Pitchfork, Issue 4, 2021-2022

PITCHFORK

THE

EST 1928

Marietta, Georgia

Marietta High School

Issue 4

@mhspitchfork

February 18, 2022

MSF provides scholarship opportunities, more for all Shae Mulkey Staff Writer The Marietta Schools Foundation (MSF) offers multiple opportunities for students at Marietta High to win scholarships and funding for their post-graduation plans.

According to the organization’s website, the foundation was first started in 1983 “for the purpose of promoting educational achievement and excellence among students, faculty, staff and administrators in the Marietta City Schools.”

Donations in total of over five million dollars have been made to MSF since its inception, and the money is used to support classrooms, school projects, alumni partnerships and college scholarships to ensure a better and brighter future for students in all grades throughout Marietta City Schools. They also recognize teachers of the year with a cash reward.

Joseph E. Kinstle, the executive director of the Marietta Schools Foundation, has always been an integral part of the foundation.

“I got involved with the school’s foundation from a friend. He and I were the Co-Presidents of the high school PTA,” Kinstle said. “I then worked in the process of becoming a board member. It was a very rewarding experience.”

When Kinstle is contacted by families about scholarship opportunities for their child, it makes him happy to know he is a helper in the process.

“It makes us very happy and helps us know that we are doing our job right. It means we are getting our message across,” Kinstle said.

Continue to pg. 9 for “Scholarships”

Ms. Akiba Gilbert and Makayla Modeste (10) dance at the top of the Grand Staircase during the Soul Train Stroll to kick off the first week of Black History Month celebrations. Photo by Zaria Byers

BLACK HISTORY CELEBRATION Students and staff honor tradition and culture throughout February Zaria Byers Staff Writer

The Black History Month staff committee worked with the Black Student Union to organize activities and events for the month-long celebration.

“We wanted to really show Black culture and just everything we do,” said Arellia Cannon (12), co-president of the Black Student Union.

Every day Good Morning Marietta shared life stories of historical figures and Black history trivia.

The full agenda included Unity Week, Spirit Week and HBCU/Greek Week.

Unity Week brought the Marietta community together through acts of kind-

ness, differences set aside. Spirit Week allowed students and staff to embrace aspects of Black culture through clothing. HBCU/Greek Week gave staff members the opportunity to represent their colleges, fraternities and sororities.

These themes not only celebrate the importance of African Americans and their achievements, but encourage people of all backgrounds to do the same.

STARS club advisor, Akiba Gilbert, who helped organize the Soul Train Stroll on Feb. 4, says that the stroll represented generational unity and was significant to the heart of Black culture.

“The show ‘Soul Train’ was first aired in 1971. It showcased Black music, dance, fashion–just Black culture in general and it was operated by Black people,” Gilbert said.

Some festivities for Black History Month are also inclusive for those who are not attending school in person, such as the Kente Cloth Weaving Night that took place via Zoom. The HBCU College Advising Night will wrap up all of the activities on Feb. 28, at 6:30 p.m., also on Zoom.

Continue to pg. 12 for “Black History”

Glymph wins state champion title, first Marietta female Kaia Kirkpatrick Staff Writer Lisa Glymph (12) became the first female state champion in Marietta High history on Feb. 11 in Macon, Georgia. Glymph represented for the Blue Devils at the traditional state tournament, along with Ely Earley (12) and Jon Peralta (12).

Considering there are a limited amount of girls wrestling in the regular season and in regionals, Lisa regularly wrestles with with boys.

“One of my biggest challenges this year was wrestling against the guys because sometimes they are way stronger than me, but it made me stronger,” Glymph said.

During the state championship, the female wrestlers are given a choice to compete in their region divisions or to compete in the one division for girls. Glymph chose to wrestle in

the female brackets, meaning she competed against girls from all seven regions in the state.

The biggest difference between the male and female competitions is the amount of wrestlers in the competition.

During the tournament, Glymph wrestled four girls in her bracket. Brackets are created so that the best wrestlers will not duel until the end. 160 girls competed in 10 different weight brackets. Glymph ultimately won the championship in the 112 pound bracket by beating competitor Betty Cherry from East Coweta High.

“My biggest source of motivation this season was to be a state champion. To win was my biggest goal,” said Glymph.

Glymph is currently committed to Life University to continue her wrestling career.

Continue to pg. 11 for “Wrestling”

Lisa Glymph (12) proudly wears her state championship gold medal in the weight room where she trains when not wrestling on the mat.

Photo by Kaia Kirkpatrick

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page 2

Editorial: “Modern Love” for the pages “Modern Love” is the latest television craze. The Amazon Prime series follows a different love story each episode based on essays submitted to the “New York Times” column of the same name. Tales of romantic, platonic and familial love; love lost, found and rediscovered. To celebrate this season of love, the Pitchfork staff will explore the love a Blue Devil has for their school and the (somewhat toxic) relationship teenagers have with their formative years.

Four years ago, my mother drove me to my first date with Marietta. I thought I was going to be sick. I had all of the first date jitters, hoping they were nervous butterflies. I spent hours trying to pick out what to wear, what bag to bring and what shoes would make the best first impression. I hoped and prayed that this would be the one.

I showed up five minutes early, hoping to impress my date with my manners and chivalry. Unfortunately, as soon as I walked through her beautiful doors, I ran into the sign kindly trying to direct me to my class, sending a booming echo throughout the rotunda. My first impression left something to be desired.

Luckily, Marietta was warm, generous and welcoming. She offered me opportunities to get to know her better and be involved in her life. She had an amazing community of students, faculty and staff that welcomed me into the family immediately. I fell in love with Marietta because she made me feel special–like I belonged and had a place in her heart.

Of course, no love is perfect, and every

relationship has its ups and downs. I was experiencing the most challenging and formative years of my life during my relationship with Marietta, which obviously provided some added challenges for our love story. There was something constantly getting in between Marietta and I: the struggles of adolescence.

As teenagers, we are constantly challenged–expected–to grow. We are expected to learn new skills, experience new places, learn how to live and love in a world that is constantly evolving, all while making perfect grades, participating in all the right extracurriculars and creating new service projects that will change the world.

I felt constantly drained by the stress of expectation, and the love I had for Marietta would be replaced by the exhaustion of adolescence.

Almost two years into our relationship, the pandemic forced Marietta and me apart, offering me what felt at first like relief from the pressure and weight of our relationship.

However, distance only made the heart grow fonder. The break I had to take from

Marietta made me realize she had a lot of work to do on her own, but even more, it made me realize that I loved her enough to want to do the work with her. Marietta had supported me through my formative years.

She watched me grow and learn and lead.

It was time for me to do the same.

Every relationship requires give and take. More than anything, I wanted to give Marietta all the love and support she had shown me, because when you love someone, you want the absolute best for them.

When Marietta and I met, we were two completely separate entities on our own path thinking we knew what was best.

Neither of us had any idea what our love would do for the other. Marietta has taught me more than any other relationship could.

It has taught me patience, fortitude and compassion. It has taught me to listen.

Most of all, it has taught me how much I still have to learn.

Marietta and I did not have a Hollywood relationship. We did not have a perfect story arc featuring a castle, rose or boombox; we had a modern love. We had a love fit for

an editorial in a school newspaper. We will always have a love that is patient, generous and kind.

I often spent time with Marietta in my head. I stressed about the expectations and reality of our future. Now, I realize the beauty of a relationship with Marietta–a relationship with adolescence–lies within its impermanence. Youth is fleeting. The stupid decisions, the tumultuous relationships and the crushing stress are all temporary because the growth lies within lessons learned from our mistakes, not from a classroom on Whitlock Avenue.

I don’t know what the future holds for Marietta and me. Who knows what happens to lovers after the credits roll and the music fades? This I know for sure: Marietta and I loved one another. We fought with and for one another. We laughed, smiled and cried together. Our love story was one for the pages.

(Not quite) The End.

How do you express love?

Kalil Castro (9)

Simone Milligan (11)

“It’s complicated, but at the same time, it’s very interesting how two people can connect.”

“I express love through making sure that people are okay, checking up on people, making sure that they comprehend how much I want to be there for them.”

Kiersten Wallace (10)

Anisa Epling (12)

“When you’re showing somebody that you care, you just give them your full undivided attention and give them your 100 percent instead of 40 percent.”

“I express love through physical touch and words of affirmation to my friends and family.”

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CONGRATULATIONS to this issue’s winner, Kristal McQueen (11)

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

and to our Interactive Game winners from Issue 3, Max Herman (11), Cristian Castro (11) and Sydney Martinez (10)

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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 Alexandra Audrain

Assistant Editor Julia DePasquale

Section Editors Ella Chesney Nina Clark Isabelle Lovejoy Lillian Salter

Managers

Wes Harrison Icy McFall Shae Mulkey Etinosa Ogbomo Kate Williamson

Bust the Filibuster Dylan Buehner Staff Writer Since the inception of the Senate, the tactic of stalling a bill through prolonged debate has been a common process. The earliest record of this technique dates back to 1789, with Senator William Maclay writing that the “design of the Virginians [opposing senators] . . . was to talk away the time, so that we could not get the bill passed.” It wasn’t until the early 1850s that a name was put upon this practice: filibustering. Ever since, Senators from opposing parties have been blocking each other’s legislation through filibusters, turning the Senate into a glorified cinderblock.

Originally, filibustering involved standing up debating for long periods of time. However, due to a change in Senate rule, now a senator just has to indicate that they are filibusters, and the process to block a bill begins without the long-winded speech. This change allowed for filibusters to occur more regularly, creating a completely different Senate than in decades prior. There is, however, a process called cloture that would allow for the cessation of a filibuster through a two-thirds majority of all Senators voting for it. But with party politics being so prevalent, this has only happened five times since it was introduced.

Direct use of the filibuster was quite rare up until the Civil Rights Era. During this time, uses of the filibuster grew, with Senators Storm Thurmond and Richard Russell using the filibuster to stall the Civil Rights Acts in 1957 and 64 respectively. Senator Thurmond infamously talked for 24 hours straight, thoroughly holding up both the passing of the Act and the

Adviser

Andrea Lyons

Wesley Harrison Website Manager The Marvel Cinematic Universe, commonly known as the MCU, expanded in 2021 from the big screen to the small screen.

Phase Four, the fourth chapter in the storyline of the MCU, has begun producing TV series which showcase a growing problem in the MCU. As the franchise continues to expand, fewer members are given three-dimensional characters. In 2021’s “Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” the rush to give Sam Wilson a character beyond Captain America’s flying sidekick is obvious. Sam is given the conflict of being faced with losing his family’s boat, which had never been mentioned before episode one. This demonstrates his inner conflict of being unable to ask for help when he needs it, another issue that’s never been brought up before and is barely mentioned in the limited series.

In the show “Hawkeye,” we’re given a rushed explanation

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.

introduction of other bills. Since then, the rate at which filibusters have been called has skyrocketed. Before 1970, the number of filibusters per year hung in the single digits, with the most filed being 7 in 1970. By 1971, the rate of filibusters grew to double digits, with the most filed being 82 in 1996.

This number skyrocked with the election of Barack Obama in 2008, and filibuster use exploded into the triple digits, with the most filed being 328 in 2020.

Understandably, I am not in support of the filibuster. I am very left-leaning and am all for a bigger government. I want universal health care and better programs for those suffering from poverty and mental illness. We should be taxing the rich and regulating companies’ pollution. We should be passing bills like the John Lewis Voting Rights Act and the Green New Deal. The problem is that the Senate is set up in a way that, even with a majority, the opposition party can shoot down any bill through the use of a filibuster. Since no Senator would vote down a filibuster from their own party, both the Democrats and Republicans always end up shooting down each other’s bills, leading to legislative gridlock and an extreme lack of progress.

What many don’t understand about filibustering is that it isn’t some sacred piece of old Senate procedure. Many sources, including the official Senate website, say that it was created by accident. There is nothing holding Senators back from banning filibusters. It has done nothing but allow opposing parties to stifle initiatives. The only thing holding us back from freeing up the Senate are fringe Democrat senators like Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema, who openly refuse to get rid of the filibuster. Even with a majority in Congress, these Senators are blocking Democrats from getting rid of the filibuster for good. As the midterms approach, we must act by voting out pro-filibuster candidates. If we don’t, the Senate will remain a roadblock on the highway to progress.

MCU TV series’ display lackluster characterization

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

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of Clint Barton’s disability. The character has been deaf in the comics for years, far before the inception of the MCU. While his deafness is a more central point than Sam’s financial troubles, its late stage inclusion speaks to a failure of character exploration throughout the previous three phases.

This problem bleeds into Phase Four’s movie line up: in “Black Widow,” we are repeatedly shown how little we know about Natasha Romanoff, a character prominently on screen since 2010.

We are introduced to the family from which she was torn, which was never mentioned before this movie. Some may argue that this is to be expected from the Russian, however, in “Hawkeye,” it is revealed that Clint was aware of Natasha’s family and past. He uses this information to stop Yelena Belova from killing him, but we have never had any of this pertinent knowledge.

The MCU has been able to coast with their lackluster side characterization; however, the medium of television casts a closer lens on the inner lives of the characters. When we take a closer look, we are shown how undefined these characters truly are.

PISCES SEASON HOROSCOPES Aries (March 21- April 19)

Taurus (April 20- May 20)

Gemini (May 21- June 21)

Cancer (June 22- July 22)

Leo (July 23- Aug. 22)

Virgo (Aug. 23- Sept. 22)

Libra (Sept. 23- Oct. 23)

Scorpio (Oct. 24- Nov. 21)

Sagittarius (Nov. 22- Dec. 21)

Take time to slow down and reflect on your priorities. You are known for your constant energy, so harness this motivation to work on yourself.

You typically stick to your comfort zone, but Pisces season will expand your boundaries and push you to make new connections.

You are often deeply impacted by the feelings and conflicts of others. Protect your heart from outside negativity and use your emotional maturity to build bridges.

Although you’re typically fiery, you’ll find yourself more introverted during this time.

Use this time to examine your deeper feelings and address unresolved personal issues.

You love peace and harmony so much that you often abandon your own needs.

Allow yourself to have downtime and be gentle with your own emotions.

Your romantic and artistic feelings are at an all-time high. Embrace your feelings and transform them into something beautiful. The more that you pursue your passions, the better.

Capricorn

Aquarius (Jan. 20- Feb. 18)

(Dec. 22 - Jan 19) Around this time, you’ll find yourself bombarded with calls, texts, and emails.

Remember that staying busy is healthy, but don’t allow yourself to be overcome with stress.

Since you’ve spent time focusing on yourself, you’re ready to tackle what’s ahead of you. Use your energy to accomplish your goals and build your relationships.

This season is perfectly synthesizing your career with your personality. Instead of substituting emotions for careerism, embrace your sensitive side.

Your focus is on your relationships, and this is the time to let go of your need for control. Be vulnerable and let your relationships grow as you allow yourself to be emotionally open.

You feel deeply about your home and family around this time. Make sure to take time and cultivate your most important relationships.

Pisces

(Feb. 19- March 20) The vibes from your sun season are highlighting all of your best character traits, and now’s your chance to display this to the world. Allow others to embrace their true nature as well.

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President Biden's first year in office Dylan Buehner Staff Writer Over a year ago, President Joseph Biden was sworn into office as President of the United States and Georgia Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock were sworn into Congress. These two acts shifted the balance of power away from Republicans and toward Democrats.

Democrats hailed these wins as the first steps toward progress. Republicans questioned the legitimacy of the elections that brought Biden, Ossoff and Warnock into power. This timeline covers both Biden's and the actions of the Senate since the beginning of 2021.

April 2021 President Biden makes his first joint address to Congress on April 28, speaking on his COVID-19 stimulus bill. He hits his hundredth day in office on April 29 and achieves his goal of administering 200 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

December 2020 Joe Biden wins the 2020 election and swing state flips become divisive among conservatives. Recounts and audits are announced. Biden pledges a stronger COVID-19 response involving the administering of 100 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine in 100 days.

March 2021 President Biden signs the American Rescue Plan on March 11. This 1.9 trillion dollar stimulus package passed on a partisan vote in the Senate the day before. President Biden's 100 million dose pledge is raised to 200 million doses in 100 days on March 25 following the attainment of the previous goal.

January 2021 An attack on the Capitol by protestors attempting to overturn the 2020 election results occurs on Jan. 6, but the results of the election hold firm.

Joe Biden is sworn into office on Jan. 20. On the same day, President Biden signs nine executive orders.

February 2021 President Biden announces on Feb. 11 that a deal for 600 million COVID-19 vaccine doses from Pfizer and Moderna has been finalized. This number of doses is enough to fully vaccinate every adult in the U.S. and will become available in July.

May 2021

June 2021

July 2021

Throughout early May, President Biden issues multiple executive orders regarding immigration. He increases the refugee admission ceiling from 15,000 to 62,500 and announces the reunification of four separated families and promises to reunite another 30 migrant parents with their children. On May 8, Biden deems uninspected immigrants who had entered the U.S. eligible for asylum.

President Biden attends the G7 summit on June 11 and proclaims that, “America is back at the table.”

On June 17, he signs a bill declaring Juneteenth a national holiday.

President Biden addresses concerns over COVID-19 in a speech weeks before July 4.

Following a steady decline in COVID-19 cases throughout the summer, cases begin to rise again by July 15. On July 22, President Biden signs the Crime Victims Fund Act.

October 2021 In early October, President Biden presents his first draft of the Build Back Better Act. It is met with criticism from Republicans and some moderate Democrats. President Biden announces a revised version of the act on Oct. 28. The revision accounts for many of the concerns of Senators unhappy with the previous iteration.

September 2021 President Biden attends and speaks at the United Nations General Assembly on Sept. 21.

On Sept. 28, he publicly opposes changing the filibuster.

August 2021 In a defining moment of his Presidency, Biden oversees the total withdrawal of the U.S. from Afghanistan.

The city of Kabul falls to the Taliban on Aug. 15. The last U.S. forces leave Kabul on Aug. 30, completing the withdrawal.

November 2021

December 2021

With bipartisan support, President Biden signs into law a one trillion dollar infrastructure bill. Biden's plan for infrastructure was designed on the campaign trail, but a bill wasn’t written or sent to congress until the middle of the year.

Fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine emerge in late December, COVID-19 cases explode at the precipice of the new year, with the daily average for cases rising nearly to five times the number of November.

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Climate change calls for change Lillian Salter Section Editor

What is it?

One degree celsius. Such a minute difference in temperature may not sound critical in the grand scheme of things, but believe it or not, even the smallest adjustment in the Earth’s environmental processes is enough to throw everything off balance.

Climate change, most simply, is described as “the change in global or regional climate patterns” (Oxford Dictionary). Since the 19th century, Earth’s average temperature has increased approximately one degree celsius.

By the year 2030, it is projected to increase another 0.5 degrees.

The main cause of climate change is an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. While the greenhouse gas effect is essential to the survival of life on Earth, the phenomenon in combination with an overabundance of certain atmospheric substances is nearly catastrophic.

Approximately 30 percent of solar energy is reflected back into space when it enters the atmosphere, while the

remaining 70 percent is absorbed by the Earth’s surface.

Due to heat radiation, ten percent of that energy returns to space, while the other 90 percent is entrapped by atmospheric gases like carbon dioxide and methane. As carbon emissions have increased over the past century, so have the temperatures of the Earth’s atmosphere, and consequently, the Earth itself.

The effects of global warming have already begun to take place. As a result of the icebergs melting in the poles, sea levels have risen a total of eight inches (according to records from 1880). It is also predicted that hurricanes and other natural disasters will increase in intensity, droughts and heat waves will increase in frequency and precipitation patterns will become irregular as a result of an influx of water in the atmosphere.

What can we do?

Although countries from around the world have made an effort to decrease their carbon emissions and use eco-friendly alternatives to fossil fuels, climate change still remains at large. Mrs Logue, an IB Biology teacher at MHS and the supervisor of the Environmental Club, stresses the importance of addressing global warming.

“Over time we have seen changes in our weather and climate across the globe, from glacial melting, increased number, and strength of storms, overall shifts in global temperature changes, and based on this information it is hard to not see climate change as a potential problem now and specifically in the future,” Mrs. Logue said.

Mrs. Logue also elaborated on the dangers of normalizing environmental concerns.

“Normalizing any situation can lead to the spread of misinformation, which can be dangerous if people are not given the correct information or not provided adequate warning and resources to mitigate potential risks. It is imperative to look at the data and valid research to make solid judgements based on fact,” Mrs. Logue said.

Not everyone is an expert in climate science; however, students at Marietta have some ideas as to how they can contribute to the fight against global warming.

“I think that as a student, I can write letters to politicians that represent me and convince them to be more vocal about climate related issues. I can also participate in protests and use energy saving tactics in my daily life,” Parie Desai (11) said.

Will Barnes (12) also has some thoughts regarding the role of students in the realm of environmental advocacy.

“Unfortunately, as a student, there is not a lot you can do to fight climate change. There is no way to fight climate change on a major scale until you are able to use your vote for candidates who believe in climate change and see what needs to be done to end it. On a smaller scale, I can reduce energy usage, carpool more to waste less gas, and recycle as much as I can to help, even if the help is minuscule in the grand scheme of ending climate change,” Barnes said.

Quantum computing: A solution to climate change?

While climate change remains an inevitable environmental threat, recent scientific developments may prove useful in the realm of reducing our carbon footprint, and developing more sustainable technology. An example of such a development is quantum computing, an area of technology that has the potential to advance human civilization as we know it.

To understand quantum computing, it is essential to compare it to it’s less complicated counterpart: classical computing. Classical computers use transistors when performing calculations, and these transistors can represent a zero or a one. This differs from quantum computing, where transistors are replaced with qubits, which can represent zero or one simultaneously. This quantum property is called superposition, and is defined as, “the phenomenon where a quantum system an exist in multiple states or places at the exact same time” (Scott Amyx). Thanks to superpositions, in addition to other quantum properties, quantum computers can perform large-scale calculations that involve more combinations and variables than a classical computer can handle. In other words, quantum

computers have the potential to solve problems that were once deemed unsolvable.

While such a notion is certainly awe-inspiring, there is not yet enough research on quantum computers to explore its potential applications. Quantum computing is a “nascent technology” (Daphne Leprince-Ringuet). This means that quantum computers have successfully solved large scale problems before, but those were problems that the computers were designed to solve.

Nevertheless, the speed and accuracy associated with quantum computing is a marvelous thing to behold.

Recently, scientists from D-Wave, a quantum computing company, set out to simulate exotic magnetism. Such a large-scale calculation had already been completed by 2016 Nobel Prize in Physics Award winners Vadim Berezinskii, J. Michael Kosterlitz, and David Thouless.

While their endeavors with classical computing proved successful, the process took multiple decades to complete.

At D-Wave, the scientists were able to model exotic magnetism using quantum simulation three million times faster than the time it took Berezinskii, Kosterlitz and

Thouless. In summation, it has already been proven that quantum computing works. The real challenge is inventing a quantum computer that can solve large-scale calculations that we don’t already know the answers to.

Numerous companies and environmental initiatives have started to invest in quantum computing research, because it is predicted that such knowledge will be essential in the fight against climate change. Quantum simulation., one of the main functions of a quantum computer, predicts the behavior of particles at the molecular level. A computer-generated model for chemical bonding would allow for the development of more efficient batteries and materials for solar cells and wind turbines and possibly “more absorbent catalysts for carbon-capture technologies” (Daphne Leprince-Ringuet). It is also possible for quantum simulation to reduce the power necessary to manufacture fertilizer.

While researchers have yet to develop a quantum computer that outputs any useful calculation, once this bridge is crossed, the possibilities of quantum computing and its applications are endless.

Julia Depasquale Assistant Editor Throughout the last several years, LGBTQ+ stories have been amplified through increased representation in movies, TV and culture. Students often hear about what they can do to be an ally of the LGBTQ+ community, but

rarely do they get the opportunity to hear directly from members of this community at Marietta High.

By hearing a fellow student’s story about their sexuality and experiences, one can understand and appreciate the

diversity that makes each student at Marietta High unique.

Through educating and listening to the stories of others, there is an opportunity to grow and progress into a stronger school community.

Ella Salter (10) identifies as bisexual, but what’s unique about her story is that she accepted her sexuality through a sermon.

“We had a very new preacher, and she was talking a lot about how God made you as you are and how we shouldn’t ever demean ourselves because it’s how He made us and He loves us for how we are... it was just really good timing and it helped me a lot,” Salter said.

Even when she is worried or facing internalized biphobia, this relationship with God helped her to understand her sexuality and learn to accept herself.

“I liked a guy at the time, but I [felt like I]

couldn’t like a guy because I’m bisexual, but also like that’s what bisexuality is, and I just kind of realized that and came to terms with myself at church… Whenever I do have internalized biphobia, I just think back to that sermon,” Salter said.

Ella then explained what internalized biphobia meant to her.

“I was pushed under the idea from society that I had to choose a preference, when in reality I was attracted to both females and males.

Biphobia is the concept of not understanding or accepting the idea of attraction to two or more genders,” Salter said.

After learning to accept herself, Salter has found it important to connect with people who will support and accept her the same way.

“I like to surround myself with people I know will accept me,” Salter said. “A lot of people in my friend group are entirely supportive and most of them are a part of the LGBTQ+ community themselves.”

After coming out at school, Ella was pleasantly surprised by the way her identity was received.

“There are a good number of teachers who are very open towards and accepting of their students, and that’s very nice,” Salter said.

Allen Yun (12) is a senior who goes by he/ they pronouns and identifies as queer and transgender. He reflects on his experiences finally coming out at school.

“Personally, I’m not a big fan of labels because I find it hard to describe my identity in just one word. However, if someone asks, I will just tell them queer and transgender since it’s the closest description to my identity,” Yun said.

Yun was supported by friends when coming out as transgender and queer. Similar to other students interviewed, he surrounded himself with people he knew would be accepting.

“Most of my friends are also part of the LGBTQ+ community, so it wasn’t anything new. Others are understanding when I correct

them on my pronouns,” Yun said.

Coming out at school was a completely different obstacle to face, but it had an overwhelmingly positive effect on Yun's daily life.

“This year was the first year I decided to be open at school and go by my name and pronouns. Last year, it was hell having to go to school and constantly get misgendered and deadnamed. But being able to go to school and get called by name whenever the teacher is taking attendance… is one of the best feelings in the world,” Yun said.

Although the process of coming out was mostly positive, to ensure that every transgender student feels safe and supported when coming out, there are improvements that could be made at

Marietta to ease the process, according to Yun. “I had a surprisingly positive experience with the Marietta staff when I came out. The one thing I would change would be to make it easier to have a preferred name and pronouns at school. For example, I think we should be able to change our name in the school system to our preferred name. I also think that teachers and staff should create a form at the beginning [of the year] to ask for a student’s name and pronouns. I also think we need to have more accessible bathrooms for trans people. I avoid going to the bathrooms at school just to not have to deal with it,” Yun said.

Jarrius Jackson (12) is bisexual and notes how Marietta High has changed over his years attending the school.

“Most people kinda just know or assume [I’m bisexual], so really I don’t have to go around saying it… there are a lot of different reactions depending on the people. It’s not all the same.

But it’s not all bad,” Jackson said.

Jackson explains that at school he has a group of friends who are accepting of him, but when he doesn’t he is unsure whether or not people will be accepting, making him uncomfortable.

“Sometimes it’s weird because you can kind of tell who is accepting and who is not… it makes you feel you don’t want to be here some days when you come to school,” Jackson said.

Despite this, Jackson doesn’t let ignorant com-

ments affect him. Instead, he chooses to listen and try to understand why people feel the way they do about how he identifies.

“I don’t feel the way other people feel about it. I don’t take offense to [people not understanding] because I understand other people’s points of view and I see that. I acknowledge [their points of view] and I try to talk to them,” Jackson said.

Despite being understanding, over his years at Marietta High, Jackson is happy to say that he has seen the environment surrounding the LGBTQ+ community begin to change for the better.

“Being a senior at MHS, my experience is totally different than it was freshman year. Now, teachers and students are a lot more accepting

than they were prior to the pandemic. We’re slowly moving the curve, but there is still a lot more to be done… more barriers to be broken.

It’s a huge transition seeing people be more open with themselves now because the reality was never that in years prior,” Jackson said.

Jackson also had an important, insightful message for students who may be struggling with coming out or coming to terms with their identity.

“The main thing I would say to other people who are nervous about who they are or shy about it: be yourself because the hesitation and the fear are bad and create a toxic environment… with wanting to be at school. I feel like people should just be more open to listening,” Jackson said.

Sage Troutman (9) is non-binary and brings attention to the importance of correct pronouns. “[Someone who identifies as non-binary] is somebody who doesn’t identify with their assigned sex at birth, and it falls under the transgender umbrella term,” Troutman said.

When explaining their identity to other students at Marietta High, Troutman was met with mixed reactions.

“Some people just don’t know what it is, so I’ll have to explain it to them. Other people are

like ‘oh you’re still a girl,’ but there are other people who are supportive and actually use the right pronouns (they/them),” Troutman said.

Troutman explained how it feels when people use the wrong pronouns in comparison to when people respect them and use the right ones.

“Well, usually it is an accident, but there are people who use the wrong pronouns on purpose.

I understand that not everyone is going to accept it, but it hurts my feelings. Why can’t you use the right thing? Is it hurting you? When people use

the right pronouns, it makes me feel so validated and good,” Troutman said.

Troutman’s biggest message to their fellow students: if you don’t know, just ask.

“I wish that people would ask. For example, I wish my teachers and peers would ask how I identify and what my pronouns are instead of just assuming,” Troutman said.

Feature

@mhspitchfork

page 8

Soon-to-be blockbusters hitting theaters in 2022 Maelyn Moore Staff Writer

Uncharted Tom Holland is starring in a brand new adventure movie titled “Uncharted, ” based on the popular video game series created by Amy Henning.

“Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune” was the first game to come out in this series, back in 2007, and since then, there

have been a total of 8 games released. The movie adaptation follows main character Nathan Drake (Tom Holland), a treasure hunter, as he sets out on an adventure to find hidden treasure. The movie will be released on Feb. 18.

Wakanda Forever “​​Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” is coming out Nov. 11, and will continue to explore the hidden city of Wakanda. In honor of Chadwick Boseman’s legacy, the producers will not be recasting

T’Challa. It was also revealed that there are no plans to use a digital double of T’Challa.

However, many favorite characters from the first movie, including Shuri, Nakia, and M’Baku will be returning.

Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore

A new Fantastic Beasts movie, “The Secrets of Dumbledore,” is coming to theaters on April 15. It will be the eleventh film produced in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter franchise. In this

The Batman

“Batman,” staring Robert Pattinson, is coming out March 4. The movie will follow the beginning of Batman’s career, his second year of fighting for Gotham. However, this movie is rumored to be darker than the previous movies, which could lead

movie, Gellert Grindelwald plans to take over the Wizarding World. With the help of Newt Scamander and his fantastic beasts, Dumbledore works to defeat Grindelwald once and for all.

to some controversy among fans, as Batman is supposed to take a non lethal approach to crime prevention. In the new trailer, Batman has already been seen brutally beating up bad guys in his quest to defeat the Riddler.

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” is set to release on Oct. 7. This alternate universe features Miles Morales as Spider-Man as he opens up the multiverse. The first movie, “Into the Spi-

der-Verse,” was beloved by many for its captivating graphics, good soundtrack, and the diversity of it’s cast, so there is much excitement around the movie’s return.

Thor: Love and Thunder “Thor: Love and Thunder” hits theaters on July 8.

Natalie Portman, playing the role of Doctor Jane Foster, will return to the franchise after her absence in “Thor: Ragnarok.” “Thor: Love and Thunder” takes place right

after the events of Avengers: Endgame. In this film, Thor teams up with the Guardians of the Galaxy to defeat the new antagonist, Gorr the God Butcher, a character from the original comic book series.

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” will come out on May 6, and will follow the events of “Spiderman: No Way Home.” In “Spider man: No way home the multiverse was opened and villains from every timeline threatened to

destroy Earth. Therefore, “Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” will continue to feature the infinitely mysterious multiverse. Dr. Strange, who is Sorcerer Supreme, is played

by Benedict Cumberbatch.

Jurassic World: Dominion

“Jurassic World: Dominion” is coming out this summer, June 10. It will be set four years after “Jurassic Park Fallen Kingdom.” To recap, in “Fallen Kingdom,” a volcanic eruption threatened to destroy Isla Nublar and kill all the dinosaurs. The

animals had to be relocated to a new sanctuary. In doing so, illegal selling of these dangerous reptiles took place.

Similarly to the rest of the movies within the franchise, the dinosaurs escape and it is a race to stay alive.

Marietta “Spreads Love” for the American Red Cross Isabelle Lovejoy Section Editor Valentine’s Day brings to mind images of love, candy and Cupid. As couples and singles alike celebrate the love in their lives this Valentine’s Day, the Pitchfork staff has become aware of another heart related notion: the national blood crisis.

The American Red Cross is facing the worst blood shortage it has seen in over a decade. With a shortage of blood and an increase in hospitalizations due to the COVID19 pandemic, doctors have been forced to make difficult decisions regarding who can receive blood transfusions and who has to wait for more resources to become available.

This poses great risk to the care of patients.

Since March 2020, there has been a ten percent overall decline in blood donations.

This minor percentage has begun to cause major impacts. There has also been a 62 percent drop in college and high school blood drives due to the pandemic. While student donors accounted for 25 percent of all donors in 2019, they now make up merely ten percent. COVID-19 surges and the active flu season contribute to an already dire situation and have caused blood drive cancellations and staffing shortages.

In response to the blood shortage, the Pitchfork staff has taken initiative to raise awareness of this pressing issue. The staff

created the campaign, “Sleeves Up Marietta.” This entailed the creation of a virtual page on the Red Cross website where students and teachers alike could pledge to donate blood and be directed to information about the nearest blood drives. This campaign was kicked off on Valentine’s Day. Staff members manned a table in the cafeteria where they passed out Valentine’s Grams to students who pledged to donate blood on the virtual platform. On Valentine’s Day alone, 91 students pledged to donate blood.

“I’ve never heard of the blood shortage, and it’s a good thing to know about now.

I’d like to donate blood,” Rene Galomo (12) Kindle Martin (11) takes Valentine’s Gram from Section Editor Isabelle said.

The campaign will run until April 14, 2022 Lovejoy (12) to spread the love after virtually pledging to donate blood. and Pitchfork hopes to continue spreading awareness and making a change.

“I didn’t know there was a national blood crisis. Obviously blood is a super important resource that I don’t think we always even think about. It makes sense that with COVID-19, medical resources are going to be low. I’m glad that you guys are doing something to help,” Erin Johnson (11) said.

Scan to pledge:

Grace Mann (10) scans the QR code to virtually pledge to donate blood.

Photos by Ada Chesney

School News

@mhspitchfork

page 9

Blue Devils get an early start on their futures Kate Williamson Staff Writer

lot more calm compared to other May graduations.”

After the most unforeseen years students could have anticipated, December graduates While most seniors at Marietta High are have exceeded the average educational load prepared to graduate in May 2022, around to get a headstart on their career paths. One 30 students graduated as early as Dec 2021. of these students is Nguyen, who chose to The graduation ceremony celebrated students graduate early in order to save time pursuing that earned the required 23 credits in time to a nursing degree. graduate five or more “I am currently months ahead of time. going to KSU and “I would definitely The ceremony opened planning on transferwith Emily Nguyen recommend graduating ring to whatever nursreciting the pledge early if you already know ing program accepts of allegiance and me,” Emily Nguyen what you want to do in introducing Marietta said.

ROTC’s Presentation life.”

Alexis Aboyme of Colors. ROTC stualso intended to begin dents performed the - Emily Nguyen her college semester American tribute to early.

She is enrolled welcome the students to begin her first bound to graduate in the following hour. The semester at the University of Central Florida ceremony passed swiftly, and the former students were met with praise and best wishes in the summer. Aboyme encourages students to research and find out what graduation path from family and staff alike.

“My experience has been great,” Emily is best for them.

“Look into what you need to do in order to Nguyen (12), an early graduate, said. “During graduate, and take those extra classes so you the December graduation ceremony, it was a can finish early,” Aboyme said.

Emily Nguyen "I would definitely recommend graduating early if you already know what you want to do in life. For me, I want to be a nurse and schooling takes a long time. I wanted to get in and out as fast as possible."

Alexis Aboyme "I would recommend graduating early if you are really sure of it. You might miss out on some activities like school dances and games, but if you know what you want to do in the future and if you believe it’ll benefit you, definitely do it."

Jermaine McCann "Do what you feel is best for you and your future. Have a plan, write it down, believe in it and execute it. Don’t be afraid to take those tougher courses and keep in touch with your counselors to make sure you’re on the right track."

Marietta Schools Foundation Scholarships Look through the scholarships offered by the Marietta Schools Foundation here and use the QR scan to see more details at their website.

APPLY THROUGH MSF WEBSITE:

SCOTT D. BARTON MEMORIAL

ALEXIS GRUBBS MEMORIAL

BEN T. WILKINS MEMORIAL

Who: MHS graduate and/ or any member of First Presbyterian Church or its Youth Groups.

Who: MHS graduate who intends to pursue a career in some aspect of the legal field.

Who: Awarded to MHS graduate who best exemplify the spirit of “Be Somebody."

Deadline: March 25, 2022

Deadline: March 11, 2022

Deadline: March 11, 2022

ADELINE H. D’AMELIO

CHERYL LOVE EDUCATION

ROMEO HUDGINS VO-TECH

COACH JAMES “FRIDAY” RICHARDS

Who: Awarded to MHS graduates who are interested in pursuing a career in nursing or other areas of the medical profession.

Deadline: March 11, 2022

Who: Awarded to a fouryear student at Marietta High School committed to becoming an educator.

Who: Awarded to a student for Vocational Education support at Chattahoochee Technical College.

Who: student that embodies the principles of a life by the “BE SOMEBODY” Coach Friday mantra.

Deadline: March 11, 2022

Deadline: March 11, 2022

Deadline: March 11, 2022

WORK-BASED LEARNING

THE FRIENDS OF BRUMBY HALL

CREDIT UNION OF GEORGIA

JIM AND MARY MILLS SCHOLARSHIP

Who: Awarded to MHS students who are currently involved in the Youth Apprenticeship Program.

Who: MHS senior interested in studying political science, history, government, business, or education.

Who: Awarded to a senior completing an essay reflecting “How #DoYouCU making a difference?”

Who: Awarded to a Marietta senior that exemplifies loyalty, service and True Blue spirit.

Deadline: March 11, 2022

Deadline: March 11, 2022

Deadline: April 1, 2022

Deadline: March 11, 2022

COACH LES WILLIAMS GOLF

BLUE DEVILS SPORTS MEDICINE

DEBBIE WOOLARD SCHOLARSHIP

CULINARY ARTS SCHOLARSHIP

Who: Awarded to a MHS graduating golf team member of good moral character.

Who: Senior who has worked 2 years in Sports Med and plans to pursue a career in healthcare.

Who: Senior who has demonstrated high academic success, intellectual curiosity, community service.

Who: Senior student on a Culinary Arts post-graduate pathway with good moral character.

Deadline: March 11, 2022

Deadline: March 11, 2022

Deadline: March 11, 2022

Deadline: March 11, 2022

continued from pg. 1 "Scholarships" An example of one of the many scholarships provided to Marietta graduates is the “Ben T. Wilkins Memorial Scholarship,” which is given to a student that demonstrates the “Be Somebody” spirit. In addition, the “Alexis Grubbs Memorial Scholarship,” is given to those pursuing a career in the legal field.

Many other scholarship opportunities offered are a great way for Marietta graduates to minimize student loans and fee costs, as well as a way for students to be recognized by their community in Marietta at a higher level. The scholarships are only available for students who attend Marietta High, which ensures accessibility and makes each opportunity unique.

“People just seemed to know about us only for our scholarships. In the last ten years though, we have been able to widen our message. People now understand we are a part of the Marietta City Schools,” Kinstle said.

Recently, the Vision to Learn event, helped create opportunities for students in elementary schools to get vision screening and provide glasses for students if needed.

The foundation donated $10,000 to the cause.

The foundation’s building is located across Marietta Middle School where Kinstle and other members meet for discussions of future events to support Marietta City Schools. For more information about the foundation and upcoming scholarship due dates and application forms, visit their website at mariettaschoolsfoundation.com.

Anyone from the community can help out by contributing and donating to fund the scholarship opportunities and upcoming projects planned for the schools of Marietta.

Sports

@mhspitchfork

page 10

MHS basketball statebound, round one Alafair Persons Staff Writer The Lady Blue Devils advance to the first round of state playoffs. Their first game of the region tournament took place on Feb. 17 against Harrison High.

“I think we have a pretty good chance of being successful in the region and state tournaments,” team member Frances Storey (10) said.

The final record of the girls varsity regular season was 10-14 with a final win against North Cobb High. The competition in the region is tough–they often go head to head with high schools like Walton High, Harrison High and Hillgrove High, who all have established basketball programs.

Following a state championship season and the graduation of senior players in leadership roles, the 2021-22 season has challenged the girls varsity team.

“It’s always hard to lose seniors and the leadership roles that they bring, but it’s a part of growing as a team and adjusting to new roles,” Chloe Sterling (12), captain of the girls varsity team, said.

Transition seasons like these require powerful leadership and a strong team bond.

“I do think we’re more bonded this year than my freshman year. That just comes with growing up and maturing.”

Makayah Harris (11) said.

Harris was awarded second team All-Region in the Region 3-7A awards.

This team has persevered and seen great success. They are currently ranked 20 in their 7A division. Chloe Sterling, the team’s point guard, currently leads the team in points, rebounds and assists per

game. She was also awarded first team All-Region in Region 3-7A. “Chloe is probably the biggest leader on the court. She calls plays and makes sure we are all in the right defense,” Storey said.

Throughout the season, the student section has been full of students ready to cheer on their Blue Devils. Additional supporters, like Angel Robinson, a Marietta alumna and former player for the Blue Devils, have come out to support the reigning state champions.

“The team was enjoyable to watch this year and last year, and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the season has in store for them,” Ella Patterson (10) said.

The season isn’t over yet. With region games ending this week and region tournaments kicking off, there is more success to come.

The boys also advanced to the first round of the state tournament after placing fourth in the region.

The boys final regular season record ended at 8-18 with a recent win against North Cobb High. They are also ranked third in the region and 37 in the 7A division. Senior players and leaders like Izaiyah Nelson (12) and Ross Bourgeois (12) have led the team through this difficult season. Nelson, the team captain, leads the teams in points, rebounds, steals and blocks per game. He was awarded Player of the Year for the Region 3-7A. “It feels really good to win this award.

I couldn’t do it without my coaches and teammates for making me work hard when I needed it and pushing me when it hurt,” Nelson said.

Kayla Day (10) dribbles around Hillgrove defense during the Feb. 4 game.

Day scored 216 points this season.

Izaiyah Nelson (12) charges to make a shot. His field goal percentage for the game was 56 percent. Photos by Ella Chesney

Kaleb Comer: Becoming an SEC cheer captain Ella Chesney Section Editor

What’s it like to cheer for an SEC school? And to lead the team?

University of Georgia senior, cheer captain, former Mr. MHS and Marietta High alumna, Kaleb Comer, sits down with Pitchfork to discuss his high school and college success.

Cheering in the SEC is incomparable experience, but cheering for UGA particular is a once in a lifetime experience. The feeling is indescribable, and I remember my first time running the team out in Sanford like it was yesterday. The last few years have been filled with my greatest memories, from lighting up home games in the 4th quarter on Saturday nights to traveling all over the U.S. to cities like New Orleans, Miami and Indianapolis to cheer on the Dawgs to some amazing wins. Leading the team this year has been such a full circle experience, because I now get to be the leader that I looked up to when I first became a part of this program. It’s the perfect way to leave my mark as I end this chapter as an athlete in my life.

Did you begin cheer as an MYP personal project?

What made you interested in cheering?

I was actually involved in cheer before my personal project, so it was an excuse to be able to do a project on something that I really enjoyed. I did gymnastics for many years before I switched over, and I wanted to keep tumbling. My sister was also already a Marietta cheerleader, which encouraged me to try out for varsity my junior year.

How did MHS and its people, or others, impact your goal(s)?

I had many coaches both in and outside of MHS that motivated me to do well at the next level. My high school coaches (Lawson and Owens) were and still are extremely supportive of everything I do to this day, as well as many other of my teachers from high school!

It’s rewarding to be able to represent Marietta on such a big stage and be the boy who made it all the way to the next level.

How do you feel after the National Championship and getting fitted for a ring?

I feel like I can retire in peace. I’ve accomplished almost everything imaginable in my opinion that I could get from both Cheerleading and the University of Georgia. This year’s season ending national championship was a dream come true, fairy tale ending. For the first time in 41 years the Georgia Bulldogs brought home a national championship, and I was there on the sidelines.

That’s something I’ll talk about for the rest of my life. I can’t imagine a better way to end this chapter.

What’s next in your life?

I want to work in the field of sports psychology, so I plan on going to grad school. I could also see myself coaching one day down the road.

Kaleb Comer poses with the celebratory front page after the National Championship.

Photo courtesy of Kaleb Comer

Sports

@mhspitchfork

page 11

Swim team makes a splash Lily Konigsmark Staff Writer

Nicolas Common (10), first swimmer from the left, preparing to dive in the water for his 200 Individual Medley at the Cobb County meet.

Photo by Dylan Buehner

Grace Mann (10), Dylan Buehner (10), Ryan Thompson (10), Montana Trister (10), Nicolas Common (10) and Nicholas Cannon (10) at the Cobb County state meet after qualifying for county finals. Photo courtesy

The swim team puts in the work, both in the water and in the classroom. With an average cumulative GPA of 4.07 during the 2021 fall term, the team represents what it means to be scholar athletes.

“Swimming is a commitment and it has taught me to balance different aspects of my life. It’s definitely something that can help me in the future,” Ryan Thompson (10) said.

Not only is the swim team striving in the classroom but in the water as well.

After performing well at county, they sent 13 boy and girl swimmers to the state championships.

Swimmers specialize in different events and train to have the fastest times. Swimmers are scored individually, but each swimmer’s score impacts the overall team outcome of the meet.

“There are 24 events in total, boys starting with 200 Medley Relay and girls ending with the 400 freestyle relay. Usually, each swimmer participates in four events.

Two of these events are individual and the other two are relays. Typically, meets last around two hours. It could be more subject to the number of the teams attending,” Chase Cannon (10) said.

At the county meet, the girls varsity team beat out six teams at relay and scored 200 points. Even though the Marietta swim team has few members compared to schools like Campbell with over

100 swimmers, they consistently achieve success in meets. Quality over quantity is the goal for this team.

“There was huge growth this year.

Especially in my sophomore swimmers.

They are such a hard working class of kids. It’s incredible,” Coach Kristen Slifko said. “My sophomores trained all year and every single one of them made county and state. They make me proud to be their coach every day.”

Some of the team’s success has to be accredited to the leaders and captains that set an example for their fellow swimmers.

“Being a captain is amazing because I can set an example for the underclassmen to work hard and reach for their goals every practice. I also enjoy having input in our gear because I was able to pick and design our sweatshirts and caps this year,” Darby Dryden (11), Marietta swim team captain, said.

As captain, Dryden takes on many responsibilities. She leads the team with dignity and determination. The underclassmen have nothing but positive things to say about her. The team is excited to have her again as a captain next year as they believe it will put them on the road to even more success.

“The work and practice was all worth it and I am so glad we did it all together.

I will miss this team so much, they will definitely do amazing with Dryden as their second year captain. Go Blue Devils.

Eat my bubbles,” Najera (12) said.

of Beauman Ivester

continued from pg. 1 Wrestling Basics Coach Carthers has the wrestlers set and write their goals at the start of the season. He tells them to keep the goals where they can see them every day.

“I just ask them if they are doing everything they can to reach their goals throughout the season” Carthers said.

He uses this technique as a way to hold wrestlers accountable throughout the season.

The goal of this contact sport is for the two opponents to try to force the other onto the ground. When a pin occurs, it is a victory for whoever has scored the pin.

Essentially, a pin means a fall when one opponent is on their back with their shoulders or shoulder blades on the mat for two seconds. However, if no one gets pinned, the competitor that has scored the most points is declared the winner.

“My biggest source of motivation is the feeling of getting a pin,” Yayven Van Der Sar (12) said. “After you feel that feeling, you chase it everytime, and that’s what pushed me.”

Points can be earned five different ways. One way to earn points is a takedown. This is when one opponent takes another off balance, resulting in the other falling on their knees or back resulting in two points.

Similarly, near falls are when the opponent falls, but these points are earned when the opponent is nearly pinned. Also worth two points is a reversal in which the opponent being pinned reverses and gains control. An escape is getting away when pinned by an opponent. Penalty points are more complex, but simply put, they are illegal violations that result in the opponent gaining points.

Ely Earley (12) attempts to pin his opponent during the Region 3 7A duels on Jan. 8. Earley advanced with fellow team captains John Peralta (12) and Lisa Glymph (12) to the state championship.

Cobb County Invitational

Placed 4th of 18 teams Kyron Guidry-1st Avant Stepherson-2nd Jon Peralta-2nd Ely Earley-2nd Tyler Musolf-5th Alex Glymph-5th

Hillgrove Christmas Classic

Placed 1st of 18 teams Tyler Musolf-1st Jon Peralta-1st Alex Glymph-1st Ely Earley-3rd Kyron Guidry-4th Avant Stepherson-4th Bryan Ayala-4th

Blue Devil Brawl

Placed 1st of 6 teams Lisa Glymph-1st Kyron Guidry-1st Malachi Sanders-1st Ely Earley-1st Arian Mazloom-1st Darius Jules-1st Jackson Hall-2nd Tyler Musolf-2nd Jon Peralta-2nd Benel Valentin-2nd Bryan Ayala-2nd Aidan Russell-3rd Yayven Van Der Sar-3rd

Traditional Area

Placed 3rd of 6 teams Jon Peralta-1st Lisa Glymph-2nd Avant Stepherson-2nd Ely Earley-2nd Kyron Guidry-3rd Arian Mazloom-3rd Tyler Musolf-4th Malachi Sanders-4th Benel Valentin-4th

Area Duals

Placed 4th of 6 teams

Jon Peralta (12) duels against a North Paulding Wolfpack wrestler during the area meet on Jan. 8. Photos by Ella Chesney

@mhspitchfork

School News

Black History in motion

page 12

Staff Writer, Zaria Byers, captured moments of the Marietta community celebrating Black History Month.

Najayah Williams (11) left, presents a handwritten poem to the audience. Terrence Turner (12) right, shares his experience on the open mic about being a Black teen.

Aniya Jackson (12) shares a creative poem with the audience who gathered in the media center for the Unity Community Poetry Open Mic event. Arellia Cannon (12) helped host and organize the event for students to express themselves and share their voices.

Derrick Brown speaks at community event he organized: "A Tribute to Lewis C. Scott." The panel of guests from the Lemon Street Community told stories to honor a Marietta legend.

Students and staff dance together at the Grand Staircase to celebrate generational unity at the Soul Train Stroll before school.

Halle Concepcion (12) participates in "The African Diaspora: A History Through Culture Selfie Experience." MHS clubs created the booths with Black History committee members Ms. Laura Gary-Michel and Ms. Jsayla Martin. It gave students the opportunity to take pictures and learn fun facts about African cultures.