Pitchfork, Issue 3, 2021-2022

PITCHFORK

THE

EST 1928

Marietta, Georgia

Marietta High School

Issue 3

@mhspitchfork

December 17, 2021

‘Tis the season of giving in our city Shae Mulkey Staff Writer The city of Marietta was just ranked the second most generous city in the U.S. by GoFundMe due to number of donations per capita. The city is full of supportive and helpful people all year, especially during the holiday season. Marietta offers many opportunities through organizations and programs in the city schools and in the community for families and friends to get involved.

At Thanksgiving, Y.O.U.T.H., STARS, and BSU kicked off the giving season with a canned food drive. Equality Now Intitative conducted a toy drive and Air Force JROTC collected food. The National Art Honor Society completed a sock and toiletry drive today, and Marietta Mentoring for Leaderships is collecting presents and items through Dec. 21 for MHS families in need.

The Marietta Student Life Center is a constant resource for students to recieve support, and it works with various organizations to support MHS students in every way possible. Even in advisement this week, students were encouraged to complete the simple act of writing letters of gratitude.

Other organizations in Marietta, including the Angel Tree program, Big Give, and Bridging the Gap offer additional ways to give back around the holidays and ensure everyone in the community has a memorable and joyful holiday season.

Continue to pg. 7 for “Giving”

McKaela Walker (11) runs for a touchdown attempt. She finished the season with 50 receptions for 586 yards and 10 touchdowns and led team with 44 carries for 306 yards and 8 touchdowns. Photo by Alyssia Hamilton

THE FUTURE OF FLAG FOOTBALL Marietta is state runner-up, only one team to beat Alyssia Hamilton Staff Writer In the second official GHSA season of girls’ flag football, the Blue Devils finished their second season by placing second in the region and second in the state. Almost 200 teams participated in Georgia this season, and only five states in the U.S. have state sanctioned teams.

“Making it to the State Championship Game in their second year is a historic accomplishment. The team is a point of pride for Marietta High School, and we are excited to see them try to win the state title next year. They just keep getting better and better,” Athletic Director Craig McKinney said.

Marietta High went undefeated for

their first nine games. Their final record was 17-3. Their only losses were to Hillgrove High, who is ranked first in the state and was the runner-up in last year’s championship game.

The girls dominated every other team they played, and many on the team attribute their domination to the team bond.

“I think our team meshes really well,” Harper Mangine (10) said. “Everyone was completely bought in to what Coach H said and everyone was 100 percent committed and did their best every time.”

Head Coach Nick Houstoulakis describes his team as a group of elite,

college-bound athletes who play in multiple sports.

“These film junkies are fun to be around because they bring it every day.

We haven’t needed to coach ‘effort’ because they’re truly motivated internally, which helps fuel them internally.”

Because of the success and the positive team environment, interest increased greatly from last year. Approximately 40 girls tried out, with 20 making the team.

Continue to pg. 12 for “Flag”

Speak Life campaign highlights mental health Kate Corr Staff Writer

Mental health is a sensitive topic and is often left out of the conversation. As a result, people feel isolated and alone on top of the issues they are already facing. The Speak Life campaign, which took place Oct. 25, 26, 27, 28, and 29, sought to bring awareness to these issues through a series of positive affirmation-themed activities.

“One of our biggest goals would be to start conversations around mental health, because we know that research shows that close to 60 percent of adolescents struggle with mental health issues,” Marie Papini, school counselor, said.

In opposition to these statistics, the campaign’s creators, Jacqueline Gutierrez (12) and Ashley Aguirre (12) opened a dialogue around the mental wellbeing of students.

“The thing I hoped to achieve is that everyone knows that we have amazing counselors

in the student life center we are able to talk to,” Gutierrez said. “I want every student to feel loved and supported.”

Stress and anxiety over school is a specific aspect of a student’s well being that is often overlooked in favor of focusing on grades and achievements. Due to students’ perceived isolation, it becomes easy to enter a negative spiral of falling self-esteem.

“Not a lot of people like to share their thoughts or feelings because they feel as if it is a bother or they’ll feel uneasy about talking openly about it,” Aguirre said. “I hope this can give them a sense of, ‘I care. she and he care and we care.’”

Studies show that educating students on mental health is very beneficial. When negative stigmas are removed from people’s minds, it creates a more positive and openminded space for others to share their struggles.

Continue to pg. 5 for “Speak Life”

Students were encouraged to leave kind messages on sticky notes for others to take with them. Photo by Kate Corr

Opinions

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Editorial: True representation goes beyond the media Representation accounts for the portrayal of all types of cultural identities and communities within places of visibility and power.

Our generation has lived, matured and prospered in a time where this buzzword, this idea of “representation,” has taken root and inhabited all of our lives. But why does it matter to Marietta High School students?

The topic of representation has largely centered around the media and pop culture. In recent years, Hollywood has seen a huge push for diversity in casting, writing and production, but more importantly, modern blockbusters emphasize diversity in thought and in storytelling.

“Black Panther,” Marvel Comics’ hit 2018 film, provided young Black audiences with not only a familiar face within a powerful superhero, but with a narrative of Black Power. More recently, Marvel revealed their newest hero, Shang-Chi, in “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.” This movie was largely received as a fantastic form of Asian representation within the franchise that had otherwise not

highlighted Chinese culture.

As a young generation, we must encourage and applaud narratives that demonstrate the complexity and nuances of the stories of underrepresented communities,

but if we do not follow this example in everyday life, we have not fully understood the task at hand.

Portraying diverse narratives and casting diverse actors in Hollywood does not solve

“Diversity within the media demonstrates to its broad audience the normalcy and expectation of diversity, equity and inclusion, but if we do not follow this example in everyday life, we have not fully understood the task at hand.” but we also must reflect on our priorities.

Representation must go beyond Hollywood.

Diversity within the media demonstrates to its broad audience the normalcy and expectation of diversity, equity and inclusion,

racism. It does not end discrimination and hate. We must fight for representation far beyond our laptops and Netflix accounts.

We must fight for representation in our classrooms, city councils and the White House.

True representation means not only to put people of every color, class and creed on our screens, but also to offer inspiration to the young audiences eager to feel familiar with a success story. Superheroes do not only exist on Disney+. They are our teachers, coaches and choir directors. They are the people who inspire us–who demonstrate success in a field we might one day excel in.

Every time an individual breaks the glass ceiling, they unlock new dreams for the next generation. When a Black woman is elected to serve as Vice President of the United States, a young Black woman sees her dreams as that much more in reach.

When a young girl sees Jojo Siwa compete alongside a woman for the mirrorball trophy on “Dancing with the Stars,” a young dancer sets her new goal, a young person struggling with their sexuality feels that much more seen.

Representation means hope. It means understanding. It means acceptance.

Who is an inspiring artist that represents your community?

Ti’Ana Dowdwell (9)

Joshua Diaz (11)

“ I like SZA’s music, vibe, and the many things she has accomplished as a singer and songwriter.”

I think Joji’s music is very versatile and has brought a lot of attention to the Asian community as well as other Asian-American artists.”

Eric Suster (10)

Mary MacPherson (12)

“Marc Anthony is a good example of someone from Puerto Rico who exerts great energy. He is an inspiration to many.”

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

“I love Kasey Musgraves because she is a woman who is very expressive in her music about some tough experiences she has been through.”

CONGRATULATIONS to this issue’s winner, Nick Common (10)

Opinions

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Pitchfork is published by journalism students at Marietta High. 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. Letters to the editor should be brought to room J208 or emailed to the staff: pitchfork@marietta-city. k12. ga.us

Editor-in-Chief

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Next time you shop, buy LOCAL Julia DePasquale Assistant Editor Walking into my local coffee shop, I smile at the woman behind the counter. She asks me about my day and what I’d like as I pull out my punch card, indicating that it is time for a free coffee. As I order my regular, a quite basic large iced vanilla latte with skim milk, I smell the delicious roasting coffee and hear the soft conversation of people working away at their computers. As I grab my latte and sit down, I feel happy and connected to my community. This is a much different experience than heading through the Starbucks drive thru right down the street. There, it’s two minutes, $5, and leave. Is a pumpkin chai latte really worth that?

Alexandra Audrain

Assistant Editor Julia DePasquale

Hallmark movies: consistent, not corny Quadriyah Willams Staff Writter

Section Editors Ella Chesney Nina Clark Isabelle Lovejoy Lillian Salter

Managers

Wes Harrison Icy McFall Shae Mulkey Etinosa Ogbomo Kate Williamson

Staff Writers

Dylan Buehner Zaria Byers Ashley Caldwell Ada Chesney Kate Corr Alyssia Hamilton Zachary Harrison Kaia Kirkpatrick Lily Konigsmark Maelyn Moore Alafair Persons Cooper Shaw Quadriyah Williams

Adviser

Andrea Lyons

Mission Statement:

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

However, this isn’t just because I’m definitely biased towards my local coffee shop. Instead, this is about the importance of supporting small businesses. As small businesses begin to open once again to their full capacity and many are short-staffed, it is important to support small businesses as they add so much to our neighborhoods. They add a sense of community that is hard to find anywhere else. Additionally, they provide local jobs that are fruitful and fulfilling to members of the community. For the consumer, small businesses provide unique products that are more likely to be ethically made than those of larger corporations. A small business’ main goal is to cater to the community that they inhabit, therefore the experience of dining or shopping at one is more enjoyable as small businesses hand pick products for their local community. By shopping at small businesses, not only are you helping to stimulate the local economy, but additionally reaping the benefits.

Remember this next time you need an outfit for the senior assembly or are headed out for a cup of coffee and a place to study. Buy local.

As the holiday season approaches, this time can be hectic and unpredictable. Especially with all the present shopping, finals, travelling or even the annual family conflicts.

One of the best pastimes to get through the stress of the holiday season is the beauty of a classic Christmas Hallmark movie.

Now, before there’s any opposition, I want you to imagine coming into your house from the cold crisp air. You sit down and there’s the smell of peppermint, the warmth of the crackling fireplace and the comfort of a dozen gingerbread cookies. You pick up the remote and turn on a Christmas Hallmark movie. All your worries float away and all that’s left is pure bliss. Hallmark movies are generally presented with a character on their way to

find love or the reunification of family during the holidays. This constant plot helps the audience feel safe and comforted as they watch each holiday season. Some may find ‘Hallmark’ movie’s use of this as predictable or corny, but that’s what makes them so special. No matter how cheesy they may seem, they are involved in the recipe for the perfect Christmas movie, filled with happy endings, love and family. These are arguably the best types of feel-good movies, creating you feel warm and fuzzy inside with every moment.

Every year, the competition of who will produce the best Christmas movie is debated. Hallmark always prevails. They are easy to watch and perfect for producing holiday spirit for all. One of my personal favorites of Hallmark movies is the director’s ability to romanticize everything. These movies see the beauty in the little things, allowing you to focus on what brings you happiness within your own life.

The pure serotonin that comes from the Hallmark movies will give you the ultimate Holiday Season this year. So create a new family tradition this Christmas and turn on a Hallmark.

CAPRICORN SEASON HOROSCOPES Lily Konigsmark Staff Writer

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Capricorn

Aquarius

Start building the framework for the career path of your dreams. Gather as much patience as you can and resist the temptation to take shortcuts. Capricorn season encourages you to be more meticulous in your pursuit of accomplishment, to trust the process, and to strive toward your objectives at a slower but steady pace.

Love is on your mind, and you’re treating relationships more seriously. You might be more interested in taking things to the next level if you’re having a casual flirtation. However, if you have troubles in your relationships, they will likely shine out more than usual right now. You’re now setting a higher bar for yourself in terms of romance, so be sure that whoever you choose can live up to it.

You’re sentimental and emotional, so a little rest and relaxation can help you feel better. To help lift your emotions, spend more time at home nesting – it’s a fantastic opportunity to exercise your artistic side by renovating your room or gathering a few close friends from your quarantine pod for an ultra-chill movie night.

Capricorn, have a wonderful birthday season! This month, you’re seeing yourself in a new light and gaining confidence in your ability to contribute something new to the table. It’s not just beneficial for your spirit to let your guard down and be more real; it’ll also help to inspire others to do the same.

Test your limitations and venture outside your comfort zone. If you’ve been considering going to a distant location or upgrading your education, Capricorn season is the perfect time to start making plans. This month, try looking at things from a different angle or saying yes to a new experience and see where it leads you.

If you’re trying to break old habits, start a new wellness routine, or reorganize your calendar, Leo, now is an excellent moment to do so. The Capricorn season enlightens your sense of discipline, motivating you to make your daily life more ordered and manageable in the long run. You’ll notice that by adopting a few tiny health-conscious changes to your daily routine, all aspects of your life will begin to function more smoothly.

Capricorn season is illuminating your social life, so expect your inboxes to be flooded with requests to connect. However, you may be strapped for time between work, the holidays, and your social life, so this is a perfect opportunity to practice being more present with your surroundings.

Take your time and pay attention to the people, places, and things in front of you.

It’s not because you’re sluggish that life feels like a sleepy, dreamy haze this month. Simply put, you’re reconnecting with your spiritual side. Untangling knots in your subconscious will make you feel much lighter in the future. To center yourself during this moment of mystical growth, spend time dream journaling, meditating, or working with crystals.

Take responsibility for your obligations to others, which includes paying off debts, keeping commitments, and rethinking your financial, romantic, and time boundaries. The Capricorn season is teaching you how to be more dependable.

Be ready for a happy and amorous month ahead. You’re flirtatious, inventive, and bubbling with enthusiasm for everything that makes you happy. While you usually strive to keep your emotions grounded and sensible, you’re currently dealing with things of the heart, and love isn’t always rational. Instead of expressing yourself with a childlike sense of playfulness, try letting go of your urge to make meaning of things.

Sagittarius

After a brilliant birthday month and a hectic holiday season, Sagittarius, it’s time to take control of your finances. Use the motivational energy of the Capricorn season to create a budget, a savings strategy, and some financial goals for the coming year.

You don’t need to spend a lot of money to have worthwhile experiences; instead, try to focus on finding enjoyment in things that don’t cost anything.

Pisces

This is an excellent month to get more active in issues that are important to your heart. Your emotional depth and great sense of empathy are certainly well known to those close to you, but have you shared these gifts with the rest of the world?

Doing some community organizing or volunteering could provide you with a lot of value while also making a great difference for others.

News

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Global human rights crises, explained Cooper Shaw Staff Writer

Crimea,

Khartoum Sudan has had a history plagued with civil war and terrorism since its independance from the U.K. in 1956. The departure of foreign rule resulted in a country without a strong central government. Two major groups rose to fill this void – Muslims in the north and Christians in the south. The two engaged in various wars until 2011, when the world’s newest country, South Sudan, seceded from its union with its northern counterpart.

Since 1958, the region has experienced no fewer than 36 coup attempts, the most recent (prior to the ongoing coups) having been a military coup overthrowing former president Omar al-Bashir, according to the Center for Systemic Peace.

The newest development in Sudan’s existence, beginning in October of this year, is the overthrow of its government by the Sudanese military, led by General Abdel Fattah Burhan.

Burhan claims “political infighting” as his reason for overthrowing al-Bashir’s civilian government. This coup, backed by the threat of military violence, is highly unpopular. Hundreds of thousands of protestors have taken to the streets, being forced to communicate protest dates through graffiti and SMS due to a near total shutdown of internet access across Sudan.

Casualties have been rising as protesters clash with the Sudanese military, with at least 23 civilian deaths since Oct. 25 and hundreds being wounded by live military ammunition, despite the military claiming to use “minimal force”.

The conflict is in its early days, and it remains to be seen whether the Sudanese people will be able to end military rule and replace it with a democratically led government.

Crimea For the past seven years, Russia and Ukraine have been engaged in conflict over the Ukrainian territories of Donbas and Crimea. Both regions are strong strategic locations, the ownership of which would allow a country access to a large amount of natural resources. Donbas is rich in coal and Crimea is surrounded by the Black Sea in three cardinal directions, providing easy access to Turkey, Bulgaria, and Romania.

Additionally, Ukraine generates $3 billion a year on fees paid by Russia to transport its natural gas into Europe. If Russia annexed the entirety of Ukraine, it could save money on these fees.

The longtime President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, considers Ukraine to be a “Little Russia” and has his sights set on the remainder of the country after he conquers its eastern provinces.

Russian occupation of Ukraine began in 2014 after the Russian Federation’s formal annexation of Crimea. The conflict, referred to as the Russo-Ukrainian War, has resulted in upwards of 13,000 casualties and has seen around 1.5 million Ukrainians forced away from their homes for the sake of avoiding the danger of an active war zone.

Various nations and organizations, including the EU, NATO and the U.S. Department of Defense, are against Russia’s military presence in Ukrainian territory and have thus taken economic action against Russian companies, raising international tensions in the process. Russia, facing the threat of international intervention, has taken careful military action in Ukraine, sending contract militants into Ukraine in support of the insurgency of its government under the guise of “volunteers,” rather than Russian soldiers.

Xinjiang The Western province of Xinjiang bears more similarity to the bordering countries of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan than to the portion of the country on the Eastern side of the Tenghchong line, because its citizens are mostly Muslim and speak Uyghur. Many citizens of Xinjiang even consider their region to be “East Turkestan”; a nation that existed in the region from 1944-1949.

This fact is problematic for the Communist Party of China, the nation’s ruling body, who wish to maintain control over the region.

In order to ensure that Xinjiang remains part of China, the CCP has gone to extreme lengths to destroy Uyghur culture and force Chinese culture onto the region and its populace. China has attacked the Uyghur language by banning Arabic script and thus making Uyghurs effectively illiterate. Churches and Mosques are destroyed and ethnic Hans are placed in Xinjiang by the government in order to reduce the concentration of the ‘non-ideal’ Chinese citizen in China.

The worst human rights violations take place in the so-called ‘re-education camps”. This is the CCP name for modern day concentration camps.

Uyghurs in Xinjiang are under constant surveillance by the CCP.

If you pray, have a beard, utilize a VPN, or even just own a tent, among other things, you can be eligible for forced detainment in a re-education camp.

In these camps, detainees are fed as little as 500 calories a day: a meal consisting of “soupy goo,” and a steamed bun each morning.

According to survivors of re-education camps, guards urinate on and sexually abuse prisoners who are forced to pray to Chinese President Xi Jinping instead of the God of their religion.

The fate of a re-education camp detainee is more cruel than that ofan execution. They steal the blood and harvest the organs of living prisoners, selling them on a made-to-order basis. Those who are ‘lucky’ enough to avoid having their organs harvested are still at risk of being starved and overworked through forced labor to the point of death. Investigation of satellite imagery displays a trend of crematoriums in close proximity to suspected internment camps. The death toll is unknown, but even the most conservative estimates place the death toll at a minimum of one million individuals.

School News

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page 5

continued from pg. 1 "Speak Life" The Speak Life Campaign puts an emphasis on improving mental health, alongside the prevention of suicide.

“We just want to promote and create space here at the school for students to feel safe in going to see someone if they are struggling,” Papini said.

During the campaign, students were encouraged to participate in activities throughout the week, such as accepting and giving kind messages, being handed out symbolic ribbons, and receiving donuts and mints with the message, 'Donut give up, you are mint to be here.' All of these activities were meant to raise awareness and convey the message that all students are supported.

“I definitely wish this was something that I had growing up to remind me during the dark times that I'm cared about,” Aguirre said.

Office hours for the counseling office are from 7:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can make an appointment on the Marietta Counseling website or just visit the Student Life Center down in C hall by the cafeteria.

"This week is an appreciation of life and we’re all glad you’re still here and continuing to fight your fight. You are never alone."

- Ashley Aguirre (12)

Ms. Espinoza and Mr. Prather pass out donuts and mints as students enter the rotunda with the message, 'Donut give up, you are mint to be here.'

is a Proud Supporter of the

Ariel Robinson (11) takes a kind message from the cafeteria wall. Students were encouraged to leave a message, then take one.

In Mr. Barwood's advisement classroom, students watch educational videos on mental health.

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Features

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Marietta Student Holiday Traditions Sidney Surber (9) My family and I always watch the movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” on Christmas Eve.

Brooke Kelly (10) I go to my cousin’s house and we eat dinner before going to North Carolina.

Sydney Poor (10) My family goes to a cabin in Vail and we go skiing. I want to try Black Diamond this year.

Andrew Smith IV (11) During the Holiday, my family and I have a Bible study dedicated to Jesus. After all, He is the reason for the season. May God bless all this Holiday.

Lazarus Morales (11) To this day, the Guyanese Pepper Pot is made and served around the Christmas season.

To me, Pepper Pot is simply a family dish shared during the Holidays.

Jake Bernardo (12) Every year my family goes to Lights of Life on Christmas, and then we go to our reservation at Café Intermezzo for delicious chocolate cake.

Brooke Grant (12) Every Christmas, my grandparents give us pajamas on Christmas Eve so that we can wake up in our new PJs.

Graphics by Kate Williamson

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Pitchfork Interactive Games Complete the games below and turn in to Mrs. Lyons in J-208 for the chance to win a Zaxby’s gift card.

Community

@mhspitchfork Continued from pg. 1 for "Giving"

page 7

SALVATION ARMY ANGEL TREE Since 1865, the Salvation Army provides care and improves lives of citizens in over 131 countries. Every year, around 30 million Americans are assisted. The 1.8 million people who work with the organization are the lives that make the Salvation Army a safe and memorable home to many.

The organization helps to support people or families of low income or below the poverty line with open homeless shelters and resources to battle addictions and mental health. The organization helps local cities and has worldwide reach with disaster relief and with victims of domestic abuse and human trafficking.

The Salvation Army targets their efforts to be open to everyone and anyone all year around, even during the holidays.

The Salvation Army offers many services and programs during Christmas.

They help families of low income pay for bills, provide homeless shelters, and offer a program known as the Angel Tree.

The Angel Tree gifts children from low income families clothes, toys, shoes, etc.

People from around the community help

purchase these items and then donate and deliver them to the Salvation Army. From there, the Salvation Army gifts the items to the children.

Pitchfork staff members and their families donated toys, clothes, and shoes to two young children as part of the Angel Tree program.

“I bought a coat and dress for our angel child because the holidays are a joyful time and everyone should be able to enjoy them, regardless of their financial position,” Zaria Byers (10) said.

Marietta High Student Council was also involved with the Angel Tree program this year. Each grade level student council has an Angel Child who they purchased necessities and toys for to celebrate the holidays.

“The student council decided to participate in the Angel Tree Program because we wanted to do something unique that would impact members of our community. The Angel Tree program allowed us to get together and spread holiday spirit with those less fortunate than us,” Eden Gbolade (12) said.

Graphic by Kate Williamson

BRIDGING THE GAP Bridging the Gap, a group formed by Marietta High alumni, organized their second annual toy drive to bring the community together. They hosted and sponsored thirty individual kids and eight families.

The organization was formed two years ago by Elizabeth Garnes, Taylor Colbert, Sydney Le, Jordan Rollo, George Krivsky and Tre'von Burkhead. Their Instagram page states the purpose of the community organization: to bring the comminity together by bridging gaps of understanding and breaking down walls that were built to keep us apart.

“I was inspired to have the toy drive for our community after the events that transpired over the summer of 2020. We felt like the community needed a boost and I really wanted to do something to help spread some holiday cheer and assist some families with presents who were in need,” Colbert, current Howard University student, said.

Colbert and Garnes, a senior at Xavier, will come home for the holidays to join the other founders this weekend to distribute the toys to the families.

THE BIG GIVE For the past six years a giving tradition has grown to help more than twenty families. Marietta City parents successfully hosted their annual program called the Big Give again.

Kerry Carter created this opportunity for the community to help six years ago, and Casey Burke helps her with organization and execution. They work with the school system to find families in need, create a sign-up for others to shop for those needs, and collect and deliver the items in time for the holidays.

“I saw a need in the community and I knew with the support of my incredible friends we could make it happen. When I brought it up to my girlfriends there was never a hesitation or a question. It

just became the thing we did every year,” Carter said. “I want every kid to have the freedom and the ability to escape whatever is troubling them for a few minutes.”

Burke’s main inspiration for helping out every year is the energy and positivity from the community and friends that help out.

“Every year when we share the list of needs, my inbox is flooded with notifications of people signing up," Burke said.

"Kindness begets kindness and we are humbled every year by the amount of kindness shown to those in our community that are struggling."

Over 60 individuals recieved gifts of needs and wants due to the generosity of this community.

After collecting toys from volunteers who shop for items on the sign up list, the Big Give presents are organized by family and distributed to schools. Toys, clothes, bedding, bikes and more pile up and get distributed to all members of the families in time for Christmas.

Alumni Tre'von Burkhead, Jordan Rollo, Sydney Le and George Krivsky collected toys at Turner Chapel AME for Marietta families this week.

MARIETTA SQUARE WINTER

WONDERLAND FESTIVAL OF TREES Marietta Square has an annual Festival of Trees in which all Marietta City Schools decorate a tree. One of the awards given is for the 'Most Impactful' tree. West Side Elementary won by honoring the Marietta City Fire Department.

Marietta High’s tree is dedicated to spreading positivity and delivers positive content and actions for the month of December through an Instagram page @spreadmerryettasunshine.

Entertainment

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Adele, Taylor Swift dominate charts with new albums Alexandra Audrain Editor-in-Chief

Alexandra Audrain Editor-in-Chief Reality Check dives deep into the world of modern reality television. Following franchises including Bachelor Nation, “Big Brother,” “Survivor,” and “Love Island,” the articles will explore the controversies, catastrophes, triumphs and tribulations associated with the fame, love and glory found on reality television.

“Selling Sunset” Netflix’s hit reality series “Selling Sunset” has returned for its fourth season, and the drama is better than ever. The series follows a top real estate brokerage in West Hollywood: The Oppenheim Group.

The show follows President Jason Oppenheim and the other agents, namely Christine Quinn, Chrishelle Stause, and Heather Rae El Moussa, recently married to “Flip or Flop” star Tarek El Moussa, as they buy and sell multi-million dollar properties throughout Southern California, but what brings viewers back to the unscripted series is the drama between the agents.

“Selling Sunset” Season 4 opens months after Quinn’s extravagant wedding, and follows the welcoming of new agent and former Mexican Soap Opera star Vannessa Villela, a safari themed baby shower featuring an actual sloth, and the continued turf war between Quinn, Stause, and the O Group’s top selling agent, Mary Fitzgerald.

Catch up on all the drama from the past four seasons on Netflix, streaming now. Looking for more? Stay tuned for two new series: “Selling Tampa,” premiering on Netflix on Dec. 15, and “Selling the OC,” an Orange County spinoff led by Oppenheim, premiering in 2022.

“Siwa’s Dance Pop Revolution” JoJo Siwa, former “Dance Moms” star and current “Dancing With the Stars” contestant, announced her new show “Siwa’s Dance Pop Revolution,” a competition series airing on Peacock featuring young girls vying for a role in the new pop group XOMG POP!, managed by Siwa’s mother, Jessalyn.

“Eleven tweens will participate in a series of performances and challenges, while JoJo serves as choreographer and mentor. As part of the grand prize, the newly crowned pop group will serve as an opening act for JoJo,” Peacock said in a statement along with its official trailer for the show.

The eight episode miniseries has offered all of the drama and talent expected of it since its premiere on Nov. 4. Catch up on “Siwa’s Dance Pop Revolution” exclusively on Peacock.

30 In her fourth album, “30”, Adele paints a poetic cross section of a broken heart. She wrote the new record, her first since the hit “25” in 2015, as a letter to her son about her divorce from his father, Simon Konecki.

“I just felt like I wanted to explain to him, through this record, when he’s in his twenties or thirties, who I am and why I voluntarily chose to dismantle his entire life in the pursuit of my own happiness,” she said to British Vogue.

“30” is Adele’s best work of storytelling.

While lacking powerhouse anthems à la “Rumour Has It” or “Someone Like You,” the new album displays a cohesive narrative like listeners have never seen from the 15-time

Red (Taylor’s Version)

Grammy Award-winning artist.

The album opens as Adele sings, “I’ll be taking flowers to the cemetery of my heart.” Like flipping through a photo album, Adele takes her listeners on a journey through her grief, at times utilizing actual recordings of conversations between herself, her son, or her therapist.

The second song on the album, “Easy on Me,” has taken the pop charts by storm. Released as a single on Oct. 15, the hit broke the Spotify all-time record for most streamed song in a day. The track became her fifth No. 1 single on the Hot 100. Stream Adele’s “30” now on all platforms.

Taylor Swift transports her listeners back to 2012 with the re-recording of her fourth album: “Red (Taylor’s Version).” Swift released the highly anticipated album on Nov. 12, featuring the 21 original tracks from the 2012 record, along with nine tracks From The Vault (songs written in the original era, but never released), continuing her efforts to reproduce her six albums recorded under contract with Scooter Braun.

From the exciting unknown of the beginning of a relationship told in “State of Grace,” to the angry break up anthems “We Are Never Getting Back Together” and the grieving reflections of a lost love “Sad Beautiful Tragic,” Swift provides her audience with a soundtrack to all five stages of grieving a broken heart.

Arguably the most highly anticipated track of the album was “All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version).” Parentheticals and all, the original rendition of one of her most popular songs Swift teased nearly a decade ago exceeded audience expectations.

Accompanied by “All Too Well: The Short Film” starring Sadie Sink and Dylan O’ Brien, Swift visually and lyrically illustrates the rise and fall of her first love story. “All Too Well” has since become the longest No. 1 song on the Hot 100 at 10 minutes and 13 seconds long.

Stream Swift’s tenth album to debut at No. 1 on the Hot 100: “Red (Taylor’s Version)” now on all streaming platforms.

First same-sex couple finishes second on “Dancing With the Stars” Alafair Persons Staff Writer “Dancing with the Stars” is a popular reality TV show on ABC. This show centers around celebrities learning how to ballroom dance. Each contestant is given a professional ballroom dancer as their partner and teacher. They learn routines and compete against other celebrities.

The show just aired Season 30, and the popular Youtuber and “Dance Moms” star, Jojo Siwa, was chosen amongst others to be a competitor. In Jan. 2021, Siwa came out as part of the LGBTQ+ to the public.

“I still don’t know [how I identify]. ... I always just say gay because it just kind of covers it or queer because I think the keyword is cool,” Siwa said in an interview with “People.”

This season on “Dancing With the Stars,” Siwa is doing something unique to any previous competitor having a

same sex partner for competiton. The fans’ reactions have been extremely positive.

“I have watched every single one of Jojo Siwa’s performances on this season of Dancing with the Stars, because it makes me so happy to see LGBTQ+ representation in dance,” Mary White (12), a dancer for Marietta High, said.

Siwa’s partner, Jenna Johnson, is an accomplished Latin and Ballroom dancer and choreographer. She’s been a dancer on “Dancing with the Stars” since Season 18 and won with partner Adam Rippen in Season 26. Johnson and Siwa have done well in the competition, with a 2 week streak of perfect scores and they continued to rank number one alongside their competitors Shumpert and Karagach throughout the majority of the competition. Their success in the show has brought a lot of positive attention and representation to the LGBTQ+ community.

“I’m really glad that we’re getting casual queer representation in the media because it normalizes being queer without it being everything about a person.

People can just turn on their TV and see it without it being a huge deal or a ‘pride special.’ It’s just normal,” Gracie Grainger (11) said.

Siwa and Jenna had enormous amounts of success throughout the competition. With multiple perfect scores, and overall being favored throughout the competition, Jenna and Jojo placed second in the season 30 finale.

Their partnership made history and broke barriers not just on the show, but in the mainstream media. Siwa, already a huge role model to younger generations with her large following on Tiktok and Youtube, has continued using her platform to spread joy and inspire confidence in who you are. This representation only inspires others to do the same, and has helped break harmful gender roles in the media.

Entertainment

@mhspitchfork

page 9

Pitchfork's books and podcasts recommendations Maelyn Moore Staff Writer

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

The Invisible Life of Addie Larue

The Midnight Library

Normal People

"Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" is a coming of age book about two boys who become best friends and their struggle with self identity.

Aristotle, "Ari," grapples with his inability to be close and vulnerable with his family

An eccentric novel about all the possibilities life has to offer. The story is about a young woman named Nora Seed and her struggle with her ordinary life. She does not feel accepted and feels as if she has let everyone down.

When it seems all hope is lost for Nora, she enters

and friends. When Dante, his best friend, starts to develop feelings for Ari, he claims he does not feel the same. But when Ari starts to discover how he really feels, he fully embraces it and realizes that the secrets of the universe can be found in himself.

what is called the Midnight Library. Here, she can live out the infinite possibilities of her life and see the infinite versions of herself. She is faced with a choice- will she sacrifice her ordinary life to live out a seemingly extraordinary other? What is really the best way to live?

"The Invisible Life of Addie Larue" is about how choices we make can put us in bad situations, but what is important is how we make the most of the situations we are in. Addie Larue, is forced to marry a local man in her town. In a last minute desperate attempt to escape her life,

she makes a deal with the darkness. She wishes for a life of freedom and to escape the responsibilities of the world.

However, she is tricked, and is now cursed to live an eternity on earth where no one remembers her and she can never speak her name.

"Normal People" is a contemporary novel that follows the lives of the two main characters, Connell and Marianne. The reader gets to see inside the head of both characters, and how they struggle to get through life normally. They have both

The Daily Boost

Untangle

How to be a Better Human

Anything Goes

A short and sweet motivational podcast to start out your day.

This podcast is perfect for anyone looking for a good change.

Hosted by Scott Smith, it helps with personal development and gives tips to stay motivated.

Chris Duffy engages in conversions every week with guest speakers on topics that help you become the best version of yourself. This podcast offers new ways to better yourself and those around you. Self-reflecting is so important and this podcast creates a safe space to do just that.

impacted each others lives while they were together, as well as while they were apart. The story teaches the reader an important lesson that people teach you lessons that will stick with you for the rest of your life, even if that person does not.

Real people share their stories about the importance of self reflection and meditation. Untangle gives their audience a chance to take a break and find little moments of peace throughout their busy day. And let’s be honest, everyone wants a moment of peace.

Every episode is different with Emma, but her relatability is unwavering. Emma touches on every topic, from dealing with relationships to coping with failure. Strap in for a joy-ride, because with Emma Chamberlain, anything goes.

Student philanthropist sends books to Africa Alafair Persons Staff Writer Darby Dryden (11) has collected over 11,000 books for kids in underdeveloped areas of Africa through the organization Books for Africa.

“A couple of years ago, I learned about Books for Africa and volunteered at their warehouse. I knew I wanted to do more to help so I started collecting books for the organization,” Dryden said.

It is a non-profit organization that provides used books to rural schools and adult literacy programs to help end the cycle of poverty in the communities of Africa.

“Most African children who attend school have never owned a book of their own. In many classrooms, 10 to 20 students share one textbook,” Dryden said.

Books for Africa's mission is to solve this problem of book famine by collecting unused books for the underdeveloped areas in Africa. Due to learning and working for this organization, Dryden decided to make this the focus of her MYP personal project.

“I set out to collect 3,200 books to represent a fraction of the 3.2 million books that end up in landfills each year,” Dryden said.

She not only succeeded, but excelled. With the help of the community and the promotion of her project on The Marietta Daily Journal and The Brightside, she was able to get a surplus of donations.

“To date, I have collected 11,239 books." Dryden said.

Due to COVID-19, Dryden had to get creative with the promotion of her project.

“I set up an email for book collections and promoted it through social media and in the newspaper articles.

When people emailed me, I coordinated a day and time to pick up the books,” Dryden said.

With the help of these online resources and promotions, the donations began to roll in.

“When people emailed me, I coordinated a day and time to pick up the books. I stored the books in my garage, where my family and I counted the donations and set aside the books that Books for Africa did not want,” Dryden said.

From there, Books for Africa took over. They handle dthe shipping and distribution process of the donated books.

In recognition of her hard work, Dryden was honored with the local Prudential Spirit of Community Award and was also awarded the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

This year, Dryden is aiming to expand her cause even more. She wants to collect more books for donation, but Dryden has even bigger plans in mind.

“I am working to form a club at MHS to raise money and awareness for Books for Africa to help end Africa’s book famine,” Dryden said.

Donations are always welcome to students with extra books.

“Books for Africa wants children’s books, textbooks, dictionaries, reference books as well as fiction and nonfiction. If you have any books to donate contact me at darbys_collection@yahoo.com or dm me at @darbydryden [on Instagram],” Dryden said.

So take a look around the house for any extra books to donate. If you have books to donate or want to get involved, contact Dryden.

Darby Dryden collected 11,239 books to donate to Books for Africa. Photo by Alifair Persons

Photo Illustration by Kate Williamson

School News

@mhspitchfork

page 10

Marietta's Mom-and-Pop study spots Icy McFall Staff Writer

Starbucks is wonderful, especially at 8 a.m. when you are halfway awake and still recovering from last night’s all-nighter. Dunkin is equally as gratifying… on a good day. These franchises are certainly a part of our collective academic success; however, times are changing. Trade in your venti cold brew for a locally sourced cup of joe that simultaneously patronizes small businesses. Here is a list of five local coffee shops that not only prioritize quality, but also offer an aesthetically pleasing environment to conquer your writer’s block.

Douceur de France As much as many of us might want to hop on a plane to France and stuff our faces with french pastries, hopping on a plane to France isn’t exactly a feasible desire; to counter that unfortunate truth, stuffing your face with French pastries certainly is! Douceur de France not only houses authentic French goodies, but also has seating perfect for sitting down and powering through work.

Sessions Stand

Cool Beans

The Daily Grind

With open outdoor patio seating, Sessions Stand is an ideal study spot for a pretty day. The cafe and bakery is tucked away in a small scenic neighborhood, right off the Marietta Square.

Their pastries are baked daily and they have partnered with Rev coffee to ensure a high quality cup. Sessions Stand is a short walk from Louis Park– an ideal spot for a brain break.

“Sessions Stand is a great place to walk to and get good coffee. It's never busy like the places on the square,” Ryan Chesnutt (12) said.

If you haven't heard a peer or two mention something about the “starry night room,” then you probably aren't familiar with Cool Beans. If you are though, you'll know this popular study spot located on the Marietta Square is a rather cozy and atmospheric place to finish those pesky EE’s or complete any work you may have on your to-do-list.

“Cool Beans is my favorite place to study. They have quiet indoor and outdoor seating, free WiFi and good coffee.” Ethan Cook (11) said.

The Daily Grind not only provides a quiet place to work, but also has teamed up with the teacher's lunchbox to support local teachers. Similar to Marietta Perks, The Daily Grind offers a conference room that can be reserved online.

If you’re one to snack while you work, the Daily grind offers a substantial menu with a variety of options for varying appetites.

Marietta Perks Marietta perks, located only 0.6 miles from Marietta High (about a two minute drive minus traffic), is an ambient spot to boost your productivity. You can reserve a private room in the back for an isolated study session or make yourself comfy in the main area. It is evident why students favor this location.

“I practically live at [Marietta] Perks," Virginia Morris (12) said. "I do my homework there almost every night.”

Tuesday Coffee + Shoppe After opening on Oct. 12, Tuesday Coffee + Shoppe is the newest addition to Marietta's cafes. The initial goal was to create a cozy and inviting envi- ronment, and it's safe to say this goal was acheived. If you haven't already visited this cafe, here is your sign to give it a try and add it to your list of go-to coffee shops.

Graphic by Icy Mcfall and Kate Williamson

Beloved coffee cart back in service Kaia Kirkpatrick Staff Writer Coffee cart is an approximately 20 year old tradition at Marietta High.

Coffee cart makes its way around the halls offering staff and students the vast selection of tasty drink options such as hot chocolate, coffee, and cappuccinos.

After the first block of school begins, students can sign up for the delicious coffee cart items. Coffee cart is run by the Marietta High School Special Education Department. This tradition serves as an opportunity for Special Education students to earn on the job training and skills such as patience, organization, customer service, and communication.

With the sudden halt of school during COVID-19, the coffee cart had to take a pause as well. When students came back to the classrooms last year, coffee cart was unfortunately still out of business due to COVID-19 safety protocols.

It has been almost two school years since the coffee cart has been able to bring morning joy to staff and students, and almost two years of our Special Education students missing out on making connections with others.

“For one thing they (the students) just missed the interaction” Ms. Cape, a special education teacher, said.

Students were no longer able to talk to students or teachers to practice the skills gained from coffee cart. For students who have been purchasing from coffee cart in previous years, it holds a special place in their hearts.

“Coffee cart is special to me mainly because the special education department runs it and that's a community I’ve worked with my entire life” said Sanders.

As normalcy slowly approaches, the coffee cart has re-opened this semester.

With the revival of coffee cart this year, a new class of students in special education services are having fun as entrepreneurs working on the cart.

“It was so exciting for us. It was a little scary at first for some of the students that have never done it before,” Cape said.

Although some students were nervous to start working on coffee cart, they are now comfortably working with their peers.

“Everyone is really enjoying it,” Cape said.

Coffee cart was started as a way to model a coffee shop. Students get the opportunity to work with one another as well as students outside of the special education population. The money funded by the coffee cart is used as funding for new supplies for the cart.

“If there is more money left over it goes straight back to the students,” Cape said.

The money that goes back to students is used to support them. For example, using the money to buy prom dresses or yearbooks for students who can’t buy these materials alone.

Even though the coffee cart is a tradition here at Marietta High, some are unaware of the coffee cart and its significance.

“When I found out that coffee cart was a thing I was super excited. I am a big fan of coffee” Natalie Baughan (10) said.

Luckily with the successful return of the coffee cart all students are now able to enjoy the delectable treats while supporting their peers in the special education program.

Graphic by Kate Williamson

Student Jordy Cordova in coffee cart gives Coach Ricketts creamer and sugar. Photo by Kaia Kirkpatrick

@mhspitchfork

Sports

page 11

Memory of Lemon Street hits the court Wesley Harrison Website Manager The Lemon Street Classic presented by Superior Plumbing is a boy’s high school basketball tournament that will be competing for its second year in the coming weeks. There will be 24 teams from the southeast, including Alexander, Blythewood, Cass, and many others, playing in three brackets with eight teams in each.

Each team in the competition is guaranteed three games.

Lemon Street High School was the only school for black people in Cobb County prior to the integration of schools in 1965.

The school had many extracurricular activities ranging from a glee club to a state champion football team. The school life insisted on hard work, persistence, and instilled a feeling of pride within many of the alumni from the school.

The Classic was created as a high school competition, chosen to be dedicated to the legacy of Lemon Street High.

In Dec. 2018, the Marietta High School Basketball team chose to schedule a game against Cherokee High School to honor Lemon Street High. This inspired the coaches to create the Classic.

Lena Bennett-Smith, a Lemon Street High and Marietta High Alumni, spoke with the Lemon Street High players be-

fore their first match in 2020. Lena Bennett-Smith was one of the first players on the MHS girls’ basketball team in 1967.

Her contributions to the team inspired signifigant changes in the play style for Marietta High.

“Our mission as a program was to unite and inspire the community through the game of basketball,” Coach Nicholas Estes said.

The Classic gives players a chance to be seen by college scouts. Last year, many scouts from D2 colleges and other divisions below made appearances. This competition gives players a chance to be seen playing, which can open up pathways for scholarships and playing opportunities.

“We are excited about having everyone attending this event. This event has grown in the last two years and we look forward to continue with the success, thanks in large part to the support of our community partners and teams who have attended in the past,” the Lemon Street Classic Team said.

The Classic will take place on Dec. 18, 20, and 21. All the games will be livestreamed at SUVtv. There will be twelve games played in the auxiliary gym and performance gym at Marietta High School each day. More information can be found at lemonstreetclassic.com.

The Discovery High School Titans walked away as the champions of the first Lemon Street Classic. Photo courtesy of Chrystal Moore

Graphic by Wesley Harrison

Esports: from after-school activity to Varsity Dylan Buehner Staff Writer Electronic Sports, otherwise known as Esports, are a relatively new form of entertainment. Esports involve groups of young adults playing different games competitively in tournaments. Some of these events are broadcast throughout the world on TV, while others are streamed on platforms like Twitch and Youtube, reaching an equally large audience as their cable counterpart. These events are professional, with guidelines throughout, and grand prizes for teams that win. In recent years, Esports have become a proper sport. On top of that, they are opening up opportunities for people who want to be a part of a team but aren’t interested in traditional athletics.

While some might disagree with the labeling of Esports as a sport, one group that is backing said label is the Georgia High School Association (GHSA). In 2018, GHSA certified Esports as a Varsity sport, offering programs to schools

that want to participate. While a gaming club was offered in the past, it wasn’t until May 2020 that Marietta High School created its official team.

The team is headed by two coaches: Chelsea Robinson, a math teacher who ran a prior Esports team at her previous school, and Joanna Smith, another math teacher who volunteered in late May due to her love of video games. Currently, the team stands at 30 members strong, with sign-ups for the winter league ending this past October. However, for anyone wanting to join the Esports team, Spring season sign-ups will be available after winter break.

In an interview with Coach Smith, the inner workings of the sport were laid out in full. She explained that Esports are run through a GHSA sanctioned website called PlayVS. This website is used across the country to run amateur Esports leagues throughout different elementary, high school, and college systems. The website allows schools to schedule and organize their teams for events and makes

Marietta Rocket League player successfully wins his first match of the day.

setting teams up easier. The students practice regularly, with the different game teams coming together at least three times a week before events, which are held once a week.

“Currently, the games offered are Super Smash Bros, Madden 21, FIFA 21, Rocket League, and League of Legends. But GHSA is always looking for more games to add,” Coach Joanna Smith said.

So far, the Marietta Esports Team is at the head of the pack in many events. In Fifa, MHS holds the first and fifth place spots and is on track to head to the state competitions in December. The Rocket League and Super Smash Bros teams have also risen above the competition, beating out many other teams in their weekly matches.

Victor Munoz (10) is the frontrunner for the MHS FIFA team. He is the first place player in the Georgia high school FIFA league.

“I play a lot of games. And I play against people that are way better than me so that I can get better. I sometimes lose, but I

still play as it gives me the opportunity to get better,” Victor Munoz (11) said.

There is a strong bond between the students on the team. In single-player games and practice matches against each other, those who weren’t actively playing or were on opposing teams would help each other out by giving callouts and advising their teammates on what do to next.

In games like Rocket League, players work together to score goals and keep the opposing team from scoring. This teamwork and interaction between the players is analogous to any other team sports offered at MHS. The connections between the teams and the fans, along with the teamwork show throughout is way so many people flock to Esports. The sport has become a global phenomenon, impacting the lives of many. The MHS Esports team agrees that their incorperation into the GHSA roster will amplify is impact on Georgia and the highschools that take part.

The Super Smash Bros team practicing for their upcoming event. Photos by Dylan Buehner

@mhspitchfork Continued from pg. 1 “This season has been great. This was my first year on the team and it has been so fun. The positive atmosphere and community has really made this a great experience. I’ve learned so much from my teammates this year and I can’t wait for next year,” Alifair Pearsons (10) said.

Game day had everyone hyped up. Students cheered the team out of the building and on to the bus. Marietta Fire and Police escorted the team past elementary schools and the middle school for younger students to cheer for the team, and community members lined the streets. For those who couldn’t attend live, the game was televised on Georgia Public Broadcasting from Georgia State’s Center Parc Stadium in Atlanta.

During the first half, Hillgrove High got a quick lead on Marietta High, 13-0. At half time in the locker room, Coach Houstalakis gave the team a pep talk and devised new strategies to score. The girls talked about things they noticed and what to watch for out on the field. They used the team approach they always take to walk back on the field and warm up to try to reclaim the game.

Laila Perryman scored the only touchdown making the score 13-6. With minutes left, Coach Houstolakis called out plays to help Marietta High score, but Hillgrove intercepted the ball for a third time and scored another touchdown making the score 19-6, with the extra point for 20-6 and the final score.

On the sidelines, the team is heartbroken. In the stands, Marietta High students filed out of the stadium, dejected. They worked so hard to make it to the State Championships and fell short of earning the title. After the game, the girls congratulated Hillgrove athletes and shook hands in a show of good sportsmanship. They huddled together having a talk with Coach Houstoulakis, Coach Casagrande, and Coach Haynie.

The bus ride back was quiet, a reflection of what just happened. As they arrived back at Marietta High, Coach McKinney gave a speech and told the girls how proud he was of them and all of their hard work. The girls got off the bus and turned in their jerseys, ending Marietta’s second season of flag football. Seniors hopeful for next year’s team and its chance at the title.

“I felt our season was amazing especially when you take into account where we were last year.

Our growth was astronomical. Next year if we play fast, I don’t think there’s a team that can compete with us, including Hillgrove,” Team Captain Akhaila Makenna said.

Sports

page 10

Makayla Dunn (9) pulls the flag off the belt of Hillgrove’s quarterback. Dunn had 24 solo tackles for the season.

Marietta wins the semi-final game against Blessed Trinity 26-0. The team went 17-3 this season with 11 shutouts.

Cate Gruehn (11) pushes through Hillgrove’s defense. Gruehn led the team for the season with 58 receptions for 702 yards and 12 touchdowns. Photos by Alyssia Hamilton

Shut out scores lead to game shut downs: North Forsyth, South Cobb forfeit before the half

Many new teams were added to the GHSA’s official flag football team list in this second season. There are now three divisions: Division 1 (1A-4A), Division 2 (5A-6A), Division 3 (7A). Marietta High is Division 3 and started their program last year, when the sport was officially recognized by GHSA. The excitement of last year’s flag football season brought other schools to try and compete this year. The flag football team dominated many teams this season and caused two teams to forfeit instead of taking a loss.

On Oct. 25, Marietta played two games, one against North Forsyth and another against South Cobb. Within the first ten minutes of both games the teams forfeited. A player on the North Forsyth team got her flag pulled and she fell down to the ground. She started crying, resulting in North Forsyth calling a timeout. The referees came to Marietta’s side to tell them that North Forsyth had forfeited citing concern for player injuries. Marietta stood on the field in disbelief, as North Forsyth walked off the field. The score was 34-0, Marietta took the win and prepared for the next game.

Within the first ten minutes of game two against South Cobb, a conflict happened again.

A player on South Cobb’s team was hit and South Cobb called a timeout. The referees again informed Marietta of a forfeit. The final score was 27-0. Marietta stood in awe of two forfeits in one day.

“Our goal every game is to play our best game every time we step out on that field together as a team, and we did exactly that in both those games. I wasn’t necessarily surprised that both teams forfeited, but I definitely had a lot of questions because I didn’t know teams were even allowed to forfeit. So as a team, all we could do was take the wins, the experience, and keep growing. We did exactly that,” Laila Perryman said.

South Cobb’s forfeit prevented Marietta from moving up region and state ranking. Here’s how the ranking works: when the game schedule is made, the games are split up into two different categories, area games and non-area games. Area games are games played with teams in Marietta’s area, such as McEachern, Lassiter, Pope, and Hillgrove. Non-area games are played against teams, such as Mary Persons and North Forsyth. Region games are important because a win could determine if a team moves up in ranking. A loss could bump a team down depending on the outcome of the other team’s game. Region Games help determine the team playoff brackets, whomever wins the playoff games moves up.

This continues until there are two teams left to play for the State Championship. If South Cobb would’ve finished the game and Marietta won, then Marietta would’ve been first in the region and second in the state. With South Cobb forfeiting, Marietta did not move up in the region or state that week as a result.

The team was 9-0 at the conclusion of these two games. Akhaila Makenna, a junior wide receiver and linebacker was named Flag Football Player of the Week by Georgia High School Football Daily. She had six flag pulls and an interception that she returned for a touchdown. She concluded the season with 103 flag pulls, 10 Interceptions and 5 interceptions returned for touchdowns.

Marietta couldn’t and wouldn’t allow that to affect how they would perform in their upcoming games.

“I think we had a successful season overall. We had 11 shutouts, made it to the championship, and only lost to one team,” Malakial Theophile (12) said. “I’m still happy with the progress we all made this season, regardless of the result from our last game.”