Pitchfork, Issue 6, 2021-2022 Senior Issue

PITCHFORK

THE

EST 1928

Marietta, Georgia

Marietta High School

Issue 6

@mhspitchfork

May 25, 2022

ONCE A BLUE DEVIL, ALWAYS A BLUE DEVIL Senior Class of 2022

Boys track team wins 7A state championship Ella Chesney Section Editor

The Marietta Boys Track Team earned the 7A state championship for the sixth time in school history.

This is the first time they have won since 2008. The meet took place at McEachern High’s track complex under almost ideal conditions, with little wind but a high temperature.

Last year, the team lost to Alpharetta High by two points. Members of the team took the loss to heart, working harder this year to win the championship.

“Well after what happened last year, when we came up short, that really put a chip on our shoulders to

come so close and to end up short. It was devastating. So all of us knew that we would be back to win it all this year, and that’s what we did,” Zuri Johnson (12) said.

The boys aren’t the only ones excited by the win. Their coaches are as well. “[I am] very proud of our team this season. They set goals a year ago and worked incredibly hard for 12 months to make their goals a reality. It is very rewarding to see the process through and to finish on top,” Head Coach Nick Houstalakis said.

Continue to pg. 14 for “Track”

Coach Houstoulakis hoists the trophy while the team and assistant coaches pose on the podium with the official GHSA sign and championship shirts. Photo by Ella Chesney

Opinions

@mhspitchfork

page 2

Reality Check: a letter to the next editor

Alexandra Audrain Editor-in-Chief Dear 2022-23 Editor-in-Chief, I hate saying goodbye. I hate change.

For all of my life, I have done everything I can to avoid the practice and stay grounded in what I know and what I love–and I love Pitchfork.

Mrs. Lyons’ English Class was my very first class at Marietta High. She wasn’t supposed to teach a freshman Literature class that year, but there was a plan for the two of us and it involved each other. So

there we were.

At the end of that year, she asked if I would apply to be on the Pitchfork staff.

At first, I wasn’t sure if I was interested, but never one to turn down another thing to put on my plate, I applied (10 minutes before the deadline). I am forever grateful I made that choice.

Your Pitchfork career goes by faster than you think possible. I don’t remember every class or every editing session, but I will always remember the people. I will always remember the comfort I felt in that small, fluorescent lit room in the library, and later the beautiful mac lab in J Hall. I will always remember the scratchy fabric of the couch covered in nameless stains and the smell of Piper Rausch’s ramen cooking in the microwave at 8:00 in the morning. I will remember the early mornings and delirious late nights spent shouting across the room, “what page is this?!” and “why has no one changed this font?!”

Cherish these moments. They will be gone before you know it.

What many don’t realize about Pitchfork, and what I hope to instill within you,

is a journalist’s perspective of Marietta.

My love for this school goes without saying. The joy and peace I feel in these halls will forever make Marietta my home.

My role in Pitchfork allowed me to walk through this building and through this town and see each nook and cranny in a new light.

As a writer, I approached every day, every person, and every moment as a story. I walked down the hall and noticed a person with a newly painted art piece or custom embroidered jeans and wanted to understand its meaning and their journey.

I cheered on a Blue Devil touchdown, simultaneously hoping and praying we got the shot for the front page. I got to witness our state championship football team from the sideline, I got to watch and admire the love our students had for their team, their school and their community.

As Editor-in-Chief, you must honor and uphold this perspective. Tell the story of our greatest triumphs and most crippling defeats. Marietta is a family, and every family has their story. Treat the battles as they are:small snapshots of a larger story.

In every article, every picture and every word, show your audience not just the who, what, when and where, but the why.

Write every word with conviction. Inspire your writers to tell a story, rather than write a report. Publish every controversial article with the intention to impact your readers and inform your audience about the community they have been raised to love, honor and win for. Pitchfork is an honored tradition, one I have complete faith that you will celebrate and continue to pass on.

My story is far from over, but I am grateful that Pitchfork was a part of this chapter. I hate to say goodbye, but this is my sweetest farewell. I am proud of the stories I told. I am proud of this part of my story. I now turn the page, ready to explore my next adventure, and continue my story outside the halls of Marietta.

Tell Marietta’s story. Make your own one to be proud of.

Polk Street

Manning Road

Aviation Road

Friday Night Lights is a unique Southern tradition. I was first introduced to the concept on a September night my freshman year as I settled down in the student section at Northcutt. Since then, I have attended almost every game rain or shine and always dressed in way too much glitter.

AL Burruss is the school for me. At least, it was until the third grade. My fondest memory here was the fall festival. I remember winning a cake in the cakewalk and thinking that no feeling would ever compare. I went home and had one slice before “the ants got to it.”

I’m a proud MCAA rocket alumnus! It’s ironic that all the hours of STEM activities, science olympiads and engineering challenges would end with me seeking a degree in political science. However, MCAA did introduce me to the girl who, after many years apart, will now be my roommate at the University of Georgia.

Gratefully yours, Alexandra Audrain, Editor-in-Chief

Marietta memories

Julia DePasquale Assistant Editor

Mill Street

Keeler Woods Road The last night of my junior year, my best friends and I toilet papered houses on this road to welcome our freshman to highschool. I stand by the fact that this was my favorite night of my high school years. My friends laughing and screaming the words of “Classic” by MKTO as we threw toilet paper out of our car windows has become a core memory.

If I had a nickel for every hour I spent on this street, I’d be a millionaire. Cool Beans Coffee Roaster is a Marietta Gem. During my first semester of senior year, I would spend hours a day in Cool Beans working on my extended essay and college applications. Cool Beans made the process pleasant with their iced caramel lattes and Harry Styles playing over the speakers. It was here that I finished my application for the University of Georgia.

Whitlock Marietta High. You will forever have my heart. Walking into this beautiful school for the last four years has been nothing short of a gift. I’ve loved every moment: lunch in the senior courtyard, pulling into the parking lot with my sisters and pep rallies, screaming and chanting at 8 a.m.

Now what seemed like endless days of IB classes, playing soccer, student council and writing for Pitchfork are all coming to an end.

Kennesaw Avenue Countless quarantined bike rides up and down this road during the pandemic kept me sane. During the summer months of the pandemic, my friends and I would hop on our bikes every day to pass the time.

We would get coffees at Sessions Stand and then plop in the grass to talk about life. Despite it not being the typical high school experience, I still label it as one of my favorite Marietta memories.

Dear Marietta City Schools, thank you Isabelle Lovejoy Section Editor Marietta City Schools, thank you. As I prepare to move on to my next chapter, I can’t help but look back on everything Marietta has done for me. The transition from my small private school to Sawyer Road provided a much needed culture shock. For the first time in my life, I was surrounded by, and best friends with, peo-

ple of different races and cultures than my own. Marietta City has such a unique blend of kids, which I’ve always found to create students with a well rounded world view and sense of compassion. My younger self desperately needed this exposure, and for that I’m forever thankful.

To the teachers, thank you. From the elementary school teachers who nurtured me to the middle school teachers who pushed me and the high school teachers who brought out the best in me, thank you. I have been incredibly lucky to have had some amazing teachers. I’m grateful for the ones who loved me, the ones who made me smile on difficult days. But also for the ones who challenged me, pushing me to be better. I’d like to give a special thank

you to my IB teachers. Every single one has inspired me in their passion for their subject and for teaching, and I couldn’t have asked for a more supportive group of teachers throughout these difficult past 2 years.

Thank you for the people and memories I’ll never forget. The field days and extra long recess, the pep rallies and fundraising events, friday nights at Northcutt, homecoming and prom. Every single play and musical I’ve been in, every cast I’ve gotten to work with. Theatre, Student Council, Pitchfork. The study sessions at Perks, and the hangouts with the most incredible friends. I’m so lucky for the life I’ve led at Marietta. So from the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Wheresoever you go, go with all your heart Ella Chesney Section Editor I realize this sounds like a corny bumper sticker, but I swear it’s not. It’s one of many principles proposed

by Confucian: an ancient philosopher I learned about in AP World History. When looking for inspiration for my OP, I stumbled upon this quote. It resonated with me because I’m guilty of not following this idea.

When I moved back to Marietta after middle school, I was bitter about leaving my friends and life at Lake Oconee. It was hard to adjust and I only made it worse for myself by not trying to make friends or really getting involved here. I joined Model UN because it was something I loved in middle school, but that was it. I didn’t go to football games or any school events because I was too busy catching up on what I missed at the lake.

I think the turning point was when I joined Pitchfork my sophomore year. I found Nina, Zach and Kate. As I became closer to them, my old life seemed less important.

I began to consider myself part of Marietta. COVID-19 put a damper on that. I couldn’t see my friends even after

we returned to hybrid school.

I decided to make senior year different. Everyone was back to school. Most events continued like they had before COVID-19. I reunited with my Pitchfork friends and continued to make more. I was highly involved with school activities like NHS, Student Council and photography. This year has been the best one of my high school career because I chose to put all my heart into Marietta This next transition is easier because I chose Furman to be my new home but there may be times again in the future where I don’t have a choice. Either way, I intend to go with all my heart. I will be happier and prosper for it.

@mhspitchfork

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

Editor-in-Chief

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

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

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

PITCHFORK WANTS YOUR INPUT Letters to the editor should be brought to J208 or emailed to pitchfork@ marietta-city.k12.ga.us IG, Twitter, and Issuu @mhspitchfork

Opinions

page 3

To my younger self...

Lillian Salter Section Editor To my past self; the person that just entered freshman year at Marietta High School, I understand that you’re feeling apprehensive right now. You’re entering a new chapter, and any amount of change warrants uncertainty. You also probably have a lot of expectations and unanswered questions. I don’t know how helpful this letter will be, but I hope that it will prepare you mentally for the next four years.

High school is not like “High School Musical;” it’s not like “Euphoria:” it is an uneventful in-between. Although you like watching football on the couch in your living room, you will find that you don’t like going to high school football games. Friends that you’ve known since elementary school will drift away, but you’ll meet plenty of amazing people that will complete parts of you that you never knew were missing. You might struggle with time management, given that you will juggle school, tennis, theatre and a social life. But you will befriend amazing teachers

that will always have your back.

I understand that you would rather spend your Friday nights studying, preparing for your pre-calculus test, what have you.

And this might not be what you want to hear, but there are truly better ways to spend your time. If you take away nothing else from this letter, at the very least remember the following: it’s okay to take breaks.

Instead of reviewing biology notes for the hundredth time, grab dinner with your friends. Instead of hibernating in your room because you’re exhausted from the school day, unwind by partaking in another rummikub tournament with your family. By the time you graduate, you will look back and wish you enjoyed your youth when you had the chance. Academics and other extracurricular commitments are important, yes. But ultimately, you will treasure the memories more than the 0.1 increase in your GPA. I say all of this with your best interest in mind. Just remember that whatever curveballs life throws your way, you have the resources, the support and the strength to overcome any obstacle.

With all my love, Lilly

My full circle moment Nina Clark Section Editor Moving to Marietta from Chicago in the middle of my seventh-grade year was anything but easy. I struggled to adjust to the new people, new school and new state that I felt had “divided” me from my friends and family back home in Chicago.

I remember begrudgingly attending school and my apprehensiveness to accept my move to Marietta, which limited my ability and desire to be involved in school and the community. I was adamant for so long about not branching out and allowing myself to become comfortable in Marietta.

However, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I was sudden-

ly separated from Marietta as a school and as a community. It wasn’t until then that I realized how much Marietta means to me and how influential it has been to who I am now both personally and academically. As the years have passed and the more people I’ve met, I’ve come to really value my time in Marietta. I found something special and different here that I never anticipated, and I feel really lucky to have had these past 5 years. I’ll truly miss what I have in Marietta, which is something that just a few years ago, I never would have imagined myself feeling or saying.

I have met so many great people and had so many amazing experiences in Marietta that make saying goodbye hard. Nonetheless, I’m ready to explore Chicago in a new way, spend more time with my family and friends back home, and am excited about the opportunities available to me in the city and at my university. Even though Chicago will always be my home, I feel that I’ve found a second home and family here in Marietta that I’m grateful to be able to come back to anytime.

Chaotic teachers of Marietta High Kate Williamson Graphics Manager Almost every year in high school, I’ve somehow ended up with a handful of the most chaotic teachers at Marietta High. My sophomore year, I had Dr. Epstein, which was always a class I would look forward to, but maybe not for the reason you’d suspect. Whenever someone would fall asleep in his class, he’d find some bizarre way to wake them up, like blowing an airhorn in their ear. Or sometimes he’d just have the entire class stare at the person until they eventually wake up, completely dazed and confused why everyone was looking at them. At one point, Dr. Epstein pulled out from behind his desk a saw with a tennis ball on the end: it was a “back-scratcher”, according to him. I asked my friend, “How did he even get that in here?”, but

neither of us had answers. Still don’t.

I’ve had Mr. Cole for IB HOTA Y2 my senior year, and I’d argue that Mr. Cole and Dr. Epstein were pretty close in terms of chaotic energy. As I’m sure anyone who has had a class on Upper H would know, or on the entirety of H Hall for that matter, Mr. Cole has a “late bell”, or the “bell of shame” as some like to call it. Instead of berating students that were late, he’d ring the bell in their face and slowly shake his head. I was belled once, and I admit, it was quite the shameful walk down the hallway.

At one point it seemed like everyone was sick of that bell, but Mr. Cole didn’t budge.

“What are they gonna do?”, Mr. Cole said.

Some students took the bell fiasco into their own hands and hid it somewhere, but he’d just order another one off of Amazon a couple days later. I remember one time he said to our class that the name of the bell he got was “The Super Extremely Loud Bell”, or something along those lines. Only Mr. Cole.

Evidently, a few of my classes throughout highschool have been… well, unhinged, but I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Passing the torch: moving on Zachary Harrison Staff Writer It feels strange to look back and realize all the things you will be leaving behind. During my time in high school I was involved in quite a few clubs and activities. I even rose the ranks in a few of them. I was a drum major in the marching band and a team captain for Marietta’s mock trial team. Now that my senior year is drawing to a close, new seasons are beginning and a new set of students is set to take up the reins. It brings up a mix of emotions. In some cases it makes me feel old. I can remember when many of them were eighth-graders or freshmen. A few even cited me as an inspiration, which is a humbling experience. Sometimes, it conjures pride. Seeing others improve and step up was always one of my

favorite parts of being a leader, and I am happy to say that I have been very impressed by many of the people that I have worked with over these last few years.

Uncertainty is another common response. I wonder what will happen next and where things are headed. When I am no longer around, will things still run smoothly? Do they have the skills and experience to lead? These irrational worries pop up occasionally, but I try not to let them bother me too deeply.

There is a stage in childhood development called object permanence. It is the state where children recognize that objects exist when they are out of view. I would classify this bizarre blend of feelings as a sort of institutional object permanence. Things go on. Lives go on. It would be a terrible thing to live one’s life looking to the past.

What has helped me is remembering that I have another four years of opportunities in college and more beyond that. I plan to continue with things that I am passionate about and look for chances to do things I was unable to do in high school.

School News

@mhspitchfork

page 4

Meeting Mr. and Ms. MHS Zaria Byers Staff Writer

Every year at Marietta High School, a select group of seniors are nominated for Mr. and Ms. MHS. This year’s candidates for Ms. MHS included Quadriyah Williams, Eden Gbolade, Alexandra Audrain, Lillian Salter, and Lillie Murrell. The candidates for Mr. MHS were Zach Harrison, Tucker Williams, George Imarhia, Jaylan Scott, and Allen Gruehn. Out of all the nominees, Alexandra Audrain and Tucker Williams were crowned for best representing Marietta as a school and a community. The winners shared a few things about who they are in and outside of the building.

Alexandra Audrain

Are there any staff members who have positively influenced you?

“When I get asked “what makes Marietta special?,” my answer is always the teachers. Clearly, there are too many to name, but I would say that I would not be the leader I am today without Mr. Ball. We came into Marietta together, and I have learned so much from him and hope to inspire others as he has.”

Tucker Williams

Ms. MHS

Mr. MHS

What does the Ms. MHS title mean to you?

What does the Mr. MHS title mean to you?

“Being named Ms. MHS meant absolutely everything to me. Marietta is more than just a school, it is a family. When Ms. Cain called my name as Ms. MHS, I felt that I made a mark on this school and family that welcomed me with open arms.”

“Being named Mr. MHS is such a special achievement to me. I’m honored that the students and staff thought of me as a person who represents what being a Marietta Blue Devil is all about.”

What are some major things you’ve accomplished this year?

What are some major things you’ve accomplished this year?

“At first, I put so much pressure on myself to make my senior year special for everyone that I let it swallow me. After planning Senior Week and Homecoming, I kind of took a step back and reevaluated my priorities. I got back into what I was super passionate about; I directed Mr. Blue Devil for the second year in a row, did the school musical, and led Pitchfork, the best large high school newspaper in Georgia.”

Are there any staff members who have positively influenced you?

“There are so many members of the staff who have positively influenced me. Mrs. Herero, Ms. Duarte, Maestra Berdugo, Mr. Cole, Coach Carthers, and so many more have helped make the high school experience fun.”

“I’m most proud of the professional networking I have done this year.

Thanks to our awesome IB Career -Related Program and Career Advisors, I had an amazing internship last semester at Brasfield & Gorrie General Contractors. It’s been a dream of mine to work in the construction management industry, so taking an early step toward my long-term career goal was very fulfilling.”

Marietta selects 2022 STAR Student and Teacher Zachary Harrison Staff Writer Stella Schroter (12) is Marietta High’s STAR Student for the class of 2022. This statewide award recognizes a senior from each Georgia high school who has the highest SAT score and is ranked among the top ten percent of their class. Stella, who earned a 1560 combined score, expressed surprise at the score.

“I wasn’t expecting to get such a high SAT score. I guess my practice paid off!

It’s been nice to have people recognize me for my accomplishments, as it’s easy to get overshadowed in classes where oth-

ers are more vocal with their intelligence.

Being in the spotlight for so long makes me a little uncomfortable, but mostly it’s been a huge honor for my family and me.”

Schroter said.

STAR Students also nominate a STAR Teacher who was important to their academic life. Stella selected math teacher Jessica Meade as her STAR Teacher.

“This is Ms. Meade’s first year teaching what I believe may be the hardest course at our school, and she’s doing a great job. She goes above and beyond to support us through the difficult math content and stressful external circumstances. I am so grateful for her kindness and teach-

Stella Schroter and Jessica Meade at schoool board recognition ceremony.

ing this year,” Schroter said.

Ms. Meade teaches IB Math Analysis and Approaches HL, a high-level senior math class that includes advanced concepts such as calculus and vectors.

The pair were recognized at the Kiwanis Club’s Cobb/Marietta STAR dinner that honored school winners. The team moved on to the district level and participated in the STAR Region 3A luncheon that honored district winners.

“At both banquets I had to talk about my plans after high school and why I chose Ms. Meade to be my STAR Teacher. They were less than two minutes each, so it was nothing crazy,” Schroter said.

Stella has committed to the University of Georgia as an Honors program student. She plans to major in linguistics and hopes to join the Redcoats marching band.

“I’m interested in so many fields. Right now I’m planning to just see where college takes me. I love to read, and I think being a literary editor would be a perfect job for me, but I won’t be surprised if I change my mind about that in the next few years,” Stella said.

She expressed thanks for the many people who have helped her along the way.

“I’d like to give special thanks to my moms and all of my other teachers who have helped me get this far!”

Stella delivering a speech at the Kiwanis Club’s Cobb/Marietta STAR dinner.

Photos courtesty of Stella Schroter

Sports

@mhspitchfork

page 5

Marietta athletes earn scholarships Alyssia Hamilton Staff Writer

Izaiyah Nelson

Lisa Glymph

Zeke Durham-Campbell

Andy Sullins

John Turner

“I chose Arkansas State because it felt like I could build a new home there.

The people at Arkansas State are very kind and accepting of new people and they know how to welcome in new people.”

“I chose to attend Life because I feel like it’s the best place for me to become a chiropractor and because it’s the best place for me to achieve my goals in wrestling.”

“I chose Lenoir Rhyne because they recruited me beforehand throughout the season. Once I went on my offical visit to look at the school and the environment I knew this is the place I needed to be.”

“I chose University of Virginia to continue my athletic and academic career because they are a powerhouse soccer team that are consistently at the top of the ACC and also fight for national titles every year.”

“I chose W&L because of the dedication that the school has to their student athletes. Both the coaches and the administrators dedicate a lot of time and money to their athletic programs, and they seemed like they wanted me there.”

Ryan Chestnutt

Tyler Hughes

Chloe Sterling

Alizee Buresi

Basketball

Soccer

Avant Stepherson

“I chose Shorter because of the great family atmosphere I felt on my visit. I have the opportunity to play freshman year, and along with great academic aspect of the school, it was too good of an opportunity to pass up on!”

“I chose William and Mary because on my visits I felt at home. It is a prestigious high academic school, so not only will I be able to play highly competitive ball, but I will also be getting a great education.”

“I chose JMU because the coaching staff and the team convinced me that it would be a wonderful fit for me. Because of the way my coach works with his staff, I am certain that he will look after me and help get me to where I want to go.”

“I chose the University of North Georgia to continue my athletic and academic career because of their business program and their soccer team. The campus is also beautiful which was another aspect which made my decision easier.”

“I chose to commit to LIFE University because it is a small entrepreneurship based school, and I know I will be able to reach new heights in my wrestling career.”

Emily Callahan

Amari Salley

Kamryn Perry

Milon Jones

Charlie Bagwell

Basketball

Football

Wrestling

Football

Football

Soccer

Baseball

Wrestling

Soccer

Soccer

Football

Football

Baseball

“I picked the University of West Alabama to continue my educational and athletic career because I fell in love with the school and the soccer program as soon as I got there. The coaches and team made me feel right at home and were a big part of my decision. I can’t wait for the next four years there!”

“What made me choose UVA was the program’s history of success and as well as individual success. It seems like a place where you can excel as a student and athlete. The amazing scenery, campus and everything that comes with it played a role in my decision.

And lastly, the great coaching staff.”

“I chose Indiana because of the family environment. On my visit I loved my coaches and the city of Bloomington, they made me feel like a priority, not only as a athlete but as a student as well. Most importantly my parents fell in love with Indiana just as much as I did and that was good for me.”

“When I visited Kennesaw State, I could just feel the strong family and environment in the atmosphere.

Knowing they have a great program and coaches encourage every player to play to their best ability helped me know this was the place for me. I feel this was the best decision I’ve made.”

“The reason I picked Gordon State as my college to continue playing baseball is because everything felt right to me. The coaches made me feel at home and the campus was beautiful.

Once I went down there to visit, I couldn’t wait to get down there for my first year.”

Emmanuel Olaitan

Camden Overton

Ben Vigdorov

Football

Football

Soccer

“I chose Shaw University because they are a prestigious HBCU and they are in North Carolina which is really close to home. I also loved the city of Raleigh and what it has to offer.”

“I chose UTC because the team just made me feel at home. The fan atmosphere is amazing. Most importantly, the education I would be recieving would be one of the best in the world.”

“I chose UAB because I love the city of Birmingham. They also have a great team and environment along with a reputable program to recieve an education from.”

Zuri Johnson Football “I chose Trinity College because it felt like home to me and the vibe I got from the coaching staff was amazing.”

@mhspitchfork

School News

Academic Scholarship Recipients

Quadriyah Williams is a recipient of the Questbridge Scholarship. According to Williams, the application was a product of hard work, dedication and adherence.

“It took several hours, dedication, and time-management skills throughout the application process. The most nerve-racking part of this experience was the waiting, hoping, and the unknown of whether I would advance to the next round. Personally, I had to tap into my own confidence in my ability during the process,” Quadriyah Williams (12) said.

The scholarship results were released on Dec. 1 of last year. Quadriyah recalls the moment she celebrated her success.

“When I got the news that they selected me as a finalist and I matched with Columbia University, I was ecstatic. It felt amazing to be admitted to my dream school and a top university. I felt both proud and relieved,” said Williams.

Quadriyah plans on attending Columbia University in the fall, where she will study public health and biochemistry. She is excited for the many opportunities and resources Columbia has to offer.

“Columbia has always been a dream and now having an opportunity to learn from diverse groups of people in collaborative communities is one of the main reasons I want to attend. Also, I will be granted the opportunity to learn from esteemed faculty who are leaders in their field,” Williams said.

Nina Clark is also a recipient of the Questbridge Scholarship, a prestigious honor specifically designed to recognize low-income students of high merit and academic prowess.

“I decided to apply for this scholarship because of the opportunity to attend a top school in the nation and not worry about the financial burden,” Nina Clark (12) said.

According to Nina, the preparation process was extensive. Hours went into writing essays and collecting recommendations from teachers.

“To be considered as a QuestBridge National College Match finalist, I was required to write several essays and also provide the information found in any other college application: grades, extracurriculars, and teacher recommendations. Upon becoming a finalist, I had to rank up to 12 of the college partners and submit any supplements and additional financial aid information required for each school,” Clark said.

Upon discovering that she received the scholarship and matched with her top school, University of Chicago, Nina was overjoyed to see all of her hard work pay off.

“I opened my match decision right after school with a friend and we both screamed and cried. It was an indescribable moment of relief and excitement,” Clark said.

In college, Nina plans to double major in economics and international relations, in the hopes of pursuing a future career in law.

Marietta National Merit Finalists

Alexandra Audrain is one of three finalists of the National Merit Scholarship. Each year, more than one million students become candidates for this scholarship by taking the PSAT as a Junior. Audrain is the only Marietta High student to receive the NMSC $2,500 scholarship, awarded to 2,500 students nationwide each year.

“I was super excited that I qualified as this is a really well known scholarship program,” Audrain (12) said.

Considering the scholarship is so exclusive, the preparation process is rigorous. Audrain spent every Friday afternoon prepping for the PSAT in the beginning of her junior year.

“Even though I didn’t love spending every Friday morning doing SAT prep, it ended up being super beneficial and probably the reason I ended up qualifying for the scholarship,” Audrain said.

Although it took weeks of hard work and preparation to be awarded with the Semifinalist title, it was worth the effort considering Audrain was presented with scholarship money to put towards educational expenses.

“I will be attending the University of Georgia in the fall as a journalism and Marketing major. UGA has a very well known journalism program that I’m super excited to participate in.”

Zachary Harrison is another finalist of the National Merit Scholarship. The National Merit Program selects finalists based on academic records and achievements. Semifinalists are also required to write an essay and have teacher reccomendations to apply for finalist status. Typically, Marietta averages two to three semifinalists each year, demonstrating the competitive nature of the scholarship.

“It was a big surprise, but I was very excited to see it.

All the National Merit finalists from MHS are great and accomplished people,” Harrison (12) said.

Although it was a suprise to be awarded the Semifinalist title, Harrison spent time throughout his Junior year studying and preparing for the PSAT. Doing exceptionally well on the PSAT and SAT requires commitment, therefore most applicants had a source of inspiration to keep them dedicated.

“The biggest source of inspiration was all the people I know who got into and succeeded at selective and academically rigorous colleges. Their example pushed me to do my best,” Harrison said.

Although Harrison was accepted into many schools, he has recently made the decision to attend the Univeristy of Chicago next year.

page 6

Lillian Salter Section Editor

Icesha Sanders is a recipient of both the USC Trustee Scholarship and the Norman Topping Scholarship, both of which provide her with a full ride to the University of Southern California.

“Trustee is a fully merit-based award, given to approximately 100 students per admissions cycle. It is full tuition for four years. The Norman Topping Scholarship is need and merit based,” Icesha Sanders (12) said.

Sanders was automatically considered for the Trustee Scholarship because she submitted her USC application prior to December 1. She applied for the Topping Scholarship through a separate application, and the reward extended far beyond monetary value.

“I applied as a Topping Scholar not only to help pay for extra college expenses, but I also applied because I will be given volunteer opportunities to assist students who live around the USC campus that are primarily in lower income households,” Sanders said.

Upon hearing the news of her success, Icesha was overjoyed to see her hard work come to fruition.

“For Trustee, I literally cried, I couldn’t believe it. I clicked it and yelled to my mom from across the house.

“I got it!” For Norman Topping, I gasped when I saw the “Congratulations!” at the top of the letter,” Sanders said.

Icesha was the only person in her major to receive the Topping Scholarship. At the University of Southern California, she plans to study occupational therapy in a six-year program. By the time she graduates in 2028, she will have both a bachelor’s and a doctorate.

Kaia Kirkpatrick Staff Writer

Mateo Rios is also a National Merit Finalist from Marietta High. There are around 16,000 students that qualify to be a semifinalist out of one million that took the qualifying test each year, however, only 15,000 students become finalists. All three of the semifinalists from Marietta High were named finalists in Feb. 2022.

"The National Merit Scholarship is tied to the PSAT and National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test which students take in their Junior year," Rios (12) said.

To obtain the finalist title, students need to be a part of school related extracurricular activities. Rios is a part of TSA which recently place 6th in state.

Although Rios claimed that the scholarship was not a big deal, the opportunity to gain scholarship money was inspired by his family.

“My older brothers have had a lot of success in some of the same fields that I hope to go into in the future, and it's been amazing to see them excel,” Rios said.

Rios plans to attend Georgia State University next semester to study mathematics in hopes of becoming a math educator.

School News

@mhspitchfork

Oh, the places seniors will go: college, career, military post-grad plans

page 7

Ashley Caldwell Staff Writer

This year was the first combined College, Career, and Military Signing Night. The event theme was “Oh the Places You’ll Go” from the Dr. Seuss book of the same name. It honored all seniors for their post-graduation choices.

On May 11, there were plenty of activities for families and students to participate in: cap decoration, food trucks, photo booths and a formal ceremony for seniors to sign certificates of commitment for their college, career, or military choices.

The event was hosted by a committee led by the career advisers, Mrs. Sparks and Ms. Wilson, and college advisers, Mrs. Gorman, and Mrs. Mahone-Todman.

Marietta High School was named an officially certified college and career academy this month,

and has dedicated staff and community members alike to help students explore college preparation, work-based learning, internships, career pathways, military options and more.

“We are proud of this accomplishment and look forward to continuing our work of preparing all students for college and career to meet the workforce needs of our community,” Julie O’Meara, CTAE Director and CEO of the MHS College and Career Academy, said.

Three students who have different post-graduation plans were among the many recognized at the College, Career, and Military Signing Night: Fatima Badillo (12) has received an ROTC scholarship to Colorado State University; Robin Jimenez (12) has received a scholarship for welding at Georgia Trade School, and Cade Mayfield

has committed to the University of Georgia and received the prestigious Georgia Scholar Award.

Thanks to donations from the community and the work of the MHS staff, 2,334 students at Marietta are also being provided even more opportunities through CTAE classes. Partnerships in the community are a key to its success.

“Audi Marietta has contributed $60,000 to our “Transporting Success- Moving the Future Forward” workforce initiative. It will support removing the transportation barrier which keeps students from getting experiential opportunities like Work-Based Learning internships, job shadows, and industry tours,” said Mrs. Sparks.

The future is for all students to have more opportunities to create “the places they’ll go.”

Samson Popoola and Kerrigan Jones brought in mortar boards to individualize with decorations using hot glue guns, paint and other supplies provided at the JHall celebration.

Stella Schroter takes a picture for Mary Evelyne and Mateo Rios at the Marietta themed photo booth..

Seniors represent their chosen colleges on the J-Hall steps before heading over to the MPAC for the signing ceremony.

Annalise Marshall (12) signs her certificate for Wesleyan College on the Marietta Performing Arts Center stage. Photos by Ashley Caldwell

Cade Mayfield - College University of Georgia

Robin Jimenez- Career Georgia Trade School for Welding

Fatima Badillo - Military ROTC at Colorado State University

Mayfield is one of 216 seniors across the state to receive the Geogia Scholar Award from the Department of Education and State Superintendent Richard Woods.

Jiminez received a $10,500 scholarship donated by Bill and Amy Russell of ETS Solutions and ETS Foundation. This will cover full tuition to his welding certificate program.

Badillo is one of 200 students in the nation to receive a full-ride scholarship from the Air Force Reserved Officer Training Corps.

Class of 2022

@mhspitchfork

page 8

Alexandra Audrain Editor-in-Chief

WIN THE BACHELOR

WIN THE BACHELORETTE

BOX LOGAN PAUL

HAVE CRIPPLING SENIORITIS

BECOME TIKTOK FAMOUS

ELIZA REARDON

TUCKER WILLIAMS

SAWYER STRACK

MICHAEL BUSS

VERONICA ALLEN

HAVE THE STRONGEST

STAR IN THEIR

KEEP A TEACHER DISTRACTED FOR AN ENTIRE BLOCK

SURVIVE A ZOMBIE

ALLEN YUN

DANIEL JACOBS

BROMANCE

ROSS BOURGEOIS & FORREST KRIVSKY

JOIN AN AMATEUR OWN REALITY SHOW BOWLING LEAGUE

ALEXANDRA AUDRAIN

CADE MAYFIELD

APOCALYPSE

PITCHFORK ANNOUNCES FIRST AMENDMENT ESSAY CONTEST WINNER In Issue 5, the Pitchfork staff announced their First Amendment Essay contest, prompting students to write an essay regarding which of their First Amendment rights they value the most.

After history teachers reviewed all submissions, Faith Ojo (10) was determined to be the winner. Read her essay here:

Faith Ojo (10)

“It’s safe to say that there is no government, no country, and no nation on the Earth that has satisfied every single citizen in the way it operates. There will almost always be something to protest: free healthcare, gender inequality, worker rights, environmental issues, racial inequality, bodily autonomy, veteran’s rights, a lack of war or peace, poor economical conditions, an unjust ruler or societal standard, et cetera, et cetera. It is through means of protest that wars are ended, unjust laws are replaced with just ones, and society is changed.

That’s why the right to protest is the most valuable to me. It has the power to change our country more than any of the other 1st amendment rights. No matter

what’s being protested or advocated, there is always unity in the act of protesting. The act of assembling shows those outside the movement that ‘We are here together to speak on behalf of this cause because our opinion matters.’

The other first amendment rights place implied emphasis on an individual, while you need other people to exercise your right to assemble. Not only that, but it combines the important opinions of each individual and amplifies them in hopes of enacting lasting change.

Around the world, individuals are stripped of their right to protest and assemble every day, including in the United States. That’s because people in power know of the impact protest can have, and many are for what others advocate against.

Knowing that the most peaceful of protests can end in tear-gassed and injured citizens makes this right all the more valuable to me. Because no matter the consequences, no matter the public perception, there is always a group willing to go onto the streets and fight for what they believe, and that display of boldness is powerful.”

Class of 2022

@mhspitchfork

page 9

Lily Konigsmark Staff Writer

Forrest Krivsky & William Poston

Kamryn Perry & Christian Mathis

“We started as Stingers from West Side and have been inseparable ever since. I had the best years of tennis with him, especially when we shared a dorm for a week for University of Georgia tennis camp.”

“We met during school, KP was the new kid but very well known with the football players. Throughout his last two years here, we bonded even more with Marietta football. Despite annoying each other on purpose, I think of him as a brother to me.”

William Poston (10)

Christian Mathis (11)

Nathan Nebeu & Josh Beyene

Quadriyah Williams & Lauren Giles

“We would have Funday Fridays that we did with both of our sisters, we would eat out and just catch up with one another. He is my brother from another mother. Can’t imagine next year without him.”

“We met through volleyball my freshman year. I will always cherish our volleyball girls coming to the parking lot after school to just talk and hangout. Even when school volleyball ended, we continued to meet at my car to just talk and play volleyball. We even got some of the football players into our friend group to play volleyball in the parking lot.”

Josh Beyene (11)

Lauren Giles (11)

Maelyn Moore and Alafair Persons Staff Writers

Eden Gbolade

William Barnes

Alera Kose

Vanessa Hudgens

Lupita Nyong’o

Anthony Michael Hall

“Black Panther”

“The Breakfast Club”

“High School Musical”

Slim Ndome

Ross Bourgeois

Sawyer Strack

Frank Ocean

Ed Sheeran

Rick Morais

“Honey I Shrunk the Kids”

Features

@mhspitchfork

page 10

Isabelle Lovejoy Section Editor

Lunch Spot

Se

nior

y Court

ar

d

Parking Spots

De

Bi

rd i

Hallway

Year of High School

Sen

Up

i o r Ye a r

Cafeteria Food

Bathroom

Up

per H Hall

A Day vs. B Day

per J Hall

Coffee Shop

Pasquale

e Gilrea

t th B ro oke Gran

A Day

Pizza

Ma

rietta Perks

Wisdom of ‘22 Wesley Harrison Website Manager

“Learn the many meanings of being ‘nice’. Nice is treating everyone with respect and graciousness despite different life experiences and perspectives.

Nice is a genuine conversation with the new kid. Nice is reflecting before you comment on someone else: would I say this to their face? Nice is helping elevate others. Nice is treating yourself with patience and learning how to self-advocate.”

“Truly enjoy yourself and the life you live because all the rainy days don’t last forever. Just like us humans, the sun needs to rest as well. You are constantly growing and getting better.

If the results don’t look like everyone else. So continue to strive to be who you truly want to be, even if it’s not what everyone else wants you to be.”

Arrellia Cannon (12)

“Focus on your schoolwork, make friends, don’t be afraid to do things that make you happy and don’t worry about everyone else. Your friends will come and go but don’t even stress it.”

Sarah Crowder (12)

Josie Smith (12)

“Spend your summer building your resume, researching colleges, writing admissions essays, applying for scholarships, and looking for post-college plans and stuff to make you look good in your senior year. The focus of your first semester should be applying & getting into college. Second semester should be focused on scholarships and deciding on a college. It’ll become super stressful if you don’t start before August.”

“My advice to the underclassmen would be to try and participate in any events that take place inside or outside of school, because each and every one of those events/activities gives you a chance to become closer with your graduating class. Having a bond with the individuals that were with you during all four years of your high school career is one of the points of high school.”

Jarrius Jackson (12)

Laron Follins (12)

“My only advice for the underclassmen students is to try your first three years of high school, because once you get to senior year and you only have two classes it is going to be the best year you ever had.”

Randy Campos (12)

School News

@mhspitchfork

page 11

Marietta Student Council recognized by NatStuCo

Zachary Harrison crowned 2022 Mr. Blue Devil

Kate Corr

Nina Clark

Staff Writer

Student Council is a tradition dating back to the establishment of Marietta, and this year it has been recognized by the National Student Council (NatStuCo) as a National Council of Excellence (NCoE).

They won the gold award, which is a step above the regular NCoE recognition. Both levels of award are essentially rewarding the organization and planning of a student council. Typically, around 150 schools win the gold award every year.

In order to win this prestigious award, the student council had to document each step of administrative and planning procedures.

“Extra tasks were taking pictures of literally everything,” Sophomore Class President Valeria Rodriguez said.

The effort put into achieving this award was significant for the council, especially for those in charge.

“It took a lot of organization, commu-

nication and patience to do all of this,” Eden Gbolade, Senior Class President and Civic Engagement and Student Voice committee chair, said.

This is the first time the student council has been recognized by the National Student Council, and it’s a source of pride for the members.

“I’m very proud to be a part of a student council that’s so accomplished,” Elizabeth Matthews, sophomore representative, said.

This award is largely in credit to the student council seniors, especially the Student Body President, Alex Audrain.

“A special thanks goes to Alex for being a super great leader this year and helping us reach our goal,” Rodriguez said.

In future years, the student council will have to work hard to continue this legacy.

“I’m super proud of everyone for getting this done, and hope they continue to get the award in the coming years,” Gbolade said.

Student Council Advisor Mrs. DeJarnett holds up the Award Certificate. Photo by Kate Corr

Section Editor

In Marietta High’s first fundraiser of the year on Jan. 28, eight senior boys competed for the title of Mr. Blue Devil.

This year’s contestants included Zachary Harrison, Justin Hurioglu, George Imarhia, Reese Johnson, Chris Karnes, Nathan Nebeu, Jaylan Scott and Jamiyah Smith.

Harrison was crowned Mr. Blue Devil, and Scott and Imarhia placed second and third, respectively.

“Honestly, it was a total surprise. I’m really happy to know I helped to raise money for such a good cause,” Harrison said.

Each boy competed and was judged in four categories: talent, best dressed, costume depicting a conspiracy theory and a question round.

“The winner is decided based on the judges’ scores and the amount of money

raised/donated to that male,” Aine Jones (12), co-host of the Mr. Blue Devil Pageant, said.

In addition to benefiting a charitable cause, the students involved in the Mr. Blue Devil Pageant enjoyed watching the different acts of those competing against them.

“It was a lot of fun. Everyone was having a good time and really got the chance to show off. Getting to see everyone’s creative acts was my favorite part of it. I loved the conspiracy theory round,” Harrison said.

All proceeds from ticket sales and votes went to Light the Night, a fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The event raised $4,156 from donations and ticket sales.

“I chose to compete in the pageant because I wanted to be a part of something bigger than myself and help out a good cause,” Imarhia said.

Zachary Harrison smiles after being crowned Mr. Blue Devil. Photo by Ella Chesney

Inaugural Powderpuff football game raises nearly $1,600 Etinosa Ogbomo Business Manager For the first time, Marietta High hosted the Powderpuff football fundraiser game.

Held on May 17, the game featured girls from each grade competing against one another on the football field to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Instead of typical coaches, numerous varsity football players trained the Powderpuff players for the event. The teams were split by grade; with four games in total being played.

The first game featured the juniors facing off against the freshman, with the freshman ultimately facing a loss to the

more experienced team. The juniors defeated the freshman, with the final score being 14-6.

The following game featured the seniors against the sophomores. The sophomores were victorious, besting the seniors in a 12-0 upset.

The third game was a consolation match between the seniors and freshmen, with the seniors gaining the upper hand in a 6-0 win.

The match between victors pitted the juniors against the sophomores. The game was contentious, but ultimately the juniors took the championship game with a narrow 6-0 victory.

Regardless of the outcome, the girls were excited to raise money for the Leu-

Alizee Buresi runs the ball down the field in an attempt to gain the first down.

kemia and Lymphoma Society through the Powderpuff game.

“It was a good way to raise money,” Brooke Grant (12) said. “The school and community came together, not only for the game but to spread awareness and aid the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.”

Various girls attributed their participation to the chance to raise funds for the organization.

“I decided to play because we got to raise money for the charity. It was just a super way to give back to the community,” Claire Leiter (10) said.

While the players enjoyed the chance to raise money for charity, they also relished the opportunity to face new experiences with their friends.

“It’s special because most of the team has never played before, so we had to be taught to play. I enjoy getting to learn how to play a new sport and playing with my friends,” Katherine Sundvick (11) said.

Other players mirror her sentiment.

“My favorite part about playing is that it’s super fun to have all your friends on the same team and compete with the other grades in practice,” Claire Hennesey (11) said.

For the seniors, the game represented something special: the chance to participate with their peers one last time before graduation.

“It was fun getting to participate as a last thing to do with the seniors from the cheer team,” Grant said.

The junior team and cheerleaders pose with Mr. Ball after winning the Powderpuff game on May 17. Photos by Ada Chesney

School News

@mhspitchfork

Biggest Rivals

page 12

Dynamic Duo

Savannah Miller

Andrea Lyons

Adam Russell

Josh Dempsey

“Locked closets...”

“... but open hearts.”

“We’re so awesome we finish each other’s...”

“...sandwiches.”

Most Likely to Go Viral

Most Quotable

Kelly Herrero

Phillip Rogers

Lucila Berdugo

Warren King

“If I went viral, I hoped they’d name a Celsius after me.”

“It’ll happen someday, I’m up to like 200 followers now.”

“…Sin embargo, haz algo por tu vida.”

“You miss 100 percent of the shots that you don’t take.”

Most Likely to go on Jeopardy

Most Likely to Wear a Costume

Cody Morelock

Barbara Manwell

Andy Cole

Ashley Riner

“Grateful chemistry teacher who would love to be on Jeopardy! Question: Who is Dr. Morelock”

“I’ll take awesome teacher superlatives for $1,000, Alex.”

“I live my life unapologetically.”

“Who said school can’t be fun?

Dress up days give me a chance to express my personality and connect with my students.”

Most Likely to Get Blocked by a Celebrity on Twitter

Most Likely to Give Homework Over Break

Terri Duarte

Jack Coleman

Jessica Vaughn

Jose Gonzalez

“It’s all fun and games until you end up in someone’s trunk.”

“Discipline is the pathway to freedom.” -Jocko Willink

“If you had done it when it was assigned, you wouldn’t have to do it over the break.”

“Make sure you read 50 books over the break.”

School News

@mhspitchfork

page 13

Dempsey wins Teacher of the Year Award Kate Williamson Graphics Manager Josh Dempsey, IB film teacher and Blue Devil News advisor, received the 2021-2022 Teacher of the Year Award for his many contributions to Marietta High. Students primarily know Dempsey through the management of the school news broadcast, Blue Devil News (BDN) and IB film classes. He also teaches specialized classes in visual and audio principles, such as the Audio Video Technology and Film class (AVTF).

After being asked what his initial reaction was to receiving the Teacher of the Year Award, Dempsey said that he felt that there had to have been a mistake.

“It’s very humbling and it’s an incredi-

ble honor,” Dempsey said. “it’s something that I feel totally undeserving of.”

Dempsey’s lessons extend beyond the classroom setting, as some of his students had to capture the moments leading up to

helped direct his students.

“It’s hard to separate from those two,” Dempsey said, referencing teaching and being recognized.

Dempsey describes IB film as film anal-

“Just work hard, always be ready for the next opportunity and even bigger opportunities will open up for you after that.”

Josh Dempsey him receiving the award.

“To be on the other side of the camera during a live [event] was very nerve wracking,” Dempsey said. He revealed that even as he was receiving the TotY, he

Josh Dempsey oversees A.L. Burruss students as they film their fifth grade news episode. Photos by Wesley Harrison

ysis and the production of higher-level short films and projects. Dempsey, teaching alongside Adam Russell in IB film, encourages projects that incorporate both foundational and newer techniques, such

as working around the limitations of silent film.

“My favorite part of the job is everything that doesn’t involve the gradebook.

I would rather us come in, work, produce a product and know that at the end of that process, the students are actually learning and improving their skills,” Dempsey said.

“In film-making, I think there needs to be a tremendous amount of flexibility because you don’t know what you’re gonna do from one day to the next.

Dempsey encourages students who want to learn more to contact him through his school email: jdempsey@marietta-city. k12.ga.us.

Madison McKinley (10) and Cora Ocampo (11) teach Burruss students about filming & writing segments for a news show.

Blue Devil News and IB Film: behind the scenes Dylan Buehner Staff Writer

Good Morning Marietta On August 2, 2018, Keith Ball had his first full day as Marietta High School’s Principal and the first official episode of Good Morning Marietta (GMM) was uploaded to the Blue Devil News YouTube channel. Starting out, uploads weren’t as common, but surprisingly, GMM started to come out more frequently during the pandemic, with students Cora Ocampo (11), Mitchell Sheridan (11), and Marietta High Alumna Leila Simmons leading the program both in person and from home.

Now, in 2022, we round out every morning with a broadcast from GMM.

Mr. Josh Dempsey runs GMM, and every morning up until 9:10, his students work hard, writing, editing and rehearsing roles for the broadcast. They run a tight ship, with every student filling their role nearly perfectly. They have anchors who alternate reading broadcasts live, technicians that run the sound and infographics, reporters who research and gather information about what’s going on in Marietta, and directors who coordinate the whole show. It’s safe to say that they make up an important part of many students’ day and are greatly appreciated by those at MHS.

IB Film

AVTF

IB Film Year I and II narrow down students’ goals by focusing on film analysis, video technique, and production styles that are common in the field. The course also guides students through preparing for the IB internal and external assessments that come with the program. Students must complete either the AVTF I or BVP III courses, which can be done by a student’s sophomore year. Unlike AVTF, IB Film is a two-year class and sixth subject for the IB Diploma Programme curriculum with IB Film Year II being the final course within the pathway.

AVTF I covers a wide range of topics from editing and writing productions to learning about mass media and professional ethics in the field. The program gives students a broad range of topics to help them narrow down what they might want to do later in life. The program provides equipment for the students to use during projects and assignments. They do expect some work to be done outside of class, as taping short films & promotional videos is common. From AVTF I, students can either continue down the AVTF pathway, learning more about running live broadcasts, or move into IB Film.

Madison McKinley (10)

Cora Ocampo (11)

“Mr. Dempsey is really good at pushing people past their limits and making them see their own potential that they may not be able to realize.”

“Winning the Skills USA state championship was a great experience, and I genuinely had a fun time with my friends competing.”

AVTF II Student

Jade Hinojo (11) GMM Producer

“I’ve liked film ever since I was a little kid.

The first time I started filming was the first time I got a phone.”

AVTF III Student

Jaylan Scott (12) GMM Director

“The broadcasting career was something that’s always intreged me since back in fifth grade.

I’ve been a part of the new broadcasts and live productions since then.”

Sports

@mhspitchfork

page 14

REGIONALS High Jump Izaiyah Nelson 1st Russell Bey 3rd Long Jump Isaiah Sanders 1st Will Fredrick 2nd Boubacar Ndome 3rd

200m Dash Jace Arnold 2nd

4x100m Relay Marietta Boys 2nd

300m Hurdles Akhaila Makenna 1st

400m Dash Devin Clark 1st Zuri Johnson 2nd

4x200m Relay Marietta Boys 1st

4x200m Relay Marietta Girls 1st

4x400m Relay Marietta Boys 1st

4x400m Relay Marietta Girls 1st

4x800 Meter Relay Marietta Boys 1st

4x800 Meter Relay Marietta Girls 1st

400m Dash Danielle Isom 1st K’dyn Shepherd 2nd

Triple Jump Laila-Hope Williams

800m Run Malachi Sanders 1st Cade Mayfield 2nd

Triple Jump Boubacar Ndome 1st

1600m Run Jared Fortenberry 1st

Discus Max Herman 1st

3200m Run Jared Fortenberry 1st

100m Dash Jeremiah Fredrick 1st

110m Hurdle Jorden Reddick 1st

SECTIONALS 400m Dash Devin Clark 2nd 800m Run Malachi Sanders 2nd 1600m Run Jared Fortenberry 2nd 3200m Run Jared Fortenberry 1st Boys 4x100m Relay 2nd

Boys 4x200m Relay 2nd Boys 4x400 Relay 3rd Discus Max Herman 2nd High Jump Izaiyah Nelson 3rd Long Jump Isaiah Sanders 2nd Will Fredrick 3rd

Discuss Malaika Theophile 2nd

3200m Run Maddie Jones 3rd

Shot Put Amarie Senior 2nd

STATE Triple Jump Boubacar Ndome 3rd Pole Vault Will Fredrick 1st Girls 4x200m Relay 2nd Girls 4x400m Relay 2nd Girls 4x800m Relay 1st

Discus Max Herman 2nd Triple Jump Boubacar Ndome 2nd 400m Dash Devin Clark 3rd 800m Run Malachi Sanders 1st 3200m Run Maddie Jones 3rd

Boys 4x200m Relay 2nd Zuri Johnson Jeremiah Fredrick Isiah Sanders Deonte Cole Boys 4x400m Relay 1st Malachi Sanders Zuri Johnson Isiah Sanders Devin Clark

What was it like to compete at the state level?

“Triple jump is exciting, explosive, and so fun to train. When you get out of the sand and see your mark, you know you had a big jump. The best way I can put it is ecstatic,” Boubacar Ndome (12) said.

“During the last stretch of my run, I was very tired but I was yelling at myself in my head. I feel very proud of myself. I knew I was gonna win. It was just a matter of showing everyone else that I’m the best,” Malachi Sanders (11) said.

“I ran the 4x800 and it was so fun to run with my teammates at state. I love relays because it truly is a team event and we all work together. It was different from other races since it was state but we were all there for each other,” Lillie Murrell (12) said.

“I was really proud of myself for getting third place at state. I was glad to even be able to race, so to get third and to get a personal record was awesome,” Maddie Jones (9) said.

Zuri Johnson (12) passes the baton to Isaiah Sanders (11) in the 4x400m relay. The team placed first in the state for the event.

Danielle Isom (11) starts off the block in the 400m Dash at the region meet.

Isom placed first in the region and fifth at sectionals.

Jorden Reddick (10) lands after jumping the last hurdle in the 110m Hurdles during the region meet. Reddick placed first. Photos by Ella Chesney

Photos by Ella Chesney

continued from pg. 1 “Track” The team was supportive of each other during the meet and throughout the season.

Members of the team who did not compete in state came to support their teammates, lining the fence around the track to cheer them on. Some even carried their teammates back to the tent after a win.

“I was proud to see our team support each other over the last year and complete our major goal for the season. It took 364 days of consistency to get back here and win,” Coach Coleman said.

The championship marks the end of the road for senior athletes who are moving on to college or other opportunities. Their win could be considered the perfect ending.

“This season was one of the best I ever had. And not because of the state championship. The people I met and grew with over the season were some of the greatest guys and girls I ever got to know. It was winning with them that made it so special. Simply because we earned it together through our work,” Cade Mayfield (12) said.

Sports

@mhspitchfork

page 15

Seniors say goodbye to high school soccer Ada Chesney Staff Writer This season, the girls had an overall record of 5-11 and a region record of 1-9.

They ended their season sixth in the region and missed the playoffs. Coach Buresi said the season went “ok” overall and the outcome was about what he and the team expected. Even though the outcome of the season was just “ok,” the players still enjoyed being a part of the team.

“I feel very happy and grateful to have had this experience together with incredible players and coaches. I will always have memories of this wonderful season that I lived,” Elizabeth Guttierez (12) said.

There are five seniors on the girls’

team who will be leaving the juniors to lead the team next year.

“I think the upcoming seniors have shown responsibility throughout the season and shown that they can hold the team together in our absence,” Linnea Sparger (12) said.

The juniors and the other underclassmen learned these skills from watching the seniors.

“The seniors helped the underclassmen with their knowledge of the game, their will to fight until the end and passion for the game,” Coach Buresi said.

The underclassmen on the team have a similar outlook on how the seniors contributed to the team and made it better.

“Watching the seniors always push everyone to do better, we all worked harder for them knowing it was their last year,”

Emily Callahan (12) sprints after a North Cobb player in order to regain possesion of the ball. The team went on to beat North Cobb on March 25, with a final score of 1-0.

Lauren Deac (10) said.

Senior night, a night to honor the seniors on the team and for others to show their love and appreciation for them, took place on March 25. The underclassmen on the team had the names of the seniors written on their legs in honor of them.

This season, the boys had an overall record of 5-11 and a region record of 4-6, finishing fourth in the region. They made the playoffs, but lost in the first round, making their season record 5-12. Even though the boys did not make it past the first round of the playoffs, it is the first time they even made it to the playoffs since the 2016-17 season.

“Senior season was a great experience and I was happy to help the team reach its first playoff run in many years,” Andy Sullins (12) said. “It was also a great way

to end our senior year by reaching playoffs, which I hope the underclassmen see as where Marietta High School should be reaching and competing for every year.”

There are 21 players on the boys’ varsity soccer team, seven of whom are seniors, meaning one-third of players on the team will be leaving after this year.

With so many seniors around, they had a strong influence on the underclassmen.

“I think we set a good example of how to be young adults. The underclassmen see what we do everyday, they see how we go about things/situations, they see our college decisions, life decisions, everyday things they are influenced by us and we left a good example and our absence is in good hands,” Amari Salley (12) said.

Yayven Van der Sar (12) dives for the ball, saving a shot on goal at the game against North Paulding on March 31. The boys team won the game with a final score of 2-0. Photos by Ada Chesney

@mhspitchfork

Feature

page 16

Julia DePasquale Assistant Editor

“Sometimes I just bring Nugget (my dog) to school with me when math class makes me sad,” Sydney McCarter (12) said.

“This junk just found its way into my car,” Mary MacPherson (12) said. Her trunk includes a snuggie, a waffle blanket, a flannel, paint from her parking spot, Celsius cans, oil changing supplies, “Boxers and Saints,” a lawn chair, a Marietta football jersey, a singular sock and jumper cables.

“I keep an old license plate, a couple of basketballs because I always got to be ready to hoop, my old car radio in case I want to listen to the oldies and sometimes my dawg Will because I always have my dawgs with me,” Nathan Nebeu (12) said.

“In my car, I have a moon because I had to succeed where Gru and Vector failed, a toaster to cook my apples when I get hungry, an elf on the shelf to make sure I’m driving well, a radio to listen to music while driving and a street sign I found outside of my house,” James May (12) said.