November 2020 - Online Edition

Online Edition

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Volume X Issue II

Hereford High School, Parkton, Maryland

Index 2-3 4-5 6-7 8-9 10

Community Features Spotlight Opinion In Focus

The voice of Hereford High

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Inside Political activity bolsters throughout student body Page 2

November 2020

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COMMUNITY

November 2020

Behind the scenes: New additions planned for Hereford High

By Mikey Timmerman Community Editor

While very few people are permitted in the school, there is some action happening at Hereford: new additions and renovations coming to the building. Behind the closed doors, principal Joe Jira and other faculty members are hard at work planning ways to make Hereford High better than ever. Upcoming projects involve new agriculture classrooms, a new barn to house our beloved animals and to be used as a learning center, a brand-new open-air pavilion at the stadium, new track lighting for the art department hallway, batting cages, and finally, a renovation of the old, red barn in the parking lot.

With so many projects up in the air it may seem like they won’t get done during our time in high school. Don’t be alarmed because some of these additions have already been completed and are ready for students’ use when schools reopen, while others are ready to be started and are just waiting for approval by the county.

With Hereford being a magnet school in agriculture, the program needed to be updated to fit the increasing student body.

“We are the only Baltimore County school that has an agriculture program and I think we can make it so much better by expanding it,” principal Joe Jira said.

With plans to install a new barn in the back of the school, faculty expects to be able to have a “living classroom” where students can truly interact with Luna, Dink, and Captain. With help from future fundraisers, Jira will continue to push for the development of this barn.

While the barn may not be ready by the time students return, those who have been involved with these projects were in contact with the Office of Curriculum and Development and have retrofitted three rooms down in the agriculture classrooms. Those rooms were done in preparation for plans to bring new courses in and make them more functional for students.

One project that has gotten a lot of attention is the renovation at the stadium to install an open-air pavilion. From the financial support of a private donor, an approximate 100-foot by 75-foot pavilion will be built between the snack stand and the bleachers. Since it has not been approved by the Board of Education yet, the plans have since been put on hold. But it is ready to get going with an estimated completion within a few months of starting.

Another addition starting in the next few weeks is an installation of track lighting in the art hallway to showcase artwork produced by students. The plan is to have this outside of Geoffrey Grace’s room on the second floor, where photography and art pieces created by students can be presented in a more museum-like fashion.

“I wanted to have a space for frequent display of student work that would present it in the professional way it deserved,” Grace said. “Proper recognition can elevate a student’s investment in their work and we really want to give them that.”

In the Spring of 2020, the athletic department had received approval and installed a dual-batting cage at the baseball field. This project had been in the works for several years, and after much deliberation over where an appropriate place would be to put it, it had finally been completed and ready for used just after students had been sent home in March.

The final big project Jira has been working on is a plan to renovate the red, historic, bank barn. This is one of the original structures that still stands where Hereford is built. The community has raised a lot of money to replace the internal beams, reside the structure with new wood while maintaining its historic look, and to build a new roof. The general idea is to renovate it for more

historical merit than functional use.

“The barn is already on the Maryland historical preservation and the community wants to preserve it for the history behind it,” Jira said.

While these amazing projects are being put to good use, students have a few things that they would like to see too.

Junior and Senior class officers agree that they would like to see improvements to the track, dance studio, and an installation of water bottle refill stations. The track has been so worn in areas it can lead to injuries.

“The track is in pretty rough shape, it’s patchy in the runaways and can feel like concrete in areas,” class officer Emmanuel Obu (’21) said.

The dance studio and dressing rooms become overflowed with performers.

“There are over 150 students in the dance program and the studio and dressing rooms get to be very cramped during performances,” class officer Caroline Sabo (’22) said.

Additionally, an updated water system can reduce waste and encourage students to bring reusable water bottles.

With new features and potential concepts, merging the old and the new, Hereford has never been better. When students do return, whenever that may be, they will feel right at home while experiencing new adaptations that enhance their progression through high school.

This newly renovated classroom is equipped with new sinks, electrical outlets, and more. This task was completed while students were away during quarantine.

Photo provided by Robert Covert

Political activity bolsters throughout student body

By Jake Epstein Reporter

Given that we are amid an election season, all media platforms have been engulfed with political content. While every major news station discusses the ramifications of local and national elections, social media includes a combination of analysis and conspiracy theories which fuel a political firestorm.

The Hereford student body has not been immune to increased political activity and awareness. The ever-expanding age of technology facilitates this political phenomenon, as cell phone users have access to instantaneous information about the current political climate.

Students often post political messages on their Snapchat and Instagram stories, which are intended to either sway public opinion or create a discussion. Since the upstart of COVID-19, the frequency of political content on students’ social media pages increased dramatically.

This can be explained by students having more time to research their political beliefs and create opinions while in quarantine, along with politics affecting us now more than ever.

The student body’s social media activity has revealed a major split in the ideological and political belief systems of our peers. In terms of the presidential race, some students are die-hard Trump fans, who post MAGA content on an almost daily basis.

Others are those who are “Riding with Biden,” that post anti-Trump content regularly.

There is a sizeable portion of our student body that is disenchanted with both sides, which often leaves them stuck in the middle of a political firestorm.

Never has this split been more apparent than on Oct. 29, when an image posted of a student at the Crowder Table circulated with the caption: “Donald Trump is not racist, change my mind.”

“I initially thought a handful of 12th grade students with differing beliefs would have a respectful discussion of the topic presented,” Ben Halfpap (’21) said.

The aftermath was well beyond everyone’s expectations. The post received over 2100 comments, which were split almost evenly between both sides of the political spectrum. Students of all grade levels, several alumni, and even random adults from other states shared their opinions on the subject.

“I was very surprised, but I think it [the post] pretty much captures Hereford for you,” Zoey Stewart (’21) said.

While comments poured in by the hundreds, students stayed firm to their beliefs, often moving from one argument to another. What was initially intended to draw in a small group of students became a means of a schoolwide political discussion. That’s not to say everyone handled themselves with grace, as a select few on both sides focused less on debating the topic at hand and instead set their sights on degrading others.

Even though the comment section on this post got out of hand at times, it provided a starting point for further political discourse on social media. By pointing out the extremes of both side’s viewpoints and tactics, the door has been opened for finding more of a middle ground. More discussions may happen in the future, where both sides won’t be afraid to call out the other.

“It’s important to keep each other in check and always be learning more about current events,” Rylee McDaniel (’22) said.

Some of this cohesion between both sides in our student body has already occurred. Blaine Hibbert (’21), who is an outspoken conservative, has hosted several lengthy political discussions with people of opposing viewpoints via Instagram live video. This has started to become a nightly occurrence, where Hibbert and other stu-

dents discuss a wide variety of political topics over the course of several hours. These discussions have garnered quite the viewership, with over 100 people tuning in to a recent four-hour discussion with Andrew Spence (’21).

While our viewpoints may differ dramatically, most students said that they are much more politically active than they were in the past major election cycle. Following the election of Joe Biden as the nation’s 46th president, there will surely be a wide range of reactions in the Hereford Zone. Will more political discussions ensue? Or, will the culmination of the election cycle result in less political activity on social media? One thing can be certain: Hereford students have a larger platform than ever to discuss their political views.

November 2020

COMMUNITY

HEREFORD HARBINGER | 3

Athletes and coaches react to new BCPS sports schedule

By Pete Capan Reporter

“

These sessions have acted as a substitute for missed offseason workouts.

Some teams have also been able to have a makeshift preseason through the Rec Council, which remained active in recent months. Which allowed the opportunity not just to play, but to play as a team and make up for some of that missed comradery that would have been gained in a traditional offseason.

Besides Rec leagues, and student organized workouts, athletes have been able to maintain their skills through club teams. Most of which, were only briefly shut down this summer.

Unlike a lack of preseason, which can be substituted with an independent league or student led workouts at the turf, some challenges have yet to be fully accounted for, timing being one of them.

Before the recent spike in Covid-19 cases, the fall season was set to start Feb. 13, when Maryland tends to show its lowest temperatures.

“There’s nothing you can really do about it but it’s definitely going to be hard to play a fall sport in February,” Lopez said.

Another challenge is the logistics of having a season without school. If the schedule holds true, practices for winter sports would happen before schools are supposed to reopen, raising even more questions.

How will transportation work? Will there be access to a locker room? Will some students miss practices simply because they can’t get a ride to school? What will practices look like?

In summary, we don’t know. There simply is not enough information. Even with constant meetings, and daily monitoring of health metrics in coordination with the Baltimore County Department of Health, it’s difficult for the Office of Athletics of Baltimore County to reach a definitive answer to every question. Covid-19 statistics are constantly changing, and with the election results, it’s likely that regulations may drastically change.

“I just want to play football,” Trace Childs (‘22) said.

Childs’ attitude feels mutual with many athletes eager to finally get a chance to show what they’ve been working for all year, but the future remains uncertain.

While many students feel confused and frustrated about this situation, it’s important to keep in mind the context and difficulty of putting together an opportunity for students to play the sports they love in the middle of a pandemic.

I just want to play football.

“

The BCPS sports schedule has finally arrived. But, with the shared excitement and anticipation among athletes, who are finally getting a chance to compete, students and coaches alike share doubts about how the schedule may work out.

The start of the Winter sports season was announced to be on Dec. 7.

The news of the schedule came abruptly and without word of if we’re even having school until February. The potential of sports starting with no school could bring a whole new set of challenges to the table.

The county recently announced the postponing of the scheduled voluntary conditioning due to current Covid-19 metrics. The sessions were scheduled to begin Nov. 16, but have since been postponed indefinitely until two weeks after Baltimore County reaches established Covid-19 parameters. This will inevitably push back start dates for the 2021 season, and poses the question, will there even be a 2021 season?

The general atmosphere among teams is confusion due to a lack of information. The schedule presents a lot of unanswered questions regarding transportation, how practices will be run, how games will look, and even if the locker rooms will be accessible.

“There are obviously many considerations and challenges with a re-engagement of sports,” Michael Kalisz, the Hereford Athletic Director, said. “First and foremost, the safety of our students/athletes and coaches is of paramount importance.”

Despite these unanswered questions and added challenges of orchestrating a season in the middle of a pandemic, student athletes are hopeful that things work out.

“I’m just excited that were going to start playing again and get back to somewhat normal,” Lizzie Lopez (’22), a member of the girls’ soccer team, said.

Despite their excitement to finally get a chance to play, athletes have unfortunately had to practice on their own, when there would normally be preseason and offseason workouts, a summer league, and other traditional methods of getting playing time before the season.

“They’re in a tough spot right now,” Jim Rhoads, the Varsity Basketball Head Coach, said about the loss of a preseason and not having access to the gym over the summer. “I think that was a big part of being a team, and comradery, and we missed all of that.”

Many student athletes have taken it upon themselves to organize group sessions at the turf.

-Trace Childs (’22)

Dog adoptions spike during Covid-19 pandemic

By Aleia Yeager Reporter

The Covid-19 pandemic brought distress, loneliness, and grief to America. During quarantine, families found comfort in adopting new furry companions. Increased dog adoption rates in Maryland is the good news 2020 needs to hear. Local rescue organizations like All Shepherd Rescue and Saving Grace are great agencies to adopt dogs, but breeders serve as an alternative to finding your perfect puppy too.

Located in Perry Hall, All Shepard Rescue (ASR) is a non-profit organization that focuses on the adoption of shepherds. Their online website lists the necessities and other informative details for adopting or fostering a dog. When adopting from ASR, there’s a necessary commitment to a four-week training plan at Woodbine Shepherd Training. Allowing owners and their dogs to build a respectable relationship and teach basic disciplines.

“When you do a rescue there’s a bond that’s created that’s not there when it’s a dog that you’re getting from a breeder,” Joe Jira, principal of Hereford High school, said.

Principal Jira recently adopted a 1-year-old mixed Belgium Malinois from ASR. He’s pleased to see that Evie has quickly adapted to his life and they can bond over hiking and long morning walks. Principal Jira expressed the difficulty he had finding the perfect one. Previous to Evie, he adopted a 4-year-old German shepherd from Texas. Unfortunately, they had to be returned due to aggressive behavior.

“It was hard to find a dog because everyone [is] adopting during the Covid thing,” Jira said.

Covid-19 complicated finding an ideal dog, but for a good reason. As more and more dogs are adopted, agencies become vacant, turning people to breeders for a more personalized dog.

Grady Moran (‘23), had a different reason for adopting from a breeder. His dog allergy prevents him from adopting specific breeds. Moran chose a goldendoodle for the hypoallergenic aspect and for her size. He felt his 3-year-old dog was lonely and needed a friend, so the search began. The Morans drove to Earlville, MD to meet the puppy at an Amish farm. They adopted her quickly after meeting, making the hour and a half drive worthwhile.

“While the world is changing with things like Covid-19 and the election and such, my dogs have kind of kept me sane and have been there the whole time,” Moran said.

Simply put, Moran verbalized the thought we all were thinking, our pets are key source to our happiness and Covid-19 would’ve been much harder to bear without them.

There are many reasons why one would adopt from a breeder; but rescuing is the morally better option. About 96,000 pets enter Maryland shelters with only a 50 percent chance of survival. Rescuing pets will massively increase this percentage. Online rescue organizations like Saving Grace make rescuing dogs easy. Saving Grace allows owners to foster a dog, and then adopt if they feel the dog is the one for them. Leaders are located locally to Hereford, so it’s easy to get in touch via Facebook.

Grayson Hammann (‘22) adopted a goldendoodle puppy from a breeder shortly after one of their previous dogs sadly passed away. Searching for comfort, he and his family sought for another four-legged addition to the family.

“The process of bringing him home was actually pretty hard because my other dog had to get used to him and didn’t want to be bothered all the time,” Hammann said.

The training process isn’t always easy and Hammann has had a demanding experience training Tucker. But it’s crucial to the physical development of animals that they’re properly trained.

Dog adoptions have spiked due to Tucker, Hammann’s newly adopted goldendoodle, the pandemic, but extra time doesn’t make happily sunbathes. He quickly adjusted to his new adopting and caring for a dog any easier. home after joining the family at 9-weeks-old.

Photo provided by Grayson Hammann Rescue agencies are happy to see dogs find

forever homes, but it raises the question: once the pandemic is over, will new dog owners be able to take on the responsibilities of maintaining a pet with their “normal” lives? Dogs and pets are an important aspect of happiness in our lives, we must cherish them and care for them the way they care for us.

A Full Service Animal Hospital 16904 York Road Monkton, MD 21111 Phone 410-343-0200  Email info@MCAHonline.com www.MCAHonline.com Paul Fox, DVM  Pat Steele, DVM  Matt McGee, DVM Mara Howard, DVM  Lindsay Morsberger, DVM Katie Clark, DVM

Holiday Tips for Pet Owners Food – Lots of our favorite foods are dangerous for pets: fatty meats and extra-rich table scraps can cause illness; yeast dough can cause dangerous bloating. Other favorite human foods can be toxic for pets including grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, onions, garlic, leeks, chocolate, and the artificial sweetener xylitol which is found in sugarfree candy and gum.

Decorations – decorations can pose risky temptations for pets. Water additives to preserve your tree can be toxic to pets. Ornaments and lights can be tempting toys. Tinsel can be tempting to eat but can result in intestinal blockages. Common holiday plants can be toxic including mistletoe, balsam, amaryllis, lilies, and poinsettias.

Parties & Guests – Stash the trash, and clear dishes and drinks when finished. Watch the exits while guests are coming and going to be sure your four-legged family members don’t make a break for it. Proper identification including tags and microchips help reunite pets and their families.

Travel – Proper planning can help make travel smooth and stress-free.

Make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations at least 1 week before boarding. Interstate and International travel regulations require pet health certificates from your vet – plan ahead.

4 | HEREFORD HARBINGER

FEATURES

November 2020

ELITE DRIVING SCHOOL December

special Online Discount Code - ptaHH CODE ONLY USED @ HEREFORD HS

Expires 12/02/2020 (Not valid after 1st day of class)

2020 - 2021 Schedule Online Class 12/03/2020 - 12/17/2020 12/19/2020 - 12/30/2020 12/21/2020 - 01/02/2021 12/24/2020 - 01/05/2021 01/09/2021 - 02/12/2021 01/10/2021 - 02/14/2021 01/11/2021 - 01/26/2021 02/01/2021 - 02/16/2021 To register or for more information visit our website at www.drivingschool.net

***Students must be at least 15 years old to take Drivers Education. We recommend students are closer to getting their learners permit (at least 15 years and 9 months) before enrolling in class.

Class dates and times are subject to change. Dates listed are for the classroom portion only. Behind the Wheel lessons are taken after all classroom hours have been completed.

november 2020

FEATURES

HEREFORD HARBINGER | 5

Big plans for European soccer leaves supporters upset

By Jacob Sienkiewicz Reporter

With no end to Covid-19 in sight and big European soccer clubs not gaining as much money as they used to, they are finding new ways to bring in revenue even if it upsets supporters around the world.

Talks of a proposed European Premier League have been going on for years now, but it has gotten closer to being formed than it has ever been before. This league would consist of Europe’s biggest clubs. English clubs Liverpool and Manchester United are front runners in the creation of the new league. FC Barcelona’s former president, who resigned at the end of October, also said that if the new league is formed they will be joining. So why are fans upset? While for some it may seem like a cool idea to see big teams play each other all the time, most fans see it as a shameful way to get money.

“It’s just an attempt to make more money by having huge matchups every week which just isn’t how the sport works,” Kyle Turnbaugh (’22), a supporter of Tottenham Hotspur, a team rumored to join this league, said.

A big problem the fans also have is that it won’t be as entertaining, as you won’t see “smaller clubs” defeat the bigger clubs such as when Aston Villa, who was almost relegated from the English Premier League last season, defeated the defending champions, Liverpool, with a score of 7-2. With the European Premier League, these results would never happen if the only teams in it are the big teams that usually dominate their own respective domestic league.

“I think that this European Premier League may be entertaining at first but it hurts smaller teams because they can’t compete in it, and we often see star players emerge from small teams that we see in the Champions League or Europa League,” Chris Roebuck (’21) said.

This doesn’t just leave fans upset, but it has left former players and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) President upset. Each year, UEFA hosts a tournament called UEFA Champions League. Fans don’t understand why clubs want to form a new league when the Champions League allows both big teams and smaller teams from different leagues across Europe to compete against each other. In the 2018/2019 season, Ajax, who was not expected to even make it past the group stage, made it to the semi-finals after defeating three-time defending champions Real Madrid. If the European Premier League is formally announced, fans will not have the opportunity to watch upsets like these. They know it will take the enjoyment out of watching the sport.

Former player and Ballon d’Or winner Luis Figo tweeted out, “What I read about this Super League idea will destroy football as we know it.”

If clubs moved forward with creating the league, it is not expected to be fully formed until the year 2022. But with backlash from players and supporters, clubs could be reconsidering joining. If this does go through the clubs could see a drop in fans and views across the world.

Illustration by Jacob Sienkiewicz

Students’ holiday traditions alter this year

By Addie Feliz Reporter

With the holiday season swiftly approaching, many beloved traditions are being changed to keep ourselves safe, much like else that has happened since March 2020. So how are we able to continue these traditions that warm our hearts?

Open to all ages during the week of Thanksgiving the first ever virtual YMCA Turkey Trot is being held. Participants can walk, run, or even stroll the 3.1-mile course at their choosing time and then share your results.

“My family and I all run the turkey trot every year with a few family friends, it’s always fun and this year, even though its online, we are still doing it together,” Dominic Onaligilm (‘24) said.

The YMCA Turkey Trot is a charity that deeply benefits families in our surrounding community that are living in poverty, so many people have made it a tradition to run for this great cause. Upon registration you will be sent an email that will give you your fundraising page, through the power of social media and your friends and family participants will raise money which will go to families in need. Participants raise money by asking for pledges from the community, and asking others to join the run with them.

The Macy’s day parade will also be changed this year. The annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will air from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Nov. 26. Historically the parade has drawn millions to the streets of Manhattan along with a 2.5-mile parade route; this year’s parade will only be in the Herald Square area and you can only watch it on television.

“It’s a really big tradition in my family, we all go to New York and watch it together. We were all very disappointed to hear we can only watch it on TV this year,” Vince Culotta (‘22) said.

While it is disappointing to many families that we cannot attend the parade, we are still able to celebrate at home and watch the shortened, but still festive, parade.

Although some of these honored traditions are being

changed this year, there are some like The National Dog Show that are still being held.

The 2020 National Dog Show will be hosted by John O’Hurley and will feature no spectators, vendors, sponsors, or media. The show will air on Thursday per usual following the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Only officials and dog handlers will be allowed on the premises, the judging will be held under health and safety guidelines.

“My family and I are all very big animal people, so we always watch the dog show together. I was very happy to hear that it was still happening this year,” Gabriel Campbell (‘23) said.

The National Dog Show is a dearly loved holiday tradition for millions of animal lovers, and it is a relief to many to see that it is still occurring.

Although many of our honored traditions this year are being altered in order to keep others and ourselves safe, the holiday spirit is still in all of us and we will be able to have fun celebrating this year.

Fans will be looking forward to seeing their favorite floats at the parade from home this year. Snoopy flew in the 2019 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Photo by Addie Feliz

Read “‘Jeopardy!’ host, Alex Trebek, passes at age 80” on herefordharbinger.org

6 | HEREFORD HARBINGER

SPOTL

MENTAL HE

now, more than ever

By Ryan Coffey Managing Editor

Now more than even, mental health matters.

With all that being said, the best ways to cope with the stress of daily life is to have open, It was supposed to be an early (and somewhat extended) two-week spring break. It has now honest conversations and to practice self-care. This combination is key. been over 235 and counting days since many of us set foot in the building. In a time of unique Mental and physical health are tied together in profound ways as they strongly affect each chaos and uncertainty, one thing is clear, it’s been really hard for everyone. other. Experiencing an extreme emotion often makes it much harder to make healthy choices and It’s hard to spend hours upon hours every day staring at a screen. studies have shown a link between clinical depression and chronic physical health conditions. A It’s hard to go months without seeing friends. key element to maintaining mental-physical health balance and avoid getting stuck in a rut is to It’s hard to see another month pass and stay home as a new one begins. establish a daily routine that will add structure and help maintain focus. In addition, daily routines As Maryland enters a new peak in Covid-19 cases remember to stay strong, see the good in help allot time to focus on both mental and physical health. every moment, and know that in whatever way you might be struggling, you are not alone.

“Healthy choices, such as exercise, nutritious foods, and adequate sleep influence our ability With a spike in adolescent mental health diagnosis and treatment over the past five years to be alert and focus. These habits also affect the balance of chemicals, like neurotransmitters, that and the (slow) destigmatization of conversations about are key to regulating our emotions,” Watcher said. mental health, it has become apparent that seasonal deNoticing the shifting needs of the student body, the pression to varying extents is incredibly common among student council has spent this year hosting enrichment teenagers especially as the winter months roll in. workshops and discussions on mental wellness and Just as we call a medical doctor when we need professionSeasonal depression commonly referred to as self-care tips and tricks. The newly formed mental health al help with our physical health, we should call a therapist Seasonal Affective Disorder is defined by a strong committee is co-chaired by Arnob Khan (’23), Ike Nwatendency to experience depression during a specific time diogbu (’23), and Caroline Weigel (’23). The committee when we are struggling with our mental health. of year. School Psychologist, Tina Watcher notes that focuses on supporting the mental health of students in Seasonal Affective Disorder is most associated with the response to the social isolation associated with virtual -Tina Watcher, School Psychologist cold and dark months of Winter. While the exact causes learning. remain unknown and vary significantly from person Weigel was particularly interested in this committee to person, this year, they are compounded by months as she believes that every student deserves access to not spent at home, a pandemic, and all of the other surprises only resources but conversations. She hopes that student 2020 has had in store. It is important to emphasize that council can be part of ensuring that students feel less seasonal depression and quarantine depression are not the same. alone in whatever they may be going through and that each conversation can lead one step closer “Depression associated only with quarantine is situational and related to a loss. Some have to combating the stigma surrounding the issue. experienced the loss of a friend or family member, some have experienced the loss of a job due “The mental health committee works very hard in creating a safe space where students with to restrictions and closures, and many of us have experienced the loss of a significant event in our personal problems have someone their age to talk about it with,” committee co-chair Khan said. lives, such as a graduation. Most of us, of course, have experienced the loss of regular in-person As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, be sure to check up on yourself and your interactions with our family and friends. In this way, the depressed feelings related to quarantine friends, practice self-care, and find the all too important balance of mental and physical health this can be compared to grief. Some have experienced multiple and significant losses related to the winter and beyond. effects of Covid-19 and these can be traumatic,” Tina Watcher, school psychologist, said.

A plethora of resources remain available to students, even virtually.

“

“

Baltimore County Crisis Response 410-931-2214 Maryland Suicide and Crisis Hotline 800-422-0009 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK National Suicide Prevention Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741 Text HOME to 741741 for free 24-hour support

50% of all mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% begins by age 24.

Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide.

1 in 5 children experience a mental health condition in a given year.

Learn more about mental health: nami.org

LIGHT

November 2020 | 7

EALTH MATTERS

self care tips for a successful Winter MAINTAIN A NUTRITIOUS DIET In times of increased stress, your body needs energy to keep you and your immune system strong. Use this extra time at home to explore a new recipe.

DEVELOP A DAILY ROUTINE

Having a routine helps minimize distractions during the day. Be sure to work in time for self care or a new hobby.

GET PLENTY OF SLEEP

Sleep is essential for the body to recharge and repair.

Take advantage of the early sun sets, try to get to bed earlier and wake up at the same time each day.

TAKE BREAKS FROM THE SCREEN

From one Google Meet to the next, it feels like screen time is never ending. Give your eyes a much needed break by following the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 seconds take a look at something 20 feet away.

TAKE BREAKS FROM SOCIAL MEDIA AND THE NEWS

It can be hard to find good news these days and the news cycle can feel like a black hole. Schedule time to check the news and social media each day, it’s okay if you wait until the end of the day to catch up.

GO OUTSIDE

Vitamin D helps your body and immune system stay strong, and fresh air is fantastic way to boost your mood.

Embrace the cool winter weather and go on a walk.

STAY CONNECTED

Just because we are staying at home doesn’t mean we have to lose connections with each other. Call a friend, schedule a Zoom lunch, or send an old fashioned letter.

harbinger Hereford

Informing and entertaining the Hereford Zone Hereford High School 17301 York Road Parkton, MD 21120 443-809-1905 Volume 10 Issue 2 ADVISER Michelle Stachura EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jason Kraft MANAGING EDITOR Ryan Coffey EDITORS Sonia Ahmed Conor Dias Livianna Pisano Michael Timmerman REPORTERS Peter Capan Cristina Drecchio Jacob Epstein Adeline Feliz Sophia Shive Jacob Sienkiewicz Aleia Yeager ILLUSTRATOR Lawrence Chairs A member of the National Scholastic Press Association and the Columbia Scholastic Press Association CPSA recognition in Design Portfolio and Editorial Layout 2017

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OPINION

November 2020

Our View: Online grading policies are unfair Congrats Hereford students, we have successfully completed our first full quarter of online learning. Our three months have now turned into our six months of out-of-classroom education. Whether you love it or hate it, you cannot argue that online learning is anywhere close to the same as in person learning. You can press as many keys as you’d like but it would still never amount to physically taking a Cheeto and lighting it on fire in one of our science classrooms.

Online learning has truly been an interesting experience for all. New things seem to be thrown at teachers and students left and right with hardly any time to adjust these days. With all the changes that have occurred, one of the biggest ones has been the new schedule. Sitting through the same four classes every day for one semester opposed to eight rotating classes every other day has been a challenging adjustment.

Teachers are given four months of 50 minute classes, four days a week, in order to teach us nine months’ worth of 77 minute classes, every other day, material. We got robbed of our precious learning time.

“Teachers are doing their best to teach online but, for students it’s difficult to complete the work load we are given,” Hadley Bonbrest (’21) said. “There just seems to be too much at once.”

During online learning in Spring we had our old A/B schedule and only one class a week per course; students and teachers were nowhere near drowning in work as they are now.

“Now [this year] the grading load is huge, and I can’t stand so much reading on a computer—it’s horrible,” Mary Stuller, an AP English Literature and Creative Writing teacher, said.

On top of the stressful workload being given, many students found that teachers have been less understanding of work being turned in late. As much as we’d like to sit at home on our computer for an extra four more hours after the school day has ended in order to turn every assignment in on time, many of us have other obligations. By no means are we saying school and our assignments are not a top priority, but rather there are other things going on that need our attention as well such as jobs,

athletics, and both our mental and physical health after staring at a screen all day.

We have learned that indeed, some classes are harder than others to teach virtually, especially for science classes.

“It’s hard to get a full understanding [of the topic] because you just watch [a video of] other people do the lab you were supposed to do,” Shari Atkins (‘23) said.

Online learning has also been a struggle for amateur artists.

“Art class has been a struggle this year for sure. If something I created isn’t looking right, I don’t have a teacher nor classmate to come help me correct it to make it look any better,” Livia Hagan (’22) said.

With everything that has been going on in the world, overwhelmed is an understatement to how we are all feeling. Both students and teachers need to be more considerate of each other especially in the times we are in. While we are all learning to get through this together, it is best we take things a bit easier on each other.

With the never-ending commotion that is 2020, we’re all going to need a break here and there. The world has already been hard enough on each and every one of us this year and having a teacher give you an L.S. after missing the deadline by three minutes does not make any party feel better. While you are trying to “prepare us for college,” I think you can give us a little break with the harsh grading policies considering that there is a global pandemic going on and the lessons we are gaining our information from being taught in a rushed and a unorganized manner.

However, in return, students need to be more understanding. After all, teachers are also in this pandemic. It wouldn’t hurt if we popped our monogram bubbles every now and then and showed our faces. And realize that we’re not the only student that our teacher has to grade.

If there’s one thing we need to learn, it’s to be more considerate of our educational counterparts. And give everyone, student or teacher, a break during this pandemic.

The Pope restored my faith in Catholicism

Although his statements don’t mean Catholicism is immediately going to change and become advocates for LGBTQ+ community; they’ve started a conversation in the Catholic community about the need for acceptance. I believe that two people of the same sex can marry and raise children successfully; I’ve seen it first hand. I had my best friend, whose relationship with her mother’s made her a smart, kind, and accepting woman.

Pope Francis’ comments are baby steps, but they give me hope

By Sophia Shive the Catholic community is ready to change.

Reporter Ellie Faya, a practicing Catholic and member of the I’m a devoted Catholic; I run my church’s youth group, LGBTQ+ community told me about her experience with her I attend mass, and I volunteer to do charity work. I’ve alfaith and her sexuality. Faya came out as bisexual to her parents ways considered my religion as a key part of my identity, and and friends in seventh grade. She told me how it was hard besomething I’m proud of. Catholicism teaches people to believe cause of her parents’ beliefs, but she knew in what the Bible says, as well as the God was there for her. principles of the Catholic faith. As I’ve “I want people to be more accepting,” grown, I questioned many rules I must Love should be accepted no Faya (’23) said. “Love should be accepted follow as a Catholic. Many of the rules what form it’s in.”

I understand and accept, but others I matter what form it’s in. no matter I asked Faya to give advice to other tend to question. members of the LGBTQ+ community -Ellie Faya Growing up, one of my close who might be scared to show the world friends had two mothers; I remember who they are. thinking she was so lucky. I didn’t “Love who you want.

It is no one’s business but yours, think there was anything wrong with two women raising love yourself through everything you’re going through. It’s children. When her moms were able to legally marry, I attended scary but being yourself is the best thing you can do; it’s the their wedding. My friend and I sat in our pretty dresses watchbest way to be happy,” Faya said. ing her moms cut into their wedding cake; it was beautiful, and Pope Francis and Faya helped me be proud again of my I wanted my wedding to look exactly the same.

Catholicism. The changes and statements Pope Francis made The older I got, the closer I wanted to be to God; I loved were long overdue. I’m proud to be a part of something that’s knowing there was a higher power looking out for me and working towards loving and accepting all people. One person’s loving me no matter what. The Bible says God loves everyone voice, one religion’s shift in beliefs, and one article won’t make no matter what we do because we are all his children. Knowing a difference if no one else stands this I was confused when I learned being in a same-sex relaup and demands change for the tionship is considered a sin and is frowned upon in the Catholic LGBTQ+ community. I’m tired faith. If God loved everyone, why weren’t same-sex couples of the discrimination, but I’m loved and accepted? I learned the wedding I had admired as a proud that someone in a position child wasn’t held at a church because Catholicism doesn’t join of power is finally standing up to two women in holy matrimony. it. Pope Francis has restored my My parents raised me and my siblings in an accepting faith. environment, thus forming my belief that everyone, including

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those with different sexualities, deserve equality and love.

When I became aware of the anti-gay rule of my faith, I was embarrassed. I preached and believed in a faith that promised to love everyone, not a religion that didn’t accept people because of who they loved.

I was disappointed in the Catholic faith; we’re in the 21st century and still, no changes have been made to fit the modern world. Recently one man specifically, Pope Francis, has begun to alter the traditional beliefs of Catholicism. Pope Francis is the symbolic leader of the Catholic religion. In the past other Popes have voiced their anti-gay beliefs. Pope Francis is the first Pope to ever publicly support the LQBTQ+ community.

This is a big deal for Catholics because the LQBTQ+ community has been rejected so much in the past.

“If someone is gay and is searching for the Lord and has a good will, then who am I to judge him,” Pope Francis said in an interview in 2013.

In a shocking recent statement he advocated for the legalization of same-sex unions around the world. He has also stated that everyone deserves to be loved and have love.

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8 | HEREFORD HARBINGER

Illustration By Lawrence Chairs

November 2020

Apple purchasing “Peanuts” rights is only the beginning

By Jason Kraft Editor-In-Chief

American culture is consumerism.

Even in the most artistic facets, marketing influences America. From F. Scott Fitzgerald renaming “Trimalchio in West Egg” to the more marketable “The Great Gatsby,” to Andy Warhol’s soup cans and Brillo boxes, and on the pristine pictures wrapped around poisonous-commercial plastics—marketing permeates in our culture.

Even the “Peanuts” holiday specials are not safe from this.

Truth is, corporations are going to chase a buck when they see a buck, whether you consider it tradition or not.

Already, the rights of Charlie Brown and his friends have been tossed around—initially owned by CBS but then thrown to ABC in 2001. Then, Charlie finally landed with Apple in 2018.

And now, as 2020’s holiday season rears its ugly head— “Peanuts” will air on Apple TV, Apple’s premium streaming service.

Fans were outraged, with the overall sentiment being that Apple really yanked the football from our feet this time. But truth is, we should’ve known this would happen before we even wound up for the kick.

Granted, Apple allows the specials to be viewed for free during a limited time if you sign up for an account, but, the bait also looks free to the rabbit until the trap swings shut. In addition to this, and after hordes of complaints, Apple has made an agreement to allow PBS to air “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” on Nov. 22 and “A Charlie Brown Christmas” on Dec. 13.

However, there was no mention of PBS becoming a permanent home for Charlie and the gang, and it is likely this won’t repeat next year.

With the rise of streaming services, it’s an undeniable fact that corporations need content for us to stream, coupled with the fact that corporations love to spend money to make money. The major players—HBO Max, Disney Plus, Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon—will attempt to soak up as many rights to shows, movies, or what have you as they can.

I mean, just look at Disney Plus—among their five main categories (Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic) four were acquired by them in the past 20 years.

And just as a pretty staggering side note, Disney bought Fox’s entertainment assets for $73.1 billion.

With purchases that large, price increases are bound to happen. In fact, Hulu recently announced that their Live TV bundle will now start at $65 a month in December, a $10 increase. It’s practically ensured that if corporations keep buying content, their prices are going to increase.

Additionally, streaming competition will get worse and increasingly rigid. It’s likely that “Peanuts” will not be the only tradition snatched from cable TV and repackaged on a new streaming service. In fact, I predict that most of our favorite holiday specials will be shoved into streaming exclusivity eventually as cable TV’s throne slowly crumbles. Maybe Rudolph will find himself in the land of misfit streaming services, among Hoopla or Fandoor.

As America slips away from its almost 70-year-old infatuation with cable TV, it seems obvious that businessmen are bound to follow. So as streaming molds itself as the norm, get ready for outrageous pricing, empty promises, and obnoxious advertising—the marketable flora to our impressionable fauna.

Ironically enough—in a classic “Peanuts” moment, once the football is swooped away from his path, Charlie Brown shrills a scream and slams the ground with a puff of dust, and all Lucy has to say is, “Isn’t it peculiar, Charlie Brown, how some traditions just slowly fade away?”

OPINION

HEREFORD HARBINGER | 9

Political Cartoon by Lawrence Chairs

Think about your turkey this Thanksgiving It’s November, and Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Thanksgiving brings good times. Whether it’s family or good food, most of us can find something to be grateful for this Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving is not great for everyone, though. It’s estimated that

By Sonia Ahmed 46 million turkeys are killed each year Opinion Editor for Thanksgiving. Now, I’m not here to preach about stopping your meat consumption completely, I just know that there are a lot of benefits to cutting back a little and finding alternatives.

Let’s look at one of the biggest meat suppliers in the world, shall we? Tyson foods owns up to 27% of the poultry industry.

They supply for fast food chains like KFC, McDonalds, Burger King, and Taco Bell. A video by Compassion Over Killing, an animal rights advocacy group, showed employees mistreating baby chicks. They were stomping on them and crushing them.

Basically, it wasn’t a pretty sight to see.

Now, these kinds of videos aren’t exactly surprising to see.

It’s just what the meat industry is. But if you’re like me and you don’t want to see this happening to animals, but also don’t want to cut out your meat completely, then I suggest we find some alternatives.

Vegan Gabriela Haugh (21’), says to “buy substitutes sometimes” like “switching to almond milk instead of cow’s milk” and “having beans in a taco instead of meat” Now, the meat industry contributes to 5-10% of global carbon emissions, which may not seem like a lot, but it is. Every contribution to global warming matters. If we’re going to stop this from happening, we need to cut back on meat a little and buy substitutes sometimes, like Haugh says.

A study in August 2019 by Scientific Reports, a scientif-

ic journal, reported that if everyone in the U.S cut their meat consumption by a quarter, we would save about 82 million in greenhouse gas emissions per year. That’s only one percent of greenhouse gas emissions, but it still makes a difference. I mean, do we really need to eat meat every day of the week?

If you’re looking into transitioning to veganism for the moral aspect, there are some do’s and don’ts.

“Buying grass fed or organic meat isn’t better at all” Haugh said. In organic meat, “cows are denied medications, even if they need it.”

So, what is a better alternative for morally made meat?

Well, instead of looking for organic meat at your local grocery store, try looking for free range instead. The animals are treated well up until the point of death, which is how it should be for all meat sellers, but it isn’t.

Also, hold the meat industry accountable. Let companies know it’s not okay for them to mistreat animals. Spread awareness, sign petitions, whatever you can do to get the word out there.

Now, it’s important to acknowledge that killing animals for food, no matter which way, is immoral. But let’s be real, most people are not going to stop consuming meat completely; it’s embedded in most cultures.

There are other ways to help the environment besides cutting back on your meat consumption. Sam McCarty (’21) says he has a composter and recycles. Other ways you can help the environment include: cutting back on your driving time, using less electricity, and using reusable containers. Basically, any of the three R’s are always a good idea.

The time has come to start caring about the environment and other creatures on this earth. Reduce your meat consumption and find substitutes. Research other ways you can help the environment. Spread awareness. After all, we can’t live if the earth is dead.

Online schooling is beneficial

By Cristina Drecchio Reporter

After being online for nearly eight months, students and teachers are eager to get back to the classroom. For months now there have been rumors about getting sent back either full time or hybrid. But as time has gone by, the date of returning keeps getting pushed back. Students have vocalized the challenges that online learning brings: technology issues, lack of communication, and grades. In-person learning caters to students who benefit from a hands-on approach to education; however, people tend to forget about those who aren’t looking to go back this school year.

Online schooling has given us more free time that we wouldn’t have if we went back. Our classes have been divided into two semesters which reduces our workload. On top of that, we no longer commute to and from school and we don’t have sports that take up hours of our day. This gives students more time to complete their work.

“Being online keeps me more focused and organized because I can operate on my own time schedule,” Sarah Salles (’21) said.

Since we’ve been given the extra time to complete our schoolwork, some students’ grades seem to be improving Illustration By Lawrence Chairs

tremendously. Given the ability to work a little bit more at our own pace, the stress of timing our workload has been lifted. It really does make a difference in efficiency when stress is taken off the table.

“I was a B and C students in previous years, but now since online I have been able to focus and study more on my own, and this is my first time having all A’s,” Mary-Kate McGonigle (’23) said.

Let’s not forget about those who become anxious when in a classroom setting, or those who get easily distracted. With ADHD and anxiety, I find it extremely challenging to focus when surrounded by classmates. Being at home has allowed me to complete my work on time and not feel the pressure I would experience in the classroom.

“Being able to complete my work on my own time and being able to take breaks helps me not get so overwhelmed and stressed out,” Ava Greenfield (’21) said.

McGonigle goes on to explain that since being home she started meditating, this has helped with being productive in her schooling.

“I sit on the floor and focus all my thoughts into categories, then I take a mental note of what I need to get done,” McGonigle said.

Online school gives us more time to spend with family and do things that we enjoy.

Senior Jacob Warner shares that ever since we’ve been online, he has more time to fly fish, which is one of his favorite activities.

Hear me out, I think I can speak for everyone when I say that we are all looking for the life we had before Covid-19. But is going back to school this year really going to fulfil that? If we went back it simply wouldn’t be the same. The classes would be reduced by half, you wouldn’t be able to eat lunch with your friends and you must wear a mask the whole time. We won’t have pep rally, homecoming, prom or any of the fun things high school brings. We’ve all missed out on memories no matter how big or small they were. Underclassmen: don’t rush to go back to school this year, be patient. If we get this virus under control you will hopefully be able to go back next year and have everything be normal. Trust me, you don’t want your senior year to be like this.

10 | HEREFORD HARBINGER

IN FOCUS

November 2020

Hereford’s favorite TV show theme songs

By Livianna Pisano Backpage Editor

Winter- you either love it or hate it. As the weather begins to grow colder, many of us tend to start finding more activities to do indoors to save ourselves from freezing our butts off.

These activities we choose from all seem to have to revolve around the same idea: to entertain.

Entertainment is what keeps one amused and feeling alive. There are many different sources of entertainment. In the United States, the second major source of entertainment behind casinos and online gambling is television subscriptions. (BusinessTech 2015) Streaming platforms are coming out left and right nowadays causing most Americans to move away from watching live television. By March of this year, there were 97.2 Million American households that had at least one streaming service subscription (Engage Towson University).

“I prefer streaming platforms because I can’t stand watching commercials [on live TV],” Jillian Watkins, a math teacher, said. “I also never have time to watch a show when it’s actually on.”

Platforms like Netflix and Hulu have allowed viewers to watch whatever they want whenev-

er they want to. On top of that, there is also no wait time between watching episodes compared to live television where you usually have to wait a week to see what’s happening next.

“I find myself spending a lot more time binge watching shows on Netflix because it’s all right there for me to continue watching,” Adriana Burger (’22) said.

Ah, binge watching shows. After about five hours of watching the same show, the opening theme song begins to engrave itself in the brain. While annoying, I will admit, some theme songs I really do not mind having stuck inside of my head for the rest of the day. Many feel the same, as we were able to compile a few playlists filled with some favorite theme songs from students’, teachers’, and the Harbinger staff.

Playlists

Edit Teachers Favorites HHS Staff

Play

Shuffle

Seasame Street Theme (Mr. Roe) The Seasame Street Kids

Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (Mrs. Watkins) DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince

Thank You For Being a Friend (Mrs. Houseknect) Andrew Gold

I’ll Be There For You (Ms. Erline) The Rembrandts

Life & Death (Mrs. Stachura) Michael Giacchino

The Simpsons Theme (Mr. Fluharty) Danny Elfman

Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (Mr. Tillman) DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince

Playlists

Edit Play

Shuffle

NCIS Theme (Sophie Shive) Numberiklab

Harbinger Staff’s Favorites Harbinger Staff

The Office (Jacob Epstein) The Scrantones

Theme from “Family Guy” (Aleia Yeager)

Sam MacFarlane

I’ll Be There for You (Ryan Coffey) The Rembrandts

IZombie Theme (Lawrence Chairs) Geek Music

Today is Gonna Be a Great Day (Mikey Tim.) Bowling for Soup

Thank You for Being a Friend (Sonia Ahmed) Andrew Gold