January 2021 - Online Issue

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Dwayne Haskins falls from grace Page 5

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Volume X Issue IV

Hereford High School, Parkton, Maryland

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

Community Features Spotlight Opinion In Focus

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Inside Hereford students take on climate change Page 2

January 2021

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COMMUNITY

January 2021

Hereford students take on climate change

By Aleia Yeager Reporter

The Arctic Refuge auction sparked outrage across the nation. It revealed to US citizens how are bringing plastic water bottles, which are ultimately bad for material consumption,” Campbell most politicians and government officials aren’t taking action when it comes to climate change said. and its rapid progression. Activists are raising awareness on social media platforms, signing petiThere are many ways for Hereford to be more environmentally conscious. Composing more tions, and protesting. For many, this is a wake-up call to be more environmentally conscious and computer friendly notes, cutting out unnecessary paperwork, and turning off lights when they are reduce their carbon footprints. not used are some routines we can incorporate into the Hereford education.

Hereford is struggling to find ways to be a greener community. While some students and Another common issue many in the community come across is gas and oil usage. One citizens may advocate for the rights of those affected by climate change, it’s difficult to demand student, Kendall Auffarth (’22), makes trips to the Royal Farms in Hunt Valley for gas, which can and challenge the county with such a small population. Locally, we can be tiring since it’s a far drive. So, the community is considering putting take steps to be a more environmentally conscious town. in a new Royal Farms next to Graul’s. This would mean the Exxon Maddie Magliocca (’23) is an activist for the environment. Malocated near Graul’s would be forced to lower their gas prices in order Animals see their homes, food sourcgliocca is active on Instagram, but she also takes the time to have discusto compete. es, and families disappear because sions with friends about current controversies.

“Although it may seem like it will make our carbon footprint “The Artic Refuge auction is a perfect example of human entitleworse, it may actually make it better since people won’t have to drive as of us,” ment,” Magliocca said. far for gas,” Auffarth said.

- Maddie Magliocca (’23) Here, Magliocca is referring to the motivation of this auction: oil Contrasting Auffarth’s beliefs, Sam Snyder (’23) thinks differentdrilling. Some see these actions to be inhumane, while other see its ly of a Royal Farms installation. Snyder argues that 7-Eleven and the benefit to the economy and our country. Nonetheless, it will have drastic Exxon provide everything that the new building would offer, deeming it impacts on the state of global warming and the wildlife in the arctic and around the world. We unnecessary. should expect unpredictable weather and climate, rising sea levels, and mass deaths within “It might be nice to have something closer instead of driving to Cockeysville for gas or species’ populations. other things, but overall, it does more harm than good,” Snyder said.

Another student, Xander Van Dorpe (‘23), has a different approach when it comes It’s safe to say that the Royal Farms installation has sparked controversy throughout to helping the environment. Recycling, using little amounts of paper and plastic, and the Hereford community, so if you want to advocate your opinion, there are petitions to turning off lights when they’re not being used are minor tasks Van Dorpe and others sign and you can contact our councilman, Wade Kach. have done to reduce their carbon footprint.

The Artic Refuge auction was just the beginning. Citizens are advocating their “Anything is better than nothing. I feel like everyone can easily make little opinion about these issues and we, in Hereford, demonstrate similar passion, sacrifices to help the environment,” Van Dorpe said. especially with the Royal Farms discussion. Everyone wants what’s best for the Material consumption and how it can be reduced is a big topic in the residents and town, but it is very hard to find a balance between pleasing the education system. Unimaginable amounts of paper, school supplies (markers, public and being conscious of the environment. Hopefully, we can all do our binders, pencils, etc.), and electricity are used daily. Hereford has about part in reducing our carbon footprint, even with simple tasks, to provide a 100 teachers with classes of 30 students. A school this size will use about greater and greener future.

250,000 pieces of paper a year, which is around 12-25 trees. This number may not seem like a lot, but there are 497 high schools in Maryland. This equates to about 12,425 trees. Online school has helped to reduce these amounts, but eventually we’ll return to school, so the issue still stands.

Matthew Campbell (‘22), vice president of the junior class, believes the education system does a good job with energy and material usage, but agrees that they should still be minimized.

“A big thing for me is the poor water that our school provides because this in turn forces students to bring water from home, and about half of those kids Image provided by Wikimedia Commons

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January 2021

COMMUNITY

HEREFORD HARBINGER | 3

Vaccination rollouts: community anticipates vaccine

By Mikey Timmerman Community Editor

As the calendar marks one full year of being out of schools and in at-home quarantine, people need something to look forward to. On Monday, Dec. 14, 2020 the first vaccine was made public and the rollout plan had begun. After millions of people have gotten the first round of the vaccine, here is how and when you can be ready should you choose to get the vaccine.

The Center of Disease Control (CDC) has implemented a three-phase rollout based on supplies and availability. Phase one is described by having potentially limited Covid-19 vaccine doses available. Phase two will start when large number of doses are available, and supply is likely to meet demands. Phase three will begin once supplies are widely available and exceed demand.

With the sections, the CDC has also allocated information on who falls into each phase.

Phase one is split into three parts, 1-A, 1-B, and 1-C. Maryland is in 1-C. Those who are identified to belong in 1-A are, “paid and unpaid persons serving in healthcare settings who have the potential for direct or indirect exposure to patients or infectious materials and are unable to work from home,” those in 1-B are, “other essential workers and people at higher risk of severe Covid-19 illness, including people of 65 years of age and older,” and, “1-C is comprised of other essential workers such as teachers, constuction workers, food services, and other public workers,” according to the CDC’s vaccination playbook.

Phase two recipients are remainders of phase one, anyone deemed as being in a critical population and some of general public. Phase three should have enough vaccines to allow everyone in the United States to get a vaccine while accommodating for any remaining phase one and critical population.

To know where you might fall in this spectrum, the CDC identifies critical populations as, “Healthcare personnel (paid and unpaid personnel in healthcare settings, school nurses, vaccinators, etc.), those with an increased risk for severe Covid-19 illness (nursing and assisted living residents, persons with preexisting medical conditions, people of 65 years or older), people at risk of acquiring or transmitting the disease (people of ethnic or racial minority groups, people incarcerated in correctional facilities, people who are homeless or living in shelters, those who attend college/universities, people who work in educational settings) and people with limited access to routine vaccination services.”

Leslie Perry, Hereford’s school nurse, has been working with Baltimore County Health Department (BCHD) where she made contact-tracing calls, managed outbreaks in long-term care facilities, group homes and businesses, and now, works at the vaccine clinics.

“Last evening, we vaccinated about 1000 first responders, dentists, dental hygienists, and employees of urgent care facilities,” Perry said.

While she can’t say for certain when she expects everyone to have access to a vaccine, she hopes those who want one will be able to receive one by the summer. While the process is sluggish right now, we should be hopeful that the system can provide the needed products to increase the rate of vaccinations, and that everyone who needs to be vaccinated can get one as soon as possible.

For the time being, most states are still going through the first phase of this process, so it is impossible to know when phase three will begin or end. So, in terms of getting back to school, once the staff has been cleared, we will have an opportunity to be back in the building, but everyone will continue to wear masks and maintain sanitization protocols.

“Getting my vaccine would allow me and my students to return to in-person schooling, but there are still a lot of unanswered questions about potential carriers even after being vaccinated,” Thomas Keller, a science teacher at Hereford, said.

Given the opportunity to receive a vaccine, in order to keep the process moving, individuals should come prepared with identification and having any outer layers of clothing removed, allow-

ing easy access to the arm, will allow for the quickest routine.

As of now there are two current vaccines, Pfizer and Moderna. While they are similar in their manufacturing process, it is important to know which vaccine you receive as the second dose must be from the same manufacturer. With the second dosage of the vaccine, a separation of 2128 days from the first dose will be needed to allow the body to build up its immunity to the virus.

“I hope the vaccine will give our school communities confidence that getting our students back in school learning is safe for all involved,” Trish Redding, another BCPS school nurse and worker with BCHD involved in administration of the vaccine, said.

Until then, be sure to stay safe and wear your masks. We need to continue to do our part to get out of this pandemic.

Nurse practitioner Stephanie Eyler poses in between ”Rosie the Riveter” posters flexing the arm she got the vaccine in. Many medical staff waited months to finally receive their first dose of the vaccine.

Photo provided by the Maryland Pediatric Group

For more information visit: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/imz-managers/downloads/COVID-19-Vaccination-Program-Interim_Playbook.pdf and https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/acip/meetings/downloads/slides-2020-12/slides-12-20/02-COVID-Dooling.pdf

BCPS device reimaging strives to fix ransomware dilemma

By Pete Capan Reporter

Imagine you’re back in seventh grade. You just got out of reading “Animal Farm” and you’re on your way to social studies. As you sit down at your table of four, you notice an ominous metal cart, a gateway to not doing your work. Anticipation radiates from all corners of the room because everyone knows what’s about to happen. Today, you’re playing Kahoot.

Since then, devices have become less of a privilege and more of a burden. And now, devices have become even more important as we transitioned to online learning. Now, instead of occasionally playing Kahoot or CoolMathGames, our entire education revolves around the device.

This inevitably leads to issues.

Online learning has been nothing short of a struggle for students and teachers alike. The year started with constant device issues that left many students out of class for days. Issues with platforms like Google Meet and Schoology kept classes from getting work done. And this is certainly not the strangest thing to happen in 2020. A ransomware attack left students unable to access their devices or BCPS.org for days.

This attack remains an issue today as recently the county had undergone a reimaging process. This process involved students taking a day to download a variety of software that was missing from the devices in the initial device swap. Even though devices were fixed, many students still experienced issues. One of them being the infamous screeching noises.

“Pretty much anytime I have to use the audio it’s really distorted and screechy,” Joey Rhoads (’22) said. “It’s just super annoying as it’s kind of hard to learn when you can barely understand your teacher.”

Students have had to take it upon themselves to fix their devices, which can prove challenging since most students aren’t computer science majors. The device issues have been yet another thing teachers have had to compensate for as it can be a hassle to catch up an increasing number of students who have missed class or aren’t able to access important assignments.

“It seems like every time things settle down another problem crops up,” Weston Fellows, computer science teacher, said. “To start, it was Wi-Fi connectivity, getting software installed, then the ransomware attack happened, and we had to swap devices, now it’s the audio feedback issues and getting software installed. Coupled with typical hardware failures, it has been quite a lot.”

Despite these frequent and widespread issues with student devices, Hereford High and Baltimore County Public Schools are doing all they can to ensure the most favorable virtual learning environment. By providing step by step instructions, students are, for the most part, able to get back to learning within a few minutes.

“It was pretty easy to fix and it only took like five minutes,” Luke Drury (’22) said.

Aside from issues with the laptops themselves, students in Baltimore County, especially in the Hereford Zone, have struggled with poor internet connectivity.

“Some students aren’t able to submit assignments, watch video, get into certain programs,” Fellows said. “I would hazard a guess that 95% of students don’t have significant issues on a day-to-day basis. It’s that 5% that really worries me.”

Internet connectivity issues may seem minor and insignificant but they’re something that makes life for students and teachers that much harder.

These issues force delays in deadlines, interrupt learning, and hinder the ability of teachers to do their job.

“Internet connectivity became the primary issue, given how rural the Hereford Zone is in some spots,” Allison Zane, math teacher, said, “Because of these types of issues, I make my class PowerPoints (with notes) available for students so that they can see what was gone over in class.”

Teachers have been able to adapt to the situation quite well, creating updates, summaries of previous classes, and providing after school help sessions.

The Hereford staff has done much more to aid students in adjusting to online learning. The device swap was one of the more successful adaptations across the county to one of the unforeseen hazards of online learning.

“Hereford High has been able to reimage over 1,000 student devices to date, so I would say that the adjustments that were made certainly helped things run more smoothly,” Zane said.

While sadly, we won’t ever be going back to the days of the device carts and CoolMathGames, school devices have clearly become a key tool in the learning process. With the help of these devices, BCPS has taken the challenge of online learning head on and continues to improve and adapt to the circumstances to ensure the best virtual school environment possible.

Image provided by Wikimedia Commons

4 | HEREFORD HARBINGER

FEATURES

January 2021

ELITE DRIVING SCHOOL January

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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.

January 2021

FEATURES

HEREFORD HARBINGER | 5

Dwayne Haskins falls from grace

By Jake Epstein Features Editor

In April 2019, the Washington Football Team selected Dwayne Haskins with the 15th pick in the NFL Draft. Handing the keys to the franchise, the Ohio State Quarterback who had thrown for 50 touchdowns in his lone starting season said, “The league done messed up.” Less than two years later, Washington and Haskins mutually parted ways.

It appeared to be the perfect pair: the Bullis Prep School football star selected to quarterback his hometown team. Haskins played high school ball just 35 minutes from the Washington Football Team training facility in Ashburn, VA and 35 minutes from the team’s stadium, FedEx Field.

Haskins was the choice of the team’s infamous owner, Daniel Snyder, whose children attended Bullis as well. The rest of the team’s front office and their coaches were less than enamored with the selection.

The team brought in veteran journeyman Case Keenum to start immediately in the season, in hopes that he would give them an opportunity to win right away. The team started the season 0-5 and Head Coach John Gruden was fired.

Haskins saw his first on-field action in week four relief for Keenum, where he threw for three interceptions, zero touchdowns, and 107 yards. While he struggled in his debut, the alarm bells were not sounded. He next played in week eight against the Minnesota Vikings, where he would assume the starting QB role for the rest of the season.

His rookie numbers were very underwhelming, as he completed just 58.6 percent of his passes and threw for seven touchdowns coupled with seven interceptions. However, Haskins’ play was consistently improving. It looked like the team had finally found the quarterback piece they had been missing.

However, small indications of Haskins’ immaturity began to emerge. He had so much trouble learning the playbook that the coaching staff believed he was dyslexic. While most rookie quarterbacks shadow the veterans who they are supposed to be always learning from (much like Miami Dolphins rookie, Tua Tagovailoa’s relationship with his mentor Ryan Fitzpatrick), Haskins

Haskins, pictured with NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year favorite: Chase Young, is now a Pittsburg Steeler. Haskins went unclaimed on waivers and parted ways with his agent, David Mulugheta.

Image provided by Creative Commons.

was always on the opposite end of the bench from Keenum and seemed disinterested in his aid.

Following his first career win, Haskins missed the final snap of the game taking selfies with fans.

Following his rookie season, the team underwent a culture change. Head coach, Ron Rivera, was brought in and given autonomy with the team’s operations (a far-cry from Snyder’s previous arrangement with coaches). Haskins competed for the starting job with Kyle Allen, who Rivera coached in Carolina, and Alex Smith, who had suffered a gruesome leg injury two seasons prior, but made an improbable comeback to the game.

Haskins took the competition as motivation. He lost around seven percent body fat, got himself into better shape, and impressed the coaches with his work-ethic. He won the starting job going into week one and was named a team captain.

The work ethic that Haskins displayed was all for-not. Once he got the nod to start, his effort dropped, and it appeared like he was coasting. Haskins struggled off the bat to begin his second season and Washington had a record of 1-2 going into their matchup with the Baltimore Ravens.

Reports began to whirl that Haskins was playing for the starting spot, especially after a dismal four-turnover performance against Cleveland.

Despite throwing for 314 yards and surrendering no turnovers against a stout Ravens defense, Haskins was benched in favor of Kyle Allen.

After allegedly bragging about his performance in the team’s double-digit loss to Baltimore, his coaches cited his poor work ethic and performance for his benching. Haskins would later be fined $4,833 dollars for breaking league Covid-19 protocols with a hotel reservation.

Haskins’ demotion to third string came to no surprise to Washington fan, Austin Leisher (’22), who said, “he [Haskins] was awful in every game to start the season and showed no improvement after an entire season in the league.”

Haskins remained the distant backup for Kyle Allen and then Alex Smith until Smith exited a matchup with the San Francisco 49ers, which Washington won. The following week, Haskins struggled against the Seahawks in a tough 20-15 loss.

Following the loss to the Seahawks, Haskins was photographed without a mask at a party with adult performers. This was Haskins’ second violation of league Covid-19 protocols and Haskins was fined $40,000 dollars and stripped of his captaincy. The team then faced off against the Carolina Panthers, where a win would send Washington to the playoffs. Haskins started and was by all reports, playing for his future on the team.

Even though he was playing for his job, Haskins was terrible, amassing two interceptions and a dismal passer rating of 36.9 before being replaced in the second half by Taylor Heinicke. The following day, he was released.

“His [Haskins’] actions were disappointing on and off the field, especially considering his coach is battling cancer,” Washington Football fan Alex Bierly (’22) said.

Haskins’ expedient departure from the Washington Roster is a familiar sight to Anthony “Booger” McFarland, former Tampa bay defensive tackle and current ESPN analyst, who said that Haskins is one of many young players who enter the league asking, “how can I build my brand better,” instead of focusing on team and performance aspects “Dwayne Haskins unfortunately is not the first case I’ve seen like this, and it won’t be the last,” McFarland said.

Haskins entered the league with much promise and incredible arm talent; however, his immaturity and poor work ethic will forever mark his tenure with Washington. On Jan. 21, Haskins signed with the Pittsburg Steelers, where he will get a fresh start in a new city.

Find the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day

By Addie Feliz Reporter

For centuries, Valentine’s Day has been celebrated throughout the world. Some spend the day with their significant other, others spend it with their closest friends. Regardless of who you spend it with, if you are with the ones you love then the Valentine’s Day spirit will live on.

The origins of Valentine’s Day are quite dark compared to the overall message of love that the holiday has changed to. Valentine’s Day originates from the Roman festival of Lupercalia which celebrates the coming of spring. During the festival women would be auctioned off as a lottery. The original name, Valentine, comes from two men who were executed on Feb. 14 by Emperor Claudius II. Their martyrdom was honored by the Catholic Church with the celebration of St. Valentine’s Day. Dark, right? Throughout the years the holiday has beeen romanticized by many like Shakespeare, which is how the holiday gained popularity in Britain and Europe.

Despite its solemn origin, Modern Valentine’s Day celebrates giving and showing love. Valentine’s Day now is one of the most popular holidays in America, sales this season are expected to exceed 25 billion dollars. So, what is the perfect Valentine’s Day celebration?

“I made a reservation for me and my girlfriend at a restaurant and after we are going to build a bear and getting matching bears,” said Dominick Harris (’22).

Going out to a fancy dinner with your significant other is a classic Valentine’s Day date, but with the restrictions, many restaurants will not allow in-person dinning. An alternative could

be getting takeout and going to a park to eat it. Another option is packing a nice picnic and then going on a hike to a beautiful spot together; it could be very romantic. But what about the rest of us who aren’t in relationships? What do we do?

“For Valentine’s Day I’m going to be hanging out with my friends and having a movie night with carry out,” said Ellie Clark (’21).

Personally, I know every year my friends and I make it a tradition to go do something together for Valentine’s Day. Watching a romcom movie or going on a day trip somewhere, we always find a way to have fun together. For those of you who are looking for something fun to do with friends this year, I always recommend having a chocolate making competition, going on a scenic walk together, or even having a late-night bonfire together.

“My girlfriend and I will be going out to dinner for Valentine’s Day,” said Jonathan Connelly (’23).

Although many of us may have different views on how to spend the holiday, we can all agree that in the end all that really matters is that you are with the ones you love. Whether that is your friends, family, boyfriend, girlfriend, or even your fluffy pets, all that matters is that you spread the love.

Social media encourages activism in young people

By Jacob Sienkiewicz Reporter

Social media is usually the place where teens spend most of their time to laugh at jokes and find entertainment. However, social media has recently become more than just a platform to escape boredom, as many big creators have been using social media to inform and educate many teens on what is going on in the world.

Many young people spend hours a day on social media, leaving no time for them to read the news, so they have little knowledge about what is going on in the world. Now, receiving news about important issues is less of a problem, as many big creators have been spreading awareness about problems in the world and using their voices to educate young people. Last spring big creators such as Charli D’amelio were educating their viewers about Black Lives Matter and what the movement is about and how they can help. During this past election, creators used social media to encourage those who can vote, to go out and vote.

“Social media gives me information on politics and issues that are going on in the world today,” Nathan Punte (’23) said. “I get different viewpoints from people on social media who speak their opinions, and this helps me get a better understanding of certain issues.”

Besides informing and educating people, social media does cause people to go out and do things that will make change. Back in Sept. 2020, it was estimated over 4 million voters registerered through social media platforms.

“I think it is important for these big creators to talk about issues so more young people can be informed and take action.” Lindsey Moneymaker (’24) said.

Social media doesn’t just teach about current events, it also helps young people build up con-

fidence and motivation. Social media can help people find motivation on anything from schoolwork to sports. There are many accounts that will give you good tips and information about what you are trying to achieve.

“Social media has helped me with basketball in multiple ways. Mostly for motivation and recruiting wise. For recruiting I can reach out to colleges and scouts easier. And for motivation I learn new skills and see other people do them and it motivates me to try and do them to get better,” Kayla Nieberlein (’22) said.

Social media will always be a part of everybody’s life from now on. While it may not be the best at times, social media users are taking advantage of it to learn and help change theirs and others lives.

Kim Kardashian who has over 65 million followers on twitter uses her platform to speak on important issues. Back in November 2020 she encouraged people to go out and vote.

Image provided by Wikimedia Commons

6 | HEREFORD HARBINGER

SPOTL

What’s the dea

New Ye

New Year’s resolutions: overrated and hopeless

By Ryan Coffey Managing Editor

Maybe it’s just me, but I have never really understood the hype associated with a new year – Jan. 1 is just another day. Nothing dramatically changes at midnight, and we all wake up the same person that we were just hours ago. Going off of that, I also don’t get the hype associated with New Year’s resolutions or the “new year, new me” mentality.

That’s not to say that I don’t see the importance of self-improvement and setting goals because I do and I am a firm believer that every day, everyone should do something to make the world a better place. What I don’t see the importance of is waking up one morning with (at best) a half-baked plan to drastically change yourself and the world. What makes Jan. 1 a better day than Dec. 8 or Nov. 4? If it is a goal that you are really willing to go after and achieve, why does the start date have to be set and what is wrong with starting today?

The process of self-improvement, setting, and reaching goals is something that shouldn’t be limited to a once-a-year event. It should be an ongoing and daily process. Above all, the thing that really gets me about new year’s resolutions is that they are a mockery to commitment and hard work and traps you in a yearly cycle of Jan. hope followed by Dec. despair. Fast forward one month – how many people will have failed to read a book a week, or journal daily, or meet any other unrealistic goal they set when deciding that Jan. 1 was going to be life changing? My guess – a lot. And the data supports it.

A study published in Forbes magazine found the about 80% of new year’s resolutions don’t make it past Jan., and because these goals were set as resolutions, they get put on the back burner, labeled as failures, and not looked at or reflected on until the following year.

That cycle is precisely my problem with resolutions. The label associated with any ambition or massive life altering plan created on or in the weeks leading up to Jan. 1 serves as a pass to follow through for a few days or maybe a week.

Once that’s done, it can be forgotten about, added to the list of failed resolutions, and everyone can go back to living their life the way they would on

any other given day.

The absolute last thing I want to do is discourage self-improvement or change.

In fact, I think it is vital that we set realistic goals all the time and put energy into making every day better than the last. My advice is to start today, start now, and start small. Don’t wait until next week, next month, or next year. Just go for it, celebrate the highs, reflect on the lows, and keep moving forward. Every day is an opportunity for change.

LIGHT

JANUARY 2021 | 7

al with

ear’s resolutions?

New Year’s resolutions: essential and practical

By Ekei Obu

Kids and 50% of adults in the United States make life changing decisions as their new year’s resolution on New Year’s Eve. A lot of people feel that new year is the right time to start doing something differently. Mr. James Raduazzo, Hereford High School teacher said, “I believe in new year’s resolution, it’s a time to make changes about yourself and even for others.” According to psychologytoday.com the top two most made resolutions are behavioral commitments related to improving one’s health, cease smoking and decrease consumption of alcohol.

“My resolution for 2020 was to lose weight: I lost 70 lbs. in one year,” Dylan Hartlove (’22) said.

“I made a New Year’s resolution in 2020 to start exercising and I kept up,” Raduazzo said. there is always a New Year’s resolution trend on social media platforms. As of last year, the New Year’s resolution was #pushup challenge with over 510.6 million views on tik-tok.

Making a New Year’s resolution is the same as waking up and writing out your day. Studies on newtechnorthwest.com shows that people who make a list about their day, are more likely to get things done. A

Reporter

lot of people believe that new year is a great time for manifestation. Manifestation is bringing something tangible into your life through attraction and the belief that you can do it. First step to manifestation is knowing what you want, which is exactly what New Year’s resolution is all about.

“I wait for new year eve to make resolutions because it challenges me to do something I’ve always wanted to do,” Katrina Berardi (’24) said.

Certain people wait for new year eve to make resolution because they need a cause to do something, a catalyst for change.

“Age comes with wisdom and discipline,” Penelope Naden (’21) said.

As people grow older their new year’s resolution gets consequential. Adults who make new year’s resolution said, its disciplines them to keep going forward.

A young girl said as she grew older her new year’s resolution was not just about her anymore.

“My New Year’s resolution is to go on a walk every day with my dog while picking up trash in my community,” Naden said.

“I started making new year’s resolution because my parents always made a resolution every year,” Hartlove said. “This year my friend made a New Year’s resolution about drinking more water, I thought it was a very good idea, so I made the same resolution about drinking more water too.”

A lot of teenagers are influence by their parent into making New Year’s resolution. Peers sharing their New Year’s resolution among themselves can have an impact on other.

However New Year’s resolutions are not entirely about character change, they are also about reflecting on past years behavior. Whenever I have a realistic New Year’s resolution, I wake up every day looking forward to keeping it. New Year’s resolution keeps me motivated throughout the year. I have never made a New Year’s resolution and kept up with it for the rest of the year, but every New Year’s Eve, I find myself making resolution not because people were making one, but because every year I realize that the was something I was stopping myself from doing so I challenges myself to do. My resolutions are never grand or significant but just little things like staying true to myself and my believes and not making decision base on what the society believes.

8 | HEREFORD HARBINGER

harbinger Hereford

Informing and entertaining the Hereford Zone Hereford High School 17301 York Road Parkton, MD 21120 443-809-1905 Volume 10 Issue 4 ADVISER Michelle Stachura EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jason Kraft MANAGING EDITOR Ryan Coffey EDITORS Sonia Ahmed Jacob Epstein Livianna Pisano Michael Timmerman REPORTERS Peter Capan Conor Dias Cristina Drecchio 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

January 2021

Our View: American Colleges break the banks of students Every student ready to apply to university sees the prices of colleges around the United States. Whether it’s a private or public university, most colleges will have some steep prices when you compare them to other schools around the world.

The United States is certainly one of the best places to get your college degree, with high-ranking schools across the country, but does the opportunity cost pay off in the end? According to CNBC, four years of university can cost anywhere from an average of $20,090 per year for in state university and average out at $34,220 for out of state university.

Unfortunately, prices can climb much higher than this.

Some higher ranked colleges such as Yale, Harvey Mudd, and Columbia can all reach upwards of $70,000 to $80,000 per year.

These prices may seem normal to the average student in America, but when compared with prices in other countries they’re terribly overpriced.

“The cost of college in the United States is ridiculous,” said Max Bohlmann, a Hereford Alumni, who attends college in Germany. “I don’t know the actual number but in America I could be paying 20 thousand a year, but in Germany I will be paying around 5 thousand, so I opted for the cheaper option.”

Many countries offer free tuition for citizens, and even international students. Denmark, Norway, Germany, Brazil, Mexico and Finland are all countries where college tuition is virtually nonexistent . Obviously travel fees, registration, food and recreation all add up over time, but you won’t have to worry about paying off your debt for several years.

Other countries with cheaper average tuitions than the United States include India, China, Kenya, Russia and most other countries that have classes in English and accept International students. The only places that come close to the prices in America are Australia and the U.K. “When I figured out what I wanted to study, England seemed like such a cool place to learn about history. I also liked how a degree only takes three years, because students don’t have to take general-ed classes. The cost is actually cheaper than going to college here, so that was another bonus,” Nola Mak (‘21) said.

Immense debt is a huge issue with American students. The United states has about $1.7 trillion of accumulated debt from more than 40 million students across the nation according to Forbes and CNBC. The amount of student debt is highest in The United States, The United Kingdom, and Australia.

If there’s concern over language barrieres, most international universities offer classes in English, and there are also plenty of American schools with campuses abroad. New York University, University of Maryland, Temple University, and most higher profile American schools all have some sort of connections abroad, however, be prepared to pay similar tuition costs, but most likely lower living cost as well.

“It might feel overwhelming at times when you’re trying to apply because it’s different from the United States, (but overall easier because there are no supplements), so don’t be afraid to reach out to past students who also went abroad. I know I’m happy to answer any questions,” Mak said.

Often, abroad schools will be available to apply to on Common App, the main way to apply to universities in America.

This makes it just as simple as filling out any other application.

If a certain school is not on common app, their website will have directions to the application for international students.

“Like anyone else I started thinking about my college options junior year and going abroad was a very valid option for me with dual citizenship. It sounds super cringe but ‘Just do it’.

You are 18 or 19 years old and want to stay in Maryland? Go out and experience the world! You’ll never have the opportunity to do something like this. It’s a super great way to meet people from all over the world. I have friends from Spain, India, Nepal, Belgium, Mexico and Nigeria,” Bohlmann said.

Attending university abroad can not only save you money, but it can also open a new door into different cultures, people, and customs that you might have never known existed. Whether you have heritage from another country, or you just want to start a new chapter, these are the experiences that can help you learn more about yourself and others around you. Stepping out of the American comfort zone might not just be culturally beneficial, but financially beneficial, too.

Consider limiting your screen time It’s 7:50 am on a Monday, I roll over to shut down my alarm and just barely make it in time for homeroom. I sit at my desk for four hours every day, staring at my bright computer screen.

And after that, I stare at it for another two hours, trying to get my homework

By Sonia Ahmed done. And then I go eat dinner and head Opinion Editor to bed. And the next day, I wake up and do it all again. Eat, sleep, class, it’s all the same.

It would be a gross understatement to say that online learning drains your motivation. We all want our old lives back, but who knows when we’ll go back to in-person learning? Everyone needs to take steps to live life again. One of the things that could help with this is cutting our screen-time and going outside (safely).

It’s no surprise that sitting around looking at a screen all day is bad for your health. Staring at a screen for too long can cause Computer Vision Syndrome, which, according to Mayo Clinic, a medical journal, is when your eyes become strained from staring at a screen for too long. In addition, sitting at a desk for long periods of time has been linked to higher blood

pressure, increased blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol. To combat these things, try taking a break from your computer screen during asynchronous learning time or after school. Go for a walk, get some water, or work on a hobby that isn’t technology related.

The adults in my life have been telling me lately to take a break from the screen and go get some fresh air, but I never considered actually doing that until now. I would play on my phone or go watch some TV during my free time, further increasing my screen usage. Recently though, I’ve started having hobbies again, like reading. And I won’t lie, it’s much more fulfilling than wasting time scrolling through TikTok. Isabel Larichiuta (‘24) has some hobbies too. She says she loves acting because it’s a place where she can “express herself without being judged.”

Now, I’m not saying that there’s anything wrong with being on your phone sometimes. It’s tempting, and it’s just the world we live in today. All I’m saying is consider putting down the screens sometimes, getting some fresh air, and spending time with your family. You’ll feel like you have a small part of your life back again.

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Political Cartoon by Jacob Sienkiewicz

January 2021

OPINION

HEREFORD HARBINGER | 9

Staying active is still important A hateful, reactionary mob shouldn’t surprise On Jan. 6, an armed mob smashed into the U.S. Capitol building to inhibit the democratic process. Our nation’s flag, Trump 2020 signs, and Confederate flags flew from raging fists as rioters rallied to storm the Capitol Building and “stop the steal.” And thus, all semblance of a peaceful transfer of

By Jason Kraft Editor-In-Chief power went out the window.

The consensus following the rioting was this event is unprecedented and un-American. But this is far from the truth. America’s lineage is plagued with reactionary violence targeted at the democratic process and social change. Yet, we act shocked.

Of course, this recent riot has brought unprecedented facets to the table. The last time the Capitol Building was attacked to this scale was in 1812, when British forces pillaged and set the building ablaze. Also, this is the first time the leader of the free world encouraged his constituents to attack that supposed free world, and then labeled them “special” for doing so.

However, to say this doesn’t parallel the United States’ history is false.

President Joe Biden spoke out against the mob, saying “the scenes of chaos in the Capitol do not reflect true America.” On CNN, commentator Van Jones, said the events resembled “more like Syria than the United States of America.” But looking back on our nation’s history proves otherwise.

The most recognizable example of a reactionary mob is the Ku Klux Klan. A white supremacist group born out of the Reconstruction era that targeted people of color. This extremist group destroyed countless communities and infested itself within local governments to slow down progressive movements.

However, there are instances of insurrection that have nothing to do with the KKK. Take for example, the coup at Wilmington, N.C. in 1898. The city held a Black majority in government officials, which was extremely progressive for a southern city. Although this local government didn’t last long; conservative vigilantes in cooperation with militias staged a coup. More than 100 Black government officials were forced from their roles, and more than 100,000 registered Black voters fled the city. This event totally changed the political landscape of Wilmington.

This wasn’t just a Reconstruction era issue. In 1957, an angry mob attempted to stop nine Black teens from entering Central High School in Little Rock, Ark. Police were forced to step in to escort the teens and keep the furious crowd at bay.

After failing to stop the teens, the mob turned to photographers and reporters, attacking them instead. Perhaps this was out of pure frustration, or it was an attempt to erase this momentous occasion of desegregation.

These acts of reactionary violence aren’t exclusive to the far past either. The events that transpired in Charlottesville, Va. in 2017 is proof enough. Activists gathered at Lee Park, where it was decided that the statue of General Robert E. Lee would be removed. Conservative agitators came to the park and tensions boiled over; a man then deliberately drove his car into a crowd of activists, murdering one, and endangering countless who were exercising their democratic rights.

Hopefully, the similarities to what transpired on Jan. 6 are starting to surface: Unbridled destruction, limitless rage, and needless death all to inhibit the democratic process and resist social change. So, when I hear that a reactionary mob storming the Capitol Building doesn’t reflect America, I’m hard pressed to come to terms with that statement.

There’s an issue in admitting America’s problems. Many Americans, including tons of officials, want to perpetuate our highly revered ideals rather than realize the brutal reality of our actions. This nationalistic sense of history leads to glorifying hypocrisy and allows these insurrections and acts of violence to seem unfathomable even when they occur frequently.

I would like to be able to say what took place on Jan. 6 doesn’t reflect America’s values, or at least our values on paper, but I’m not going to pretend that’s the truth. The values of equality and democratic peace aren’t helpful if we just pretend they exist, rather than take action to uphold them.

We must be self-aware; to be understanding of our previous faults is more beneficial than to perpetuate this narrative of absolute freedom and stability. It’s cliché, but we’ve just watched history repeat itself.

This isn’t to say we should judge America only in its times of violence and hate. But when we continue to ignore these insurrections and instances of violence, and pass them off as un-American, we’re setting ourselves up to be “surprised” over and over again.

As a basketball player, every year I begin training and conditioning to prepare myself for the approaching season. This year I began practicing during the summer.

I ran multiple miles, worked on my ball handling, and improved my shot expoBy Sophia Shive nentially, all in preparation for the 2020 Reporter basketball season. However, Coronavirus had other plans; After many delays Baltimore County decided to cancel the winter sports 2020-2021 season. Sadly, that means no basketball season for me. Indoor track, wrestling, and cheerleading were all canceled as well.

Before cancelation, players were participating in Google Meet calls, programs created by coaches, and working out.

Programs allowed players to stay in shape and prepare for the season in a safe way. Even though sports are cancelled, it is important to stay in shape and continue training.

“Some people will think of this [the cancelation] as a break, but I think of it as a chance to get ahead of those who aren’t training,” (‘22) varsity wrestler Morgan Vandergrift said.

I personally will use that as motivation. Use the lack of effort coming from others to drive you to work harder. Being better is not the only reason you should continue to work out.

“It’s important to remember that training isn’t just for the sports, but it’s also good for your health too,” (‘24) basketball player Annabelle Grenzer said.

Working out every day for at least 30 minutes has been proven to benefit mental and physical health. According to the ULifeline, a website that researches health related issues, working out releases chemicals that lower anxiety and boost one’s mood, helps get a goodnight sleep, reduces stress, prevents and fights illness, and boosts energy.

How can you work out while still staying safe from Coronavirus? Staying fit and healthy could be as simple as taking a walk or riding a bike. For those who want something more advanced, I suggest a guided workout video on YouTube or taking runs either on a trail or on the road.

Senior and varsity indoor track runner, Emmanuel Obu, stays in shape with “Daily stretches, lift[ing] weights, and do[ing] a few short workouts.”

Working out doesn’t have to be complicated.

“If you can’t play your sport, get some friends or teammates together and play with them to stay connected and in

shape,” Freshmen basketball player, Brady George said.

I know this year’s season being cancelled is a bummer. “[I miss] everyone on the team, team dinners before games, and just winning together,” (‘23) Keria Gaffney said.

However, Google Meet calls and pickup games are two alternative ways to stay connected to teammates during the Covid-19 pandemic.

I know it’s hard to push through and continue working out, even though the 2020-2021 winter sports season is cancelled, but giving up is a worse decision. Not only will you be behind for next year’s season, but you will not receive any of the health benefits workout provides. Do not be lazy, push through the hard times.

Last year’s JV Basketball team sits and watches the varsity game, after their own win against Loch Raven. Everyone was in a cheerful mood as they ate snacks and cheered on the Varsity team.

Clothing does not define you I think I can speak for most when I say that we’ve all been guilty of wanting to own the new “best thing.”

Whether that be the newest game console, newest iPhone or even a new popular clothing brand. There has been a pressure put on kids that if we don’t have certain things, we won’t fit in. As

By Cristina Drecchio ashamed as I am to say, I am guilty of Reporter this.

I remember feeling the pressure of having to dress a certain way because I thought that it constituted popularity. As I got older, I started to question why owning a certain brand of clothing or dressing like everyone else mattered, and the truth is, it doesn’t. Even though it truly doesn’t matter the pressure is still there.

This isn’t just a problem we face at a young age. As we get older the expectations are bigger and the clothing is more

expensive. It started out as wanting a fifty dollar Under Armour sweatshirt to wanting a five hundred-dollar Gucci belt. It’s pathetic, I know, but I can’t help it. In no way am I saying that I am going to spend that much money on something but the want is there.

“Vineyard Vines was one of the biggest name brands worn in middle school but it is also a huge representation of a popular trend that isn’t seen nearly as much as before,” Ryan Lusby (’21) said.

People are constantly being judged based on their appearance; however, clothing should not be a factor in whether someone “fits in” or not. It’s easy for people to make a quick judgement from just a glance of what you’re wearing. When in reality, there is a lot more to a person than what they wear.

Everyone expresses themselves in different ways and clothing is a good way to do so.

“Your overall style can say a lot about someone and it gives you an outlet of expression and creativity, I really admire those who are creative with their style,” Alden Goetz (’22) said.

As a freshman I went to school and tried to look my absolute best. I would wake up an hour before I needed to just so I could do my hair and makeup and wear a nice outfit. Then junior year came around and it was a completely different story. I woke up 10 minutes before I had to leave and wore sweatpants and a sweatshirt the majority of the time. When I finally wore things that made me comfortable, I would get asked if I was okay and that I looked sick. Looking back now it’s humorous, but in the moment it stung.

People judge you for what you wear but what truly matters is how you are as a person. Life gets boring when everyone dresses and looks the same so wear clothes that make you feel comfortable. There will always be new trends and new things that we want because others have them but we shouldn’t let that be the reason you want something. By all means if you want those Golden Goose shoes or that Louis Vuitton bag and it would make you happy then go get it. If you want to wear sweatpants and a sweatshirt every day then you should absolutely do that. At the end of the day you have to do what makes you happy and dress to be yourself. Who knows, you might even start a new fashion trend.

Chloe Speno (‘21) loves her edgy and androgynous style. She has never let any negative comments stop her from building her wardrobe.

10 | HEREFORD HARBINGER

IN FOCUS

January 2021

Music can switch a bad mood into a good one

By Livianna Pisano Backpage Editor

It is now officially 2021, my friends! I hope you all celebrated the end of the train wreck that was 2020 in a fun and SAFE way. With all the constant negativity that surrounded us in 2020, I think it is important that we start this year off on a positive note.

How do we do that, you may ask? We can start this year off in a more positive way by simply just switching up the music we listen to.

Have you ever noticed yourself getting even more upset when you turn on that slower-paced, sad song? Or even more riled up when you listen to that heavier metal song? According to a Harvard Health study, that is because the music you select has the power to influence your mood.

While it is perfectly okay to listen to songs that relate to the negative state you are in sometimes, you cannot continue to listen to those same songs constantly. If you do, you will only continue to feel worse.

Positive thinking and listening works. In a study done by psychologist Yuna L. Ferguson at Knox College, she found that people who intentionally listened to upbeat music improved their

Playlists

Edit

moods and “When my friends and I hang out, we want to have fun and feel good. To do that, we put on happier, more upbeat songs that we all know and love. When we do this, it feels like the whole room comes alive,” Dean Troy (’23) said.

How can we determine if a song is upbeat or not? This is a trick question because there is no true answer to it. Music taste is subjective and we each have a different determination of what makes a song uplifting and what does not.

“When I think about an upbeat song, I tend to think of songs that have a faster tempo and heavier base. Ultimately, I think the key and pitch of the song determine the mood it conveys more so than the instruments or genre,” Sydney Carroll (’22) said.

Music is subjective. What may put you in the best mood may not do the same for all and that is perfectly okay. Find what songs work for you and make you happier and put them on repeat.

The songs listed in the playlists below are all some that put the students and staff at Hereford in a happier mental state. Check them out for yourself!

Playlists

Teacher Picks

Student Picks

HHS Teachers

HHS Students

Play

Shuffle

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Play

Saturday (Dean Troy)

House Party (Ms. Crue)

White Walls (Isabelle Say)

Splendor Riot (Mr. Pilius)

She’s a Rainbow (Sydney Carroll)

Good Time (Mr. Schreiner)

Good Vibes (Ava Elzein)

Jet Lag (Ms. Beer)

Childish Gambino

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

The Rolling Stones

Rebelution

Shuffle

Sam Hunt

Julian Lage

Alan Jackson

Simple Plan and Natasha Bedingfield

Potions (Jackson Gardner)

Where the Heart is (Mrs. Maffei)

It Was a Good Day (Shelby Jones)

Take It or Leave It (Mr. Aitken)

Tribe (Garrett Welsh)

Roadrunner (Mr. Grace)

Day Wave

Ice Cube

J.Cole

Brett Eldredge

Great Good Fine Ok

Modern Lovers