The Jag
June 2020
ROAR This Edition:
Allison O’Connor: Wear a mask, Page 2
Molly Breton: Should you take a gap year, Page 4
Bruce White: Businesses open, Page 7
Photo by Amanda DiMartinis Windham High School supports seniors with signs including one placed by the Jaguar at the entrance of the building.
Miles Swank: Hiberantion has ended, Page 8
COVID-19 brings changes for the Class of 2020
Margaret Furtado: Effects of quarantine, Page 9
An Unexpected Ending By Amanda DiMartinis JagRoar Staff WINDHAM - All through high school students dream of senior activities and the day that they get to move their tassel from right to left celebrating their years of hard work. Due to social distancing, students, sadly, may not get to have regular senior activities or even get to say goodbye to their favorite teachers and possibly friends face-to-face. Margaret Furtado, a senior at Windham High School, said she was devastated when she found out her senior year basically got taken away. She always dreamed of what her graduation would look like and now she may not get to experience a traditional ceremony. Margaret stated, “I was looking forward to the entire experience. Walking across the stage
to shake Mr. Sierpina’s hand while receiving my diploma and then walking down the aisle to hug my teachers goodbye is all I have ever wanted.” Like many seniors, Margaret also wished she knew March 13th was her final day at Windham High School because she would have gone to school and done things differently. Margaret stated, “I would have said goodbye to my best friend, I would have thanked my teachers for everything, and I would have walked the hallways for the last time and had the memory of it.” A Vox article believes similarly to Margaret as they also think students did not get to say proper goodbyes or enjoy their last days in high school. When Erin Maloney, senior at Windham High School, was asked about graduation she stated, “Having a graduation ceremony is important to me because walking across the stage will really Story continues on Page 6
Ashley Philippe: Spring sports, Page 11
Danial Wang: Students turn to Call of Duty, Page 13
THE JAGROAR
Jag Opinion
JUNE 2020 • PAGE 2
Wearing Masks Can Save Lives
By Allison O’Connor JagRoar Staff
NEW HAMPSHIRE - The number of new cases of COVID-19 in the United States has decreased in the last couple of weeks. This has allowed some states to open more things, leading more people to venture out of their homes. However, it is vital that people wear cloth face coverings when they decide to leave their homes. But what is a cloth face covering? According to www.mass. gov, “A face covering can include anything that covers your nose and mouth, including dust scarves, masks, and bandanas.” According to an article found on www.unionleader.com, New Hampshire’s state epidemiologist, Dr. Benjamin Chang said, “If someone is to go out of their home, we absolutely recommend they wear a cloth face covering.” Chang also said, “There is more evidence that people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus, and that droplets produced when breathing, speaking, or clearing your throat may spread COVID-19 from person to person…” Matt O’Connor, 16, a resident of Windham, NH, feels very strongly about this due to the fact that he has Crohn’s Disease. He has only left the house three times since social distancing began back in March. When asked why he was scared of leaving the house, he said, “People will get too close to me because they don’t care.”
JagRoar Staff Amanda Pirani: Co-Editor In Chief; Features Editor Caroline LeBlanc: Co-Editor In Chief; Opinion Edior Nika Luchanok: Activities Editor Drew Anderson: News Editor Taylor Pendleton: Sports Editor Journalism I Class: Correspondents Mrs. Kristen Sullivan: Club Adviser
Being that M. O’Connor is only 16 years old, he does not have to go out for the essentials like many people have had to do. Virginia O’Connor, 75, of Freeport, NY, also has Crohn’s Disease and a plethora of other health issues that compromise her immune system, but she has to go out to the stores. When asked if she thinks wearing a mask is necessary, she said, “When I leave my house to go to the supermarket.” M. O’Connor claimed it to be unfair to the people like him and V. O’Connor, who have compromised immune systems, if others do not wear a mask. Many people do not realize that while they might not be high risk for the virus, there are so many people in their community that are. It is for that reason, among many others, that many states, such as Massachusetts and New York, made it a law that people wear cloth masks when they go out. Richard Freeman, 80, a Malden, Massachusetts resident agrees that wearing a mask is a good idea. He made his own prior to the law going into effect. While many people see the value in wearing a mask, many people do not. Some people do not understand the point. Freeman said, “They don’t really understand the contagiousness of the disease.” Both M. O’Connor and V. O’Connor agreed with that statement. Wearing a mask is not something people should consider a nuisance. It could save your life and the lives of people around you. So everyone, make sure to cover your face when you go outside!
The Protests on Quarantine
By Ian Sargent Jagroar Staff
USA–In the recent months, people all over the country have been quarantined due to the pandemic known as COVID-19. All nonessential businesses and jobs have been shut down in order to minimize the risk of the virus spreading more throughout the country. But some don’t agree with what has been occuring in their states, they want to avoid quarantine and start to reopen as soon as possible. In order to do so, many people are out on the streets protesting the quarantine and the pretty much shut down of the economy. Yet many are doing it in unsafe ways, such as not following the social distancing requirements and mask requirements set upon them by their state’s government as stated by npr. org. In all honesty, these protests will not help much. Yes these protests have the ability to make people realize that our economy is going downhill and many
people have to file for unemployment, but it does not change the fact that there is a dangerous virus spreading currently and everyone protesting in close quarters to others raises the risk of it spreading even more. Some of these protests are getting so bad that some people are beginning to show violent tendencies and carry guns to get their point across as seen in an article published by theguardian. “Some feel as if the government should not have the control to shut down everything and others are angry because they can’t work which reduces their income,” claimed Emily Sargent, a resident of Windham, New Hampshire and currently undergoing quarantine. This is true that not everything should be shut down, but in order to make sure the country stays safe and we minimize deaths due to this virus, we must follow as many quarantine rules as we can. If not, it is feared that the virus could Story continues on Page 3
THE JAGROAR
OPINION
JUNE 2020 • PAGE 3
The Dangers of Social Media
Social Media is Growing More and More Toxic to Young Minds By Corinne Richard JagRoar Staff
UNITED STATES – The ongoing social distancing act has forced people to stay inside which has caused the use of social media to skyrocket. However, the message of these sites has grown to be toxic to the mental health of its users. Social media has a negative affect on mental health and has only continued to get worse as these platforms have grown. These sites have poisoned the minds of children by constantly driving in the “ideal” body type, which has set them up for a lifetime of mental health issues, like eating disorders and depression. Whether it is friends, strangers, or celebrities, it is nearly impossible to avoid comparing yourself to others. According to an article concerning the matter on www.bbc.com, “Much has been made over the years about how mainstream media presents unrealistic beauty standards in the
form of photoshopped celebrities or stickisolated, in addition to the content typicalthin fashion models. Now that influencers ly seen really drives the objectification and fill up our feeds, it’s easy to hypersexualization of literal imagine that social media, children which is disturbing PERSPECTIVE too, is all bad when it comes and I hate it.” to body image.” Some people have said Because social media is so that one chooses what he/she isolated, people post whatever they want wants to see and that nobody is forcing without seeing the consequences face to them to download the applications. Howface. According to an article on www.med- ever, this is one of the most common ways icalnewstoday.com, studies have linked to stay connected nowadays, and many social media with feelings of loneliness times it is friends that cause the most and depression. problems with self-image. These issues have affected both men and If a thin person posted a video on Tik women, but women’s objectification is the Tok, people would flood the comments only side voiced, which severely affects with things like “I’m not eating anymore,” boys’ confidence as they feel they have to and if someone looks a little different, hide their pain. Logan Jones, 19, an avid people say “I RAN to the comments.” social media user, said that he often sees These types of responses are triggering men being made fun of for being short, a and damaging to anyone, but especially to completely uncontrollable characteristic. people who might already be battling with Social media platforms such as Instaeating or psychological disorders. gram and Tik Tok present explore pages Social media is toxic, dangerthat show you random pictures/videos. ous, and only getting worse. Lindsey These are often full of dieting suggestions, Murphy, 18, an active social media user models, edited photos, etc. that show a said, “Having social media be our crutch very specific body type that is desirable. and everyday habit is lethal to our mental Shanni Zhou, 17, a frequent user of these health because we are forced to take in so platforms, said, “Tik Tok’s weird combimany different perspectives that we end nation of being both very public and very up losing our own.”
Story continued from Page 2
Should the government have control to shut everything down?
spread even more and make an even larger impact on our society. As Riley Miller stated, “I get the importance of money, but being out there protesting around large masses which generally don’t wear protection will just make our situation so much worse. The best thing we can do is have everyone wait this out so we avoid any more cases of corona.” With rising thoughts of when this virus will come to an end, which some assume to be around the beginning of the year 2021, it is best that everyone continues to follow the quarantine regulations set upon us. Although it may take a while for everyone to be free of quarantine, it is the best course of action in order to make our country healthy and prosperous once again.
Photo by Olivia Marotta Allison O’Connor wearing a cloth face mask made by Olivia Marotta
Have something to say? Email JagRoarNews@windhamsd.org
THE JAGROAR
JUNE 2020 • PAGE 4
OPINION
Photo by Sam72 via Shutterstock
College or Gap Year Are more students taking a gap year due to Covid-19? By Molly Breton JagRoar Stuff WINDHAM- For students having to decide whether or not they want to go school can be a tough decision to make. For some students it might be difficult to choose a major that they would enjoy. Now with the outbreak upon us, it leads colleges and students to think more of their safety. During the pandemic that we are all currently in, I believe it would be a better option to take a gap year now for many reasons, including safety concerns. For students that take gap years they would have a longer time to decide whether they would want to go to college or not. While taking a gap year some students might want to save money, while others may be traveling more. The outbreak has had a turn of events in the past couple months. Due to this college campuses have been struggling on whether or not to open the campuses back up. In a recent article called How a ‘COVID Gap Year’ Will Be Different Than Previous Gap Year Experiences from the guide Sustaining Higher Education in the Coronavirus Crisis, it describes the
struggle that colleges and students are facing, “the COVID-19 pandemic has created a rush of interest in the gap year, since most campuses have not yet decided whether they will be open for traditional classes in the fall, and many colleges have already decided they’ll at least start with online teaching and shuttered campuses.” In addition, due to quarantine some families are struggling financially. While in this quarantine some families might not be able to pay for college. Some students may be looking for opportunities for more money such as getting an online job so people can stay at home to earn money. A benefit of going to college right away is you may be able to enter the workforce sooner. In an article called Should I go to College? 6 reasons to get a degree and 3 reasons not to, it says,”in addition to preparing you for a particular occupation, you can learn valuable skills that can help you succeed in any career”. A senior at WHS Halle Mcgrail said when asked about why she wants to attend college, she replied “you can get a better job.” Getting a college degree allows job interviews would be less stressful. Knowing that you have a college degree shows the responsibility that you took your time by getting a degree. Another senior at WHS, Erin Maloney had a different response and stated “it depends, it all depends where you are in life.” A graduate that earned her Undergraduate and Master’s Degree Kayla Breton had
a lot to say about the topic of college and gap years. This is what she said, “people should go to college to make themselves more profitable to hiring companies. Nowadays, there are many jobs that won’t even look at your resume without a college degree. However, that’s not the case for all career paths. Some career paths don’t require this and it wouldn’t make sense for one to go to college for these paths. Gap years however, are a great way to give yourself some time to think about these major and expensive decisions. Many people will take a gap year to choose what major they may like or earn extra money to help them through the next few years. I think financially, it is a great option.” Due to COVID-19 many students don’t know whether they should take a gap year or to continue their education. Education is a bigger thing for some people than others. Some people like to take time off and figure things out for themselves. A gap year allows them to do that, it lets students to think for themselves and see where they are in life. Given the circumstances this year a gap year might be the best option for many students reconsidering their choice to attend college right after high school.
THE JAGROAR
Jag News
JUNE 2020 • PAGE 5
Photo courtesy of Attorney Benjamin Crump A photo of George Floyd
Derek Chauvin Arrested
Derek Chauvin Arrested on Charges of Third-Degree Murder By: Hirsh Ramani JagRoar Staff
May 29, 2020 USA - At 11:47 a.m. on May 29, 2020 former Mineappolis police officer Derek Chauvin was arrested and charged with his involvement in the death of George Floyd. According to several news reports including CBS news, Chauvin was investigating Floyd on possible use of a counterfeit $20 bill. When caught, prosecutors report that Floyd did not voluntarily cooperate with all of the orders given by Chauvin and the three other officers that were present at the
time. However it is important to note that Floyd was unarmed in this situation. Prosecutors also report that before the incident that would spark nationwide controversy occurred, Floyd was already claiming to have difficulty breathing while still failing to follow orders. It was at this point that Floyd was brought to the ground. Nola.gov’s guide on how to properly restrain an individual clearly states that if the perpetrator is agitated, not to sit, lie or kneel on their back or neck. It states that when this is the case, the perpetrator could be in a state of “agitated delirium” and using any of these restraint techniques can put them at a greater risk of death. However in the instance of George Floyd and Derek Chauvin, this important detail was not taken into consideration, and whether with or without intent, likely led to the death of Floyd. During the 8 minutes and 46 sec-
onds that Floyd was held in that position, Chauvin’s knee pressed against Floyd’s neck. Floyd could be heard repeating, “I can’t breathe,” “Mama,” and “please,” until he became unconscious. George Floyd also happens to be of African American descent which has led people, particularly those in the Black Lives Matter group, to believe that this brutality was, at least in part, race motivated. While there is no evidence of this at the moment, there is an ongoing investigation which will uncover the reality of this incident which is, at best, a severe oversight and, at worst, a race-motivated murder.
THE JAGROAR
NEWS
JUNE 2020 • PAGE 6
Microsoft’s A.I Journalists
Microsoft Opting ‘to replace journalists with robots’ Daniel Wang JagRoar Staff MAY 30 2020 Seattle, WA - This Saturday morning the tech giant Microsoft has made the announcement that: “Like all companies, we evaluate our business on a regular basis. This can result in increased investment in some places and, from time to time, redeployment in others.”
Currently, Microsoft’s website ‘msn. com’ is paid by certain news sources to display their articles, and a team of journalists chooses the headlines and which articles to display. However, according to the Seattle Times, this job is set to be conducted by AI in the near future. As a result, upwards of 50 journalists will be losing their jobs by the end of June. Quantitative analyst for the Boston Hedgefund AJO Billy Wang believes the decision was made in an effort to cut costs, commenting that Microsoft is “trying to save money like any other compa-
ny” and that “robots don’t need salaries.” JagRoar reporter Miles Swank also sees the benefit in cutting costs, but also claims that the new AI will “lose the human touch.” With Microsoft also stating that “These decisions are not the result of the current pandemic”, the switch from human to AI seems to have become a common trend among many companies. Wang doesn’t see the trend ending soon, suggesting that “other companies may follow suit.” All that Swank offered on the idea was, “I’m glad it’s not me… yet.”
Class of 2020 Story continued from Page 1
Photo by Sergey Shmidt
Spring Allergies Arrive
Seasonal allergies arrive in full force, pollen descends on NH By Bobby DiCicco JagRoar Staff Almost 30% of United States adults are affected by seasonal allergies every year... and this spring is no different as northern states’ peak the top of their allergy seasons. Locally, many people are beginning to experience the effects of spring allergies already. Riley Desmarais, a senior at WHS said “I get my allergies the worst
when I am in my yard, but not as much when I am in other places like in my house. I tend to stay inside for that reason.” According to many health officials and CDC specialists, to keep allergies at bay, it is best to prepare at least two weeks before entering the allergy season. Some methods include: taking over-the-counter medications one week prior to the beginning of the season, checking for loose window/door seals as pollen can enter through drafts, and have a plan to cope with the symptoms. As the country begins to open up again after quarantine, many others will be stuck at home, dealing with the symptoms of allergies.
signify the end of high school.” Erin is also upset that her senior year is ending this way. She has watched seniors participate in these fun activities for the past four years and was really looking forward to experiencing it with the class of 2020. According to a WECT article, “The second semester of senior year is usually full of milestones: senior prom, senior trips, and graduation, just to name a few. But high school seniors across the state and country are missing some of these once-in-alifetime memories in an effort to stop the spread of Coronavirus.” Another senior at Windham High School, Briana Curran, would have had a semester full of milestones. Therefore she was upset when finding out she would not be going back to school. Briana stated, “I am sad that I was not able to enjoy my last couple of months. I had so much to look forward to including the spring musical, a choir trip, prom, and graduation.” Sadly, the memories Briana wanted to make got taken away in an instant. As you can see many seniors are sad about how high school is ending, but they are grateful for all the hard work teachers are putting in to make the class of 2020’s graduation one to remember.
THE JAGROAR
Jag Features
JUNE 2020 • PAGE 7
Stores are Open
Stores and Local Businesses Find Ways to Stay Open During Covid-19
Photo by Bruce White Walmart uses large printed stickers to advise customers to stay six feet apart as well as showing the customers how far six feet is. By Bruce White JagRoar Staff NEW HAMPSHIRE- Amidst the tragedies and hardships brought on by the Covid-19 virus, there are people and businesses that are trying to stay afloat. These businesses are doing so by ensuring that their customers and employees are protected while still being able to draw consumers in. Connor Terry, a senior at Windham and an employee at Klemm’s
Bakery in Windham, says before they closed down due to the virus “We began to institute some small changes to how we help our customers and how they structure themselves in the store. However, as Covid-19 began to become more prevalent, we barely had more than two or three customers in at a time, so the changes we made were almost not needed due to a massive decrease in store popularity.” Jack Nolan, an employee at Hannafords in Pelham and a junior at Windham, says that his employers are “Installing many signs on reminding customers to stay 6ft apart, encouraging use of hand sanitizer, and installation of large plexiglass walls in front of each register”, to endure the customers safety. He goes on to talk about the effects that have been brought on the employees themselves. “I would say the employees have been affected the most because due to covid many things have changed and making sure the customers are aware of the procaustions the company is taking” says Nolan. He continues with saying that his hours have increased due to the lack of school which gives him the availability to work as well as receiving a pay increase because of the risk he is taking by continuing to work. Another student at Windham High, Aidan Granahan who is an employee at staples in Londonderry, says that his employers are placing “Tape on the ground marking six feet part and directional arrows in the aisles to keep them (customers) going one direction. There are signs posted on the front door that a mask is recommended and employees must wear masks.” Granahan goes on to say that the employees have been most affected by the changes due to the limited number of hours and that they are sporadic. He also says that the workers are most affected because the precautions are mostly focusing on the protection of the customer and less on the employees. However, Nolan says that his employers actions are focusing on the safety of both the customer and the employee. Large scale businesses are also taking precautions to protect both customers and employees. They are focusing on the same aspects as many other stores. These include directional shopping marked by one way arrows in each aisle, gated entrances to keep the flow of customers from bunching up, as well as other precautions that have already been mentioned. It is clear that Covid-19 has affected consumers, employees and business owners worldwide. These businesses must find a way to continue drawing in customers while keeping them and their employees safe, whereas customers must decide when and where it is safe to do their shopping and if it is necessary.
THE JAGROAR
FEATURES
JUNE 2020 • PAGE 8
Signs of a Busy Spring By Miles Swank JagRoar Staff
Photo by Charles Knowles via Wikimedia Commons Photo caption goes here. Describe what is happening in the present tense. Include name and title of any person whose face is recognizable. Use 10 pt Tahoma with 11 point leading.
Changes in the Environment By Molly Breton JagRoar Staff WINDHAM- In April scientists met virtually to discuss a topic that was not directed to the concerns of COVID-19. As an alternative they discussed the worries of climate change. Climate change has globally affected the earth around us. Due to the reduction in some pollution Mt.Everest and the Himalayas are visible from some places in India that haven’t been seen in the mountains in years due to pollution. Satellite images have shown a decrease in India’s air pollution. During the pandemic the Environmental Prote tion Agency changed carbon emission and environmental policies affecting manufacturing so companies under the Defense Production Act can make personal protective and medical equipment for the country. To solve climate change and cleaning the environment, long term changes are needed. Due to preventing the spread of COVID-19 and protecting the environment Mr.Bryant a science teacher at Windham High School said “air quality in cities has improved, carbon emissions have gone way down, and the air is generally cleaner because people aren’t traveling.” An article called “What will happen to
the environment after the pandemic?” said Although the pandemic is less than six months old, there is already evidence that the way we are reacting to it is affecting the world’s environment.” Due to carbon emissions that generate from planes, cars and factories , heat can be confined in the earth’s climate. Hoping that carbon emission will change over the next couple of years. Mr.Kovaliv, a science teacher at Windham High School said, “I hope that the recent pandemic (overall carbon reduction of 17% globally) will help us rethink how we operate many businesses. People can work remotely more often, Zoom conferences instead of driving/flying for meetings. I think we need to look at a public transportation system for southern NH, Concord South and East to the coast. This would help alleviate some of the traffic we see.” Scientists have been trying to get people to rethink how they’ve made sacrifices for a virus that affects the public. The public is one issue to the problem, what people don’t understand is that climate change has the same risks as public health does. States and cities can be negatively affected by climate change, due to their environment.
WINDHAM - At exactly 2:17 pm on May 19, something momentous occurred in a Windham Resident’s backyard. The home dweller was standing on the back porch of their house looking outward into the expanse of trees beyond the reaches of their backyard when they spotted a squirrel in the grass. It was just sitting there, as squirrels usually do. However this sighting was the catalyst for a flurry of thoughts in their mind. It is a sign that spring is finally hitting its stride. Windham residents are greeted with warmer weather every day, and the animals in the area are becoming more and more active. According to besthuntingtimes. com, squirrels in New Hampshire are active all day. Their time of most activity comes during dusk and dawn. This explains why the squirrel was seen in broad daylight. Windham Resident and boy scout Alexander Lamon was interested to hear the news. When asked about the significance of the sighting, Mr. Lamon said that the squirrel’s natural habitat is the woods in Windham. The squirrel was simply living its life in the environment that it was born for. Windham Resident Adrian Niceforo had other thoughts, saying that the sighting of the squirrel was a sign that spring was in full bloom. Although intrigued by the news, Mr. Niceforo said that he doesn’t think he knows anyone else who would care too much about the story at face value.
Photo Courtsey of Wikipedia Commons Squirral on a rock
THE JAGROAR
FEATURES
JUNE 2020 • PAGE 9
Being Quarantined During COVID-19 How It Affects Student and Teachers By Margaret Furtado JagRoar Staff WINDHAM– The December 2019 COVID-19 disease outbreak has asked and in some cases, forced, people who have potentially come into contact with the infection to isolate themselves at home. This can be stressful for people, causing fear and anxiety, which can lead to strong emotions in adults and in children. Across the world, people are working in new environments, children are staying home, and social distancing is a new word to live by, the new normal. We are all learning to readjust and live in our new everyday lives; proms, graduations, weddings, birthdays, and so much more, are now being canceled and held in extraordinary ways. “The rapidly-developing coronavirus crisis is dominating global headlines and altering life as we know it. In the United States alone, 55 million students are rapidly adjusting to learning and socializing remotely, spending more time with family, and sacrificing comfort and convenience for the greater good,” stated by the CDC. How we respond to the outbreak will depend on our background, the things that make us different. During times of uncertainty and crisis, people come together to support one another. Many communities are doing their best to provide public services to those in need. Schools are working to provide lunches for people who need access. Feeding the kids, making rent, and keeping the lights on is tougher than ever before. “I miss spending time with my friends. It is really weird only being able to communicate with them through text or facetime calls,” said Amanda DiMartinis, a senior at Windham High School. Teens and young adults react to how they see adults reacting around them; dealing with the situation calmly and confidently can provide great support. Communities everywhere are stepping up to support the people around them while practicing “social
distancing.” In many places, you will find virtual proms, birthday parades, and remote learning taking place in full swing. Teachers are working to communicate and give a sense of normalcy to the students. “As a fourth-grade teacher, the thought of not returning to see my students smiles, and reunite after this tragedy, merely brought me to tears. There were no words to describe what I was feeling at that moment. If I had to describe my feelings in one word, it would be surreal,” said Sara Whitney, a teacher at Golden Brook School. According to the journal of ethics, there is no doubt communicable diseases pose threats to populations, and the administration of healthcare is insufficient to control the spread. It is most likely that “social distancing” will remain in the future. “The thing that worries me the most is when the next school year rolls around we will have to do remote learning then too. As for what gives me the most hope is hard to say,” said Ashely Sweeney, a senior at Windham High School. For most students within the senior class, they will be attending colleges and or universities next year, hoping for the traditional experiences.
Photo by Amanda DiMartinis MacBook used for remote learning during Covid-19 remote learning.
THE JAGROAR
Jag Sports
JUNE 2020 • PAGE 10
Senior Athlete Farewell Words Connor Leuteritz: Everyone says to enjoy every second and don’t wish it away. It’s cheesy and counter intuitive, as even after that we still wish it away. Instead, find the random unsuspecting times in life, and just think about how far you have come. Thomas Langlois: I can’t thank my teammates enough. You boys have been there since day one. I love every single one of you. Ball out next year! Alesandro Jacobellis: All of the sports programs at Windham are already amazing and very well-developed, but they’re nothing without athletes. For all the underclassmen, keep the programs running strong and taken care of, and they’ll take care of you in return. Do things the right way, always put 100% effort into whatever you’re doing, respect your Coaches, and show everyone else what WIndham is truly about. Good luck and have the best future seasons possible, and Go Jags!
MLB Implents Designated Hitter Rules By Bruce White JagRoar Staff UNITED STATES - The association of Major League Baseball’s designated hitter rule was implemented in the American League in 1973, according to CBC Sports, which allowed a none position player to hit inplace of one player that played the field. Since then it has always been a distinguishing trait between the two leagues, National and American. However, due to the recent Covid-19 related closures, the MLB has considered extending the rule to the National league as well. Now I, as well as other MLB traditionalists, have been in love with the league separating DH rule and many of us do not want to see that change. Leo Gravel, the head coach of the baseball team at Windham says, “I’d be against that idea. I love the traditional NL game. The league would be most tested, in my opinion. The biggest issues the league faces now are in the areas of “length of games”. Adding hitters to replace pitchers in NL lineups would be counter productive in this area.” By adding a DH to the National league, the differentiation and the advantageous aspects of the World Series would also be stripped away. For those who don’t know, the World Series consists of one National and one American league team. When the American league team plays at the home stadium of the National league team the pitchers must hit. The National league team has the advantage here because their pitchers are used to having to hit or bunt whereas the others do not, which can
sometimes prove to be critical during the game. Now, in addition to this DH rule, the MLB is also considering breaking up the league into to different divisions that the traditional season, according to Fanside. com. This would offer an interesting twist to the season but not completely game altering. There are other baseball fans that do support the idea of the league wide DH. Tommy Langlois, a senior and captain of the Windham baseball team, says, “I think it is very beneficial to the league. I think the fans will enjoy it more, and people will watch it more on TV. I think everyone will
be affected by this, the pitchers don’t have to worry about hitting, and there are more jobs for DH.” Will Mckee, a senior and captain of the baseball team says, “A league wide DH may lead to some exposure for other players. Players who could potentially benefit from their success as a DH would ultimately lead to the benefit of the MLB.” It is clear that this topic will split many fans of the MLB. However, it looks as if more will support this new idea, however there are still those out there who will always prefer the traditional DH rule of the MLB. As Coach Gravel said, “Long live the NL double-switch.”
Photo by Flickr/Landry Heaton Images of MLB team hats
THE JAGROAR
SPORTS
JUNE 2020 • PAGE 11
Cancellation of Spring Sports
By Corinne Richard JagRoar Staff
NEW HAMPSHIRE – Alongside the cancellation of spring sports comes physical and emotional challenges for athletes - particularly seniors. Between at home workouts, team Zoom calls, and other accommodations, COVID-19 has made it so seniors have to get creative to make the most of the season they were supposed to have. Due to the continuation of coronavirus threats, the NHIAA has made the decision to cancel spring sports this year. This decision was not made lightly; according to the NHIAA website, they were reluctant at first and wanted to avoid complete cancellation but considered safety a top priority. The NHIAA said in a message about the situation on their website, “We recognize and share in the pain and heartbreak this decision will cause to all student-athletes this spring, particularly the seniors.” Senior at WHS, Lindsey Murphy, 18, has experienced this pain and heartbreak firsthand as this action cancelled her final
softball season. As someone who has been playing softball since she was six years old, this news was difficult. She said, “What upsets me most is working so hard up until this point and then seeing it disappear before my eyes.” Murphy has struggled with making peace with the situation. She said, “It’s impossible for me to wrap my head around the fact that I won’t be able to put on a Jaguar jersey and run out to left field with Peyton on my left.” Senior at Salem High School, Silvia Caddell, 17, has a different perspective. Caddell said that in some ways, she isn’t as sad as other athletes because she is continuing her running career in college. However, she is missing out on crucial preparatory training as well as final moments with her closest teammates, so it still has a major impact on her. Senior at WHS, Riley Bermingham, 17, has undergone significant changes in her dance competition season. Her studio, NHSB, now conducts classes via Zoom. Bermingham participates in these classes in her living room, using the fireplace as a bar for ballet and her porch for tap.
Not being able to physically go into the studio for dance has been a mental challenge for Bermingham. She said, “When you’re in the studio getting to hear your coaches and see your friends dancing next to you, there’s just something so inspiring and powerful.” It is evident that sports teams have been trying to stay connected through this time. Murphy has been running the Instagram account for the softball team. There she posts player features to highlight team members and memories of the team in order to bring recognition to her teammates. Murphy said in a post on the Instagram page, “looking back on our 2018 & 2019 seasons! Today, 4/13, was our scheduled opening day for the season! Work hard & stay positive jags!!!” Senior-athletes have undergone an immense amount of unforeseen loss throughout this current situation. “Promise me one thing,” Murphy said as a piece of advice for underclassmen, “make the most of what you have in the moment and cherish every moment because you don’t know what will happen.”
Coronavirus Strips Away Spring Season
By Ashley Philippe JagRoar Staff
WINDHAM-The Coronavirus pandemic has forced some governors across the nation to close school for the rest of the academic school year. New Hampshire governor, Chris Sununu, announced that all New Hampshire schools will continue with remote learning for the rest of the 2019-2020 school year. This announcement was eventually followed with news from the NHIAA that the 2020 spring sport season will be cancelled. NHIAA states that “...our focus in these most uncertain times must be to do everything we can to protect people from the pandemic and not contribute to the numbers who fall victim to the disease.” Seniors now realizing it’s now time to hang up their cleats. There was definite heartbreak amongst the senior athletes during these uncertain times. The JagRoar reached out to a few senior athletes to reflect on their time being a Windham High School athlete. Senior Captain, Thomas Langlois, of the Men’s Baseball spoke out about what his initial reaction to the cancellation of his season. Langlois said, “My first reaction to the cancellation of the season was shock, I never thought that last year would have been the last time I wore a Windham High School baseball jersey, with the number 22 on my back.” Senior Captain, Ava Gravell, of the Women’s Track and Field expressed devastation she felt about hearing the news that she would not be running one last time for WHS. Gravell said, “I was
shocked. I never expected Covid-19 to end my senior year, much less cancel my last track season. I was especially upset since I was unable to compete during the indoor season due to an injury so I was really hoping to have a comeback.” Senior Captain, Ryane Farrell, of Women’s Lacrosse talked about what lacrosse meant to her. Farrell had been playing with her older sisters since she was six years old. She had grown up playing the sport with the people she loves. It is a sad way to see lacrosse go, she expressed. It was a great way to make new memories and work together with friends. Yet, Windham stays strong. Although the season did not go expectedly, these seniors preserve and still lead off the playing field. Leaving encouraging words for the non-senior athletes for next season. Langlois says to his boys, “I wish I could lead you boys on the field one last time. Don’t take the process for granted and enjoy every moment you have together. Ball out for the seniors. We all love you! We can’t wait to watch you guys play!” Gravell says, “My advice to future WHS TF athletes is to stick with the sport and not give up on it. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to get to where you want to be in the sport and you need to be patient with it. It is frustrating at times but it is all worth it!” Lastly, Farrell states, “Play every game like it’s your last.” She had always thought that phrase referred to an injury. In hindsight this meaning extends to the extreme circumstance of a pandemic too. Time off the field will always pay off.
THE JAGROAR
Jag Activities
JUNE 2020 • PAGE 12
Photo by Wikipedia One of the most popular games in the world, Call of Duty Warzone is quickly becoming a favorite pastime of many WHS students.
No Corona in Verdansk
Jags find new ways to stay connected during these difficult times By Miles Swank JagRoar Staff
WINDHAM - The transition to remote learning at Windham High School has taken away many of the activities that make Windham Jaguars who they are. However, values that are ingrained in our Jaguar spirits will not be abandoned so easily. Commitment to excellence through hard work, high standards, personal responsibility, and dedication to others shines brightly, like an unwavering beacon of strength, from each Jag’s home in Windham. We carry these values with us and hold them in high esteem no matter
what life throws our way.Stuck inside, many Jags have gravitated towards a recently released video game as a means of upholding their Jag values. Published by Activision, Call of Duty: Warzone is a first-person shooter of the battle royale genre that is bringing students back together in a time of prolonged seclusion. Senior Jaguar Samual Marsh is one of many who frequents the virtual landscape—a fictional country called “Verdansk.” When asked why he thought this pastime was so prevalent among Jaguars, Marsh said, “They [Video Games] are widely available. Also, cross-platform lets everyone play together.” The term cross-platform references a feature that allows gaming systems manufactured by different companies to connect. According to theverge.com, this feature contributed to the tens of millions-high player base the game has built
up.
Luke Darcy, another Senior Jag who finds the game to be a worthwhile use of quarantined time, explained how the game presents a fascinating new frontier for Jags to conquer. Teamwork, communication, and confidence in yourself are essential for those striving to come out on top. The battle royale is best explained by the official Call of Duty website. In this variation, 150 players divided into teams of up to four are released among the geography of Verdansk. To emerge the victors, players must be the last team alive. Long-time squadmate and online friend BloodySnowWolf88 uses the game to stay connected with friends he had made before his family moved. In his words, “the game gives us something to relate to each other about even though we no longer see each other every day.”
THE JAGROAR
ACTIVITIES
JUNE 2020 • PAGE 13
A Victory Against All Odds WHS Senior Luke Darcy Achieves a Warzone Victory By Daniel Wang JagRoar Staff VERDANSK, KASTOVIA - The battle royale Call of Duty Warzone is played by over 50 million as recorded on statista. com. Early on May 27th, 2020, 4 of those 50 million achieved a special warzone victory. With 38 teams in the lobby, there was a slim 2.6% chance of victory. Yet things got even more improbable for the Windham team when 3 of the 4 squad members died in battle after being “third-partied” during a firefight with a separate team. Despite party leader and WHS senior Luke Dary escaping this particular battle, Gulag (the part of the game where fallen players can be revived) had already closed and Darcy was left to fend for himself against the 5 remaining teams (12 players)
in the lobby. Yet, Darcy defied the odds and managed to survive until the end, single-handedly eliminating 5 of those remaining 12 players, including a team wipe of the 2nd place team, resulting in his 5th career win. Following the incredible performance, Darcy remarked that he “clutched up,” but praised his teammates saying, “Everybody played their part in getting us to where we needed to be.” Teammate and fellow WHS senior Adam Frank wiped aside Darcy’s humility, stating that “Luke just hard carried our team to a win,” and that Darcy was “fragging out. He was cracked.” (Darcy was “cracked” as he ran out of armor plates at the end, but Frank is referring to how Darcy was playing extremely well). Darcy stated he plays the game for “moments like this,” but then went on to joke how perhaps he could go pro following the performance. Frank credited the game’s importance to staying connected with his friends and reminded everyone that “we’re all just playing to have fun.”
Photo by decadeawards.com
School Activites Impacted The effect of COVID-19 on WHS School Activites
By Meaghan Breton JagRoar Staff WINDHAM - Recently, there have been new ideas to resolve activities from being cancelled during the pandemic. Companies and schools have been struggling on what a good resolution would be, but they have been creative on what to do, considering the circumstances that we are in. In New Jersey and other states, companies have been deciding to do zooms to keep in touch with their players, or customers for services or skill to keep during the pandemic. A senior at WHS, Kiley Collins is a Competitive Baton Twirler. Her baton studio decided that they would have a zoom class to keep in touch, which would help her teammates and her as
well to keep their skills. Although, it’s a struggle when they have to practice a team performance when they are all not with each other. Another senior at WHS, Erin Maloney is part of many clubs and the tennis team. Unfortunately, all spring sports were canceled for the 2020 season. Erin believes that they made this decision “to keep the school safe.” Another club that she is in is the JCA club at the high school, which has been meeting Wednesdays to keep in touch with the members. A sophomore at WHS, Julianne Nguyen is part of many clubs and sports as well as tennis and volleyball. She feels that it is a struggle to keep skills because parks are closed. Although she said, “I’m very fortunate to have some equipment that I am able to use to practice for both activities in my own backyard or driveway without having to travel to other facilities.” This is how she keeps her skills just like other athletes. During these tragic times, many people have to be creative with activities and sports. People may zoom and practice
with each other. Or if it is a sport that keeps you away from six feet then you could practice with them, but be aware of surroundings. A few other students may meet up and safely talk about the clubs that they are all in. Some clubs may have a movie night considering that zoom can share the screen as well. So, if you’re struggling, be creative. Think outside the box. You all are going to make it, be proud of yourself for coming this far, and stay strong! Go Jaguars!
