Issuu

PITCHFORK

THE

EST 1928

Marietta, Georgia

Marietta High School

Issue 3

@mhspitchfork

March 3, 2021

COVID-19 vaccine

distribution begins,

teachers prioritized Lillian Salter Business Manager It has been almost a year since the official lockdown, and with the American COVID-19 death toll surpassing 500,000, a vaccine has arrived. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued emergency use authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech and the Moderna vaccine, and both are proving effective. Despite progress with the vaccine, Centers for Disease Control (CDC) precautions will remain in place until further notice as the “new normal.” When exactly the return to the normal life will happen is a much more difficult question requiring an equally complicated answer. The plan for vaccine allocation is divided into four phases. According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, Phase One will consist of the vaccination of healthcare workers, essential workers, the immunocompromised, and those over the age of 64. Phase Two will vaccinate the remainder of the Phase One populations in addition to critical populations. Phases Three and Four consist of steady vaccination routines and a process of recovery. Phase Three is projected to start in April, but there are no guarantees as to when the pandemic or daily precautions will officially end. Despite being in the early stages of Phase One, there are some Marietta residents who have already received both doses of the vaccine. An example is Jenny Belk, a registered nurse at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital. “It was a no-brainer for me to get the Covid vaccine as soon as it became available. I got it to protect my family, my patients, my community, and myself. This microscopic organism has devastated the entire world for over a year now. Vaccination is our best defense individually, and if enough people get vaccinated, it is our best chance to defeat the virus and take back control of our lives,” Belk said.

Lois Phillips, former student and teacher of Lemon Street, returns to her classroom following its renovation. She reflects on the history the building holds by remembering a poem she wrote for the yearbook. Photo by Ella Chesney

LEMON STREET REVIVAL Historic Black grammar school refurbished Julia DePasquale & Ella Chesney Section Editor & Staff Writer To honor Marietta City’s Black history, the Board of Education voted unanimously to keep and refurbish the old Lemon Street Grammar School. The building will now provide a space for some of Marietta High’s blended learning programs. “Demolishing the former Lemon Street Elementary School was never an option for me. The students, staff, and community of Lemon Street are integral to the historical fabric and character of Marietta City Schools and the City of Marietta. Their contributions are to be celebrated and understood, not torn down and forgotten,” Superintendent Grant Rivera said.

Upon opening Jan. 5, Lemon Street alumni, former teachers, and community members took a self-guided tour of the newly refurbished building. Alumni and former teachers of Lemon Street reminisced on their experiences at the school before its integration with Marietta High School and surrounding area schools. “The joy of being able to stand in that classroom again at the age of 74 was very moving for me. I remember it like yesterday because I was terrified that first day...but soon learned the joy of being with other kids rather than being with my grandmother, Cassie Martin, every day,” Carla Bates Wingfield, a

Continue to pg. 6 for “Vaccine”

Lemon street alumna, said. The feeling of joy was similar for other past students and teachers who returned to the school for its opening. Many commented on the significance of the restoration. “This project, I think, is important because of the following: it restores the lost history of the only Black school in Marietta, Georgia for people of color and it recognizes the existence of Black students who were educated at Lemon Street and are now contributing members of society,” Martha Dodd Grimsley, a member of Lemon Street 1963 graduating class, said. Continue to pg. 7 for “Lemon Street”

One act cast: two time regional champions Isabelle Lovejoy Staff Writer

The Marietta theatre department performed this year’s one act play, “Anon(ymous),” by Naomi Iizuki, in front of a live audience for the first and only time at the GHSA State One Act Competition in Warner Robins, Georgia. They qualified for State after winning first place at the Regional One Act Competition for the second year in a row. On Feb. 6, Marietta, Harrison, and North Paulding High School competed virtually in the Regional Competition. They watched each other’s pre-recorded performances, and then joined a zoom call with the judges who gave feedback and announced the awards. Along with the play receiving first place in the region and the best set award, cast members Khaleb McIntosh (9) who plays Anon, and Erin Johnson (10) who plays Helen Laius, received best actor and best actress in the region. Charles Lewis (12) who plays Mr. Yuri Mackus, and Tiah Carthers (9) who plays Nemasani, were

selected for the regional all-star cast. The victorious cast and crew headed to State on Feb. 13. While “Anon(ymous)” didn’t place in the overalls, McIntosh and Jamiyah Smith (11) who plays Senator Laius, were chosen for the State All-Star Cast. For the cast and crew of “Anon(ymous),” being able to perform live was victory enough. Directors Holly Smith and Sophia Steigerwald have taken serious COVID-19 precautions throughout the entire rehearsal process. “Hearing the audiences’ reactions to our show brought us so much joy. We are very proud of our cast and crew who persevered through many obstacles to even perform the show, let alone win Region and perform at State,” Smith said. Following a difficult and rewarding competition season, “Anon(ymous),” was streamed live for several days for the general public to appreciate the hard work of the cast, crew, and directors. Continue to pg. 10 for “One Act”

Anon, played by Khaleb McIntosh (9), breaks the fourth wall to tell the audience the story of his journey to the United States. McIntosh was awarded Best Actor in Region 3-7A and a spot in the All-Star cast at the state competition. Photo by Alexandra Audrain

Opinions

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Editorial: Blue Devil pride connects community Pride is a positive, emotional response or attitude to something with an intimate connection to oneself. This may be one’s own abilities or achievements, positive characteristics of friends or family, or even one’s country. People take pride in topics that they feel a connection to. For example, when someone is very connected to their culture or where they are from, they will have pride in that aspect of their life. Often people take pride in their school or community if they feel a sense of connectivity. When a strong relationship is built between a student and a school community, the opportunity and overall growth of the individual is insurmountable. Being a part of a school community helps students develop into a strong resident member. School spirit is the sense of identity and community shared by members of an educational institution. Students with school spirit do more than show support for their school. They perform better academically, are more socially and civically engaged, and are happier in general than their less-spirited peers. In order to take part in your community, you must truly understand the distinctive parts of it. What does it mean to be a Marietta Blue Devil? Being a Blue Devil means you are a part of a community that has rich history and tradition. There is loyalty that lies in the name of Marietta High School, a district that has the city and school system in one entity. When you are a Blue Devil, you are open-minded, determined, passionate, inclusive,

“I’ll never sleep on what Marietta has done for all that know her. She supports. She inspires. She is a place of options and opportunities for each one she serves... All who are lucky enough to call her home are changed because they got their wings to fly from a place that is just built different.” Kelly Herrero MYP Coordinator

respectful, intentional, diligent, and engaged. Having pride in your school means you have pride in the atmosphere you are growing alongside. Connectivity is the central thread running through all aspects of what having pride in something encounters. When you are connected to your school, you have pride in it. Being connected can look different for people. This can include being involved on campus, building relationships with people in your school community, and/or loving the atmosphere you are in. School pride makes the average student want to come to school and take part in the opportunities it has to offer. School pride plays a large role in maintaining and improving a school’s environment, such as the programs and activities available for all. School spirit, in many ways, is a qualitative measure of how well the school is doing as far as students desire to attend and participate. As students, our commitment to our school also shows that one day we will be willing to contribute to our alma mater and give back to future generations of scholars. Connectivity allows us to invest in the community and have pride in our school and programs. When we bleed blue and white, we essentially show our love and devotion to the education we are receiving. We take pride in our school and the history that comes with it.

A follower will be chosen to win a Zaxby’s gift card from @Zaxbys591SMP

CONGRATULATIONS to this issue’s winner, Devin Rowzee!

What’s the source of your Marietta pride?

Brooke Kelly (9)

“As a student, I have to say the thing I’m most proud of is the community we’ve established. No matter where you are, you’re never really alone.”

Parie Desai (10)

“I’m proud of all the opportunities that are offered to us and how many options there are for us to help us succeed.”

Andre Da Silva (11)

“I am proud of the classes our school offers; not a lot of schools offer the IB Program. I am also proud of our teachers because [our teachers care about us].”

Betsy Biddle (12)

“I am most proud to be a part of a school with such strong school spirit. MHS has traditions that date back to since the high school was first built, like the fight song.”

Opinions

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Pitchfork is published

by journalism students at MHS. It is free to the student body, staff and community. The views and opinions expressed in the Pitchfork are not necessarily those of the administration and faculty.

Editor-in-Chief

Savannah Hernandez

Assistant Editor Piper Rausch

Section Editors Alexandra Audrain Rebekah Bradbury Julia DePasquale Kendall Gazaway

Business Manager Lillian Salter

Staff Writers

Joshua Beyene Ella Chesney Nina Clark Zachary Harrison Danielle Ho Isabelle Lovejoy Icy McFall Etinosa Ogbomo Antwan Williams Kate Williamson

United States disastrous COVID-19 efforts Isabelle Lovejoy Staff Writer As COVID-19 vaccines have begun rolling out in the United States, controversy and misinformation have spread like wildfire. While the injection of a new vaccine may be frightening to some, I believe that if we, as a global population, want to overcome the COVID-19 virus, then getting vaccines out and creating herd immunity is essential. The Oxford dictionary defines herd immunity as the resistance to the spread of an infectious disease within a population that is based on pre-existing immunity of a high proportion of individuals as a result of previous infection or vaccination. When it comes to COVID-19, there have been cases of individuals getting reinfected with the disease, which means the only way to successfully create herd immunity is to get 95% of the population vaccinated. Supplying vaccines to all Americans should be our government and our citizens’ current priority, and the fact that it’s not is frustrating and alarming. On the government’s end, I think that much more could be done to push out vaccines. Other countries with similar resources and economics to the United States have proven to be far more efficient in pushing out the vaccine. Israel for example, vaccinated 15% of its population within the first 2 weeks of vaccinations. While their population size is considerably smaller than that of the United States, they’ve taken steps to order doses early and get priority groups efficiently vaccinated. While I’m hopeful that under President Joe Biden’s administration, vaccines will begin to become more available to the public, what the American people have experienced so far has been infuriating and disappointing to say the least. Many doctors and government officials have been vaccinated, but I feel that there needs to be more urgency among other high priority groups, such as teachers and citizens over the age of 65. A public school teacher who is faced with teaching in person in fear of losing their job, is at a much higher risk of contracting COVID-19 than the average public official, and these teachers need to become a priority.

Adviser

Andrea Lyons

Mission Statement:

Pitchfork is a student written and produced newspaper aimed at educating, enlightening, and entertaining MHS students. All content is determined by the staff in an attempt to be relevant to the student body.

PITCHFORK WANTS YOUR INPUT Letters to the editor should be brought to room J208 or emailed to the staff: pitchfork@marietta-city. k12.ga.us

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Cartoon by Piper Rausch

COVID-19 CROSSWORD

In Cobb county alone 2 teachers have died due to COVID-19, which is a tragic result of the Cobb county school district’s failure to prioritize its teachers, as well as the government’s failure to get our teachers vaccinated. As for our older citizens, I have family members who have waited on hold for up to 6 hours in an attempt to obtain a COVID-19 vaccine, only to be told that they’re unable to be vaccinated. A change needs to be made on our government’s end for vaccination protocols, and this change needs to come now. Many United States citizens have harmed vaccination efforts as well by spreading false information to the public. Whether these concerns are legitimate or not, all they’ve done is create fear and chaos. One rumor that has arisen is the idea that the government is putting microchips into the vaccines to track people. If the government wants to track us, they’re already more than capable. Nearly every American has a cell phone and uses the internet, not to mention there are cameras in the majority of stores, houses, and streets. The government is already capable of tracking us if they please, so to plant microchips into the vaccine would simply be a waste of money on the government’s end, as well as a difficult feat for scientists. Through use of social media networks, people have spread all sorts of rumors, from saying that the vaccine will make your hair fall out, to saying it will make you grow extra limbs. These rumors aren’t doing good for anyone, and just serve to spread fear. The only reported symptoms from the COVID-19 vaccine have been soreness around the injection site and fevers, which are signs that you’re building immunity. I applaud social media networks that have begun taking down false information posted about COVID-19 and the vaccine. It’s normal to be fearful of a new vaccine, but so far there have been no harmful side effects and no reported cases of vaccinated people catching the virus. As President Joe Biden has taken office, he’s already rejoined the World Health Association, and has stated in his 100 day plan that they will administer 100 million COVID-19 vaccines. Whether or not this will be successful, I’m hopeful that we will see a positive change in our country and move toward herd immunity within these next 100 days.

School News

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In memory of Ryanne Barcarse Freshman Ryanne Barcarse, the daughter of CTAE teacher Michael Barcarse and Bhea Barcarse and sister of senior Avery, passed away on Jan. 7, 2021. The freshman class created a memorial in the rotunda and a GoFund me that allowed all of our Marietta family to demonstrate love and support of the Barcarse family. Pitchfork wanted to honor the memory of Ryanne by providing a place for the Barcarses to share a few of their favorite pictures of Ryanne. They also found an index card written on both sides inside of Ryanne’s phone case with words of encouragement written to herself and wanted to share them as “perhaps a reminder of others in their need to be encouraged.”

The family will plant a tree in her honor very soon in the new MHS outdoor observatory once it is complete. Mr. Barcarse shared these thoughts with the faculty upon his return to school, which speak to the support of our Blue Devil family. His words are better than ours: “My days ahead. A school morning routine included checking on my kids to get up and ready to go. I usually gave some sort of motivated reminder to Ryanne and I still looked forward to yelling, a new saying, “Ryanne, you must make haste!” before heading off to school. I’ll miss that going into work. I’ll miss giving her a hug before she takes off for the start of an A or B day. I’ll miss not seeing her arrive through my classroom door after dismissal dumping her stuff on the floor, giving me a hug, having conversations about what she’s learned in class, and then calling it a day and we go home. Yes, I’ll miss those things, but it’s those memories which will continue to make me feel so happy. I’m wanting to share this because I know many will be asking me how I’m doing. I assure you, my commitment and passion for teaching at Marietta is enduring! Bhea, Avery and myself extend our heartfelt thanks and sincere gratitude to you all for the prayers, support, and thoughts these past weeks honoring Ryanne. Marietta truly demonstrates the meaning

of family and a place I call home.”

Marietta says “Thank you” to teachers

Pitchfork and the students of Marietta create a video of appreciation for MHS teachers Nina Clark Staff Writer COVID-19 has disrupted every aspect of “normal” life, and school has been no exception. Since March of 2020, educators have had to juggle the stress of adapting to online learning and, more recently, hybrid learning. The role of a teacher on a ‘normal’ day can be taxing, but this current and unique learning model presents a whole new set of challenges. “The most difficult challenge is trying to get to know the students virtually. The best part of teaching is getting to know the personalities and stories of all my students. It is much more difficult to do that through Zoom rather than face to face,” Mrs. Melissa Paurowski, math teacher, said. Despite these obstacles, educators have managed to maintain the productive and supportive environment of

the classroom for all students, virtual and in-person. “I feel like my teachers have done a good job of understanding that this is a hard time for everyone, and by offering extensions or even just mental health advice, that does a lot,” Kennedy Bradley (11) said. Teachers are responsible for educating and shaping the adults of the future and have dedicated their lives to this endeavor. Educators across the country and at Marietta High School have modified their teaching style and curriculum for the benefit of their students and have inspired all in the process. “I have had to modify many assignments to be online and in class, so differentiation has been different for each setting. I have had to provide more options and come up with more creative ways to engage, teach, and assess students’ knowledge. It is important to get student and peer feedback on how the class is going and strategies

that work and do not work,” Ms. Michelle Logue, science teacher, said. Students and members of the Marietta community have taken note of their teachers’ hard work during this unprecedented and challenging time. “Showing our teachers appreciation means a ton, especially since they’re going out to school every day while risking the potential of getting the virus. Them knowing how much we appreciate them can uplift the physical and mental loads that working during this time throws at them,” Mariama Nije (10) said. Pitchfork has created a video compilation of MHS students holding “Thank You” signs and words of appreciation to express the Marietta community’s gratitude for its teachers. The video aired on Good Morning Marietta on March 4 for all the staff to see.

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School News

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Students resort to cheating during virtual learning Zach Harrison Staff Writer The transition to online classes in the spring of 2020 left students and teachers trying to adjust to new technologies and systems. With tests and quizzes held in web browsers, some students couldn’t resist the temptation. “I feel that cheating occurs more thanks to online school. Since students are working from home, there is very little I can do to stop them from looking at notes or googling answers. Lockdown browsers provide almost no hurdle for students, except for our lower income students,” physics teacher Dylan Bartholomew said. The urge to cheat most commonly appears in foreign language classes. Automatic machine translation apps like Google Translate make it easy for students to copyand-paste difficult passages. These apps have even made traditional solutions like taking a screenshot of a text so students cannot copy and paste it into Google Translate completely obsolete because they are able to translate text from an image. “‘E-Cheating’ inside the classroom was already an issue prior to the start of virtual learning, but with outside the classroom virtual learning, we opened a new door that colleges/universities have been trying to control for a few years. The access to other electronic devices during an assessment, even though the assessment could be set up on a lockdown browser, is in my opinion the first source of online cheating,” French teacher Thomas Buresi said. Cheating scandals have rocked the nation. One of the largest was at West Point, where more than 70 cadets were accused of cheating on a math exam. Other universities with cheating scandals include Georgia Tech and Purdue, where students used the subscription-based homework and assignment answer service Chegg to get answers to exam questions. “I can say with probably 95% certainty that students used a code to access the answers on my fall final exam,

as I had students in my first class period who were failing the class get 100% on the final, which does not correlate to their grades/knowledge of the content,” Lassiter High School biology teacher Hillary Wilson said. Teachers and administrators have taken steps to prevent and punish cheating. Teachers have turned to time-limited tests, lockdown browsers, and changing the style of questioning to make Googling the answers less viable. Online activity is less anonymous than some students believe. With edit history visible on sites like Google Docs, timestamps on submissions, and anti-plagiarism tools such as Turnitin, trying to dodge accountability is not as easy as some might think. “The caution that I give students is that their electronic footprint is actually much greater than it ever was with paper, so they should think twice before giving into that temptation. In the end, it is much better to get good feedback on your honest work, so you can learn and improve, rather than taking the risk of damaging your grade,” IB CP/DP Coordinator Barbara Manwell said. Ultimately, though, these measures seem to have been largely insufficient. In a survey of more than 250 Marietta High School students, 70% said that they had cheated on an assignment during virtual learning, and 23.1% had cheated on tests or exams. One of the major reasons cited was a lack of motivation and stress. “I really only cheated last year at the very beginning of virtual learning because I honestly didn’t have the motivation to try,” Kennedy Bradley (11) said. However, the level of cheating has gone down since the partial return to in-person learning. 73 percent of respondents who had gone back in-person have not cheated since their return. Still, with 55% of the responses coming from students still at home, it seems that cheating will continue. Infographic by Alexandra Audrain

News

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continued from "Vaccine" page 1

There are no projected side effects of the vaccine, but Belk maintains that getting vaccinated has made an apparent change mentality-wise. “Getting both doses of the vaccine has put a little spring in my step. Figuratively, not literally. Literally it put a little needle in my arm, twice, making me sore and achy. But it has made a difference. It has given me protection and hope,” Belk said. Despite the authorization of the vaccine being an achievement all on its own, a lot must be accomplished before CDC guidelines can be lifted and life returns to normal. However, this does not stop the plethora of hopes in the air regarding the end of the pandemic. “I am hopeful that President Biden can achieve his goal of 100 million doses in 100 days. I hope we develop herd immunity, infections and deaths drastically decrease if not disappear, and we can go out and about again. I hope students can catch up on friendships and academics. I hope that we will appreciate what we have all that much more,” Belk said. Marietta High School students have hopes regarding the vaccine as well. “I hope that people will become more receptive to vaccinations, and do their research before discrediting them,” Eden Gbolade (10th) said. Marietta High School’s partnership with the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) has helped students and teachers to understand the severity of the pandemic and the importance of the vaccine. The partnership provides Marietta with access to COVID-19 tests and contact tracing strategies that assist in preventing the spread of COVID-19, and this collaboration has benefitted Marietta High School staff members in multiple ways. “On Jan. 5, 2021 I received an email from our Superintendent that I qualified to receive my vaccination that afternoon. All MCS staff over the age of 65 years old were eligible. There was only a one day window for us to receive the vaccine. Dr. Rivera has been working with Cobb & Douglas Public Health

Department, along with the CDC, to push for an opportunity for any MCS staff member who is 65 or over to receive the vaccine immediately,” Stephany Lyons, a Marietta High School teacher, said. Similar to Belk, Lyons discusses the vaccine’s side effects; both mental and physical. “The next day my arm where the vaccination was given was slightly sore, no different than any other shot I have received," Stephanie Lyons said. Recently, Dr. Grant Rivera, and the superintendents of other metro atlanta school systems, sent a letter to the Governor’s Office advocating for teachers to be moved forward in the vaccine timeline. Dr. Rivera also joined a task force devoted to organizing a vaccine distribution plan for educators throughout Georgia. “Superintendent Woods invited me to join a task force dedicated to vaccination planning. I, along with 12 other superintendents from across the state, will collaborate to bring the very best vaccination protocols to our MCS schools and every other school in Georgia. As I’ve said numerous times before, MCS is actively planning now to be prepared once the governor approves educators in the vaccination timeline and the vaccine is secured for MCS staff. In the meantime, we will leverage every resource and best practice – be that from ideas generated here in Marietta or through a state-wide task force – to take care of you,” Dr. Rivera said. Thursday, Feb. 25, Governor Brian Kemp announced that school teachers and staff will be eligible for the vaccine beginning Monday, Mar. 8. Along with teachers, those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their caregivers and parents of children with complex medical issues will also be eligible at that time. Kemp commented that this expansion became possible after President Biden's reassurance that vaccine production would be prioritized and the Johnson & Johnson vaccine met FDA approval.

Vaccine Distribution Plans

Courtesy of the Georgia Department of Public Health

Phase One Phase 1-A: Healthcare workers, long term care facility (LTCF) staff and residents, people age 65 and older (including their caregivers), law enforcement, and fire personnel. Phase 1-B: Essential workers, people at high risk for COVID-19 Phase 1-C: People age 16-64 at high risk for COVID-19

Phase Two Phase Two includes the Phase One populations not yet vaccinated, and other critical populations. The Georgia Department of Public Health is currently analyzing COVID-19 data and information to determine and locate said critical populations; as of now, this includes local public health departments, healthcare providers, pharmacists, and more.

Phase Three Phase Three is projected to implement routine vaccination programs once the vaccine is widely available, and critical populations have already recieved the vaccine. It is also set to vaccinate Phase One and Phase Two populations that have not been vacinated.

Phase Four Phase Four includes vaccination campaigns to reduce infection risks, continued education programs surrounding COVID-19, and the return of surplus vaccines to the federal government.

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I got the vaccine because ... "I got the vaccine because I wanted to protect myself and protect others. I also wanted to stay healthy and not miss work. Not only that, but I care for elderly parents, so I wanted to be healthy for that." Wendy Trippe, Nurse at Marietta High School "I took the vaccine because I believes it helps your health. I'm also retired, so my age group, over 65, is at high risk. So I felt like taking the vaccine was the smart thing to do." Scott Bursmith, Administrator at Marietta High "I wanted to take the vaccine to get back to somewhat of a normal life. The more of us who get the vaccine, the sooner we can get back to hugging our families and not worrying about giving or receiving the virus. If we all get the vaccine, it will have no place to live." Marie Barnes, Marietta resident "I decided to get both vaccines because I have two grandparents, both in their nineties, and I feel like we have to do something to get our society back to normal." Emily Fred, Registered Nurse at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital

Vaccine myths Debunked! Myth One: The vaccine will give me COVID-19. Myth Two: The vaccine will alter my DNA. Myth Three: The vaccine was rushed, and therefore unsafe. Myth Four: The vaccine side-effects are grave and include but are not limited to: fever, headache, fatigue, chills, and etc. Myth Five: The vaccine contains tracer technology and unsafe materials. Myth Six: I don’t need to wear a mask after receiving the vaccine.

Fact One: The mRNA vaccine, upon injection, provides our cells with instructions to mass produce a “spike protein”. The vaccine then trains our cells to recognize the virus, therefore preventing us from potential infection. It should be noted that the spike protein is virtually harmless; although it is found on the surface of the virus that causes COVID-19, it does not contain the virus itself. Fact Two: The vaccine does not interfere with our cell’s nuclei, or the organelle where DNA is stored. Therefore, it is impossible for the vaccine to modify our genetic information. Fact Three: The reason as to why the vaccine was developed in less than a year is because researchers and health scientists around the world devoted their time and expertise to finding a solution to a deadly problem. Fact Four: Thousands of people are receiving the vaccine every day, even more when including those currently participating in clinical trials. As of yet, there is no reason to believe that the side-effects of the vaccine are severe or major in any way. Fact Five: The Pfizer-BioNTech and the Moderna vaccines do not contain any microchips, or any toxic ingredients. According to healthblog.uofmhealth.org, the vaccine is only known to contain the following: “snippets of genetic material, salt, sugar and fat”. Fact Six: While the vaccine prevents infection, it is unknown as to whether the vaccine can prevent an individual from transmitting the virus to others. Therefore, masks and social distancing guidelines should continue to be enforced.

School News

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As the renovated Lemon Street Grammar School opens, former teachers, alumni, community members and current teachers of Marietta take a self-guided tour of the building. Instead of demolishing the historical Black school, the district renovated the building to be used by current MHS students.

continued from “Lemon Street” p. 1

HISTORY Lemon Street Grammar School opened in 1894. The school board funded the original wooden structure in order to provide a place to educate young, Black students. A brick building was constructed in 1951 and continued to serve students until 1971. The origins of Lemon Street High School date back to 1930. The school, originally called Marietta Industrial High School, started out as two rooms with 20 students. Eventually, the brick structure known as Lemon Street High School was built. The school was accredited in 1962 and had many extracurricular activities including newspaper (The Stinger), yearbook (The Magnet), glee club, chorus, and science club, among others. In addition, the school had a PTA and was fully funded by the Black community. The Stingers football team won the 1966 Georgia Interscholastic Association State Championship. “As a student at Lemon Street, I recall interacting with a student body who genuinely cared about the wellbeing of others. I remembered working with an administrative staff and faculty who were resourceful, intelligent, and compassionate, encouraging a high level of performance, stressed the importance of pride in one’s self, and insisted that persistence and hard work would almost always guarantee success in life’s endeavors,” Grimsley said. In the late 1960s after integration, the Marietta school district hired some teachers from Lemon Street. “In 1967, I was one of five teachers selected to integrate Marietta City Schools. I was assigned to a previously all-white school, Pine Forest Elementary. I was not there as a student when Lemon Street and MHS integrated, but I remember that it was a life-changing experience for the community. I had the privilege of being a member of the faculty at Lemon Street Elementary prior to the desegregation of the schools,” Lois Phillips, a Lemon Street class of ‘54 alumna and former teacher at Marietta City Schools. Some Lemon Street students traveled from outside of the Marietta city limits to attend school. After integration, students were separated from their classmates, teachers and school community to attend schools closer to their homes. “I had to go to Sprayberry High because I lived in the county. I was devastated. When I got there, they did not want us there. None of the students were friendly. I can remember sitting in a geometry class and one of the white students said “There’s a n----r in the class,” and of course there was no reprimand. I felt then and still do now that I was not a part of a school that I could be proud of,” Gary Cameron, a former student of Lemon Street, said. The building brings back powerful memories to people who attended and taught at

Lemon Street. Kennesaw State University has curated an oral history collection that captures first-hand accounts of alumni and educators of Lemon Street. The stories were played in each of the classrooms during the self-guided tour, and the collection can be found at soar.kennesaw.edu “The most powerful moments in the renovation have been walking former students around and hearing them tell stories about their school experiences in the 1950s. One alumna pointed out the corner where she would warm up her teacher’s lunch for her on the radiator. These stories can’t be forgotten and this building and ultimately the central office and museum that will be built across from the school will ensure that doesn’t happen,” Charles Gardener, Chief Operations Officer of Marietta City Schools, said.

RENOVATION In order to honor all of the history of Lemon Street and the school’s integration with Marietta High, a museum will be built and is currently being curated by a team at Kennesaw State University. The first part of the project is completed and informational panels telling the history of the integration are on display outside and inside the entrance of the newly refurbished Lemon Street Grammar School. “We’ve completed phase one, and the exhibit on the Lemon Street schools, and it has been installed at Lemon Street elementary and it includes indoor panels in the foyer of the school building… which explore the history of the elementary schoo when it was in operation, after integration, and its closure in 1971 and later its role as part of the Cobb County Library System. Outside we have four panels… telling the larger history of Black education in Marietta,” James Newberry, Special Project Curator at KSU, said. The second phase of the project involves the creation of the larger museum, which will tell the story of the Marietta School System as a whole and will be located in the new central office building. “The central office will be built across from the newly renovated Lemon Street Elementary, and it will resemble the old Lemon Street High School which was demolished in 1968 right after integration was fully implemented,” Newberry said. Newberry gave examples of topics to be covered, including the architecture of the first schools built in the late 1800s to early 1900s and exploring the history through individual’s stories.

(MAPS), and Marietta Evening School Hours (MESH). The PLC is a blended-learning program that is mostly computer-based and focuses on helping students who prefer a smaller classroom environment. MAPS also provides additional opportunities for an alternative school setting in grades 6-12. MESH is a new program, which began in February that allows students to attend school and gain credits at night. The program helps students who have other responsibilities during the traditional school day. “It continues to give our students a viable option to complete their matriculation in a setting that fits their needs. Some students do not progress on the main campus because there are too many distractions… but the Woods-Wilkins Campus on Lemon Street gives them that intimate educational setting that allows them to be comfortable,

and achieves their educational goals. Also, it revives the history of this Great Marietta Community that deserves recognition for its historical significance,” Assistant Principal Gregory Taylor said. Students who attend the PLC, MAPS and MESH are grateful for the targeted education that they are able to receive due to the different blended learning programs offered. “PLC helped my high school experience because when I got there, I wasn’t in too good of a position school-wise. PLC worked for me because I was able to work at my own pace unlike at the main campus where you’d usually have to work at the pace of the teacher and other students. At PLC, I was able to do my four years of my high school career in two and a half years. My family and I are thankful for the impact PLC staff and the school system had on me,” Jada Velilla (12) said.

Alumni were able to safely gather and reunite during the opening and self-guided tour. The entrance of the building features panels conveying the specific history of the school and its former teachers and leaders.

PLC, MAPS, & MESH The newly renovated Lemon Street Grammar School will house three Marietta programs: the Performance Learning Center (PLC), Marietta Alternative Programs

Community members read from the panels in front of the new PLC. The panels tell the story of the Black schools through integration. Photos by Ella Chesney

JOE BIDEN INAUGURATED AMIDST POLITICAL TURMOIL

Many Americans, including those in Congress, quickly saw President Trump’s encouragement at the “Save America” rally as encouragement that led to the breach at the Capitol. Representative Cori Bush (D-MO) wasted no time in asserting the claim that Trump’s incitement of violence was an impeachable offense. “As a member of [the House Judiciary Committee], I am calling for the immediate impeachment of Donald Trump & his removal from office. I’m also calling for the expulsion of [GOP] members of Congress complicit in inciting the attack on our nation’s Capitol… Their actions must have consequences,” Bush tweeted during the attack. Articles of impeachment were introduced Monday, January 11 to the House by thirteen Democratic representatives. The resolution included a single article: incitement

Transition President Joseph R. Biden and Vice President Kamala D. Harris were inaugurated on Wednesday, Jan. 20. The inauguration was unlike any other: masks worn and social distancing practiced by all, and lights and flags placed along the National Mall honoring the lives lost to the coronavirus, replacing the typical crowd in Washington D.C. Former President and First Lady Donald and Melania Trump were not in attendance, marking the first occurrence since Andrew Johnson in 1869 that an outgoing President

cy and hope, truth and justice, did not die on our watch but thrived. That our America secured liberty at home and stood once again as a beacon to the world. That is what we owe our forebearers, one another, and generations to follow. So, with purpose and resolve we turn to the tasks of our time. Sustained by faith. Driven by conviction. And, devoted to one another and to this country we love with all our hearts. May God bless America and may God protect our troops,” Biden said in his inaugural address. Now more than two months into his presidency, Biden has signed over 50 executive orders focused on reversing policies of the previous administration and fast tracking aid for COVID-19 relief. Biden maintains his goal to administer 100 million vaccines in 100 days, and now projects that the U.S. will vaccinate 300 million Americans by the end of summer.

THE FUTURE OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY Rebekah Bradbury Section Editor

The recent insurrection in the U.S. Capitol has shed light on a divide within the Republican Party. Elected Republican officials must now decide what the future holds for their party. Will they cede to the new political idea of “Trumpism” or will they revert to their party’s traditional ideals? Trumpism is the political ideology of President Donald Trump. In most cases, it suggests nationalistic answers to political, economic and social problems. Policy preferences include immigration restriction, trade protection, reluctance to enter foreign entanglements and opposition to entitlement reform. While Trumpism and traditional Republicanism do share similarities, they share many key differences that set them apart on issues such as free trade, immigration and checks and balances within the federal government. Some critics even argue the divide is over the intra-party dispute on democracy itself, regarding the claims of fraudulent election results. No matter the differences, for 4 years the majority of elected Republicans stood by Trump, defended his actions, and refused to vote for his first impeachment. However, it seems between being asked to overturn elec-

tion results and the recent insurrection, they have reached a breaking point. On Jan. 13, 2021, 10 of 211 House Republicans voted to impeach Trump for inciting the capitol insurrection, while only 1 Republican voted for his impeachment the first time. A number of Republican Senators have expressed their support to convict Trump in the senate, potentially barring him from holding the office of the president in the future. Most notable in the support of conviction being Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. “The mob was fed lies. They were provoked by the President and other powerful people, and they tried to use fear and violence to stop a specific proceeding,” McConnell said on the Senate Floor. On the other hand, Republican Senator Ted Cruz and Former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley are calling on the public to give Trump a break, both saying that it’s time to “move on.” The evident split in the Republican party over the impeachment trial raises questions about the unity of the party, however further questions follow that will determine the future of American politics. How are Republicans to

win future elections if the party is split down the middle? Will the divide mend, or will it simply grow larger? “If the GOP doesn’t find a way to dump Trump and start anew...the party will fall in on itself,” former Ohio governor and Republican, John Kasich, said in a Time Magazine interview. Joe Grogan, former director of the White House Domestic Policy Council under Trump, suggests that Republicans must now present and uphold the ideas that were responsible for Donald Trump’s election, such as support for manufacturing and working-class jobs, deregulation, limited government and an american exceptionalist mindset. but also notes they must leave behind the damaging aspects. While these traditional ideas may catch the eye of many, the question is, can they match Trump’s personality? “A cult of personality is always dangerous in a republic, because it leads to events like what we just witnessed [In reference to the insurrection at the Capitol)]... that’s a result of people thinking an individual is more important than the Constitution,” Grogan said. After the events of the insurrection, a recent

Washington Post/ABC News poll showed among those who consider themselves Republicans, 33% said the party should stop following Trump and take a new direction, and 12% said he should be criminally charged for his actions. Dissatisfied with Republicans’ lack of loyalty, Trump has recently threatened to begin his own party, the Patriot Party, however the intentions or actuality of the party happening are currently not clear. Regardless of this new party’s relations to the GOP, his influence still holds weight for many of his supporters in the Republican party. Even though the election has concluded, many supporters are still voicing claims of election fraud, and to former Republican National Committee Chief of staff, Jeff Larson, it’s going to cause a lot of problems for the party. On the other end, anti-trump conservatives, such as the Lincoln project, are aiming to reshape the party with goals to centrize kindness. As both sides of the divide push their own narratives, the gap will only grow, giving moderates an especially hard time at crushing the ideas of Trumpism in the party.

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and First Lady did not attend the inauguration of their successor, a typical American tradition symbolizing the peaceful transfer of power. Former Vice President Mike Pence and Second Lady Karen Pence were, however, in attendance. Social media paid close attention to fashion at this year’s inauguration: Former First Lady Michelle Obama, Vice President Kamala Harris, Secretary Hillary Clinton, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, and the Biden grandchildren’s monochromatic looks juxtaposed with Senator Bernie Sanders’ (D-VT) simple jacket and mittens ensemble caused a viral sensation. Amanda Gorman, the National Youth Poet Laureate, Harvard graduate, and social justice advocate, was chosen to be the inaugural poet. She performed “The Hill We Climb,” a piece highlighting America’s roots and history and the hope for future possibilities and progress. “And yes we are far from polished/far from pristine/but that doesn’t mean we are/ striving to form a union that is perfect/We are striving to forge a union with purpose/ To compose a/country committed to all cultures, colors, characters and/conditions of man/And so we lift our gazes not to what stands between us/but what stands before us/We close the divide because we know, to put our future first,/we must first put our differences aside,” Gorman wrote. President Biden continued the theme of hope in his inaugural address. He highlighted the tragic events of the past four years, and the resilience of America and the American people. He promises progress in issues highlighted this past year: economic relief, COVID-19 recovery, and system racism. Above all else, he carries through his message of unity over division that he maintained throughout his campaign. “May this be the story that guides us. The story that inspires us. The story that tells ages yet to come that we answered the call of history. We met the moment. That democra-

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Impeachment

of insurrection. Many GOP Representatives and Senators argued that impeaching President Trump when then President-elect Joseph Biden was set to be inaugurated in one week would be a waste of efforts and would deepen the nation’s political divide. The Democrats counter: setting precedence and preventing Trump from running for President again. If the Senate voted to convict Trump of inciting the mob at the Capitol, then they could hold an additional vote to prevent him from ever holding future public office, a fear for many Democrats after rumors Trump may run again in the 2024 Presidential election. Another argument in favor of impeaching Trump was setting precedence for acceptable behaviors exhibited by future presidents of the United States. “Is there little time left? Yes. But it is never too late to do the right thing,” Representative Steny Hoyer (D-MD), House Majority Leader argued on the House floor. On Wednesday, January 13, President Donald J. Trump was impeached for the second time, making him the first President in American history to be impeached twice. The House voted 232-197 in favor of Impeachment, 10 House Republicans voting Yay, making this the most bipartisan impeachment vote in American history. Despite the bipartisan vote in the House, Congressional leadership did not anticipate 67 senators, the required super majority for a Senate conviction, to vote in favor of conviction. The Senate convened to hear the nine selected House prosecutors argue the case against President Trump. The team presented new evidence and security footage from the insurrection, including footage of rioters narrowly missing Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT), and recordings of radio calls between Capitol security. Prosecutors argued that the insurrectionists acted at the call of President Trump to disrupt the certification of the Electoral College votes. Trump’s defense team claimed the President’s words were protected by free speech. They echoed many prominent Republicans’ sentiment that the impeachment trial was unfounded and merely an attack on the now former President and his views. The Senate ultimately did not include witness testimony and voted on Saturday, Feb. 13 to acquit President Trump for the second time. The vote was 57-43, including seven Republican Senators, but 10 short of the 67 votes required to convict.

Tensions rose in the Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 6, as Congress met for the certification of the electoral college votes. After months of lawsuits and legal challenges made by President Trump’s campaign and his supporters in the House and Senate, it was clear the American people had definitively elected Joseph R. Biden to be the 46th president of the United States. The certification of the electoral college votes is a procedural act set in place by the U.S. Constitution. While Congressmen may object to certification of individual electoral college votes or the votes of an entire state if the objection is submitted in writing and signed by a Senator and member of the House, the Trump campaign had already filed lawsuits in many cases against votes in battleground states and had their case dismissed, meaning objections to electoral college votes in this election were merely delaying the inevitable. Early that morning, President Trump’s supporters gathered in President’s Park to protest the official certification of the electoral college votes, which would have been the nail in the coffin for the fantasy of Trump’s voter fraud claims that would assert him the true victor of the election. During the “March to Save America” rally headlined by President Trump, protestors were encouraged to defend their country by marching to the capitol building. “We have come to demand that Congress do the right thing and only count the electors who have been lawfully slated. I know that everyone here will soon be marching over to the Capitol building to peacefully and patriotically make your voices heard,” President Trump said during his address to the crowd. But the march Trump encouraged did not result in peace or patriotism. President Trump’s supporters continued to gather into the afternoon on the Capitol lawn, the only barrier between them and the Congresspeople inside being barricades and a few capitol police officers. Among the crowd were far-right groups: the Proud Boys, a white supremacist organization, and many carrying the confederate battle flag. Protestors first began to challenge the authority and security of their obstacles around noon. They forcefully made their way up the capitol steps to the front doors, some attacking police officers and tearing down barricades. At 2:15, the mob surrounded the capitol on all sides, forcing the police officers and any security measures out of the way, and breached the capitol building. Because the group has damaged government property, they are no longer protestors, they are insurrectionists. Capitol police attempt to defend themselves and the Congressmen and women inside the building, as security evacuates the Vice President, Speaker of the House, and as many Senators and Representatives as they can into undisclosed secure locations. Many members of Congress were not able to evacuate and were forced to take shelter in the House and Senate chambers as the insurrectionists forced their way inside. “I had a very close encounter where I

thought I was going to die,” Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) said during an Instagram Live after the insurrection. “It was an extremely traumatizing event, and it is not an exaggeration that many many members of the House were nearly assassinated.” Many of the Capitol invaders had in fact threatened violence towards representatives including Cortez, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), and Vice President Mike Pence. Those in and near the capitol could hear chants of “Hang Mike Pence!” ringing throughout the day. The siege on the capitol went into the night, past the 6 p.m. curfew DC Mayor Muriel Bowser had instituted due to security concerns surrounding the upcoming inauguration. Capitol police, and later the DC National Guard, worked to secure the capitol building. By Wednesday night, 5 people had died, including a capitol police officer. The FBI continues to investigate those involved in the insurrection. So far, law enforcement has arrested over 250 men and women across the country on charges related to the Capitol breech. These charges include misdemeanors such as trespassing, unlawful entry, and destruction of government property, as well as felony charges including assault on a federal officer with a dangerous or deadly weapon. The Department of Justice’s database for charges associated with the Capitol breach can be found here. Despite the horrific events of the day, the men and women of Congress were determined to finish what they started. After a day full of unrest, panic, and partisanship, the certification of two states’ election results still came to a vote after Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Representative Scott Perry (R-PA) objected to Pennsylvania’s electoral college votes and Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Representative Paul Gosar (R-AZ) objected to Arizona’s electoral college votes. One hundred thirty-nine members of the House and eight Senators sustained the objections, but neither motion passed and all 538 electoral college votes were certified: 306 for Biden, passing the 270 vote threshold and ensuring he would be inaugurated two weeks from that day.

Insurrection

Alexandra Audrain Section Editor

Hinderances of Identity Politics

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Identity politics is a term originally coined in 1977. At its inception, the goal of “identity politics,” was to maximize political inclusion for minorities. Essentially, predominantly black communities wanted to be represented by people who shared the same culture, life experiences, political ideologies and values as themselves. For a while, it worked. Since then, a wave of new political leaders have taken the spotlight. Over the past 35 years, America has shattered records as it pertains to diversity in government positions. Civil Rights Leaders like John Lewis, who devoted years of his life pursuing justice for all, took political office. In 2008, Barack Obama made history as the first African-American President. Citizens from various races, ethnic groups, and genders are represented now more than ever. However, while diversity and inclusion play a vital role, the most important aspect of politics is...well, political rhetoric and character. The recent election has shown that the phrase “Identity Politics” has been grossly misinterpreted and grossly misapplied. Nowadays, political rhetoric has been thrown to the back of the bus, and those running for office have utilised race as a metaphorical campaign weapon. During the first one-on-one Democratic primary debate in March of 2020, former presidential candidate, Joe Biden, promised to choose a female Vice President and vowed to appoint a black woman to the Supreme Court. Instead of explaining the val-

ues he found important in a running mate or Supreme Court Justice, he simply stated that he would choose people to take up these important positions based on gender and race. The result? Joe Biden chose Kamala Harris as his Vice President. A woman who blocked evidence that would have freed an innocent man from death row, until the courts ordered her to release it. A woman who put over 50,000 people in jail for marijuana charges, and then laughed when she was asked if she had ever smoked marijuana. A woman who kept people in prison beyond their sentences to use them as free labor for the state of California. Do I believe that there were capable women of color for the job? Absolutely. But choosing someone solely due to their race is more of a political stunt than an attempt at real change. In fact, political maneuvers of that nature, to a large extent, only stagnates African-Americans. Instead of emphasizing the need for new legislation to aid minorities in practical and legitimate ways, President Biden now hopes to gain the support of minorities and females simply by choosing a black woman as his running mate. While strides towards true equality continue to be made everyday, we still have work to do as a nation to rectify the wrongs of our past. But to achieve this change, we need leaders who truly care about the wellbeing of all individuals, not leaders who simply use the struggles of certain groups of people to reach power.

Our thoughts on

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Alexandra Audrain Section Editor

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Representation in Representation

INTERIOR Illustrations and Infographic by Alexandra Audrain

No one will ever truly understand the struggles another person has faced, But people of similar religious, gender, or ethnic backgrounds may have a stronger ability to represent people of the same gender, race, or religion because they understand the issues people within their identifying group face. Identity politics refers to people voting and supporting political candidates of their identified gender, ethnicity, or religious affiliation and allows marginalized groups to vote for those they feel will support issues that affect them, because they have likely faced similar roadblocks in their own lives. Throughout our American history, identity groups have come together in order to campaign for policies that will grant them fair treatment and offer them better opportunities. These groups have benefited from strength in numbers and amplified voices from within their group. In 1993, Representative Schroeder (D-CO) introduced the Violence Against Women’s Act to the House of Representatives. This act advocated for women’s safety and legal protection from violent domestic partners and created many resources for women suffering from domestic abuse. Representative Schroeder used her knowledge and experience as a woman to create legislation that would advocate for women’s interests. Schroeder worked with hundreds of Representatives and Senators of all races, sexes, and political affiliations to get her bill passed and advocate for every other American woman in the process because political ideology and representation are not mutually exclusive. If anything, promoting inclusion and electing a more diverse representation of our country provides a platform for wider debate and conversation (aka political rhetoric), more effectively giving voice to every American citizen.

Currently, our Congress does not proportionally represent the United States population in race, gender or religion. According to the 2019 US Census, white people account for 60.1% of the population, while 74.6% of Congress is white. Women make up 50.8% of the US population, but only 27% of Congressional representation. According to the Pew Research Center, 88% of Congress identifies as Christian, while Christians account for only 71% of the population. White Christian men are overrepresented in Congress and inherently do not understand the experiences of marginalized groups in our country because they have not lived the same experiences. By deliberately electing People of Color, women or others belonging to marginalized identity groups, voters elect representatives who understand the urgent need for legislation for minorities’ interests. Because without this legislation, both these representatives and their constituents directly experience the consequences. Prioritizing representation for people who understand the needs of minority groups is not using those groups’ struggles as a political chess piece; it is acknowledging those hardships and the need for people who have lived those experiences to be involved in the solution in order to institute real change. Every American has the right to look at Congress, at the Supreme Court, and at the White House and see people who look like them. Every American has the opportunity to vote in such a way that the government reflects their own interests. Every American has the right to elect people who look like their children, and offer them hope for a future regardless of limitations based on their race or gender. Above all else, every American has the obligation to vote however they choose to, as is their Constitutional right.

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School News

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Continued from pg. 1 “One Act”

Anon, played by Khaleb McIntosh (9), finds out that the goddess, Naja, played by Josie Smith (11), saved him from drowning in a tsunami in his wartorn country. “Anon(ymous)” addresses the realities for refugees around the world. Photo by Isabelle Lovejoy This year, the Marietta theatre department performed the one act play, “Anon(ymous).” The play portrays a modern retelling of Homer’s “Odyssey.” It follows a young refugee, Anon, who has been separated from his mother as he journeys across the US in search of his family, encountering a variety of kind, dangerous, and even cruel characters.“Every person has their own story about where they come from and how it shaped them into who they are today. ‘Anon(ymous),’ is adapted from Homer’s epic, the ‘Odyssey,’ which centers around a man trying to find his way home to his family. While our main character is trying to find his way home, we quickly realize that home is not just a place, it’s people and the feeling you get when you are around those people. This is what life is like for refugees. Refugees and migrants move because they have no physical home but they take comfort in knowing that they are still with people that give them that feeling of home. It really is their only comfort. That’s the wonderful thing about theatre: it allows us to tell the stories of people who are not given a voice. These are voices that need to be heard.” Sophia Steigerwald, theatre teacher and co-director of “Anon(ymous),” said. With extensive COVID-19 precautions in place, and the increasingly high rate of COVID-19 cases in Georgia, this rehearsal process has been anything but normal. The one act auditions are typically in the beginning of August, followed by rehearsals leading up to the live performances and Regional Competition in October, and then the state competition in November. This year however, the August auditions were pushed back to September and held virtually, and the GHSA One Act Competition was pushed back to February.“The audition process was different this year because it was completely virtual. Their original audition videos were submitted through a google form, and the callback auditions were held over a zoom call,” Holly Smith, theater teacher and co-director of “Anon(ymous),” said. After the auditions, rehearsals were conducted over zoom for a month. The actors would read through the show and begin doing character work, however there’s only so much you can rehearse through a computer. By October, the cast began in person rehearsals with strict COVID-19 precautions in place. “This year was definitely a challenge. The first month of rehearsal was spent over Zoom where we read the script several times and focused on building the characters. We also focused on research that dealt with both the refugee crisis and the ‘Odyssey.’ When in person rehearsals started, the first ten minutes of rehearsal consisted of temperature checks and COVID-19 questions. Students still had to rehearse with masks on, which meant that they really had to practice on projection and enunciation. We tried to keep everyone socially distanced as much as possible. While this year may have been a challenge, the cast and crew really rose to the occasion and worked incredibly hard to make this show happen. The teamwork that they have shown has been amazing and inspirational to see,” Steigerwald said. As the rehearsal process continued, students began dropping out of the show because their parents no longer felt safe with them being involved as COVID-19 cases increased. Many students are now playing roles that they were not originally cast as. The entire cast and crew has had to be very flexible this year. As last year’s Regional winners, the theatre department is charged with hosting this year’s Regional Competition. The department has opted to hold a virtual Regional Competition, and is the only region in Georgia who won’t be

competing in person. “Even our competition is going to be different. It’s normally in person with a live audience. This year the Regional Competition is going to be digital. We will film our performance and submit it to the judges to watch and they’ll give feedback to us over a zoom call. Some schools are still hosting an in person Region Competition, and what they’re doing is allowing only one school in the audience to watch, while the others watch on a TV from their dressing areas,” Smith said. Despite the challenges that this year has brought, the cast of “Anon(ymous),” has remained hopeful and determined that they will perform their show, even if it is virtually. “From the beginning there was always the question of if we could even pull this off with so many restrictions. Theatre is a community sport. You have to know and trust the people you work with to put on a good production. When we were only online, it was hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, these are some of the toughest, most hardworking actors, actresses, technicians, and directors that I have had the pleasure to work with. As the old saying goes, the show must go on.” Erin Johnson (10) said. This year, there are many freshmen participating in the one act play, some even in leading roles. While it is not the experience that they signed up for, they are still making the most out of this unique experience. “For a first show, it’s definitely been a challenge. Strangely enough it’s a lot like what I expected. The thing I love most about theater is that it’s very predictable in the sense that you get a new family every time you join a cast. The only thing I would change is our timing because obviously it’s harder to put on a show with the COVID-19 restrictions put in place, but we’re working through it as best we can.” Tiah Carthers (9) said. The cast had one take to film their performance for the Regional Competition, held on Feb. 6. Even if mistakes were made or the cast went over time, the video had to be submitted for judging. “I enjoyed our regional competition performance a lot. This was a massive opportunity not only for me, but my amazing cast. I had so much fun working and getting to know all of them, and I have a good feeling about this competition. However, it was different and honestly harder performing without an audience. For me as an actor, I perform in front of people and cameras, not just cameras. To know that no one was there watching was weird for me,” Khaleb McIntosh (9), the titular character of Anon, said. After placing first in the Regional Competition for the second year in a row, as well as receiving best set and several individual awards, the play went on to the State One Act Competition. While the play did not place in the overalls, the cast and crew faced a long and difficult journey to get there, and performing for a live audience was an even greater honor for this cast and crew than winning first. “With Regionals being virtual this year and only going up against two other schools, it made for a big shock at State. There were lots of other schools competing and we were all in the same building. Last year when we went to State, we were used to performing for an audience and knew what reactions to expect. This year we went into the performance blind. We had no clue what lines were going to cue laughter, ahh’s or ooh’s. Being in front of a live audience definitely made our performance better and pushed us to be better for the people watching us live. It was such a great experience,” Natasha Walker (11) said.

Jamiyah Smith (11), playing Senator Laius, uses women working in a sweatshop, played by Mikayla Waters (9) and Natasha Walker (11) for a photo op. Photo by Isabelle Lovejoy

Ali, a blind, charitable man played by Jamiyah Smith (11), and his daughter Nasreen, played by Denaya Kern (9) share a meal with Anon. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, many actors played more than one role in the play. Photo by Alexandra Audrain

Ritu, Nazreen’s mother, played by Natasha Walker (11) reluctantly hosts Anon in her home. Walker is the Vice President of the Marietta Theatre Department. Photo by Alexandra Audrain

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Bilingual

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Bilingual: Rise of Latin music in US Izabella Sara Staff Writer Was it Despacito? Although the extremely popular song by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee may have brought Latin music to the eyes of those who wouldn’t have particularly listened to music in Spanish, Latin music has been a rising genre for the past couple of decades here in the U.S. Songs such as “Livin’ La Vida Loca’’ by Ricky Martin, “La Bomba” by Los Labos, and “Macarena” by Los del Río are just a few examples of Latin music topping Billboard charts and altering the music and social culture in the U.S. “I have seen the infusion of Latin American culture-music, values, languages, fashion, sports, gastronomy, you name it-- change my community and city in so many positive ways. Although Spanish and Portuguese dominate “Latin America,” I also consider indigenous rappers; check out Renata Flores rapping in Quechua, or artists that defy easy labels and conventions like Manu Chao, Seu Jorge, Linda Rondstadt, Melim, or Calle 13 to represent the never-ending possibilities and beauties of “Latin music,” transcending the very superficial and ephemeral borders of so-called “genres.” Music transcends all fronteras, sin duda.” Señor Hurd said.

In recent years, Latin music has taken huge strides in popularizing itself even more within American music culture. Although the popularization of this genre is beneficial, the music is changing, along with its audience. “I do not think that they are representing the older style music because they have created their own genre of music to make it more appealing to young people. I think that is great because they are promoting this new music and our language to people from other cultures,” Señora Perez said. Not only is the music being played on major radio stations and flourishing on streaming services, but the artists are also making their way into mostly/half-English songs and collaborating with pop artists in the American music scene. “Lo Vas a Olvidar” by Rosalía and Billie Eilish, “Blinding Lights (Remix)” by the Weeknd and Rosalía, “Un Día” by J Balvin, Dua Lipa, Bad Bunny, and Tainy, “I Like It” by Cardi B, Bad Bunny, and J Balvin, and “Arms Around You” by XXXTentacion and Lil Pump featuring Malúma are a few examples of Spanish-speaking artists combining both Latin and American pop, influencing both genres. “In America, mainstream Latin music is rhythmic and a mix of different styles of music like Reggaeton, popu-

lar music made for a young audience. In Latin America, there is more variety of autochthonous music from each country and for different kinds of audiences: for example, the Perico Ripiao in Domincan Republic, the Palo Mayo in Nicaragua, and the tango in Argentina,” Perez said. Artists such as J Balvin and Jennifer Lopez can be seen using their platform to influence not just music, but American social culture as well. J Balvin recently had his own meal at McDonalds during their “celebrity meals,” and J Lo was asked to sing at the inauguration of President Joseph Biden on January 20, where she spoke a verse of the Pledge of Allegiance in Spanish, symbolizing the unity Americans seek to have. Because of the increased popularity of Latin music and/ or Spanish being included in mostly-English songs, the audience has shifted where now only-English speakers are also considering themselves fans of the genre. “It makes me feel proud because it shows how big of an impact we have caused as Latinos,” Filiberto Ochoa (10) said. Latin music is only getting more popular and will continue to influence American music culture indefinitely.

Artwork by Kate Williamson

El aumento de la música latina en los EE ¿Era “Despacito”? Aunque la canción muy popular por el Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee pueda haber traído la música latina a los ojos de aquellos que no habrían escuchado en particular la música en español, la música latina ha estado un género creciente para el último par de décadas aquí en las Canciones estadounidenses como “Livin’ La Vida Loca’’ por Ricky Martin, “La Bomba” por Los Labos, y “Macarena” por Los del Río son sólo unos ejemplos de la música latina que excede la lista de éxitos de Billboard y cambia la música y cultura social en los Estados Unidos. “He visto la infusión de la cultura latinoamericana - música, valores, lenguas, moda, deportes, gastronomía, y otroscambian mi comunidad y ciudad de tantos modos positivos … Aunque español y portugués dominen “América Latina”, también considero a cantantes de rap indígenas, por ejemplo Renata Flores que rapea en Quechua o artistas que desafían etiquetas fáciles y convenciones - como Manu Chao, Seu Jorge, Linda Rondstadt, Melim, Calle 13 - a representar las posibilidades interminables y maravillas de “la música latina”, trascendiendo las fronteras muy superficiales y efímeras de los llamados “géneros”. La música trasciende todas las fronteras, sin duda,” dijo el Señor Hurd. En los últimos años, la música latina ha dado grandes

pasos en popularizarse aún más dentro de la cultura musical estadounidense. Aunque la popularización de este género es beneficiosa, la música está cambiando, junto con su público. “No creo que estén representando la música de estilo más antiguo porque han creado su propio género de música para hacerlo más atractivo para los jóvenes. Creo que es genial porque están promoviendo esta nueva música y nuestro lenguaje a personas de otras culturas,” dijo Señora Pérez. No solo la música que se está reproduciendo en las principales estaciones de radio y floreciendo en los servicios de transmisión, sino que los artistas también están haciendo su camino hacia canciones mayormente/medio-inglesas y colaborando con artistas pop en la escena musical americana. “Lo vas a Olvidar” de Rosalía y Billie Eilish, “Blinding Lights (Remix)” de la Weeknd con Rosalía, “Un día” de J Balvin, Dua Lipa, Bad Bunny y Tainy, “Me gusta” de Cardi B, Bad Bunny y J Balvin, y Lentil “Bomba alrededor de ustedes” por XXXTentacion y Lil Pump con Malúma son algunos ejemplos de artistas de habla hispana que combinan pop latino y americano, influyendo en ambos géneros. “En América, la música latina es rítmica y una mezcla de diferentes estilos de música como Reggaeton, música popular hecha para un público joven. En América Latina,

hay más variedad de música autóctona de cada país y para diferentes tipos de público: Por ejemplo, el Perico Ripiao en República Dominicana, el Palo Mayo en Nicaragua y el tango en Argentina,”dijo Pérez. Artistas como J Balvin y J Lo pueden ser vistos usando su plataforma para influir no solo en la música, sino también en la cultura social estadounidense. J Balvin tuvo recientemente su propia comida en McDonalds durante sus “comidas de celebridades”, y J Lo fue pedido que cantara en la inauguración del presidente Joseph Biden el 20 de enero, donde habló un verso del Pledge of Allegiance en español, simbolizando la unidad que los estadounidenses buscan tener. Debido a la creciente popularidad de la música latina y/o el español siendo incluido en canciones mayormente-inglesas, la audiencia ha cambiado donde ahora solo-hablantes de inglés también se consideran a sí mismos fans del género. “Me hace sentir orgulloso porque muestra el gran impacto que hemos causado como latinos,”dijo Filiberto Ochoa (10). La música latina solo se está haciendo más popular y seguirá influyendo en la cultura musical estadounidense indefinidamente.

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page 12

I, too, am America: Marietta celebrates Black history Ella Chesney & Julia DePasquale Staff Writer & Section Editor

Black history month, a celebrated tradition, is filled with activities focused on inclusion and listening to the voices of Marietta students. This year, the celebrations received increased attention as a result of the growing Black Lives Matter movement. Black history month was recognized in 1976. It extended the week-long period suggested by Carter G. Woodson. Woodson was an African-American historian who sought to recognize black Americans and place them in history. “Honoring the lives and contributions of Black people in America is willfully practicing inclusion. When we purposely take the time to acknowledge and celebrate the history of black people in America, we make inclusion operational even in the face of resistance,” Dr. Roberts, the Marietta Student Life Center coordinator said. BHM EVENTS With this sentiment in mind, this year’s theme was, “I too, am America.” It came from a poem written by Harlem Renaissance author, Langston Hughes. The theme was showcased in the open mic night on Feb. 25, the pop up shop for Black business owners on Feb. 4, and in

EJ Miji (9) pressure washes Bentley Brandon’s truck at the Pop Up Shop on Feb 4. Bentley owns a car detailing company, Luxury Wash.

several other activities. With an increased number of events and a virtual format, an Instagram account (@mhs_bhm) and website were created to publicize the celebrations and opportunities for students during the month. Many of the events will be available to view after February online. “What an amazing opportunity for the students to have to be hands-on with entrepreneurs and ask direct questions,” said Bentley Brandon, owner of Luxury Wash. Brandon, along with other business-owners, came to MHS to teach students about business and success. There was also a virtual speaker series with a panel of Black professionals. “I like the feeling of knowing that [Black History Month] is being celebrated with others as something positive,” Kailah Kimbrough (9) said. There were multiple committees with teachers and administration from all different backgrounds coming together to create fun and enriching events. “Celebrating Black History Month is important because until we, as a nation, get to the point of honoring everyone in America equally and without prejudice (regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic status), we must continue to educate our young Black Americans about the people who have and are breaking barriers and have paved paths for them before and presently. I hope that one day, we get to a point in our nation when we are all seen as Americans and appreciate our differences and use those differences to help one another be a better human race,” Mrs. Haddock, a social studies teacher who organized the open mic night, said. Recognition Louis C. Walker was a teacher at MHS for 40 years. Walker helped students prepare for the future with the Diversified Career Technical Training Program. On Feb. 24, the Learning Steps in J-Hall were dedicated to him. They are to be renamed the Louis C. Walker Learning Steps. The inaugural presentation of the MLK Be Somebody

Jermaine McCann (11) and Mayor Tumlin talk after McCann receives the first MLK Be Somebody Award. photos by Ella Chesney

recognized a current Blue Devil. The award is named in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Ben Wilkins, who coined the phrase “Be Somebody.” Jermaine McCann received the award from Mayor Tumlin. As service coordinator for the Diversity Club, McCann is a strong advocate for equality at Marietta. “In my mind, I would hope that receiving this award had everything to do with the work and service I continue to try to do in Marietta and less than me myself. This is for all the work that’s been done and the people who have supported and guided me through it,” Jermaine McCann (11) said. “We want to not only be able to create the conversation, but to educate and use these conversations to innovate and take action.” Black history month ties together history, appreciation, and acknowledgement of Black Americans. “The importance of BHM to me is pride. This is a chance for us to take pride in our history, pride in being Black, and pride for all of our people and everything we’ve done (and continue to do) despite all efforts to deter it,” McCann said.

Honoring Black history month: critical reviews of BIPOC centered films Danielle Ho Staff Writer

BLAKKKLANSMAN (2018) Spike Lee

“Blackklansman” follows Ron Stallworth, an African-American police officer, and Flip Zimmerman, his Jewish colleague, through their plan to go undercover and infiltrate the Ku Klux Klan. “Blackklansman,” an Academy awarded film, was an unorthodox story that depicted white supremacy, police brutality, and injustices. Spike Lee created a visually sound movie with no dull moments with its serious scenes with ominous music and comedic breaks. Based on a true story, this period piece presented us with a dichotomy of absurdness and riskiness. The audience experiences the inner conflict of Stallworth and his goal to take down the Ku Klux Klan as a police officer while his Black peers are a part of an anti-police resistance. Despite “Blackkklansman” being set forty years in the past, this movie has remained relevant to the social and political institutions in America, which is depicted in the raw unsettling footage in the end. What’s predicted to have a resolved ending, “Blackkklansman” shows the reality of our unfair matrixes of power. “Blackkklansman” succeeds in depicting the dangers of white nationalism and the harm it may cause to Black and Jewish communities. This movie forces the audience to recognize the need to dismantle White supremacy.

PARIS IS BURNING (1990) Jennie Livingston

“Paris is Burning,” a documentary that took over seven years to produce, discusses a myriad of aspects of Black and Latinx queer culture centered around New York’s Harlem drag scene in the 1980s. It depicts where voguing comes from and what, exactly, is throwing shade. This vibrant documentary shares a colorful portrayal of rival fashion “houses,” fierce contests, and house mothers offering sustenance in a world rife with transphobia, AIDS, poverty, racism, and homophobia. This documentary delves into the stories of legendary voguers, drag queens, and trans women such as Willi Ninja, Pepper LaBeija, Dorian Corey, and Venus Xtravaganza. “Paris is Burning” celebrates the joy of movement, the force of eloquence, and the prominence of community. Highlighting Black and Latinx queerness, “Paris is Burning” takes the audience through raw moments and exuberant scenes. This documentary is an example of how art and fantasy can add meaning and sense to our journey. “Paris is Burning” is not just about drag, dance, and vogueing, it’s a film about the complex nature of the media and it’s about survival. “Paris is Burning” is sincerely a timeless, classic LGBTQ+ film to learn about drag culture and people with intersecting identities who live with pride and enthusiasm.

SOUL

(2020) Pete Doctor

“Soul” tells the story of Joe Gardner, a middle school teacher who is ardent for jazz music. After a successful gig at the Half Note Club, he suddenly gets into an accident where his soul separates from his body. He is transported to the You seminar, a center in which souls develop and gain passions before being transported to a newborn child. Joe must enlist help from the other souls-in-training, like 22, a soul who has spent eons in the You seminar, in order to get back to Earth. With similar themes to “Coco” and “Inside Out,” this animation plays on the idea of how important the minutiae of life is; the small moments make life worth more living rather than the big fleeting moments. Creating dynamic, whirlwind filled scenes, combined with the optimistic versus pessimistic trope, “Soul” teaches its audience how to love our secular lives. Joe and 22 both learn and develop together as they learn that their purpose is not predetermined, but rather discovered through everyday life. “Soul” is a warm, delicate film that just gives you peace. From the music to its diverse characters, this heartwarming movie tells us to live minute by minute admiring the small things in life. Blame it on Disney to produce an animation that gives everyone an identity crisis. Stop trying to find your soulmate and just go find your soul, mate.

BLINDSPOTTING (2018) Carlos López Estrada

In “Blindspotting,” Collin must endure his final three days of probation for a chance at a new beginning. He and his troublemaking childhood best friend, Miles, work as movers, and when Collin witnesses a police shooting, the two men’s friendship is tested as they grapple with their identity and their changed realities in the rapidly-gentrifying neighborhood. “Blindspotting” revolves around Oakland, California and its cultural roots to urban life and our ever changing social landscape. This movie has themes of police brutality, race, housing inequities, incarceration, and gentrification all linking back to the systemic injustices Black people experience. Director Carlos Lopez Estrada builds tension by toying with the emotional capacity of Collin and his encounters with the white police officers. To offset the tension, Miles and Collin tend to express their unadulterated emotions through rap battles. Only in “Blindspotting” is rapping used as a storytelling device. Daveed Digs and Rafael Casal who wrote the screenplay and also played Collin and Miles, respectively, gave powerful performances creating two strong characters who had such natural humor and an organic relationship. With a combination of wittiness and genuine social commentary, this film provokes relevant conversation about police brutality and anti-racism.

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page 13

Pitchfork GRAMMY awards Piper Rausch Assistant Editor

The GRAMMY awards are in full swing this year, with a minor delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of the delay, many music lovers like myself are growing impatient waiting for the red carpet outfits, speeches, and award results to finally be revealed. In an attempt to alleviate some of the anticipation, I decided to review some of the GRAMMY-nominated records and albums to decide my own winners.

RECORD OF THE YEAR BLACK PARADE Beyoncé

ROCKSTAR Dababy feat. Roddy Ricch

Say So Doja Cat

everything i wanted Billie Eilish

Savage Remix Megan Thee Stallion feat. Beyoncé

Beyoncé & Derek Dixie, producers; Stuart White, engineer/mixer; Colin Leonard, mastering engineer

SethinTheKitchen, producer; Derek “MixedByAli” Ali, Chris Dennis, Liz Robson & Chris West, engineers/mixers; Glenn A Tabor III, mastering engineer

Tyson Trax, producer; Clint Gibbs, engineer/mixer; Mike Bozzi, mastering engineer

Beyoncé & Derek Dixie, producers; Stuart White, engineer/mixer; Colin Leonard, mastering engineer

Beyoncé & J. White Did It, producers; Stuart White, engineer/mixer; Colin Leonard, mastering engineer

Surprisingly enough, I hadn’t even heard of this song before I read the nominee list. Released on Juneteenth, “BLACK PARADE” is an upbeat tune about Beyonce’s pride in her heritage, hometown, and complexion. The song emphasizes a return to African roots and the act of taking a stand to protect black lives, donating all of its profits to BeyGOOD’s Black Business Impact Fund. As for the song itself, I thought it was beautifully written, extremely catchy (meaning that I listened to it easily 8 times in a row without getting tired of it), and featured a powerful message at the same time. Said best by Kyle Denis of Black Boy Bulletin, “BLACK PARADE” “blends a stuttering trap beat with robust horns and a sublime layer of flute.” Beyonce and co-producer Derek Dixie curate a celebratory, triumphant track in order to celebrate black heritage and overcoming racial obstacles- no matter how much Hollywood tries to whitewash her, no matter how much she is suppressed, and no matter how much injustice Beyonce faces, she is proud to be black.

I was introduced to ‘ROCKSTAR” in April on TikTok, and I learned the dance before I had even listened to the full song. While I wouldn’t necessarily call myself a fan, I thoroughly enjoy most of DaBaby’s discography- and “ROCKSTAR” is no exception. The song’s upbeat, guitar-driven trap instrumental makes it one of my favorite songs off of DaBaby’s 2020 album, “BLAME IT ON BABY.” The song’s popularity speaks for itself, with almost a billion streams on Spotify. However, DaBaby has a very blatant formula in regards to his music and it is obviously present In “ROCKSTAR.” DaBaby’s discography all sounds very similar, defined by a bouncy bass that Dababy uses in almost every song. This being said, I’m not complaining. I’m a big fan of songs with heavy bass, and Roddy Ricch’s feature earns the song brownie points in my book. While the song is enjoyable and catchy, it’s not daring or new by any means. Although it’s one of the many songs that got us all through quarantine, it’s simply not special enough to be record of the year.

“Say So” is reminiscent of January and February 2020, and similarly to ROCKSTAR, was popularized on TikTok. The TikTok dance associated with the song amassed 20 million clips as TikTok users tried out the dance and it even reached Doja Cat herself; she posted a video doing the dance to her song in late February. Admittedly, I listened to the song pretty frequently in January- but that doesn’t mean that I think it’s deserving of record of the year. The song was majorly overplayed to the point where I can’t even listen to it anymore. This song goes to show that trending songs should not define award-deserving music. There is a fine line between real music and internet music, and Doja Cat makes internet music- it’s nowhere near the seriousness and thought put into Grammy-deserving music. “Say So” was good, but not great, and it would be nowhere near this status if there had not been a TikTok dance made to go along with it. It rewards simplicity and repetition in music, perpetuating the meaningless narrative of modern pop and marking it with the idea that popularity equates to talent.

2021 is the year that I promised myself I’d stop pretending that I don’t like Billie Eilish, so expect a rave-adjacent review for this record. “everything i wanted” was Billie’s first single released since her much-anticipated 2019 album, “WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO?” Everything about the song- from the production to the vocals to the lyrics- is, simply put, beautiful. The song follows Billie through a nightmare that she had about committing suicide and all of her friends and fans turning on her. Produced by her brother, Finneas O’Connell, “everything i wanted” highlights Billie’s trademark vocals- clear and strong yet almost whispered- juxtaposed with a lively, repetitive pop pulse. While the song isn’t extremely divergent from her usual sound, it echoes an era before Billie’s massive rise to fame; the song’s layered vocals and resonant timbre reflect that of songs from her 2017 EP, “don’t smile at me.” Overall, the song is beautiful and twisted, soothing the listener yet worrying them with the message.

Savage is the perfect example of talent and trend coming together. It’s what Say So could have been- both were songs released by relatively new artists, both were popularized through TikTok, and both received a remix from a music legend. Savage, however, is a generally more enjoyable song. It was dragged out for months, sure, but the remix completely revamped the song and reminded music lovers what a remix actually is. The concept of a remix has gotten lazy in recent years, where people equate a simple additional verse from a popular artist with an actual remix. It’s no surprise that Beyonce’s co-production on the Savage remix yielded a completely renewed version of the song, allowing for an overplayed tune to become new again. Beyonce’s verses paired with her angelic voice form a sense of tension and build in the song, creating an almost addictive version of Savage that set the tone for the beginning of our (quarantined) hot girl summer.

Chilombo

folklore

Women In Music Pt. III

Hollywood’s Bleeding

Black Pumas

WINNER

Jhené Aiko

Taylor Swift

HAIM

Post Malone

Black Pumas

I had the pleasure of discovering some of Jhene Aiko’s magical discography towards the end of summer, and I have high praise for Chilombo. Aiko’s vocal talents are exhibited with clarity throughout the album, and the immaculate overall messages of healing and inner focus echo that of SZA’s Ctrl, an album which I absolutely adore. Jhené emphasizes self-freedom and empowerment in a mellow way that makes the listener feel enveloped in a cool breeze of lucidity and assurance. My personal favorite tracks off of the album are “None of Your Concern (feat. Big Sean)” and “Magic Hour,” both of which have a theme of acceptance and letting go. This being said, the chill waves that wash upon the listener become almost monotonous throughout the album. Aiko’s talant of clairvoyant storytelling and instrospectivity in her past works is not fully harnessed in this album, leaving the listener slightly disappointed. While her wise gracefulness and dreamy production in the album are more than satisfactory, Jhené Aiko has the potential to do more than what she created in Chilombo.

After her 2017 revenge album “Reputation,” many fans feared that Taylor Swift’s classic sound would never return. However, after her 2019 album “Lover,” the singer returned to her kind, bubbly demeanor reminiscent of her “Red” and “1989” eras. “folklore” provided an interesting combination of old Taylor and a sort of unseen folk Taylor. With an earthy, calming sound, “folklore” is the perfect soundtrack to everyone’s cottagecore daydreams. The song “mirrorball,” my favorite off of the album, glides with Swift’s dreamlike voice and highlights her affinity for creating romance-movie-like imagery. “betty,” another one of my favorites, song was reminiscent of The Chicks’ early-2000’s discography, with hearty harmonica and passionate guitar. It’s a sound that I haven’t heard from Taylor before, and I’m in love. In sum, Taylor’s first “indie” album was glittery and natural, with just a touch of Taylor’s roots to create an utterly beautiful, nostalgic album. If your favorite sweater (or cardigan, rather) were an album, it would be “folklore.”

I haven’t heard any of HAIM’s music since “The Wire,” their fourth single, released in 2013. After listening to “Women In Music Pt. III,” however, I can’t help but feel like I’ve been missing out. The first song off of the album, “Los Angeles,” gives off a jazzy, sunny vibe that makes you feel like you’re dancing down the sidewalk on a summer day. “Up From A Dream,” a vibrant and fresh song off of the album with an electric blues sound, emphasizes HAIM’s power and poise in their music. “Another Try” features a reggae-adjacent pop sound with tropical, distant vocals. Halfway through, the swaps to an underwater feel and rebuilds its already impeccable tune to create an effortlessly breezy song. Everything about the album was cool and relaxing, spirited yet calm, and graceful but divergent- like a glass of cold lemonade on a hot summer day. Overall, HAIM’s musical genius surfaced itself in “Women In Music Pt. III,” creating a no-skip album that might just become my new obsession.

Post Malone has an incredibly predictable sound, and I’m surprised he’s categorized as a rapper. In reality Posty is just a singer with a grill and some face tattoos. Post Malone makes simple popular music, and “Hollywood’s Bleeding” is no digression from the sound of his previous albums or of any pop music in general. Personally, I think all of Post Malone’s albums sound like my freshman year- lacking individuality and character, and breaking no rules. Even so, I enjoy Post Malone’s music- and “Hollywood’s Bleeding” for that matter- in spite of its unoriginal radio sound. “Goodbyes” featuring Young Thug, my favorite song off of the album, is a perfect example of what I’d like to call “The Post Malone Effect.” Predictable chill trap beat, Post Malone wailing with soul or lazily rasping with clarity, and a celebrity feature. Somehow, despite everything I know about music and what I appreciate about effort goes out of the window and I can’t stop listening. “Hollywood’s Bleeding” is everything I hate about pop music. It’s repetitive, lazy, and predictable, but it’s damn catchy.

“Black Pumas,” Black Pumas’ self-titled album, was not at all what I expected. You simply don’t hear new music like this; if you had told me that the album was released in 1972 I wouldn’t have questioned it whatsoever. This retro-sounding, funk inspired album features the soulful sound of the 70’s with a grittier, earthier spin on it. “Colors,” one of the most popular songs off of the album, reminded me what actual singing should sound like. Black Pumas, an Austin-based duo, takes no shortcuts and makes no excuses to form a passionate and borderline ethereal album tied with a velvety ribbon of soul. Unlike vintage-reminiscent music of today like Anderson .Paak or EARTHGANG, however, Black Pumas doesn’t modify the sounds of the 70’s- instead they embrace the retro sound and change nothing about the style of the past. “OCT 33,” a sad, summery soul number, nods to classic soul influence like Otis Reddington while still maintaining musical individuality. Overall, “Black Pumas” serves as a reminder of American musical roots with heartfelt production and strong emotions.

WINNER

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page 14

Girls region champs advance to state 7A Elite 8 Kendall Gazaway Section Editor

as well. “This season I reached 1,000 points and rebounds, which has been my goal As the fourth ranked team in the state since freshman year. Also, I chose Michof Georgia in the 7A classification, the igan State University because of the famMarietta Blue Devil girl’s basketball ily environment and culture. The coaches team captured the region championship and players are great, and I am super exand finished the regular season with a re- cited to get there this summer,” Lauren cord of 16-5. The Blue Devils dominated Walker (12) said. Walker leads the team with sophothe region with a 9-1 record and defeated mores Loren Nelson and MJ Harris. the Hoyas of Harrison High 56-47 for the “Our sophomore class is vital to our region title. team’s leadership because Loren NelAt the start of the season, Coach Deson and MJ Harris serve as buffers beWitt was planning for the season and his tween our six upperclassmen and three players’ success. freshmen. Lauren Walker is improving “There are many things that we want as a valuable leader to accomplish by the because she leads by end of the season. “Our goal is to being a great example First win the region of what hard work and and host three state graduate all seniors consistency can do for playoffs games and make it to the state with scholarships offers you,” DeWitt said. “We have lost five championship. I competitive games would love to gradufor each of them.” throughout the seaate our seniors with son, but we learned scholarship offers Coach DeWitt that while practice for each player,” is valuable, playing Coach DeWitt said. competitive games alWhile the third lows us to better learn the game,” game is away, the girls team defeated The team has learned during their Pebblebrook in round one, and beat practices how to build better coach and Parkview 58-54 to advance to the Elite player relationships, which has played Eight on Tuesday night. a huge role in the overall team success Individual successes have also come as a result of this teams’ work. DeWitt this season. “The key to our team’s success is reached a milestone this season when he staying together and being together as a locked in his 200th win against Harrison team before, during and after games. Our on Jan. 22 and was honored with Region chemistry on and off the court is some3-7A Coach of the Year. thing that you don’t see with other teams Chloe Sterling recieved Region 3-7A which is why we have been very successAll-Region first team honors, and Lauren ful this season. Also, when we play with Walker was named Region 3-7A Player 110 percent effort on both ends of the of the Year. court, we are successful” Loren Nelson Walker (12), a Michigan State com(10) said. mit, captured a personal goal this season

Michigan State commit and Region 3-7A Player of the Year, Lauren Walker (12) shoots a free throw in home game against North Paulding. She has surpassed 1,000 career points this season.

Kayla Day (9) attacks the lane going to the basket. The Blue Devils got the region win, 57-47, versus the Wolfpack. Photos by Josh Beyene

Boys basketball make it to first round of state

Despite three quarantines, the team had a winning streak in makeup games to get to state tourney Kendall Gazaway Section Editor

Eric Howard (11) shoots a free throw in a region game against North Paulding. Howard recieved Region 3-7A All-Region first team honors.

Ross Bourgeois (11), Cedric Roach (11), Makyle Lockett (12), and Camden Overton (11) cheer on teammates after taking the lead against rival North Paulding. Photos by Josh Beyene

Quarantining for a total of three times was not planned or ideal for the Marietta boys basketball team. “This pandemic has taken its toll on our team this season. It was impossible to truly prepare for because it has been uncharted territory,” Coach Markus Hood said. The season started in June; the boys attended the weight room four days a week. The team improvement throughout the summer and fall, up to the start of the season seemed promising. When the school schedule went back to normal hours upon going ‘hybrid,’ the players had less time for strength training and to perfect their skills. “This got us off to a slow start. And as we started to build a rhythm around Thanksgiving Break, we got quarantined. The momentum we started to build was broken. We had multiple film sessions during this time, but there is no substitute for actual on-court reps,” Hood said. The second quarantine came at the worst possible time because of the region play ahead that included an unexpected

loss to North Paulding after two practices back from their second quarantine. Then the team went into their third quarantine. This in and out of quarantine season has not only affected the players and coaches physically but the mental aspect has been difficult to overcome. “My hope is that this will only make us stronger in the long run because that is what adversity is designed to do. William Ward said that ‘adversity causes some men to break; others to break records.’ My hope is that we will be the later,” Hood said. Just as Coach Hood hoped for, the boys bounced back afer their third quarantine with a five game winning streak and finished the region play with a 6-3 record. After a loss in overtime to Walton High School in the region championship, the winning streak came to a halt, but the team made it to the first round of state. McEachern High School won in the first round of the playoffs, and the Marietta boys finished the season with an overall record of 10-12. Izaiyah Nelson and Eric Howard both recieved Region 7-3A recognition as All-Region First Team Honors.

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Sports

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Growth in young swim team Icy McFall Staff Writer Though this season differs from any other due to COVID-19, Marietta’s Swim and Dive team has tackled the season with the same mindset as they would any other season: growth is the most important and rewarding achievement above all else. “This season has really shown how much talent we have on the team. We are one of the smallest teams in the county and are consistently outperforming some of the schools with the largest numbers. Most of our newer swimmers haven’t been swimming more than a year or two, so to see their growth this season was really awesome,” Kristen Slifko, Marietta swim coach, said. Like many others, this winter sport has had numerous changes as a result of the pandemic. Sports teams continue to work around the virus and implement strategies to keep their athletes and coaches safe. For example, the boys and girls were separated at meets to further prevent contact, along with several other procedures. “No spectators were allowed inside to watch the meet and we had to wear masks on the deck when we weren’t swimming. We also did different things after events like swimming to the other side for example. This was to help keep people away from each other,” Beauman Ivester (10) said. Swim meets are scored based upon who has completed their event with the fastest time, in each race, the top ten finishers score points for their team. Whoever has scored the most points at the

end of the meet is the winner. However, swimmers can qualify for the county and state regardless of their team’s overall finish. “Meets will usually last around two hours, but it could be more or less depending on the teams attending. There are 24 events, starting with the boys 200 Medley Relay and ending with the Girls 400 freestyle relay. On average, each swimmer will participate in four events, two being individual and two being relays,” said Nicolas Common (9). The swim team had fifteen out of twenty-five students qualify for county and three qualify for state. At their county meet on January 23, the girls placed 8 out of 40 in the 200 Free relay and Darby Dryden (10) made her 200 Free State cut. Common, Chase Cannon (9), Wyatt Strassman (12), Jessica Harper (10), and Dryden had “best times”, Harper placing 8 out of 40 in the 100 Free. Thomas Barlett (12), Harper, and Dryden qualified for state. During their State meet on Feb 6 at the Georgia Tech McAuley Aquatic Center, Dryden dropped three seconds in her 100 and 200 Free Relay, with Harper placing just behind her. The girls placed 17th in the 200 Free Relay and Barlett placed sixth in his 100 Breast and 18th in the 100 Fly. “The team collectively got better throughout the season and we learned the importance of determination and perseverance even though we were unable to show our progress at times,” Dryden said. As a team, they powered through the obstacles of COVID-19 and ended the season with many victories.

Logan Thompson (9) works on his form at a swim practice at the Cobb County Aquatic Center.

Lindsay Lavlanet (10), right, uses a kick board during practice to improve her strength and endurance. Photos courtesy of Meg Robinson

Wrestling ready to build on successful season Josh Beyene Staff Writer The wrestling team finished their season with a total seven state qualifiers and four state placers. Lisa Glymph (11) placed third at state in the 102 weight class; this is the third time she has placed in the state tournament over her wrestling career. Miller Huffman (12), Avant Stepherson (11), and Jon Peralta (11) also went on to place in the state conference. Both Stepherson in the 138 weight class and Huffman in the 170 weight class placed fourth in their respective weight classes. Peralta placed fifth in the 145 weight class. State qualifiers were Charlyse Yates (11), Sawyer Strack (11), and Malachi Sanders (11). Huffman is the only senior in this group, and all others will return next year. The returners are ready to build upon this season’s success. “My goal was to become champion, and when I got fourth, I instantly wanted to get back to work. To other people placing at state is tremendous, but I just felt unsatisfied,” Stepherson said. In region championships, the team placed fourth with five state qualifiers and five alternates out of 11. The two girls on the team, Glymph and Yates, brought the competing wrestlers up to a total of seven. Two region champions emerged- Stepherson in the 138 weight class and Huffman in the 170 weight class. The team had two runner ups with Strack in the126 weight class and Peralta in the 145 weight class. Sanders got third place in the 132 weight class.

In January, the Marietta Wrestling Team hosted a tournament on the Jeff Wheeler mats in the Big Blue gym. Huffman added another win in his match against his opponent in the 170 weight class. “It was great, you know. I just went out there, didn’t wanna humiliate the kid too bad, and just got the work done,” Huffman said. Overall, the team finished a very close second with Glymph, Strack, Stepherson, and Peralta all placing first as well in their respective weight classes. Due to the COVID-19 protocols set in place by Georgia High School Associaion (GHSA), wrestlers who had come in close contact with someone who tested positive were not allowed to wrestle for another two weeks. As a result, many wrestlers could win through forfeits during the season due to COVID-19 outbreaks. “The season feels different this year. Teams drop out more in duels and tournaments, so you don’t really know who you might wrestle,” Strack said. Coach Tommy Carthers commented on the season’s differences. “The pandemic did not really make it any more difficult to train...However, it has impacted everything else. Scheduling is different because everything is constantly changing due to people and entire teams being placed on quarantine,” Coach Carthers said. “I am still very proud of this team. Their efforts, focus and discipline during this very different season have been extraordinary.”

Avant Stepherson (11) takes down his opponent at a home wrestling meet.

Referee declares Miller Huffman (12) the winner of his designated weight class. Photos by Josh Beyene

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Feature

The reality of COVID-19

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Editor-in-Chief, Savannah Hernandez, captured the daily lives of the Marietta community in a global pandemic.

Taryn Carthers (12) shows her school spirit with a Marietta-inspired mask, keeping herself protected from the virus.

CBS interviews Mr. Andrew Cole about virtual and hybrid teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through Zoom and in-person learning, students can actively be engaged in the interview.

Bella Peck (12) and Taryn Carthers (12) stand six feet apart, maintaining the recommended social distance.

Cole discusses his experience as a teacher new to Marietta navigating hybrid learning with CBS.

Peck and Carthers use different styles of masks to show their school spirit and Marietta pride.

Mr. Stephen Tilson addresses his virtual learning students on classroom assignments and expectations.

Students participate in daily student activities while being cautious in their environment, having an altered student lifestyle during the COVID-19 pandemic. A hybrid classroom, during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many empty seats and students learning virtually through Zoom.

Left, students attending school in person follow lessons on their computers along with their classmates learning at home. Right, a station at a local store in Marietta to help keep people safe from contaimination. At the station, there are free masks, hand sanitizer, and gloves.