profanities and insults turn into knives. It’s always easier to utterly humiliate someone without lifting a finger than walking away bruised from a physical fight. iiiiiWith siblings, you can bully them all you want, but the minute someone else does, you do a complete 180° to defend them. And yes, I’m aware that some siblings wouldn’t mind sitting down for a good show; watching their siblings get completely destroyed photo by Carol Mackoul

in a video game then throw a 10 minute tantrum. iiiiiThis generation of high school students is developing their own culture and slang, and it’s easy to get confused between what’s implied and literal. Words are something we take for granted; we often do not realize how powerful they are or can be. We should be careful of what we say, because things can always get lost in translation, both literally and figuratively. You feel more accepted and loved when someone texts you “I love you” rather than “ily” because that extra effort to type out the full message makes all the difference. iiiiiImagine you get a single Hershey kiss from your boyfriend or girlfriend on Valentine’s Day. Nothing else.

Sucks, right? Now imagine them giving you a huge bouquet of roses and a large heart-shaped box of chocolates, love letter included.

See the difference? When you take the time to use your words to their fullest potential, you can strengthen or deepen bonds of relationships you have and even create new ones.

So next time you text someone, put some extra thought into what you say. Better yet, speak to them in person, because words sound better and mean more when you say them out loud. People are as complicated as their words, so maybe that is why we are always searching for the right thing to say.

illustrations by Caroline Robbins

Looking Back at The Jacksonville Landing

By PHONG HUYNH, Managing Editor

iiiiiUpon entering The Jacksonville Landing, the unique scent of antiquity and cookies permeated the air. One could say it is an odor blended from the people and events the landmark has witnessed from election campaigns, holiday celebrations, to tourists in its 32 years of existence. But the walls that once encased these times and smells have collapsed to rubble now, flattened from the problems that it faced. Yet, in the eyes of a child, these underlying problems were not apparent to the curiosity and innocence of a young mind. iiiiiWhen I first went through The Landing as a child, I thought it was a fascinating place for my desire to explore. My dad occasionally brought me to The Landing because he had a job there, working in a nail salon for a brief time. During the times I went there, I remember I would always visit a toy store called the Toy Factory. What made it special was photo by Kennedy Cottle

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the awe it inspired seeing the moving conveyor belt of toys — and of course the toy sets laid out to play with! On the second floor, me and my dad spent our time during lunch and dinner talking and admiring a scenic view of the beautiful riverfront. Eventually, my dad worked elsewhere and I moved on from The Landing.

"The remains of happiness I remember are kept intact from where The Landing once stood." iiiiiTo some people, The Landing represented an out-of-date area in the modern time. Barely any stores kept open, and if so, they struggled to keep business with a declining tourist turnout. The Landing’s perception was also muddled by problems such as homelessness, crime and safety concerns, and the overall lack of development in Downtown.

iiiiiThese problems became apparent when I returned as a teenager; however, the semblance of life The Landing held was still there: families would come to listen and dance to bands that played, city events attracted people to come, and the idea of a stranger dissolved away by conversing with them.

The cookie store was still there, but the conveyor belt that once held toys were gone as I saw nothing inside. The silence and the stillness of the conveyor belt evoked a great sadness and nostalgia at the same time while the ‘80s music and the same scent was still in the air, lost to the current times. iiiiiFrom its opening in 1987 to its demolition, the loss of The Landing reflects the negative perception and problems that faded it into obscurity. Although it is quite easy for people to judge something from its outer appearance, they neglect considering the inner life it contains. And for me, the remains of happiness I remember are kept intact from where The Landing once stood.

Columns published in the Devil’s Advocate represent the views of the contributors, not those of the newspaper.

VOL. XXXVI, NO. 4

tHE LONDON JAGUARS

By KEVIN SHARPE, Stanton Teacher iiiiiIf you haven’t heard, the Jacksonville Jaguars will be playing an additional game in London in 2020, limiting the number of regular season games played at TIAA Bank Field to six. As a lifelong Jaguars fan (I was 11 years old in 1995) and 10-year season ticket holder (my first paycheck from teaching went to buy season tickets), how does this make me feel? Annoyed, ignored, and unappreciated. Annoyed because of the message that we, as fans, don’t understand or comprehend the economic rationale behind the decision. We get it. We just don’t like it. Who would think that taking another game away from Jacksonville would be received well by hometown fans? iiiiiApparently that’s exactly what Shad Khan thought, which reveals how out of touch he is with the local fan base. Jaguars fans know he has invested in millions in our city and the stadium, but the fact of the matter is, he is getting a return on his investment. The value of the Jaguars as a franchise has tripled since 2012, yet he claims that we are struggling because of a lack of local revenue. This annoys me.

iiiiiAs a fan, and more broadly as a member of the local fan base, I also feel ignored. All we want to do is win. Hometown fans have said this time and time again and the message seems to have fallen on deaf ears. iiiiiKhan’s decision makes winning more difficult, as it deprives us of yet another game with home-field advantage. iiiiiAccording to statisticians from FiveThirtyEight, home teams win 57 percent of the time in the NFL. This might not seem like a big advantage, but statistically it is extremely significant. In a game of inches, where the difference between victory and defeat can be one play, one dropped pass, one penalty, and the difference between a playoff berth can be just one game, any competitive edge is extremely important. You don’t see other teams actively searching out ways to play more away games. That would be nonsensical, and yet, the Jaguars’ leadership ignores the facts. That being said, if you win, you gain more fans and earn more money. This simple logic defeats the entire short-sighted economic rationale for moving an additional game. iiiiiKids growing up in Jacksonville won’t admire the Patriots, Steelers, or other perennially successful franchises because they will

have that same product in their own backyard.

Sustainable and profitable fan bases are grown through winning, not short-term marketing ploys to entice Londoners to root for the Jaguars twice a year. In addition, the attendance at these London games is largely neutral. I concede the fact that it creates a two-time revenue boost, but, to my mind, that does not justify ignoring the pleas of die-hard, dedicated fans. iiiiiLastly, I feel unappreciated. The strongest negative reactions to this move are coming from the most loyal fans. Fans who have endured and suffered through the last decade of terrible, losing football and continued to renew their season tickets are angry. We have remained loyal despite all of the losing, and now we are being punished.

The last thing any business owner should do to increase profits is anger their most loyal customers and that is exactly what Shad Khan has done with this decision. To top it all off, we are being told by ownership that it’s our fault for not supporting passionately enough. This whole situation reminds me of the old adage that Jaguars fans know well, “you lose some, you lose some more.”

photos retrieved from Google

APRIL 2020

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photo by Prachi Misra

photo by Prachi Misra

photo by Tyler Pottenburgh

photo by Prachi Misra

photo by Prachi Misra

P E R S P E C T I V E S

photo by Tyler Pottenburgh

photo by Prachi Misra

photo by Prachi Misra

photo by Prachi Misra