The Sailors' Log (April 2021)

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FAVORITES “These are a few of our favorite things”

The Sailors’ Log

“I enjoy just staying in the Muskegon area and going to Lake Michigan. It is beautiful and relaxing, and I love going on my boat to fish.”

Bobby Wasserman, junior

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michigan

DESTINATIONS

Cliffs make trip ‘picture perfect’

By Maya Cooper Staff Writer

“One of my favorite places to visit is Silver Lake Sand Dunes. I like to go up there with my friends, ride the dunes, and eat at a chicken restaurant called the Frickin Chicken Shack.”

Harrison Nelund, senior

“My favorite Michigan destination is my little cottage on Lake Leelanau. It’s so fun to go up there in the summer with my cousins and pick cherries.”

Lauren Hylland, sophomore

“I love going to Pentwater because it is a small town full of fun shops and is also located right on Lake Michigan. I go camping at the state park that is located there every year. I make great memories riding bikes around town and going to the beach.”

Jayda Trigg, freshman

On the beautiful shores of Lake Superior lies an area known for its pictured rocks. The name, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, certainly suits this are because the rocks are definitely “Picture Perfect.”

I have certainly not been to every destination in Michigan, but out of all the ones I have, nothing beats Pictured Rocks.

Last summer, my mom decided she wanted to take a girls’ trip with just my sister and me. She surprised us with Pictured Rocks. She had gone there once before for a quick trip, but this would be my sister Mallory’s and my first time.

After driving for more than six hours to the top of the Upper Peninsula, I wanted to see the breathtaking rocks as soon as I arrived in town. But, this wasn’t the case.

Pictured Rocks is located near a small town called Munising. This area is filled with local restaurants and lots of tourist shops. The town is right along Munising Bay, and one can view Grand Island from the shore.

All the beautiful lookouts and attractions are hiding within Munising and the National Park.

Along a long road there are numerous trails and lookout points The first location we went to was Miners Castle. This was our first look into the beauty of the cliffs. I have seen pictures, but seeing them in person, I was amazed. The rocks were multicolored, and the water was perfectly clear.

Along the trip, we traveled down a long road until we came upon something cool. My mom saw a location called Log Slide, and we decided to check it out.

We hiked through a short path to walk out to a breathtaking view, off a steep dune, of Lake Superior. This

For this writer, the best Michigan destinations consist of somewhere with great views, and fun activities. Pictured here is Miners Castle, a beautiful attraction located along the National Lakeshore. The amazing view, and turquoise waters make this location rank No.1 for this writer. location reminded me of Sleeping Bear Dunes. My sister and I climbed down it, and by the time I was back to the top, I was completely exhausted.

My favorite thing we did on the trip was go on the Pictured Rocks Boat Cruise. This took us along the coastline of the cliffs, and we saw angles of the rocks one could never see from up top.

Some of the cliffs have arches in them that canoes can go completely under. One of them is called Little Portal Point. This was one of the prettiest cliffs I saw all trip, and I never would have seen it if we didn’t go on the boat.

Some of the locations take miles of hiking to be able to see. Chapel Rock is one of the most popular lookout areas, but it is a 6.2 mile hike to go and see it. We didn’t make the hike, but we saw the rock from the cruise.

The lakeshore also contains numerous waterfalls. By hiking, I was surprised to see how massive

some of them were.

At different lookout locations, we came across two massive waterfalls.

One of them we walked all the way down to. We were so close that we were drenched in water. On the other, we walked behind the falls, and there was still a beautiful view.

The town of Munising is also filled with so much natural beauty. Driving along a busy road from our hotel, we came across a big waterfall on the side of the road. I was shocked.

Many beaches fill the area for a day to relax and have great views of Lake Superior. My favorite beach was Sand Point Beach because the water wasn’t filled with rocks, and it was calm.

The amazing cliffs, breathtaking waterfalls, and calm beaches are the reasons why Pictured Rocks is my favorite Michigan destination.

The views truly are even better in person, and that’s why they call them “Picture Perfect.”

best of the Rest 2. Tahquamenon Falls – After hiking through the state park, I saw the beautiful coppercolored waterfall. It is also fun to take a canoe to the lower falls.

3. Sleepy Bear Dunes – This destination has a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan. I enjoy sprinting down the steep dune.

4. Leelanau – Located east of Sleepy Bear Dunes, this contains a city called “Fish Town.”

This area includes fun shops and great views.

5. Mackinaw City – On the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, this town holds many shops and restaurants. I enjoy camping here.

6. Mackinac Island – Riding the ferry to this small town brings one back to old times. No cars are allowed on the island, just horses roaming the streets.

They have amazing fudge and cute shops.

7. Glen Lake/Glen Arbor – Hike to see the beautiful turquoise waters of Little Glen and Big Glen Lake.

The town of Glen Arbor has great restaurants and a fun atmosphere.

8. Pentwater – I enjoy camping near downtown Pentwater.

9. Ludington – My family and I have stayed at Ludington State Park. This campground is fun because I can easily walk to the beach.

10. Grand Haven – Grand Haven is one of my favorite towns to go to year round. The Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival is the best part of summer because I hang out with my friends and family downtown.

The Sailors’ Log

“I’m typically not too big on reading, but To Kill A Mockingbird was the exception. I genuinely liked this book and that’s rare for me.”

Agustin Alvarado Jr., freshman

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ny times

best-sellers

Entertaining book makes for favorite read

By Alison Sewick Staff Writer “Song of Achilles is beautifully written and will tear your heart in two. I’ve always been a Percy Jackson fan, so this book is another great mythology book that I really enjoyed.”

Emilia Matuz, sophomore

“In the book 11/22/63, the premise of the book is very cool, and it stayed interesting throughout, which is sometimes tough for Steven King’s books. I really enjoyed it and will definitely be rereading it.”

Owen McCarthy, junior

“I love the adventure that spans throughout each of the novels in The Tiger Curse series.

The reader never knows exactly what will come next, which causes you to want to keep reading until you finish the books. It has always kept my attention and makes me come back for more every time.”

Kendra Holman, senior

There tends to be a first time for everything, including adventuring out and exploring different types of writing and authors.

A New York Times bestselling, as well as deserving, book certainly made me rethink my typical book choices, including genre.

Crooked Kingdom written by Leigh Bardugo made me come to the realization of all the terrible books I’ve read. It’s funny because I didn’t realize, or recognize, a bad book until I finally read a good one.

I’ve never gotten enough of this book, and I’m not even ashamed to say that I’ve reread it at least five times since the original time I picked it up.

The story follows a group of six teenagers in a world loosely inspired by 19th century Europe and takes place days after they pull off a huge heist.

After securing a drug to amplify powers of Grisha, which are similar to witches, they make their way back to Ketterdam, a place they call home, and have to navigate through multiple kidnappings, ambushes and setups due to the fact that other gangs and world leaders want control over the drug.

Almost as if Ocean’s 11 was set in a Harry Potter-type of world. It’s narrated from a third-person point of view and each chapter follows a different character, which I loved.

Because books typically aren’t written this way, it made it even more enjoyable.

Don’t get me wrong, I love a good hero moment; however, anti-heroes are just so much more interesting to read about.

I’m a sucker for the morally gray characters. And can we just take a second to acknowledge the character development throughout this book –

For this writer, reading books are about more than just a entertaining story. This book, written by Leigh Bardugo (top left), has taken the top spot for favorite book due to the incredible world-building throughout and characters that are both relatable and lovable. incredible.

This is actually the sequel to another unbelievably popular book titled Six of Crows, and Bardugo is 100 percent the sole reason I fell in love with the characters, mostly due to the way she narrates and expresses them throughout the story.

Another primary reason I adore this book is due to the way each character is represented in a realistic fashion.

Every individual character has their moments of good and bad as well as internal conflict that makes for beautiful character and relationship arcs.

The character interaction almost felt similar to The Breakfast Club in the sense that they all came together after coming from different backgrounds.

Due to the fact that I am incredibly indecisive, I love all the characters, and it was insanely difficult to narrow it down. However, Inej, a master at movement in a spy sort-of way, sticks out to me for a few reasons.

Of all the characters, she has the backstory I felt drawn to due to the fact that she was sold into a brothel at age 14 and has a significant amount of

trauma because of it.

Throughout the book, she opens up, and I felt she came across as cold and presented a hard exterior at first. It was eye-opening to see the relationship between her and the other characters become family-like as they grew together.

The way the story develops and is building on every detail put into the story made it feel almost as if everything was equal in importance.

Whether it was a shared glance between character and a small exchange of banter with witty remarks, everything added to the story in a way that exceeded any and all expectations I had for the book.

Honestly, as cliche as it sounds, it wrapped me up in their world and made me want to join them on their near-death journey.

Even the world-building in this fantasy novel is unmatched.

As disappointing as I was to see the story end, there was no better way to wrap up this story of seemingly villains; however, when told from their point of view, I can’t help but love their gang.

best of the Rest

2. Red, White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston – This novel has incredible LGBTQ+ representation and looks into the life of a political figure with more drama than he can handle.

3. Salt to the Sea

by Ruta Sepetys – The mysterious and intriguing backstories of the characters provide an incredible depth to this book that follows a real-life maritime tragedy.

4. Shadow and Bone

by Leigh Bardugo – This has a unique world of fantasy that is truly captivating and has a protagonist that feels impossible not to root for.

5. Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky – Told from an outsider’s point of view, it is heartwrenching and has tear-jerking quotes embedded into it.

6. Pride & Prejudice

by Jane Austen – This book has paved the way for archetypes that exist in many contemporary literature of our time.

7. Daughter of the Pirate King by Tricia Levenseller – Having a female lead who radiates independence made for a powerful read.

8. Home In Carolina

by Sherryl Woods – The concept of a small town scandal and rebuilding a relationship after was a great trope.

9. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton – This changed YA fiction into a genre that explores a more realistic world.

10. Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling – This is the fantasy novel I didn’t know I was missing.

The Sailors’ Log

“My favorite breakfast food is bacon because it goes with a lot of other breakfast foods.”

Jourdyn Starr, senior

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breakfast

DELIGHTS

Breakfast food for every occasion

By Grace Opsommer Staff Writer

“My favorite breakfast food is probably French toast because it is sweet and tastes good, which is a great way to start the day.”

Marcus Wilson, junior

“I would say that my favorite breakfast food is probably cinnamon rolls because it’s nice to have sweet things for breakfast.”

Addie Saxton, sophomore

“I like French toast because it is something fairly new to me.

So, I have come to enjoy this with many different foods, and I could eat it any time of day.”

Jaidyn Nash-Jefferson, freshman

“Breakfast is the most important meal of the day,” said every adult ever.

See, the thing is, I actually love breakfast foods – but not always at breakfast time.

Versatility is a huge factor when I’m trying to choose favorites, and for this reason, my preferred breakfast food (hint: it rhymes with boat wheel) could not be one that I only crave at seven in the morning.

Thanks to the cohort schedule for school, it has been easier to cater to my own internal clock telling me when to eat rather than the school bells.

This also has given me the chance to make more of my own meals rather than relying on other sources like fast food or my parents.

The dish that I have found to check all of my boxes has to be oatmeal.

My love and appreciation for oatmeal is a fairly new one, for there was a point in my life where I would have absolutely cringed at the thought of eating (and enjoying) oatmeal.

At that time, when I thought of oatmeal, only the common misconception of a bland soup-like substance came to mind.

Now looking back, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

As soon as I abandoned the once beloved instant oatmeal packets, I realized all of the true potential oats have that I had been ignoring.

I’m not here to hate on instant oatmeal, because for what it is, it’s pretty tasty and undeniably convenient; rather, I’m here to prove that there is better out there.

There are simply so many options when it comes to creating oatmeal, none of which are boring or bland.

With so much being brought to the table, I am always left experimenting with my food.

For this writer, the best way to start her morning is to indulge in a scrumptious bowl of nutritious oatmeal.

I am not one who could eat the same breakfast, without fail, for my entire life. I need to be able to switch it up, and oatmeal gives me various ways to do this.

While oatmeal is most commonly associated with breakfast, this most certainly does not have to be the case.

As I mentioned earlier, this meal is versatile in the idea that you can cater its contents to your current cravings.

For instance, say I wanted to have dessert for breakfast; well, instead of reaching for an actual slice of cake, oatmeal could be a great substitute.

Basically, I can make my oatmeal taste like a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, and it will still be somewhat healthy. Honestly, what more could I want in life than to indulge in desserts for breakfast?

However, I do have to keep myself in check so that this healthy alternative doesn’t accidentally do more harm than good.

For this purpose, I make sure to add ingredients such as protein powder and chia seeds to ensure that I am actually getting the balanced and nutritious meal that I signed up for.

Even beyond the ingredients, I can do so much more to spice it up with toppings.

I am a strong believer that the prettier something looks, the better it will taste.

So, for this reason, I always aim to dress my oats to the nines.

Oatmeal has gradually become a staple within my diet, and there is no doubt in my mind that this is, and will continue to be, my favorite food.

best of the Rest 2. Bagel – Bagels are a God-send, literally sent straight from Heaven for us to enjoy. You can put anything on this, and the bagel will still be the star.

3. Avocado toast – I know it’s basic, but it has to be said that avocado toast is phenomenal.

4. Waffles – I 100 percent believe in waffle supremacy.

This could be because of the fact that I have a waffle maker, but also just because I am convinced that they taste better than their rival, pancakes.

5. Smoothie – There is so much freedom when making a smoothie: savory, sweet, or anything in between.

6. Eggs – This just screams healthy to me, and I guess this is a good thing.

7. Pancakes – These are far superior if you order them from a breakfast restaurant and they are as big as the plate.

8. French toast – I really enjoy French toast, but I always forget about it, and I would never make this myself which makes it more of an exclusive breakfast.

9. Cinnamon rolls – This is what I would consider something for special occasions, and I would prefer to keep it that way because I would definitely get sick if I ate these too often.

10. Toast – Whether peanut butter, jam, or butter, it’s just so simple and predictable; however, every once in a while this is just phenomenal.

The Sailors’ Log

“I love being around the people in (Orlando); everyone is so helpful and can help me get to my destination if I get lost.”

Kaleb Wilburn, senior

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florida

DESTINATIONS

Food makes Lauderdale area No. 1

By Warren Kent III Adviser “My family and I have gone (to Clearwater) for Spring Break a few times, and I have good memories from all of the years of going there. It is the perfect place to go to escape my everyday life in Michigan.”

Delaney Whalen, soph.

“Since Orlando is such a tourist hotspot, I see and hear from people all over the world.

During one vacation, we heard so many different languages and saw many different styles.”

Brandon Thompson, freshman

“My grandpa has a condo on Pine Island.

It is a safe spot with my family where we enjoy time together on the boat for a day of fishing or by the pool listening to country music. We end the nights with our favorite card games and eating the best pie in town. Pine Island is truly a hidden gem.”

Ella Wasserman, freshman

I have been to Florida at least 15 times since 2010, and the Fort Lauderdale area is my No.1 Florida destination.

My wife Rachel, our children (Kelsea, age 10, and TJ, 8) and I have been to this part of Florida three times since 2018. And the eight-and-a-half mile stretch from Fort Lauderdale Beach Park north to Pompano Beach Park is one of my favorite destinations.

The crowning jewel in this stretch is the town of Lauderdale-by-the Sea. When we were in LBTS, we stayed at the Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort and Suites across the road from the beach for our winter break 2019.

On our vacations, our typical routine is breakfast in our room; pool or beach before noon; lunch in our room, at the beach or by the pool; more pool or beach until about 4 p.m.; and then partake of the “nightlife,” which definitely involves trying some of the local cuisine.

In LBTS each evening, we would walk down Ocean Drive to Commercial Boulevard, the epicenter of the town of LBTS. Three restaurants stand out: Billy Jack’s Shack, The Village Grille and Mulligan’s Beach House.

Billy Jacks is, by far, our favorite place. How do I know? Because normally, we do not go to the same place twice on a vacation, and we made it here twice.

I ordered the Cousin Oliver burger (Brady Bunch fans will like that), which consisted of two burgers, bacon, macaroni and cheese and BBQ chips. I added a side of mac and cheese for good measure.

As I said, we don’t normally go to the same restaurant twice, but the kids were dying to try their doughnuts for dessert (well, maybe Dad was too).

I had the Oven Top Chilli, which

For this writer, Florida destinations are more than sun and fun; it’s about the food. This dinner, consisting of a burger with mac ‘n’ cheese and barbecue chips along with a side of mac ‘n’ cheese, was a favorite from Billy Jack’s Shack in Lauderdale-by-the Sea. included cheddar and Jack cheeses, sour cream, bacon and Frito’s. Those dessert doughnuts? They had frosting and M&M’s; for some reason, it is called Barb’s Desk Drawer.

The Village Grille was cool because we were able to sit outside and people watch. This was just an afternoon snack (French fries, fried shrimp and some kind of smoked fish dip) and happy hour stop one day.

Mulligan’s Beach House is the third and final quality restaurant. I had the Monster Fish and Chips. Holy Moly!

Monster was an understatement – both in size and flavor.

While LBTS does have a Kilwin’s (same as in Michigan) for ice cream, we opted for Sloan’s Ice Cream.

Can’t go wrong with ice cream at the end of a nice Florida day.

LBTS also has a few cool retail/ tourist stores in 7-Six and Beach King, and there was even a nice art gallery called Gug Underwater Gallery, but the store that keeps us coming back is Diamonds & Doggies, where people can browse for, yup, diamonds and dogs.

With two young children, let’s just

say we did not go there to look at diamonds. Thankfully, Michigan is a tad too far from Florida; otherwise, we would have a household of dogs.

Our first trip to the Lauderdale area was in 2018, and more recently, we were in Pompano Beach for winter break 2020.

It was on this first trip that we found a restaurant that my children still can’t stop talking about – New York Grilled Cheese, which is technically in Wilton Manors (a suburb of Fort Lauderdale). They love it so much that when we went to Pompano Beach, I had to make sure we had takeout from there one night – even though it was a good 45-minute round-trip drive.

Obviously, NYGC is known for its grilled cheese (the menu has a grilled macaroni and cheese sandwich), but the tomato soup and waffle fries are unbelievable too.

So as you can probably tell, Florida, to me, isn’t about the resort, the pool or the beach because most destinations are going to have those.

To me, it is all about the other things, especially the food.

best of the Rest 2. New Smyrna Beach – located just south of Daytona Beach, this sleepy little town is awesome for a family with young kids. The downtown area was in walking distance from our resort.

3. Cape Coral/Fort Myers – loved our resort, which had three pools, and the one we choose was secluded enough that we were the only ones there most days; dolphin cruise on last night was wonderful.

4. Islamorada – located near the midway point of the Keys, a nice place to relax and even take a day trip to Key West.

5. Orlando/Kissimmee – obviously, lots to do, but if you like relaxation, probably not the place to go.

And I’m not afraid to say it: Universal Studios better than Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

6. Destin – located in the Panhandle, cool area that is close to Alabama (Gulf Shores) and other well-known Florida places (Panama City, Fort Walton, etc.).

7. Port St. Lucie – loved our condo, but had to drive everywhere else, even to the pool.

8. Cocoa Beach – nice area; however, our hotel/resort was still decorated like it was the ‘70s.

9. Clearwater – too crowded for my taste; however, there is lots to see and do.

10. Daytona Beach – besides a day trip in 2013, my only venture to Daytona was as a college sophomore; needless to say, the two experiences were very different.

The Sailors’ Log

“My favorite Brit is a tie between author/director Richard Ayoade and Ian McKellen. I love Richard because of his book Ayoade on Top and his movie Submarine. He is one of the funniest and smartest writers on earth. But, I also love Ian McKellen mainly because of his role in the move Cats.”

Jacob Trygstad, senior

“My favorite British person is Daniel Radcliffe because the Harry Potter movies are a classic to me. I have many fond memories of watching Harry Potter movies with my family.”

Evan Klairter, junior

“My favorite British celebrity is Paul Hollywood. I really like Great British Bake-Off because it’s a nice little show, and it’s pretty stress free. Hollywood is one of the judges on there.”

Keira Dickson, sophomore

“My favorite British person is Zayn Malik because I love the diversity that he brought to One Direction.”

Simar Dhillon, freshman

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british

PERSONALITIES Harry Styles takes top spot among Brits

By Emily Kuznar Managing Editor While many amazing celebrities were born in the United States, my heart has always drawn me to celebrities who were born across the pond.

Even though plenty of qualified candidates exist, hands down, my favorite British person is Harry Styles: former boy-band heartthrob turned barrier-breaking solo artist.

My love of Harry Styles first dates back to when the band One Direction was created. The group formed on The X Factor in 2010, and I vividly remember watching their performance clips from the show on our home computer.

From the beginning, Harry was my favorite.

As band posters plastered my walls in the following years, I would continuously listen to the band’s music on CDs that I would receive.

I dreamed of seeing them in concert.

Granted, I was between the ages of 6 and 11 when the band was in their peak popularity, so there was no way my mom would let that happen.

Sadly, disaster struck in the summer of 2015 when the band announced their breakup. I, along with the millions of other die-hard Directioners around the world, was absolutely crushed. But looking back now, I can see that the split of the group was probably the best thing to happen for each of the members.

Two years passed without any music from Styles. But then, the greatest day of my life struck. On March 31, 2017, Styles announced that his first solo single would be released. And just eight days later, the masterpiece known as “Sign of the Times” was born. This song alone was enough to reignite my love for Styles.

I listened to that song nonstop for days. And to top it off, his first

For this writer, a love of British singer Harry Styles has been ongoing since childhood. As he continues to embark on new creative endeavors, his fan base and popularity will continue to grow. (Photo from Flickr via lanthebush) self-titled studio album, Harry Styles, was released not long after. I continuously listened to the album, and I loved every song on it. And I have continued to love all the songs on both his first album and his most recent album Fine Line, which came out in 2019.

Even more than his music, there is something to be said about Styles’ character. From watching and reading his interviews to seeing his consistent acts of kindness and charity work, he just seems like an overall great person with a genuinely kind heart. After all, his personal motto (and song title) is “Treat People With Kindness.”

Styles’ lovable personality has not stopped him from breaking the rules; well, fashion rules that is.

Styles has never shied away from an outfit or piece of clothing, simply because it’s seen as something that women would wear. From everyday street wear to designer fashion pieces, Styles has been known to test the limits and wear what he wants (and he always looks good doing it).

One of the most notorious instances of this was when he graced the cover

of Vogue magazine wearing a floor length gown. I desperately searched to find a copy of the magazine. Don’t worry, I did.

While I, along with his other supporters, applauded this monumental moment, this has also drawn criticism from those who are vocal about their opposition to this.

Let’s just say, Styles doesn’t seem too concerned with the criticism.

Despite remaining in the public eye, it’s been a while since the world has received a new album from Styles. Styles does have some new projects in the movie industry.

Whether it’s his numerous eras of hair changes or the evolving of his music, the past 10 years have certainly been filled with ups and downs.

And as devastating as it was, the breakup of One Direction truly allowed him and all the other members to live as their true selves.

It’s safe to say that Styles may just be one of my favorite people altogether. As he continues to change and start new projects, I’ll continue to watch and support from halfway across the world.

best of the Rest 2. Mia Dickson ( junior at Shores) – She’s one of the only Brits on my top 10 who actually lives in the United States. She was born in England, and she lived there until she was 6.

3. Florence Pugh (actress) – I love both her movie roles and cooking videos on Instagram. Plus, she’s starring in an upcoming movie with Styles, and I can’t wait to watch when it comes out.

4. Gordon Ramsay (chef) – The world renowned British chef can make even the toughest of people cry.

His harsh but hilarious critiques on his TV show Hell’s Kitchen definitely makes him one of my favorites.

5. Adele (singer) – I’ve listened to her music since I was young, and there’s something so nostalgic about hearing her songs.

6. Princess Diana (royalty) – Even though I’m not a huge fan of many members of the royal family, Princess Diana has been a long-time favorite.

7. Louis Tomlinson (singer) – My second favorite member of One Direction, I’ve loved watching Louis progress and grow throughout his solo career.

8. Dua Lipa (singer) –I can’t stop listening to her song “Levitating” no matter how hard I try.

9. Paul McCartney (singer) – Of course, one of the Beatles’ members had to make an appearance.

10. Elton John (singer) – His timeless songs will forever be ingrained in my head.

The Sailors’ Log

My favorite game to watch was MSU vs Duke (2019 Elite Eight) because walking into the gym, not many thought (the Spartans) could win and it was over for them, and with the score going back and fourth, it was close, but they came out on top.”

Ava Dunn, sophomore

Michigan vs. Houston basketball, round of 32 in 2018 “This was one of my all-time favorite games to watch. I loved how Michigan showed resilience and fought hard until the end.

(Jordan) Poole’s 3-point buzzer beater sent Michigan to the sweet 16.”

Brooke LeRoux, senior

MSU vs. Northwestern football, 2018 “We tailgated by the parade route. The players and coaches walked by us as they headed into the stadium.

At the time, MSU’s quarterback was Brian Lewerke. We sat by his family and learned how he came to MSU. It made the experience so personable. Sitting with people so close to a star player made the game memorable.

Unfortunately, State lost, but the experience with my family and friends was memorable.”

Anna Eichorst, freshman

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athletic

CONTESTS

2020 Victory Bell game shines

By Mike Meekhof Staff Writer As a young sports journalist, I have already had the pleasure of watching so many great high school teams and athletes throughout the Muskegon area compete on the football field and basketball court.

However, one football game stands out from the rest.

The day was Oct. 26, 2020, when rivals Montague and Whitehall suited up at the Wildcats’ Townsend Field to play in the annual showdown titled “Battle for the Bell.”

Montague was picking up where they had left off in previous years: a dominant state powerhouse capable of beating anyone in West Michigan.

But Whitehall was in an unusual spot. They had struggled in previous years, but they had entered this matchup with an unblemished record on the season, hoping to beat the Wildcats for the first time since 2014.

The second I walked into the stadium, I instantly could feel how invested both communities were in their area teams.

Even with limited attendance due to COVID-19, the energy both fan bases brought out was electric. The sound of the Wildcats’ band gave me goosebumps.

All night, both teams went pointfor-point with each other and looked evenly matched.

Finally, in the fourth quarter, Montague led by 4 with two minutes remaining. Drew Collins, an experienced veteran quarterback who had led the Wildcats for the past three years, fumbled the ball, which was picked up by Whitehall, setting up the Vikings at Montague’s 18yard line.

Whitehall would go on to score a touchdown with 56 seconds remaining to take a 24-21 lead, making it look as if they would win the game.

Montague hoists “The Victory Bell” following their 34-31 win over Whitehall on Oct. 16, 2020. The bell is given annually to the winner of this highly anticipated crosstown rivalry. That year’s game is the writers favorite game he has watched in person.

Collins and the Wildcats, however, were not done, as he led them down the field to set up Andrew Kooi with a game-tying field goal. The kick was good, and the game headed to overtime.

In the first overtime, both teams exchanged touchdowns. Whitehall got the ball to start the second overtime, but they did nothing with it and missed a field goal, meaning that if Montague scored on its possession, the Wildcats would win the game.

Once again, Kooi was set up for

the winning kick. The ball snapped, he kicked it, and it was good for the 34-31 win.

Montague rushed the field and held up the victory bell.

The atmosphere in the Montague community that night was among the most electric I’ve seen.

That’s why high school football is so important to me and many other people. It’s deeper than the game.

It creates lifelong relationships, memories, and rallies a community together like nothing else.

best of the Rest 2. Forest Hills Central at Shores, 2020 District Semifinals – Shores stopped FHC short of the goal line for a 28-25 win.

3. Shores at East Lansing, 2020 Regional Finals – Shores won its fourth regional championship when senior Keegan DeKuiper kicked a game-winning field goal as time expired.

4. Oakridge at Montague (Sept. 27, 2019) – Neither team scored until the fourth quarter. In OT, the Eagles won 16-14.

5. Shores at Muskegon (Sept. 25, 2020) – After falling to the Big Reds 53-0 the year before, Shores pulled out a 21-14 win.

6. DeWitt at Muskegon, 2019 State Semifinals) – Muskegon came into this game as heavy favorites; however, the Panthers stayed close, losing 28-21.

7. Shores at Portage Northern, 2019 Regional Finals – Shores fell behind in the first half, trailing 23-14. The Sailors shut out the Huskies in the second half, winning 28-23.

8. Caledonia at Grand Haven (Oct. 11, 2019) – Both teams were fighting the state playoffs. Grand Haven caught a late Caledonia interception to seal the 34-27 win.

9. Shores vs Detroit King (2019 State Championship) – Shores beat Detroit King for the first state championship in school history.

10. Holton at Hesperia (Oct. 9, 2020) – In the local Battle for the Golden Football, Hesperia won 21-14 in Coach Doug Bolles final home game.

The Sailors’ Log

“My favorite TV show is Love Island because it’s so bad that it’s good, and the accents make it 100 times better.”

Laura Schluentz, senior

Page 8

television

PROGRAMS

Glee sings way to top as best show

By Mia Dickson Staff Writer “My favorite TV show is Regular Show.

I love how it’s so easy to watch, and it’s so funny to watch too.

It’s a classic Gen Z cartoon.”

Cequoia Davis, junior

“My favorite show is Friends because it is humorous and very easy to rewatch.

I often find myself putting it on when I do not know what to watch or have nothing to do.”

Gavyn Stout, sophomore

“My favorite TV show is CW’s All American because it tells a great story about sports and racial justice with a little bit of drama mixed in. It offers a very unfortunate but authentic reality of a football star living in an impoverished neighborhood just trying to get noticed and rise to the top. It’s truly is an inspirational story.”

Aidan Kreps, freshman

During the depths of last April’s quarantine, I finished rewatching Grey’s Anatomy for the third time and stumbled upon a new show to watch: Glee.

Since then, Glee has become my all-time favorite show and Spotify artist.

Glee is centered around Lea Michele, and also stars Cory Monteith, Matthew Morrison, Chris Colfer, Kevin McHale, Darren Criss, Heather Morris, Amber Riley, Jane Lynch, Mark Salling, and Jenna Ushkowitz.

Set at William McKinley High School in Lima, Ohio, Glee follows the journey of New Directions, the school’s new show choir group and its journey being the outcasts of high school and trying to make it big in the real world.

If someone asked me before quarantine last year, I would tell you that I hated all forms of Broadway shows and avoided them at all costs.

But now, being in a musical would be high on my bucket list.

I would pay an ungodly amount of money just for the opportunity to join a show choir and perform “Bohemian Rhapsody” alongside Vocal Adrenaline, the arch-nemesis to New Directions.

Do I have any background in singing or dancing? Absolutely not.

Have I been told by my mom to never sing again? Yes. When I watch Glee, do I believe I have the instinct that I would get on stage and know exactly what to do in a show choir number? Yes. Airing on live TV from 20092015, Glee also brought awareness to previously taboo issues for a high school TV show.

Glee approaches sexual assault, teen pregnancy, eating disorders, school shootings, homosexuality,

For this writer, stumbling across Glee on Netflix was groundbreaking – at least in terms of her TV binge-watching. Glee, about an after-school singing group, captured her attention. transgenderism, and set a precedent for other shows and opened up conversations, though the way these issues are approached can be questionable at times.

If that doesn’t sound exciting enough, consider watching for the long list of celebrity cameos, including Idina Menzel, Britney Spears, Neil Patrick Harris, John Stamos, Whoopi Goldberg, Demi Lovato, Gwyneth Paltrow, Tyra Banks, Lindsay Lohan, Josh Groban, Sarah Jessica Parker, Sarah Drew, Jonathan Groff, and even more.

You also can’t talk about Glee without talking about the phenomenal covers.

In every episode, the Glee Club takes on multiple songs from newly released hits to Broadway showstoppers.

Many of the covers are better than the original. Notable examples include “The Scientist” by Coldplay; “The Only Exception” by Paramore; “Poker Face” by Lady Gaga; “Dream

on” by Aerosmith; “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen; and “Mine” by Taylor Swift.

Glee also created a new genre of music in the form of mashups, taking two unlikely songs and bringing them together.

The mashup of “I Feel Pretty” by Julie Andrews and ”Unpretty” by TLC is one of the best things to come out of the 21st century.

While many may see this show as an extremely unrealistic portrayal of high school and (like getting slushied while walking through the hallway), borderlining a satire, it is these moments that make it most laughable.

The show takes a downhill spiral after season three.

Much of the founding members of the club graduates, and they pursue dreams elsewhere, leaving them replaced with a far more annoying cast.

However, Glee is still my favorite show of all time.

best of the Rest

2. Private Practice – While many spinoffs remain unsuccessful and unpopular, this Grey’s Anatomy spin off is phenomenal and better than the original.

3. Grey’s Anatomy – The intersection of medicine, romance, and tragic, yet unrealistic occurrences put this show near the top.

4. This is Us – The show chronicles the story of the unique Pearson family across multiple generations throughout tragedy and triumph and everything in between.

This show definitely feels like a show meant for women above 40, but it is still one of my favorites.

5. How I Met Your Mother – Definitely superior to Friends, both document the life of middle age adults living in the Big Apple.

6. Parks and Rec – I will also go out and say that this IS better than The Office. What’s not to love about female representation in government?

7. Superstore – By far the most underrated comedy show there is.

Dina is a girl boss.

8. America’s Next Top Model – I have no interest in modeling but the drama in this show is impeccable.

Victoria from season 19 deserved better.

9. Friends – One of my go-to comfort shows Nothing wrong with the classics.

10. The Office – This was definitely my favorite show in middle school and I have watched numerous times.

The Sailors’ Log

“A nostalgic item for me would be my San Diego Padres bucket hat. I got it at the very first MLB game that I ever went to when I was only 7 years old.”

Brady Whalen, senior

Page 9

nostalgic

POSSESSIONS

Stuffed animal brings back memories

By Maddox Schaner-Follett Staff Writer “Something important to me is a stuffed otter that I have. I got it from a school trip with my mom when we went on a zoo trip.”

Saraya Hildreth, sophomore

“Something that is important to me is a stuffed animal dog that I got when I went through a surgery when I was a baby. I got it from my Great Grandpa Todd, and I was so young I didn’t know what to name it, so eventually, I named him Puppy.”

Greyson Drexler, freshman

“I have two rings that I got from my great aunt when I was little, and I have kept them in my nightstand for years because they remind me of family, and I could never throw them away due to sentimental value.”

Grace Norris, junior

When I was very young, too young to remember, I received a gift which I will hold on to for as long as possible.

When I was an infant, my grandma purchased a stuffed dog for me as a gift. I don’t know if she realized then that this gift would become one of my favorite childhood items, but it did; and for that, I am forever grateful.

That gift was a stuffed dog. Graycolored, with big floppy ears and a little brown nose, the dog would become the staple of my childhood.

The dog, to me, is one item, which, in my mind, will remain as unique as my person. Throughout my childhood, it remained a staple of my life, being present in baby pictures as old as I am and more throughout my early years.

Together, we would travel places as casual as the doctor’s office or the nearby Walmart, or places as unknown and wild as the mountains of Colorado.

I am told that one day after a visit to school with my mother, (who teaches English at the high school) I somehow left the dog behind in the parking lot. I was very young at the time and do not remember this fully, but my grandparents ventured up to the school parking lot late at night to locate the dog.

Thankfully, they were successful.

However, my fear of losing the dog had been realized and some part of me must have held onto that fear.

Over time, I realized my fear of losing the dog had grown stronger, and gradually, it came with me to fewer and fewer places. The dog became planted in my room on the shelf or wherever place I may have left it, patiently waiting until the time came when I would need it again.

To an outside onlooker, the two of us may have seemed just like a little kid and his stuffed animal. But

This stuffed dog was a gift to the writer who has kept it his entire life. The dog serves as a reminder of old times and brings back memories from his early childhood. Today, it sits atop his shelf in his bedroom as a enduring symbol of his past. inwardly, our adventures would be as real as can be.

So when the day came when I no longer began to take my stuffed dog places, when the day came when I no longer wished to be responsible for losing the thing, my friend, I placed it on my shelf to stay; and there it shall remain so long as I will have it.

In many ways, this stuffed dog helped me develop my sense of

adventure and fun. The dog was there for me while I grew up; now, it reminds me of all the things I have done leading up to this point.

There, on my shelf, the dog still sits as a reminder of all the places I’ve been: in my hometown, relative’s houses, vacations.

That dog was there when I needed it, and for that, I will be forever grateful.

best of the Rest 2. Whitecaps T-shirt – I got this shirt about five years ago at a Whitecaps game with my grandparents. It reminds me of all the fun I had that day.

3. Squashed penny collection – This reminds me of all the cool places around Michigan and elsewhere I’ve been on vacation.

4. Signed hockey puck – All of the members of the Grand Valley hockey team signed this a few years back.

I still think it’s a cool item because every player signed it.

5. Broken tennis racket – It may be broken, but I still keep it around because it helped me learn how to play. Strings are broken, and the frame is worn out, but I still keep it as a reminder of the things I can accomplish.

6. Boy Scouts arrow – I keep it around as a reminder of something I’ve accomplished in the name of selfimprovement.

7. Bowling trophies – They are placed on my top shelf at home, and they remind me of all the time I spent practicing to get decent scores.

8. The Beatles’ Yellow Submarine and John Lennon action figure – I have always felt like The Beatles had a great musical sense, and these serve as a reminder of that.

9. Globe – The globe is part of me. I’m a geography and history nerd, so of course, I’d have one of these.

10. Geode – I got this from Rockford and cracked it open with some friends a few years ago.

The Sailors’ Log

“My favorite reality TV show is Cheer, featured on Netflix. It is about a college cheer team from Texas that ends up winning nationals.

It’s my favorite because it shows the reality of cheer and kind of breaks down the stereotyping phenomenon. It’s also just super interesting because I’m a cheerleader, so it was right up my alley.”

Sydney Wilson, senior

“I like American Ninja Warrior because it is cool listening to people’s backgrounds, and it is fun watching people go through the courses. I enjoy the anticipation.”

Jordan DeKuiper, junior

“I like Keeping up with the Kardashians because I like how they live and how they don’t care about anything besides themselves, and I liked watching them grow up.”

Kady Alm, sophomore

“My favorite reality TV show is Survivor. It has a very unusual concept, but it is also incredibly entertaining at the same time.”

Noah Boyden, freshman

Page 10

reality

TELEVISION

Home Town shows unique style

By Olivia Nunnery Staff Writer I often find myself searching for a source of entertainment, and every time, I find the solution: television.

Specifically, reality TV shows have piqued my interest, mainly because I enjoy knowing that everything I’m watching is actually happening.

My favorite reality TV show by far is Home Town, an HGTV show. Erin and Ben Napier live in Laurel, Miss., a quaint town that has a true small town feeling where everyone knows everyone, and the couple spends their time refurbishing nearly every home and building in their community to try to keep the Laurel spirit alive.

The reason I like this show so much is because of how genuine Ben and Erin are and how they style to houses, keeping them true to the city of Laurel.

They keep the house’s designs rustic and cozy, making sure the people who move in get the full Laurel experience.

They also, in my opinion, make the houses look better on a lower budget compared to other HGTV shows.

They prove every episode that they can meet all of the buyer’s wants and needs while still maintaining their budget.

With five season already shot, it is the perfect show to watch as a family.

All of the episodes bring in new people looking to buy their dream home in a small town.

My favorite episode is the season four premiere where a deadly tornado hit Laurel, and it destroyed a home that was given to someone named Mr. Gary who needed it.

A family bought that specific home and let the Napier’s renovate it for Mr. Gary; then, the tornado hit the house after it was given to him.

But Ben and Erin re-renovated the home for Mr. Gary, and this time they could make it exactly for him, adding

For this writer, watching reality TV piques her interest because she knows what she is watching actually happened. The best reality television show to her is HGTV’s Home Town because of the way the Napier couple, Ben and Erin, decorates their homes. all of his belongings to the house and making it feel more like home.

The reason I like this episode so much is because it shows the generosity of Ben and Erin Napier and how they spent double the amount on Mr. Gary’s home because the home was gifted to him, and he couldn’t afford for it to be fixed.

The smile that was on Mr. Gary’s face after seeing his house for a second time and having it be even better than before the tornado was a beautiful thing showed how happy he was with the turn-out.

Another episode I liked was season four, episode 15, where two brothers were looking to buy a house that they could also make into a cafe.

They then showed the brothers two homes that were right next to each other.

The thing I liked most about this episode is the design they did because in the cafe area of the home, they had a large area of hanging doors and windows separating tables from each other, I thought it was unique.

This episode shows the viewers how good Erin and Ben are at their job.

They can make an old house into a cafe and a house while remaining under the budget and take the amount of space inside the house into consideration. This is why Home Town is my favorite reality show.

best of the Rest 2. Say Yes to the Dress – I used to watch this with my sister, and I loved it because it was so exciting watching people try on wedding dresses; it made me excited to grow up.

3. Keeping up with the Kardashians – I like the drama that happens.

It’s also cool watching them all grow up, and I especially liked to watch Kendall becoming a model and Kylie growing her make-up business and seeing how successful they became.

4. America’s next Top Model – I think it is a cool competition, and it shows that modeling can be difficult. I like watching the makeover episodes where they change the contestants hair, and the contestants have no say in it.

5. Dance Moms – There was always some sort of drama happening between the moms and Abby. I liked watching the competition.

6. 90 Day Fiance – This show has an odd concept, it’s a very interesting show.

7. Fixer Upper- I like watching Chip and Joanna Gaines do renovations because the houses all turn out rustic and farmhouse styled.

8. Cupcake Wars – I like watching people compete against each other trying to see who does better with taste and presentation, all under a time constraint.

9. Nailed It – It’s funny watching people who aren’t bakers trying to bake. It’s basically a competition to see who’s the best of the worst bakers.

10. Teen Mom – It’s interesting watching the teen moms adapt to life after having a kid.

The Sailors’ Log

“AM by Arctic Monkeys is my favorite album. I really enjoy every single song on it and could listen to it nonstop.”

Minh Nguyen, senior

Page 11

vinyl

Albums I Own

Jazz album evokes good memories “The most prized item in my vinyl collection is the Sesame Street disco record. It’s got all the slaps on it, and the cover is insane. I found it in an antique store with my girlfriend. It was an instant buy.”

Alden Crago, junior

“My favorite album would have to be Leftoverture by Kansas.

Leftoverture is my grandpa’s favorite album. He beat melanoma, but when he was fighting it, it was something that we were able to bond over.”

Zayda Hladki, freshman

“Fine Line by Harry Styles is my favorite album. I have been a huge fan of Styles ever since he was in One Direction, so his music brings me a sense of comfort. I knew about the album ever since it was announced, and I was lucky enough to receive it as a gift this year for Christmas.”

Chloe Nelund, sophomore

By Brady Whalen Staff Writer Nothing beats listening to music on vinyl.

Watching the flat black disc spin around the turntable as the needle magically pulls music from the record and fills the halls of my home with music is magical, almost too good to be true.

Being able to read the words of the artist from the notes on the inside of the album cover is the cherry on top.

In a world of digital music, tangible copies of media carry a special weight to them.

There is nothing I love more than spinning a record while doing homework, playing a board game, or cooking a meal, and my favorite record I own is Satin Doll by flutist and jazz icon, Bobbi Humphrey.

I discovered this album a few summers ago while watching an interview with another one of my favorite artists, Tyler, the Creator. He was being interviewed by a Canadian YouTuber and shared that one of his favorite songs of all time was “New York Times” by Bobbi Humphrey, the opening track of Satin Doll.

Being a young, highly impressionable fanboy, I searched the track immediately and was whisked away into a world of funky basslines, energetic drums, and gorgeous flute playing.

I listened to the rest of the album and instantly fell in love. Before my head hit the pillow later that night, the sounds of Satin Doll had graced my ears three times.

I shared the album with my dad, who is also an avid fan of jazz and funk music. I played it by our pool all summer long. I danced nonstop to the sweet sounds of Bobbi Humphrey’s flute as if it had a power over me.

However, I was only able to stream the album. I was beginning to fall in love with vinyl at this time, but I had

The flute music of Bobbi Humphrey has graced the writer’s ears for about three years and continues to make him excited whenever he hears it. Satin Doll, her 1974 jazz classic, comes in as his favorite album that he owns on vinyl because of its gorgeous sound and his fond memories with it. yet to acquire a collection.

About two years after I discovered the album, I was meeting a friend whom I had not seen for quite some time. When we met up, the conversation didn’t flow like it did before. Things felt strange and awkward at first.

However, she suggested that we head over to a record store as both of us enjoy vinyl. Pretty soon, a flowing conversation emerged like it never left in the first place as we discussed our favorite albums and our latest pickups.

The store we ended up making it over to was quite eclectic. The shelves were lined with records from many genres and artists, including some of my favorites like Isaac Hayes, Kanye West, Steely Dan, and The Cure.

However, I was searching for jazz that day. I browsed the Mingus, Brubeck, and Coltrane collections, but nothing caught my eye as something I needed to have.

When it seemed like finding a gem was futile, something caught my attention out of the corner of my eye.

In a shiny plastic sheath sat a copy of Satin Doll. Never did I expect to find a vinyl copy of the album, much less in person, but here it was in all its glory.

Immediately, I knew I had to have it.

My friend was caught off-guard when I ran up to her and showed her the album, but once I began explaining it, she immediately recognized it from me talking about it in the past. After purchasing it and a Three Dog Night album, we took our purchases back to her house and immediately broke out a turntable. It felt like old times again, and I was ecstatic.

As the familiar flute made its way to my ears once again, all the stresses and worries of the day ceased to bother me. I wanted to do nothing but enjoy the moment. Dancing around to Satin Doll with my friend is a memory I will never forget.

Now, when I’m feeling blue, I will throw on Satin Doll and remember the great times we shared together to Bobbi Humphrey’s phenomenal flute.

best of the Rest 2. Aja by Steely Dan -- Every track on this quintessential yacht rock album is entertaining. I enjoy this album so much that I watched a documentary on it.

3. Spiderland by Slint -- Spoken word passages and hypnotic guitars contribute to this strange, yet stunning, album.

4. Animals by Pink Floyd -- Dynamic instrumentals and impassioned lyricism highlight this relentless album that rocks from front to back.

5. The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady

by Charles Mingus -- A jazz classic, this album was written as a ballet. The music itself dances.

6. Café Bleu by The Style Council -- This album is a hodgepodge of genres, but each shines and gels.

7. Troupeau Bleu by Cortex -- Although I might not understand this French jazz album, the soothing vocals and dazzling instrumentals tell me everything.

8. Head Hunters by Herbie Hancock -Funky basslines and keyboard grooves that border on insane highlight this fun project.

9. Flower Boy by Tyler, the Creator -- This 2017 album is my favorite of Tyler’s discography.

It showcases Tyler’s growth reflective verses over refined instrumentals.

10. Breezin’ by George Benson -- This album is highlighted

by Benson’s smooth guitar playing. It is the perfect summertime album.

The Sailors’ Log

“OEYES is my go to when I have extra time on my hands.

I like to look good and get the perfect fit, and OEYES is perfect because it has some of the most fresh clothes. ” Desean Hathorn, senior

Page 12

phone

APPLICATIONS

TikTok provides escape with videos

By Bailey Graham Editor in Chief

“I love scrolling through VSCO, an app for editing and posting photos. The photos are all so amazing. I am not active in posting, but I love to look through everyone else’s photos.”

Linden Gentzkow, junior

“My favorite app is YouTube because I can always find the best videos to send to my friends. ‘Inspirational Lizard’ is just one of many. Also, I can keep up with my favorite YouTubers like Danny Duncan.”

Luke Beilhartz, sophomore

“Snapchat is my favorite app. I’m always snapping my friends. I like to do streaks with others, and I have around 300 streaks.

I’ve also tried to play the Snapchat games, and I think that they are definitely interesting.

My favorite one is Aquapark.”

Ashley Austin, freshman

In the past year, we have all had a lot of downtime, and of course, the easy solution was to waste time on my phone.

At least it was the easy solution for me.

Cell phone apps were always something I would turn to when I got bored, but I didn’t have the chance to really get into them until the COVID-19 lockdown. I had nothing better to do than exercise my thumb with the never-ending scroll, watching funny videos, or grinding on an addictive game.

I am not much of a dancer or comedian, so TikTok wasn’t really for me until I started seeing all these funny videos. For me, it was a replacement for the YouTube videos I watched as a kid but shorter.

The 60-second clips grabbed my attention, and now, I spend on average an hour on TikTok every day.

That’s 60 TikToks a day and 420 each week, so I would have to say I know more than a little about the app, and I keep up on all the new trends.

TikTok has become almost like breathing. Every time I open my phone, I always check the app so I can watch a few clips, but who do I spend most of my time watching?

I have a few favorite TikTokers who I have given a follow, but there is one who reigns supreme in my heart. The man, the myth, the legend, Payton King (@paytonking) has my whole heart and soul. Payton King is a TikToker from California who claimed his way to fame through his outrageously funny videos on TikTok. King’s humor is a particular taste that not many can relate to and enjoy, but I am one of the few and so is my sister. Over the course of quarantine, my sister and I grew closer and partly because

Based on a 2021 data report from Oberlo, TikTok has 689 million active users worldwide, and 62 percent of those users are between the ages of 10 to 29, like the writer, who says Payton King is her favorite TikToker because of the unique videos that he provides. we bonded over King’s videos.

We both enjoyed his goofy and childlike videos, and we even quote his videos all the time. My parents might think we are crazy, but really, we are just having a good time.

In his videos, King plays characters that are outrageous, but we all know people like them. One prime example is his “Karen” impression, which consists of him impersonating a woman who thinks she is above the rules. I also enjoy King’s clip series about animal hybrids; his commentary is golden and always leaves me rolling on the ground laughing until my stomach hurts.

King never fails to make my day, and that’s why I would have to say he is my favorite TikToker. I always keep an eye on his page to watch for new content and to even re-watch his old clips because the jokes never get old.

If you ever need to get a good laugh, I recommend you search up Payton King on TikTok. Other TikTok users most likely enjoy creating videos as well as

watching them, but with my lack of creativity and rhythm. I will leave the dancing and the video making to others. I just enjoy all the content that others make.

While Instagram and Snapchat, along with other apps that I use on a daily basis, are great, TikTok just has a special place in my heart. I do spend a lot of time on my phone, I’ll admit it, but when I look at my screen time stats in my settings, it’s pretty clear where I spend most of my time, and I am not ashamed.

Since TikTok uses an algorithm to help design your page for you, your feed shows videos that you will enjoy. I personally enjoy comedic bits and hack videos about life that are super helpful.

Everyone I know uses TikTok; even my grandmother loves it. This app is sweet and short but will keep you scrolling and scrolling and scrolling.

While other people might pick other apps to waste their time, I will continue to use TikTok for procrastination and to kill time.

best of the Rest

2. Snapchat – I set up plans and keep up with my friends on this app.

3. Hulu – During my late-night grinds doing homework, I rely on Hulu for some procrastination. I’m a crime junkie, and Hulu fulfills my needs.

4. Disney Plus – It provides movies I love, including Pocahontas and Mulan, and gives me an escape to my childhood.

5. Subway Surfers – Subway Surfers is an addiction I don’t want to get rid of. I have had this app on every device I have owned since I was 13.

6. Buzzfeed – I’m always behind in news. Since I have downloaded Buzzfeed, I haven’t had this problem. Also, they have fun quizzes.

I can see what’s happening with the global pandemic and what Disney princess matches my personality best.

7. Spotify – This app gives my shower concerts and car singalongs a new breath of life. I have Spotify premium, so I am able to stream with no ads.

8. Webtoons – I’m a comic book and graphic novel fan.

Webtoons offers amazing online graphic novels by wonderful artists and authors.

9. Apple Maps – Just like Dora, I need a map for all of my adventures, and mine talks too. Apple maps helps me get around when I don’t know where to go.

10. Clock – This app stays by my side and sends alarms when I need to get up or even when too go to bed.