HICKORY GROVE CHRISTIAN
STUDENT MEDIA Projecting the voice of the student body through 21st century Christian journalism in order to inform and serve the HGC community.
OUR STAFF 2017-2018 Leighann Vinesett Exodus Design Edtior The Pride Editor In Chief
Lauren Morisette The Pride Copy Editor
Adriana Stowe Senior Photo Editor
Emily Strum
Exodus Co-Editor In Chief
Sydney Pressley
Exodus Co-Editor In Chief
Sophia Joseph Exodus Copy Editor
Morgan Davis
On The Prowl Editor In Chief
Rachel Toadvine
On The Prowl Copy Editor
INSIDE THE PRIDE
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The Creative Process Let our fine arts department show you what it takes to create a work of art.
Meet the Staff
You see them in the hallways daily, but do you know what they do?
Life After the Bell
A few noteworthy students and teachers share what they do after the dismissal bell rings.
Man with a Mission Larry Stinson is the new man on campus, and he’s making a mark.
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Op/Ed : DR + #MeToo The editorial board responds to two important matters of the day.
Precious Cargo
The Hamilton’s share their story behind their leadership with a ministry for foster children.
2018: Looking Ahead The New Year has brought excitement and expectations for the HGC student body.
A Heart Issue
It takes more than blood, sweat, and tears to win games.
twitter.com/hgcpride instagram.com/hgcontheprowl www.hgcontheprowl.org hgcpride.smugmug.com
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he Pride Newsmagazine hopes to publish three issues this year through the Student Media classes under Adviser Brandy Caton at Hickory Grove Christian High School. The publication is distributed free to the approximately 700 HGCS student body, faculty and staff in grades TK12. Approximately 1,000 copies will be distributed to Hickory Grove Baptist
Church members and to the Hickory Grove community. The student body is encouraged to use the opinion pages as a forum between the editorial board and the HGC community. Views expressed do not represent the opinions of the faculty or administration. Editorials represent the views of the editorial board and staff while bylined columns are the opinion of the authors. Readers are
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encouraged to email signed letters to the editor in response to the topics covered in each issue and with matters of concern to hgcpride@hgchristian.org. The Pride Newsmagazine is a member of the North Carolina Scholastic Media Association and the National Scholastic Press Association. Target Printing and Distribution of the Fayetteville Observer prints our publication.
about us
the pride winter 2018
MAKING THIS ISSUE
Leighann Vinesett Editor-in-Chief
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ecently, I was asked how challenging my class schedule was. “I’m currently in 2 AP classes, math, and Student Media,” I responded. The person I was speaking with sighed in relief, and told me that at least I got a break in between the rigor of my day, referencing the seemingly “easy class” that was Student Media. At the time, I laughed and responded that although it may seem fairly simple, the class was not less rigorous than its “more-advanced” counterparts. The more I thought about the comment, the more it bothered me. Although the statement was not intended to be harmful, it reminded me how no one really knew what went into making a publication. Behind the scenes of Exodus, The Pride, and On the Prowl, our yearbook, newsmagazine, and online site, respectively, are multiple drafts, revisions, deadlines, and hardworking students. Photojournalists, journalists, and designers come together to work on spreads that are seen by students in Kindergarten and 12th grade alike, in addition to faculty, teachers, and the HGC community. Editors are constantly signing checklists, texting back and forth about spreads that are due tomorrow, and discussing ideas for our next online post. I remember listening to two of my fellow editors writing a piece for our yearbook, Exodus. They were calculating how many hours of work they collectively put into the book. The number came out to about 1000 hours, over the 9 months we were in school, and the month we had spent in the summer at various camps and workshops. This equals roughly about the same amount of time that students spend in school every year- 1358 hours. This was 2 people, out of the 8 on our board: and not including our wonderful advisor. Imagine what the numbers would total if we calculated the hours each individual person put into our publica
PHOTO BY BRANDY CATON
tions; inside and outside of class. What I’m trying to say here is, student media is not some “skate-through” “sleep through” class; at least not one you can slack off and excel in. On the flip side, we do have fun in here. I’ve written multiple times about this being my home. These girls are my sisters. We’ve seen it all from each other, had so many memorable moments, told so many stories about life. But that doesn’t mean that when deadline comes, we aren’t all working, and working hard. Our photographers scour the campus for the perfect shot, and they go back when we need more photos. Our journalists pester people endlessly for a minute of their time, just to get the perfect quote to complete their article(s). Design of a 20page newsmagazine falls onto two people. To all my editor gals who made this paper possible: you are all amazing, and I love you. Thank you for what you do before, during, and after school, during snow days and weekends to make this paper possible. These are all the times that someone else would’ve stopped, but you didn’t. Thank you.
PHOTO BY SYDNEY PRESSLEY
PHOTO BY EMILY STRUM
about us
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THE CREATIVE PROCESS What goes into the art hung on the wall and performed in the theater?
Lauren Morissette Editor
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e all know and appreciate performances and productions, as well as art pieces. But do we know the process that goes on behind the scenes to make these things possible? Whether it be through dance, visual arts, or song, there is always a story behind the process. While teachers create the ideas for their students from the things they envisioned, students put their own twist on it and spend countless hours preparing or perfecting their craft. In the performing arts, dance is a direct expression of the artist, where every choreographer works differently. “For most choreographers, the creative process starts with a song, but it can also be a strong idea for an exciting performance. Sometimes a costume, quote, or a movement quality can give inspiration,” Dance teacher Brandy Caton said. After numerous practices, the feeling of accomplishment is definitely present after all their hard work is finally showcased through their performance. “It feels amazing to show an audience something that was a spark of inspiration but through the creative process, training and hard work becomes a moment of visual and autodial art for one moment in time. I also feel very excited for and proud of my dancers for what they were able to experience on stage,” Caton said.
Similar to dance, in drama and choir, the process of selection differs depending on many key factors. “Plays and songs are chosen each year in an effort to provide a variety of styles and experiences for each student performer,” Theatre and Choir teacher Abigail Robertson said. Another key factor is the audience. “I also take into consideration who our audience is and how they may enjoy or be challenged by each performance. I consider it an opportunity to learn and grow for both the performer and the audience,” Robertson said.
“The urge to create is given to us from God. We are created in his image and He is the Master Creator. We are all creating something whether we know it or not. Some create buildings, others create poems.” -Smith Adams, Art Teacher
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In another performing art, the process of musical selections involves several factors as well. For band classes, the theme usually matches the time of year such as a holiday to highlight, and the musical arrangement of the song has to match the available instruments. “If a number of musical pieces are to be played in succession at a concert, care is given to select a variety of styles, tempos and musical keys,” Band teacher Steve Cooke said. In visual arts, the process usually begins with a sketch that can blossom into a beautiful piece of work.
Above: Gracie Pyke and Davean Jiron rehearse for “Perfect”, their play in A Night Of One Acts. “Gracie, a sophomore, and Davean, a freshman, truly revealed their dedication and talent beyond their years throughout this process,” Theatre teacher Abigail Robertson said. PHOTO BY SYDNEY PRESSLEY
“Small sketches or doodles can grow into amazing art pieces,” Art teacher Smith Adams said. First, the art students are given a prompt, then they are encouraged to write any ideas that they have about the subject. They then create a list and speak to their friends on possibilities and options. Once this is done, they look back upon their notes and then create sketches based on their investigations. Lastly, they choose their best idea or sketch and create the finished image or model. Through various forms of art, the creative process is present and prevalent. We can see through the creative process, ideas are created, which in turn transforms into beautiful works or pieces of art that all proclaim Christ and highlight the talents given to us by Him.
the creative process
the pride winter 2018
Clockwise from Far Left: Musical Theatre teacher Abigail Robertson helps her students to train their voices to hit high notes. Musical Theatre encompasses three forms of the performing arts, including acting, dancing and singing. PHOTO BY ADRIANA STOWE Freshman Lizzie Suber paints a canvas with the word “Inspire” during an Art Club lunch session. “I like it because [I am] able to convey my ideas in the form of art,” Suber said. PHOTO BY ZARIA ZIGLAR Sophomore Isabelle Sanz details her clay candle box in a high school art class that focuses on developing skills in various mediums. PHOTO BY ADAM HARB
Brandy Caton, the choreographer for the Spring musical, The Little Mermaid, teaches Jessica Mendlick (center front),who is playing Scuttle, and the rest of the sea gulls the tap choreography to “Human Stuff ” for a performance in two months time. “Performing with confidence requires lots of rehearsing,” she said. PHOTO BY ADRIANA STOWE Senior Samantha Souza practices for her performance in the one act play “Perfect”, which was co-directed by students Maggie Phipps and Laylah Welch. PHOTO BY SYDNEY PRESSLEY Former Band Director Taylor Caton leads the elementary band in practice for the annual Winter band concert. Fifth grade band focuses on helping musicians to play together with correct blend, dynamics, and rhythms. PHOTO BY ADAM HARB
arts
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MEET THE STAFF You’ve seen them around campus, but do you know what they do?
Rachel Toadvine Editor
Jeanette Riesenberg Marketing Director
Q: How long have you worked at Hickory Grove? A: Two years Q: What is your favorite aspect of your job? A: Being able to share the story of HGCS with current and prospective families through different outlets like social media, school fairs, and photography. Q: Do you enjoy working with PHOTO BY SHEILA CHANEY students? A: While I don’t get to be in the classroom with students, I do get to interact with them on a daily basis. Whether it’s taking their photos for “Student of the Month” or sharing the Seniors’ college acceptances and accomplishments on social media, I’m blessed to be able to build relationships with students from TK - 12th grade! I also got to lead the 8th grade girls discipleship group last year and it was a blessing to be able to help them grow in their walk with the Lord and dig deep into His Word! Q: What is the most important aspect of your job? A: The most important aspect of my job is to keep the Mission and Vision of HGCS at the forefront of everything I do so that those who are looking have no doubt that we are a “distinctively different, distinctively Christian” school. Q: Can you briefly explain what you do on a daily basis? A: What I love about my job is that I do a variety of things on a daily basis! Whether it’s photographing students or events, doing administrative tasks for the AAA Booster Club, creating graphics for announcements to managing the school’s social media accounts. Each day looks a little different, it just all depends on what events are going on around the school, what needs to be marketed or promoted to the community and what I can do daily to better serve my co-workers with the things they are working on. Q: What is something most people do not know about your job? A: I constantly get asked, “so what exactly do you do”. I think most people are surprised to learn how my job encompasses such a wide range of tasks. Q: What is something interesting about you? I graduated from Appalachian State University with a degree in Elementary Education. Q: What is the hardest part of your job? A: The most challenging thing with my job is being able to cover all of the incredible things that happen on this campus each day.
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TR Freeman Account Director for The Budd Group
Q: How long have you worked at Hickory Grove? A: With The Budd Group 6 years, with the Church a total of 14 years Q: What is your favorite aspect of PHOTO BY EMILY STRUM your job? A: Doing setups Q: Do you enjoy working with students? A: Yes, and when they learn what we do and the stressfulness of it, it helps how they see other people’s job tasks. Q: What is the most important aspect of your job? A: Making sure the work that needs to be done has been completed. Q: Can you briefly explain what you do on a daily basis? A: Setups throughout the day and going behind all cleaners to ensure a clean school and church Q: What is something most people do not know about your job? A: Doing setups takes a toll on you physically. Q: What is something interesting about you? A: I’m a professional cornhole player. Q: What led you to your current job? A: I was asked to transition over from the church’s transportation department to housekeeping.
meet the staff the pride winter 2018
Sheila Chaney Administrative assistant to the Head of School
Q: How long have you worked at Hickory Grove? A: This is my 3rd school year at HGCS. I have been in the Education sector for almost 12 years. Q: What is your favorite aspect of your job? A: My favorite and most rewarding part of my job is that I get to interact with students, staff, and their families on a daily basis. Q: Do you enjoy working with students? A: Yes, I love to work with students. I have 4 student interns who PHOTO BY JEANETTE RIESENBERG I get to mentor and disciple. I hope to have a positive influence in their lives. Q: What is the most important aspect of your job? A: To make Christ known through Christian Education Q: Can you briefly explain what you do on a daily basis? A: I assist the school with administrative requests and matters so the school’s leadership team (Head of School and Principals) can devote maximum attention to the central issues of educational leadership and administration. Q: What is something most people do not know about your job? A: You have to have a strong ability to prioritize, multi-task, and take initiative. The behind the scenes of school is so complex. Q: What is something interesting about you? A: Service has always been my strongest gift. Not only do I get to serve our Lord in our school but He allowed me to serve in the U.S. Navy for 9 years. Q: What is the hardest part of your job? A: I stated before that what I love about my job is the people I get to interact with but it can also be the hardest part of my job. People can be difficult. Sometimes we have to be in difficult situations or confrontations. It can be stressful. However, when there is open communication, resolutions can be accomplished. Q: What led you to your current job? A: It was definitely the Lord. I have worked for Dr. Quesinberry for almost 12 years now. He is a phenomenal leader. He had just been promoted when I was first hired by him those many years ago. What I did not know until later was that about 30 minutes before he received my resume a dear friend of his prayed with him about filling the position.
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Jim Bobbins
Postal and Print Shop Manager Q: How long have you worked at Hickory Grove? A: This coming March, I will have served the church for 20 years. Q: What is your favorite aspect of your job? A: Knowing I have done my best when I walk out the door at night. Q: Do you enjoy working with students? PHOTO BY ELLIE STEVENS A: Absolutely - they make my day. Q: What is the most important aspect of your job? A: Knowing that my customers send or bring me something to do for them that they trust me enough to do it correctly and on time. Q: Can you briefly explain what you do on a daily basis? A: Fulfill the needs of the church and school staff. Whether it be printing, mailing, taking care of the copiers and printers, or ording paper supplies. Q: What is something most people do not know about your job? A: The quantity of paper that goes through this office. Just in the last four months alone, I processed over 250,000 pieces. Q: What is something interesting about you? A: I started collecting rocks a few years ago and now have hundreds, including those our school kids and teachers have brought me from mission trips all over the world and from my vacations all over the world, also. Q: What is the hardest part of your job? A: Having to accept that I have to do reprints. I don’t like wasting materials or time - especially time! Q: What led you to your current job? A: Not so much as a “what” but a “whom.” Layoff from previous job, but it was the Lord that directed my path here. I am a blessed man.
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LIFE AFTER THE BELL
Students and teachers don’t only accomplish incredible things during school, you know. Morgan Davis Editor
Kayla Hoffman
Travel Blogger First grade Spanish Immersion teacher Kayla Hoffman owns her own travel blog called The Blond Voyage and is beginning to start her own travel agency as well. Hoffman has always had an interest for writing about her travel experiences but actually began the process in late 2016. Starting out the blog required lots of work and research before it could become a reality. “It was [and still is] a lot of work! I am still learning, but I basically just did a lot of research online of how to start a website, have your own domain, put content on it, etc. It is still a work in progress, but it is exciting,” Hoffman said. Hoffman has visited and written about places like Greece, Canada, Italy, Hawaii, and the British Isles. “[The blog is] designed to inspire people to travel to the desPHOTO BY JEANETTE RIESENBERG tinations of their dreams,” Hoffman said. “Now with my travel agency, I can help people actually make those concrete travel plans and get them to see and experience the cultures of these incredible destinations. Once I made my first booking for a client, I knew my passion was forever fueled!” Still with things to learn and things to improve, Hoffman stays humble and continues to work harder every opportunity she gets. I’ll always be eager to make it better and better, but I enjoy the learning process along the way,” Hoffman said. Her love for travel blogging came from her pure passion to share her experiences with others and show them how interesting travelling can be. “[Blogging] is something I truly enjoy and have a passion for. Traveling is so educational, eye-opening, and exciting,” Hoffman said. “I really want the people I love to see that and go on those adventures!”
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RJ Graybill
Blackbelt Sixth grader RJ Graybill has been training in Shorinji Kempo Karate under the teaching of Master Instructor Hardley Soryz since the 1st grade and has earned notable achievements along the way. “In October 2017, I earned my 2nd degree black belt. I am now training towards my 3rd degree,” Graybill said. Training four nights a week at Irwin Carmichael’s Martial Arts Training Institute, he is dedicated to his craft and conPHOTO BY ST. JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY stantly improving his skills. Shorinji Kempo is a mix of several different Martial Arts styles and training in the craft has enforced positive attributes for him. “Kempo Karate is helping me build confidence in myself. It helps me with discipline, self-defense, and respect,” he said. Because of the time and effort Graybill has committed to training, he has reached an impressive standard. “Once you reach black belt status (first or higher), you are required to put in instructing hours, so I help teach the lower belts,” Graybill said. “I’m hoping to have the same impact on them as the instructors who [have] helped me.”
life after the bell the pride winter 2018
Hunter Cochrane Will Farthing Harrison Locklear Isaac Nifong Volunteer Leaders Seniors Will Farthing, Isaac Nifong, Harrison Locklear, and Hunter Cochrane volunteer in the International Business Alliance Program (IBAP) that assists small businesses across the sea. The goal of IBAP is to provide funding and training to those hoping to expand personally-owned, small-scale businesses. “[IBAP] is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping leaders and developing communities start and expand businesses based on the community needs as they define them. We work with aspiring business owners to obtain local funding and we provide skills and training and continued support,” Nifong said. The group was assigned to a power generator repair company in Nigeria owned by Kamaludeen, pictured below. Whenever he comes into an issue that he can’t resolve alone, the group helps him the best they can. “We also do fundraisers as often as we can,” Locklear said. “Right now we’re trying to raise $500 so [Kamaludeen] can expand his business and sell generator parts instead of just repairing them. We’ll also try to help with any other issues he has.” Something as simple as translating a video into one’s native language can be a huge help to the small business owners involved in the work of IBAP. “A recent issue is that he couldn’t figure out the valve settings for a specific type of generator, so we looked up videos and sent them to our translator who translated what the video was saying and then [Kamaludeen] was able to fix the generator,” Locklear said. Entire communities can even be directly affected from the efforts of IBAP members. “Low income community members [are] able to enjoy electrical power. We directly affect this generator company who in return can give power to the community,” Nifong said. The work done with IBAP doesn’t just affect those receiving the help, but also the ones providing it. “It’s humbling because I get to see the technology I have on a daily basis connect me with someone that’s halfway across the
PHOTO BY ST. JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY
world. It’s also weird how [far] $500 goes over there compared to how far it goes here,” Locklear said. “It really puts things into perspective.” The group has formed a tight bond with the people they serve through the past couple of years as well as seeing the development of the company. “We’ve been working with them for two years and formed a really tight bond,” Cochrane said. “It’s nice to see the growth of his company because it started as a little dirt shack and now it’s growing and growing [as] it gets more popular.”
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PHOTO BY SYDNEY PRESSLEY
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larry stinson
the pride winter 2018
MAN WITH A MISSION As Stinson begins his tenth month, he has us all wondering, “What can he not do?”
Lauren Morissette Editor
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arry Stinson, also known as “the really cool guy who ate a worm” (check out the video that went viral on the school’s Facebook page), within his first year of working at Hickory Grove has not only tremendously impacted the culture of the elementary and middle schools but also the people in it. Coming from humble beginnings, Stinson grew up in a small, close knit town in Hamlet, NC, where he still maintains many relationships. He later graduated from Rollins College in Water Park, Florida, attending with a baseball scholarship. Before working at HGCS, Stinson served as principal at three middle schools in NC and SC, and then served as head of school at South Pointe Christian School in Pageland, SC. His good friend, our very own head of school Dr. Quesinberry, brought him to HGCS. In the position of principal, he enjoys the energy of working with elementary and middle schoolers and feels as though he has been blessed to work in schools for over 40 years. “I believe that I have been re-energized at the latter stages of my career and I feel like I can make a difference in the lives of young people,” Stinson said. With that focus and energy, he is always on the move to help others in any way he can. “Mr. Stinson makes sure we, as teachers, have what we need to be successful. He also makes a point of investing in the lives of our students by knowing their names and relating to them on a personal level. He has truly been a blessing to our middle school!” sixth grade teacher Tracey Bennett said. Teachers are not the only ones who notice his energy and efforts to provide leadership.
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“Mr. Stinson is always on top of everything and looking out for our school and those in it,” eighth grader Milla Syska said. He has also always enjoyed watching others achieve their dreams and ambitions and believes it is rewarding to see former students succeeding in life. If anyone knows Stinson they would say that he is not only diligent but always willing to provide guidance. “Mr. Stinson has shown me the true meaning of dedication. He does so many things for others that go unnoticed and is a true example of a servant [of Christ],” fourth grade teacher Jennifer Beni said. While Stinson is always on top of his work, he never turns down an opportunity to participate in fun activities with the students. “Mr. Stinson played basketball in a game of teachers against students. He played hard and did not cut those students any slack. I thought, what can he not do?” TK teacher Dina Meyko said. Furthermore he is always present to provide encouragement, support, and motivation. “Mr. Stinson is really nice. He cheers for us and tells us everyday ‘Good morning, you guys are doing great!’” first grader Sammy Williams said. Along with supplying support for the students, he also supplies inspiration. He truly cares about the school and longs to see all aspects of it succeed and flourish. “Mr. Stinson supports arts education and promoting it at all levels at HGC. He helped create a schedule for the middle school that allows for valuable arts electives which is crucial in building a strong arts program for our school,” dance teacher Brandy Caton said. Other than the Lord, he dedicates his conduct to his role model and hero: his mother. She was a Godly woman whose life lessons are still guiding his life many years after her death.
“I never really had goals until I was saved. Then my pathway to education with the Lord’s guidance and my mother’s encouragement seemed to be a natural course,” Stinson said. Stinson revealed insight into his motivations after answering the question, ‘What is something you know now that you wish you knew when you were younger?” “Life is short. Do not waste a single moment. Be part of the solution and not the problem.” Shown not only through these words, but his enthusiasm, support, and dedication for the school; we can see how Stinson truly cares for those in it. From always providing help and guidance when needed as well as never failing to brighten a students day, his Christ- like character is prevalent throughout his life as well as his mindset. “My favorite saying is named after the dog FIDO which stands for---Forget It Drive On. Do not dwell on your successes or failures. Each new day presents its own unique opportunities,” Stinson said.
Clockwise from top left: Mr. Stinson holds one of the snakes for students to touch after the “Snakes Alive” presentation. Mr. Stinson holds an earthworm to fulfill a promise to the elementary students at a school assembly. PHOTOS BY JEANETTE RIESENBERG Mr. Stinson makes his way around the cafeteria daily to interact with every lunch table. Above, he talks to McKenzie Williams about reciting the Apostles’ Creed in the school announcements. PHOTO BY EMILY STRUM
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EDITORIAL: #METOO
Leighann Vinesett Editor-in-Chief
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ou saw it on Twitter as she tagged her story with #MeToo. You saw it on television at the 75th annual Golden Globes; a sea of black dresses, a “Times Up” pin on multiple lapels. Then you saw it again at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards; white roses carried as a symbol of a movement. You saw the world crying out for a change, making a moral judgement that sexual assault is inherently wrong. The #MeToo and #TimesUp movements have brought difficult, controversial issues to light. The New York Times, The Associated Press, The Washington Post, and more news sources have broken news of victims coming forward to share their stories. But no longer should the secular, mainstream media be the loudest voice speaking up about the issue. As those who experience affliction and are accountable to the God of comfort, the Church should be at the forefront of the public conversation, providing a gospel perspective of #MeToo. This response is critical in the ever-sexualized 21st century culture. Today, consenting adults are defining sexual and moral norms in whatever way best fits them. Albert Mohler, President of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, calls this the “sexual revolution—an effort to try to deny the fact that moral judgements [have] to be made about sexuality”. Although the secular world may not understand this “immediate moral impulse” (as Mohler refers to it) to declare certain sexual behaviors as wrong, Christians do. We know that everything is broken because of one underlying cause, which is presented clearly to us in Genesis 3. “The underlying cause [of this problem] is sin. It is the underlying cause for everything; we are all broken. In the 21st century, we are growing up in a sexualized culture, and because of that [sin] has now come from behind the door and spilled out into the light,” High School Principal Adam Hamilton said. Christians also know that this moral impulse is intrinsic to every human being because of their Creator, who made every human in His image, with the moral ability to decipher right from wrong (Genesis 1:27). But being made in the Imago Dei results in more than just the ability to make moral judgements. The command given in Luke 10:27 to “love one another with brotherly affection [and] outdo one another in showing honor” shows that because people are made in the image of God,
people—especially Christians— should treat others with honor, dignity, and value. “As Christians, we don’t condone sexual assault or violence of any kind. The Ten Commandments [show us that] when we interact with our fellow man, we should do so in a Godly way,” Hamilton said. The Christian response to sexual assault is more than just treating others with value, it is also raising up children who are convictional disciples to the world. Specifically, strong, Christian fathers and men should be “starting children off on the way they should go,” (Proverbs 22:6). “In (this day and age) we see the lack of strong biblical fathers that are raising their young men to be providers and protectors—two things God has commanded us to do. Fathers need to create time for and prioritize their families. One day, we will stand before a King and be held accountable as fathers for what our children had access to what we taught them,” Hamilton said. As the head of the household, fathers must first give honor to their wives, treating them as Christ did the Church, and surrendering their lives up for them (1 Peter 3:7, Ephesians 5:25). Their sons will then follow this example; learning directly from their father how to treat women in a godly way. But fathers must also make time to teach their daughters how they should be treated as young ladies and what is and is not acceptable behavior. The role of the Christian father, and the young Christian man is to be “salt and light” in an ever-darkening culture (Matthew 5:13-16). To do this, there is an urgent need for accountability and good Biblical discipleship, not only at an personal level, but at an interpersonal, campus-wide level (Proverbs 27:17). “[At Hickory Grove] what we teach and how we teach the Bible is so important.We want kids to be convictional and have deeper level of Christianity: not a cheap, watered down, version. We want to foster life-altering, life changing worldviews. How we teach and how we disciple matters. We must step up and disciple [our students] and lead them in the path of righteousness,” Hamilton said. You saw the tweets and the black dresses and the white roses. You saw the world crying out for a change. As Christians, we must confront sexual assault at its source and train up our children to respect and value others. But more than this, we must be a light in the world of darkness, hiding Scripture in our hearts and sharing the comforting, amazing news of the gospel with those who are hurting.
Recommended Reading
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op/ed
the pride winter 2018
LIVES FULL OF JOY
A senior’s perspective of the annual Dominican Republic trip
Sydney Pressley Editor
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ver since we landed back on American soil after spending a week in the Dominican Republic, I have noticed a change in the attitudes of my classmates; everyone is just so happy. Of course we were all happy while we were in the Dominican, but I figured it was because we were in a beautiful country surrounded by the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen and well, we were out of school for a week! But even when we were in the middle of a fivehour layover in Atlanta, I still noticed my classmates were still full of that same joy. We all had that feeling in our stomachs, you know that feeling? The God feeling! I began to think about it and I realized what had changed.
We had just spent a whole week putting other people’s needs before our own. We had disconnected from our phones and our lives back here in the states just to put our love for God and our love for people first. It’s amazing how much a small, four-day trip can impact your life. My prayer for my classmates and I is that everyday we continue to strive to put our love for God and our love for people before our own needs. The Bible says in Romans 12 verse 2, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is good and acceptable and perfect.” My prayer is that now that we are back that we take a stand to not be conformed by this world, but we are transformed by it. I hope the memory from this past week of when we were transformed stays fresh in our hearts. That we continue to strive towards things that are good and acceptable in His sight. That our lives will be full of the joy we found in the Dominican.
PHOTOS BY SYDNEY PRESSLEY
SPONSOR A DOMINICAN ORPHAN https://scoreintl.org/ministries/child-sponsorship/
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Many of the children in the Dominican Republic live in extreme poverty and some are abandoned by their parents. SCORE partners with several children’s homes and daycare facilities to help provide necessities, education, and Biblical training. Our child sponsorship program grew out of the love and concern of all the people who traveled with us on short-term mission trips to the Dominican Republic. Now you have the opportunity to connect with a child you may have met on one of our trips or pick a child from one of our homes to sponsor monthly. Together we can make a difference in the lives of Dominican children!
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PRECIOUS CARGO Service Project for the year helps expose needs for foster care system Morgan Davis Editor
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recious Cargo is a missional organization founded by Adam and Elizabeth Hamilton that provides foster care children with a bag full of essentials when transferring to a new home. The idea was originally formed when Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton heard the conditions foster care children were in from MAPP (Model Approaches to Partnerships in Parenting) training classes, which are for people who are expecting and training to become foster parents. “They told us that children would have to be moved from their home, sometimes in emergency situations, and would have to quickly pack their belongings in garbage bags and boxes because that’s all they had,” Mrs. Hamilton said. “Our boys, Dominic and Timmy, came to us just like that. Everything they owned (their whole lives) [was] packed in the back of a pickup truck in trash bags and boxes.” These unfortunate conditions can affect children’s view of themselves and their self-value. Precious Cargo seeks to provide kids with a sense of self-worth that they otherwise wouldn’t have. “When children or adults see their things being packed away in trash bags or ragged boxes, they equate their own things, and ultimately themselves, as not very important. A sense of dignity and pride is lost in the only permanence they have,” Mrs. Hamilton said.“The purpose of Precious Cargo is to instill confidence in foster children who are moved from unsuitable settings by providing them adequate means to transport their belongings.” Senior Adriana Bultsma has stepped up and taken a leadership role to organize student involvement. “Giving children a bag to hold their personal items along with giving them personal hygiene and other basic
Above: Students led by Adam and Elizabeth Hamilton pose for a photo before going to deliver a portion of the precious cargo donations to Bridge 42 Church in Morganton, NC. “ I’m so thankful to get to be apart of this. Any and all donations are welcome, as we give away we have to replenish!” said Mrs. Hamilton.
ALL PHOTOS BY JEANETTE RIESENBERG
items will hopefully give those children hope and allow them to know that there is someone out there who cares,” Bultsma said. Signs put up around school and social media efforts helped to advertise the ministry and how donations could be accepted. The efforts for spreading the mission have helped tremendously in gathering over 100 bags worth of donations. “We’ve received an overwhelming response of donations and couldn’t be more grateful!” Mrs. Hamilton said. “This will hopefully bring to light how much of an issue this is in our own local towns and provoke more involvement.” A group of students had the opportunity to deliver the bags they helped pack to Burke County DSS in Morganton. “In November we were able to take a group of high school students to Bridge42 Church in Morganton, NC. Along with us, we brought over 50 filled bags to donate to Burke County DSS. While at the church, the students were
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able to watch a short film (Taken) which ‘follows the emotional journey of a nine-year old girl who is taken from her abusive birth home and is placed in the tumultuous foster care system.’ (transfiguringadoption.com) The students were gripped by this video which truly showed what children go through on a day-to-day basis. It made it very real for them. This was an incredible experience, not only for the students, but for Mr. Hamilton and I as well. We [were] not the first to think of this idea. However when we were able to see this idea flourish and come full circle, it was very gratifying and we were very thankful God allowed this to happen!” Mrs. Hamilton said. Psalm 149:14 says “I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well.” “We are all made in the image of God and these children should know and feel fearfully and wonderfully made,” Mrs. Hamilton said.
precious cargo
the pride winter 2018
If you would like to donate to this cause, you can turn in any of the following items to the Precious Cargo closet by the Nurse’s offices.
Accepted Donations: 1. Gently used or new duffel bags No suitcases! 2. Toiletry items 3. Blankets 4. Pajamas
5. Socks 6. Diapers and wipes 7. Books/coloring books 8. Crayons and markers 9. Toys and other children items
PRECIOUS CARGO Senior Lauren Mayhone (above) and Sophomore Madison Massie (below) help place supplies in bookbags for the precious cargo ministry. “Helping with precious cargo allowed me to see how the Lord can provide and work in the hearts of my classmates. It was really exciting to have my eyes opened to what really mattered, and not be so focused on myself ” said Mayhone.
Dignity, Confidence, & Belonging
PSALM 139:14 #preciousinHissight
Right: High School Principal Adam Hamilton helps students pack bags for the precious cargo ministry. These bags were filled with toiletries, pajamas, stuffed animals and more for when children are in transition in the foster care system.
Above: Students load up the bus with items that are to be donated to Bridge42 Church. “Throughout middle school my family housed foster care children so i’ve seen,first hand, the trash bags that children carry from house to house. It makes me excited that precious cargo has expanded to places other than Hickory Grove and we are able to make a difference in places outside of our city.” said Senior Morgan Smith. Left: Those who traveled to deliver items to Bridge42 church watch a video on life in the foster care system from a child’s point of view. “Helping with precious cargo gave me a glimpse of what some children are going through. Because even though I didn’t see exactly which children the bags were going to, packing the bags ensured me that the supplies would be useful to children of all ages,” said Adriana Bultsma.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 149:14 feature
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OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW YEAR
What’s your resolution? What are you looking forward to this year? Take a look behind 5 students’ New Year’s resolutions. Leighann Vinesett Editor-In-Chief Ashley Lineberger • Eighth Grade Q: What was your "New Years Resolution"? A: My goal was to get to know my friends better. Q: How do you plan to carry out your resolution? A: I plan to spend more time with my friends, especially the ones I want to grow my relationship with.
Q: Do you think 2018 will be better than 2017? A: Yes, because now I have two families! I have my family and my HGCS family… Q: What is one thing you hope to accomplish in 2018? A: [I would like to] become a better chef.
Santiago Hernandez-Farrera • Sixth Grade
Jamal Robertson • Seventh Grade
Q: What was your "New Years Resolution"? A: I want to exercise more this year. Q: How do you plan to carry out your resolution? A: I have a reminder on my iPad to do a 7 minute workout every day. Q: Do you think 2018 will be better than 2017? A: It will be a better year because it’ s a fresh start to do things differently and discover new things. Q: What things are you looking forward to in 2018? A: I am looking forward to going to Mexico for the world cup this summer and being able to spend time with my family who live in Mexico. Q: What is one thing you hope to accomplish in 2018? A: I hope to be more consistent in my exercise [routine] and make it to 7th grade.
Q: What was your "New Years Resolution"? A: [My resolution was] to focus on school work and not get demerits or miss assignments. Q: How do you plan to carry out your resolution? A: When I struggle, I will ask God for help. Q: Do you think 2018 will be better than 2017? A: Yes, last year wasn’t a good year for me and I hope this year will be better. Q: What things are you looking forward to in 2018? A: I am looking forward to my birthday, holidays, making new friends, and having a good time. Q: What is one thing you hope to accomplish in 2018? A: I hope to carry out my resolutions, and I hope I will finish the rest of the year strong and do good in school.
Gracie Pyke • Tenth Grade
Zaria Ziglar • Ninth Grade
Q: What was your "New Years Resolution"? A: I want to get 5’s on both my AP exams. Q: How do you plan to carry out your resolution? A: I plan to spend time studying. Q: Do you think 2018 will be better than 2017? A: I’m really not sure. 2017 was amazing, and I’m excited to see what 2018 brings! Q: What things are you looking forward to in 2018? A: I am looking forward to performing in The Little Mermaid. Q: What is one thing you hope to accomplish in 2018? A: [I would like to] be able to balance school, rehearsals, and spending time with my friends efficiently.
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Q: What was your "New Years Resolution"? A: My resolution was to read my Bible more and spend more time praying. Q: How do you plan to carry out your resolution? A: I am making a plan, staying on track with it, and setting reminders on my phone to help. Q: Do you think 2018 will be better than 2017? A: I think 2018 will be better because I have made so many new friends and I feel like I am going to have a lot more fun times with them. Q: What things are you looking forward to in 2018? A: I am looking forward to making more friends and memories. Q: What is one thing you hope to accomplish in 2018? A: I want to be able to stay out of drama!
new years
the pride winter 2018
YEAR IN PIXELS
Cut out the grid & color each day throughout the year. AMAZING DAY
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
GOOD DAY
NORMAL DAY
OK AY DAY
BAD DAY
J F M A M J J A S O N D
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NEW YEAR ORIGIN Where did “New Years” traditions come from?
Sophia Joseph Editor
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lmost everyone celebrates New Year’s, whether you are watching the New Year’s ball drop on TV, at a party, hanging out with family, or watching fireworks. Have you ever wondered why we celebrate New Year’s? Could it be just some silly tradition or does it actually have a meaning and story behind it? According to Denver Nick’s “Why We Celebrate New Year’s Day on January 1” from Time Magazine, Julius Caesar had a lot to do with the holiday. In 45 B.C., Caesar ordered that a 12-month calendar was to be made, starting with January. He wanted it to be a calendar that had only one complete rotation of the sun, 365 days. This sets up the year calendar that we use today and set the stage for New Year’s becoming a holiday. However, the calendar that Caesar made proved to be inaccurate and was switched to the Gregorian calendar made by Pope Gregory XIII. The Gregorian calendar, which is used by most countries now, was not accepted when it first was made. England has overlooked the calendar, saying that the Pope did not have the power to make one. Eventually, more and more countries were beginning to accept it, and England did to. This sets up New Year’s Day to be celebrated on January first. Why do we celebrate New Year’s? Honestly, the entire purpose of it is just to celebrate surviving a year. It is sort of like a birthday, but for the world. Another year passed, go us! What about resolutions? Why do we have those? They come from wanting to start again, a clean slate. Since that is what a new year brings, why not start over? According to Stephanie Pappa’s article “Why We Make New Year’s Resolutions” from Live Science, resolutions come from services called Covenant Renewal Services. During these, people sing, dance, pray, reflect, and look forward to the new year. Basically, they served as another way to celebrate the new year and still do. From there we have taken resolutions and made them to focus on an individual person. The ultimate goal for New Year’s and resolutions is to provide a way to celebrate the past year, set yourself objectives to accomplish during the upcoming year, and make sure you do not waste it.
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A HEART ISSUE It takes love of the game to put in the time required for teamwork and wins.
SUPERSTITIONS + TRADITIONS Emily Strum Editor Football
If any of us gave up or didn’t try our hardest, Coach would say “That’s a heart issue!” and we started saying it for everything. -Andrew Mann If someone has a birthday during the season, then we turn on a freezing cold shower and throw them in Mann
Clockwise from Right: Varsity Basketball Captain Austin Hadden works out with student Jonathan Gouch. First semester Hadden spent 4th block playing basketball, working out, and spending time with Gouch. “I love helping people achieve their goals and running a mile on the treadmill is one of them, and we’re almost there,” Hadden said. PHOTO BY EMILY STRUM Varsity Swim Captain Madi Hardman perfects her dive the last prnding, working on stroke mechanics and conditioning the team to be competitive in races,” Hardman said. PHOTO BY ZARIA ZIGLAR Varsity Swimmer Morgan Smith works on increasing flexibilty along with several other athletes in the Flexibility class daily with Mrs. Wisehart first semester. PHOTO BY ADRIANA STOWE Varsity and Middle School Baseball players listen to Coach Siebert explain the upcoming hitting drill. “Coach Seibert knows a lot of information that can help us progress through the season. He also works with us individually to make sure we know what to do in all situations. If you go to him he’s willing to work any day,” Sophomore Travis Snell said. PHOTO BY ANIAH STITT Varsity Basketball player Regin Larson uses the Vertimax in workouts to enhance his vertical. “I just want to be the best that I can be and fulfill my potential. I love the process of pushing myself and getting better, more than I love the game itself, ” Larson said. PHOTO BY ZARIA ZIGLAR
Cheer
We usually all jam ourselves into a car after school and go eat somewhere and then regret the decision to eat so much after since we have to cheer at the game. We also get in a circle before every halftime performance and pray together. - Jilli Williams Ellie Stevens and I have a handshake we do before every game. -Amanda Wilder
Cross Country
The girls’ team would always say “let’s get it over with” in honor of Kathleen Harding. She’s not dead; we just continue to say it because of her. -Angie Menner “Slow feet don’t eat” -HG Boys XC Team
Soccer
Where’s the defense? Basically, our defense was really bad so we started to say our defense wasn’t even showing up. -Connor Vaughn
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a heart issue
the pride winter 2018
2017 State Champs Varsity Softball
Good luck in the 2018 season! SPRING SPORT WORKOUT PHOTOS BY ANIAH STITT STATE CHAMPION RING PHOTO BY SYDNEY PRESSLEY
sports
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John Adams Middle School Presents
March 22, 23 & 24, 2018 March 22 at 7:00 pm MarchMusic 23 atby7:00 pm March 24 at 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm
Alan Menken
North Campus Lyrics by Cost:and$12 Howard Ashman Glenn Slater
Tickets on sale now at hgchristian.org
Book by
Doug Wright
Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized materials are supplied by Music Theatre International, 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019 Script, music and all other materials © 2010 iTheatrics Broadway Junior and MTI’s Broadway Junior Collection are trademarks of Music Theatre International. All rights reserved
Based on the Hans Christian Andersen story spring musical ad the pride and the Disney film
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winter 2018