PITCHFORK
THE
EST 1928
Marietta, Georgia
Marietta High School
Issue 1
@mhspitchfork
September 24, 2021
Delta variant highlights public health concerns Dylan Buehner Staff Writer With COVID-19 cases on the rise and mask mandates increasing in number across Georgia, the Delta variant is confirmed. Most people thought that the bulk of COVID-19 problems had passed and that life could resume normally. But with the introduction of a new variant, that hope diminished quickly. The mutation of viruses is nothing new, with the flu undergoing similar mutations almost once a year. The Delta variant is one of many mutations and has become the primary version of SARS CoV-2. Origins for the Delta variant are foggy at best, but from what scientists have gathered, it seems that the variant originated in India around late 2020. Because of what has been noted as an underwhelming response from the Indian government, it spread throughout the country, trickling out into neighboring countries, and eventually arrived in the US in early 2021. COVID-19 and its variants are known for traveling the world, going from country to country via planes, trains, and automobiles alike. The World Health Organization is tracking at least 13 other variants with origins in the US, South America, Indonesia, the Philippines and Britain. A resurgence in cases has caused concern resulting in direct action from some school officials and business owners in the form of mask mandates and vaccine cards.
Continue to pg. 4 for “Delta”
Kiwanis volunteers place 2,977 American flags at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park to represent every life lost on 9/11. The flags will remain on display until Sept. 26. Photo by Ella Chesney
MARIETTA REMEMBERS 9/11 Volunteers unite to honor the victims on the 20th anniversary Lillian Salter Section Editor For America, 9/11 is a day to commemorate the victims of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks through memorials and community service. The impact of such a calamity continues to unite communities around the nation, Marietta being no exception. On Sept. 11, 2001, at 8:45 a.m., a hijacked plane flew into the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. 18 minutes later, a second plane flew into the South Tower, resulting in a massive explosion. Two more planes crashed into the Pentagon and a rural field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The tragedy amounted to 2,977 deaths and 6,000 casualties.
“I remember where I was that day. I was a teacher at Pope High School and grading assignments in the media center. The Today Show was on in the workroom, and I remember looking at the TV, only to find the first tower up in smoke. I ran to the TV, turned the volume up, and the first report was that a plane had flown in, not necessarily that it was a terrorist attack. And then, 15 minutes later, on live TV, another plane flew through the second tower,” Mr. Ball, Principal of Marietta High, said. “My initial reaction was to call my family because they lived and worked in the city, to make sure they were okay. It was awful because that
was my city. That was where I grew up, where my family emigrated to when they came to this country. With a direct attack on New York and the Pentagon, I just remember being beyond angry,” Ball said. Despite the attacks only intended for New York City and Washington DC, the event took an emotional toll at the national level. Spanish teacher, Richard Hurd, was a student at Marietta High and he recalls the sequence of events in detail.
Continue to pg. 9 for “9/11”
Blue Devils crush McEachern High in rival game Ella Chesney Section Editor Outside of Northcutt Stadium, children play on the lawn while their parents chat. A bus filled with donations for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta sits in the street. Students from both high schools filter through the rock arch of the stadium in spirited outfits. McEachern dons camo, Marietta western wear. The sun’s still up as the Marietta High and McEachern High football teams run through their respective banners. The crowd roars. McEachern High kicks off. Devin Clark (11) downs the ball at the 22 yard line. Tyler Hughes first makes an incomplete pass to Milon Jones (12). The ball is then handed to Jones, who carries it to the line of scrimmage. Tyler Hughes runs right, throws to Kamryn Perry (12) under pressure. Perry makes the catch before being pushed out of bounds. The home stands erupt in cheers.
“During such a high stakes game, any seemingly small win felt huge,” Birdie Gilreath (12) said. The ball is again handed to Jones, who runs for 18 yards. During the next snap, Christian Mathis (11) receives the ball at the 20 but is carried back to the 16. The Blue Devils feign a handoff to Jones, and Hughes throws to Camden Overton (12), who is downed at the five. Once again Jones is handed the ball, he breaks right and travels two yards before being downed by Drake Hatcher. McEachern High switches their defensive lineup before the ball is run in for a touchdown. Marietta High is on the board just three minutes into the game. Ben Parrot (11) attempts the extra point from the 10, but a false start is called against Marietta with a penalty of five yards, which are quickly gained back because of a penalty against McEachern. The extra point is good. Continue to pg. 11 for “Football”
Quarterback Tyler Hughes breaks through McEachern’s defense to score a touchdown in the second quarter. Hughes also had 350 total passing yards. Photo by Ella Chesney
Opinions
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Editorial: simply, I am stressed I am stressed. That’s it. That’s the editorial. I’ve put off writing this piece for four weeks now, hoping that one day inspiration would suddenly strike and the perfect words on the timely topic would write themselves, inspiring the masses. There has been no such luck. I am simply stressed. Procrastination has won out. For example, while writing this editorial, I made sure to take a break to google how old Taylor Swift was when she dated John Mayer–she was 19, while he was 32, for those keeping score. My mom was equally perturbed, as I hope you all are now. You’re welcome. So you see, if multitasking is the art of doing many things poorly, I feel as though I have mastered the art of multitasking. Between athletics, academics, family commitments, social pressures and trying to maintain my mental health, I am drowning in expectations. It turns out, they’re mostly my own. I surround myself with piles of sticky notes, reminders, calendar invites and alarms set to ensure I don’t miss a single deadline. I send emails an hour after they’re received with a preemptive “I’m sorry!” to ensure the re-
cipient knows I’m aware of my shortcomings. I accept every opportunity, every chance to prove I am worthy to those who have known it for years. I’m guessing that I’m not alone.
If we spend every present moment stressing about the test we failed in the past that might jeopardize our future, when do we enjoy today? We are a future focused society. As a freshman, I was asked which college I wanted to attend. I was expected to know what I wanted to do with the rest of my life and
choose a career at 14 years old. (Spoiler: I didn’t; I still don’t, and I’m beginning to suspect most adults don’t know either.) If we spend every present moment stressing about the test we failed in the past that might jeopardize our future, when do we enjoy today? I vote we start enjoying more and stressing less. Stop and google Taylor Swift fun facts. Take two hours to respond to an untimely email. Every once in a while, say no. Don’t spend your moments regretting the past and planning the future. What a waste of your present. To my 14 year old self, your government presentation due tomorrow will get done. To my 22 year old self, I’ll finish my CommonApp for you. To my 17 year old self, you wrote this editorial. It wasn’t perfect. It wasn’t expected to be. But it was real, and you were present. The stress that all of us are feeling is so incredibly valid. It means that we care about our futures. But if we can shift that focus to the present, the future will take care of itself. Or in the immortal words of Taylor Swift, “You need to calm down.”
How do you cope with stress?
Jamicen Sassone (9)
“I just go through it, but with a positive mindset. You can go take a 20 minute break and feel like you can do anything.”
Janelle Real (10)
“I do what I like to do. Reading, watching TV. It really helps get my mind off the stress”
Abel Valdez (11)
“I take a nap or find things to destress me like marching band. When I’m there, I don’t have to do homework. I can avoid doing it for a few hours while I chill with friends.”
Birdie Gilreath (12)
“I just go to my friends or people about my issue. That really helps, and sitting down and planning everything out things a little bit at a time so I don’t feel so overwhelmed.”
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CONGRATULATIONS to this issue’s winner, Eden Gbolade (12)
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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
Staff Writers
Dylan Buehner Zaria Byers Ashley Caldwell Ada Chesney Kate Corr Alyssia Hamilton Zachary Harrison Kaia Kirkpatrick Lily Konigsmark Maelyn Moore Alafair Persons Cooper Shaw Quadriyah Williams
Adviser
Andrea Lyons
Mission Statement:
Pitchfork is a student written and produced newspaper aimed at educating, enlightening, and entertaining Marietta High’s students. All content is determined by the staff in an attempt to be relevant and give voice to the student body.
Opinions
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Bring back three day weekends Icy McFall Social Media Manager
A vast majority of students appreciated last year’s four-day school week, a change made to help accommodate for virtual education. Similarly, teachers valued this change, agreeing that having an extra day for planning was beneficial to them and their students. One of the main reasons students appreciated having Fridays off was because it was especially beneficial to their mental health. Across the board, mental health is something that has been overlooked and ignored for far too long. Studies have linked deaths from stroke and ischemic heart disease to overwork. Furthermore, as we continue to battle COVID-19, students are contact-traced on the daily, making it hard to keep up and easy to fall behind. The amount of work that is missed from just one day, let alone two weeks, is immense and intensely tedious to make up. Having an extra day to reach out to teachers and catch up on work would help students tremendously. This means those that have been contact traced miss one less day of school; in turn, having less work to make up upon their return. Aside from being contact-traced, because of after school activities, prior engagements, or family priorities, not every student who needs tutoring is able to make arrangements for it. Morning tutoring is an option; however, students are permitted to enter the building at 7:15 a.m. and must be in class by 7:45 a.m. This leaves a 30 minute opening for tutoring,
opposed to the hour and 30 minutes available to those who can stay after school. It is also viable to include reasoning regarding socioeconomic differences that play a role in this opportunity for tutoring after school as well. The extra day for tutoring would combat this issue. It is imaginable that each teacher had a different experience; however, generally speaking, the Friday sessions did not go to waste. Even for students with teachers who did not hold Zoom sessions, there is peace of mind that comes with knowing a teacher is available if you need to send a message for help on a Friday morning. Having a teacher availiable while catching up, or getting ahead on work makes the process much less strenuous. In addition, evidence shows that attendance rates increase with having only four days of school each week. Offices are typically closed on Saturday and/or Sunday, necessitating the scheduling of appointments on weekdys. Students and parents are able to take advantage of the free weekday day to schedule appointments that would have otherwise monopolized a school day. The benefits reaped from an extra day off are advantageous to many aspects of our educational experience. It is reasonable to take into account the instructional time that is missed, though a potential solution to this problem could be time taken off of breaks throughout the school year. It is likely that some would have a negative reaction to this sacrifice: however, I believe the majority would appreciate the four-day week and as a result of the benefits, would no longer need extensive breaks.
Masks: one step foward or two steps back? Etinosa Ogbomo Business Manager
After extensive talks pertaining to the spread of the Delta variant, mask mandates were reinstated at Marietta High on Aug. 23. Expectedly, this polarizing decision resulted in an outcry from students and faculty. While a majority of students and teachers applaud the administration, some of their peers show disdain for what they perceive to be political virtue signaling. These dissenters cite a number of reasons for their disagreement with the recent institution of mask mandates: inability to breathe, ambiguity and indecision from the administration, etc. However, the most potent rationalization behind the dissent regarding mask mandates is found in the word “mandate.” The requirement to wear masks is what I, as well as a number of students, fundamentally disagree with. An increasing number of students have chosen to receive the vaccine, and they find the requirement to wear masks unfair. It’s pointless to dispute the effects of COVID-19 on our local and global community, but students are justifiably upset at the need to wear masks after they’ve received the vaccine. Currently, the CDC strongly recommends mask usage indoors, but they’ve repudiated a concrete stance on mandating these
recommendations because they recognize the increasing number of citizens that are opting to take the vaccine (over 55 percent of Americans). Marietta High’s policy should mirror the sentiment of our government instituions, and while we should strongly reccomend masks, imposing a mandate is an extreme step. However, the argument against mask mandates is more nuanced than simply disagreeing due to our growing vaccinated population at Marietta High. The primary question regarding the mask mandate is “who should dictate students wearing masks?” Should the school board have absolute sovereignty in the matter, or should the issue be addressed by parents/guardians in a home setting? The decision to wear a mask is a deeply personal choice affected by the background and various contextual circumstances of our student population. Recent studies show that a majority of parents support mask mandates. Consequently, this translates into a majority of students wearing masks regardless of an enforced mandate. The students and administrators that adamantly believe in wearing masks should lead by example, and perhaps even attempt to persuade their fellow peers to wear them. But to infringe on the students’ right to choose marginalizes the students who don’t wear masks for a variety of personal reasons, and prohibits the freedom of expression and speech that characterizes a true American society.
News
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Back to school, not back to normal Zaria Byers Staff Writer Last year, COVID-19 created confusion in the school environment by beginning completely virtual and changing to a hybrid choice. Quarantines, masks, Zooms and partitions became the norm. This year 2,610 students have returned to inperson learning, while 161 students opted for virtual only. Masks were not required inside the building at the start of the year, regardless of vaccination status. However, due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases, the mandate has been reinstated until further notice. “I love it. It keeps everyone safe, especially with the rising COVID-19 cases, and the amount of people getting contact traced,” Asha Jones (10), inperson student, said. In addition to the pandemic precautions, technology has become an essential part of the classroom. Student are required to have a laptop for class, and everyone has the opportunity to receive a free Chromebook to use for the year. Although many teachers are glad to be back in the classroom with their students, they seem to enjoy the paper-free aspect of using laptops for education. Dr. Beverly Sylvester teaches in-person and virtual students. “I prefer to have students do work online. It keeps things organized, it’s better for the environment, and cuts down on the load of work I have to take home,” Sylvester said. Virtual classes are separate from in-person classes, which is a refreshing change from last year's hybrid
crossover. This allows teachers to give each of their classes undivided attention, but also takes away the convenience of students switching between virtual and in-person school whenever they’re absent or quarantined. “I think that the elimination of hybrid learning was a good decision, as it was confusing for so many different activities to be held between platforms," Giavonna Thomas (10), in-person student, said. "However, I don’t think it was a good idea to give students an ultimatum." However, students seem to feel bittersweet about the effect that technology is having on their education. Even though many people are back in person, technology usage brings some virtual school aspects into the classroom, and might take away from a “normal” school experience. “I am doing a lot better now academically than when I was virtual,” Thomas said. “But I feel that it takes away from hands-on learning, and though it may be easy for some, I find it difficult to keep up with.” Surveys taken from Marietta High students suggest that mental health has improved along with academic stability. Virtual school required students to be behind a screen for the entire school day with little to no interaction. Many people seem to thrive while being in the classroom around their peers. Physical activity also increases from walking around the school, which overall improves student health. "My mental health has also improved, it helps to see my friends, or really anybody outside of family," Thomas said.
How do Marietta High students feel about the new mask mandate?
4.4%
58.8 % are happy about the mandate 36.8% understand the mandate but are unhappy about it 4.4% are upset about the mandate
continued from pg. 1 for “Delta”
How is Delta different? While the Delta variant started out like any other, there are two major attributes that are cause for concern Firstly, the Delta variant is confirmed to be more contagious than any other version of COVID-19. Yale & Harvard Medical, the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control, and other research institutions have documented the increased transmissibility of this variant, with it infecting more people at a faster rate. Secondly, the Delta variant is much more dangerous to those unvaccinated. The Center for Disease Control gathered data from two studies of the Delta variant in Canada and Scotland. Both reports showed that those infected with the Delta variant of COVID-19 had a high chance of being hospitalized. It also showed that those without the vaccine were at a higher risk of experiencing worse effects than if they contracted the original or Alpha strains of COVID-19.
On top of these worsened effects, the Delta variant seems to better transmit through low vaccinated populations, worsening this already growing problem. Scientists are worried that this increased transmissibility among those unvaccinated could lead to “Hyper-localized Outbreaks.” This phenomenon was coined by Dr. Perry Wilson, a Yale Medicine epidemiologist. He says that since the Delta variant transmits so well between unvaccinated populations, counties with low vaccination rates become hotspots for the Delta variant. He also theorized that, if a community with lower vaccination rates is surrounded by communities with higher vaccination rates, the Delta variant will stay localized. This would cause an increase in cases, and in a worstcase scenario, the crippling of their local healthcare system, which would lead to even more deaths.
Are students worried about the Delta variant?
Dispelling myths about Delta Are masks helpful? Yes. Masks have been proven to lessen the transmission and intake of COVID-19. While they can be uncomfortable, they keep both the Delta variant and other illnesses out of the body. Are vaccines helpful? Yes. Reports of recent COVID-19 cases show that over 95 percent of cases are in those without the vaccine. Studies in Georgia done by the CDC have shown similar results. Over 98 percent of the 335,000 cases in the study wherein patients without a vaccine. The study also reported that 99 percent of the over 9,000 recent COVID19 deaths, were from unvaccinated people. Are kids at risk? It depends. On average, kids and teens have had an easier time dealing with the effects of COVID-19, with under 15 percent of nationwide cases being in children. But that seems to have shifted with the introduction of the Delta variant. Case in children, both in Georgia and nationwide, seem to be on the rise. The reopening of
in-person learning seems to have amplified the spread of the Delta variant in kids and teens. And while the survivability of COVID-19 has always been higher among the younger population, the risk of transmission to those more vulnerable is a real concern. Do vaccines make you more likely to get COVID-19? No. Correlation is not Causation. What some people are noticing is that vaccinated people can still get COVID-19. What’s happening is they’re isolating these vaccinated cases, causing them to see a correlation between getting the vaccine and getting COVID-19. This link is unfounded but leans into an important fact about the vaccine, which is its effectiveness. Scientists have repeatedly said that the vaccines aren’t 100 percent effective, so some cases in vaccinated people will occur. They have also stated that the vaccine has nothing to do with these breakthrough cases.
How do students feel about getting the vaccine?
60.3% say yes
72.8% already have it
19.1% say no
19.9% are unsure
20.8% are unsure
7.4% will not get it
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Community
page 5
Marietta serves
Habitat for Humanity club revitalized after COVID-19 hiatus Kate Corr Staff Writer Similar to activities at Marietta High and the rest of the world, Habitat for Humanity was put on pause and was not an active club last school year. But, with students returning in-person, the club has made a reappearance. The club is a great way to gain service hours, but it’s also a valuable means of connecting with the community and helping others in a tangible way. Volunteers can get hands-on experience constructing homes for Georgia residents and watching their efforts impact lives. Habitat for Humanity is an organization founded in 1976. With support from former President Jimmy Carter, the non-profit has gained international recognition. Volunteers come and help out with home-building projects. The school club, led by club advisor Mr. Dominguez and co-presidents Eliza Reardon (12) and Alex Audrain (12), participate and encourage others to attend those service opportunities. “We are a service club here at MHS that builds houses for families in need. Students participate in most aspects of building a home,” Dominguez said.
Some examples of activities for volunteers are painting, renovating, and moving furniture. Since this club may involve more strenuous activities, students must be 16 to participate in build days, and anyone under 18 must provide a parentsigned waiver to attend. “People in Habitat for Humanity help in almost the full building of the house. Nothing too dangerous is placed on members and most skilled work like plumbing and electricity is done by professionals,” Reardon said. Volunteers often get to meet and interact with the people they are helping. The stated mission statement of the club is to house families. “The common misconception of Habitat for Humanity is that we are just building houses for free for people who need them. The actuality of the circumstance is that we help build houses for people who cannot afford or meet requirements to get a house on their own," Reardon said. "Most people who we build houses for help with the houses and are there most of the days, take classes on being a responsible homeowner, and put in money of their own.” Participants in the activities find the work meaningful and enjoyable, as well as useful in fulfilling their service requirements.
William Smart (12) and Wesley Rodrigez (12) work together to paint shutters during their first build day of the year. Photo by Alexandra Audrain “I got involved my sophomore year and wanted to join originally for service hours. Now I don’t need the service hours as much but love helping others who can’t get a house on their own,” Reardon said. There is both a Remind and a GroupMe that regularly send out information. This
includes meeting dates, work day dates and locations, and necessary paperwork. It is not mandatory to attend all meetings and/or work days. Contact Eliza Reardon, Alex Audrain, or Mr. Dominguez in room H210 to get involved.
Theatre department hosts "Once Upon a Tea Party" fundraiser Kate Corr Staff Writer The Marietta High theatre department hosted their third annual "Once Upon a Tea Party". The event welcomed kids of all ages to enjoy a snack, story, waltz and performances from Marietta’s very own princes and princesses in the musical theatre class. The event is hosted so that students can engage with the youth of the community and raise money for the theatre department. “We hope to bring joy/wonder to the young children of our community," Mrs. Holly Smith, theatre director, said. "We modeled this event after the character meals at Disney World. For many of these children, this is their first time interact-
ing with their favorite Disney prince or princess. Our goal is for the families of Marietta to become familiar with our theatre department, and hopefully, come to see a show later in the year.” Students involved in the tea party found the event to be both rewarding and fun to participate in. “I participated in the Princess Tea Party because I know it brings so much joy to the kids who come. Their faces light up when you walk up to them in character," Erin Johnson (11), theatre student leadership board historian, said. "When I was their age I was obsessed with princesses and I know that this would be the highlight of my year.” The student participants were able to interact with children in their community through dance, song, and a photo booth.
Faith Stewart (10), dressed as Sleeping Beauty, speaks with an attendee of the event.
They welcomed the children into the Marietta Performing Arts Center (MPAC), and then provided snacks. A few of the theatre students came out in character and got the kids excited for the main performance. This consisted of a few Disney songs and some dancing. “Arguably the best part is the waltz. We invite all of the kids up onto the stage where they get to dance the waltz with their favorite Disney character. After the show is over, they are brought to a photo booth outside where each child gets a chance to take a picture with any royal of their choosing,” Johnson said. As well as the event being beneficial to both the theatre department and the students, parents in attendance found it to be a safe way for their children to interact with others.
“It gives you something to do where you're not worried that they're gonna run off screaming into the night. It's still controlled, but it allows an opportunity for kids to actually experience something different. To be in control with the mask and the ability to kind of space out in the auditorium, I would say any parent would like it because it gives them an experience that they can have without wondering if it's the safest thing to do,” Letitia Lee, ELA Instructional Coach and event attendee, said. For anyone looking to attend the next theatre event, the theatre department is presenting a performance of their One Act competition play, Noises Off. The competition showcase will be at Harrison High School on Oct. 23, and they are bringing it to the MPAC on Nov. 5-6.
Isaac Phillips (9), dressed as Prince Hans, dances with a child dressed as Princess Rapunzel. Photos by Meg Robinson
REALITY check Entertainment
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Alexandra Audrain Editor-in-Chief
The new recurring article, Reality Check, will dive deep into the world of modern reality television. Following franchises including Bachelor Nation, “Big Brother,” “Survivor,” and “Love Island,” the articles will explore the controversies, catastrophes, triumphs and tribulations associated with the fame, love and glory found on reality television. Find future installments of “Reality Check” on Pitchfork’s website, coming soon.
Chris Harrison resigns as Bachelor Nation host amidst controversy After 19 years of serving as the host for Bachelor Nation, Chris Harrison stepped down from his role following a roughly $10 million settlement with the franchise. Calls for the series veteran’s removal as host began in February 2021 after a controversial interview with former Bachelorette and current host for “Extra,” Rachel Lindsay. In the interview, Harrison came to the defense of Rachael Kirkconnell, a front-runner on Matt’s season of “The Bachelor,” airing at the time of the interview. Kirkconnell had recently received backlash after photos of her in an antebellum style dress at an “Old South” themed Kappa Alpha fraternity party at Georgia College & State University resurfaced.
“We all need to have a little grace, a little understanding, a little compassion,” Harrison said in defense of Kirkconnell. “Is [the picture of Kirkconnell] a good look in 2018, or is it not a good look in 2021?” These comments, among others in the 14 minute interview, immediately stirred up controversy online. Many fans, critics and contestants of “The Bachelor” began calling for an apology from Harrison, some even for his removal from his role as host of Bachelor Nation. Days after the interview with Lindsay, Harrison released an apology on his Instagram for the harm his words may have caused. However, after the controversy did not slow, Harrison
announced his temporary leave from his role in “The Bachelor” finale on his Instagram. “By excusing historical racism, I defended it. I invoked the term “woke police,” which is unacceptable,” Harrison said. “I have consulted with Warner Bros. and ABC and will be stepping aside for a period of time and will not join for the After the Final Rose special. I am dedicated to getting educated on a more profound and productive level than ever before.” Emanuel Acho, former NFL Linebacker and author of “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man,” stepped in to host the finale episode of Matt’s season of “The Bachelor.” The day of “The Bachelorette” premiere, ABC Entertainment
confirmed that Harrison would not be returning to his role within “The Bachelor” franchise, after settling with the former star for roughly $10 million including contract fees and payments. “Chris Harrison is stepping aside as host of ‘The Bachelor’ franchise. We are thankful for his many contributions over the past 20 years and wish him all the best on his new journey,” Warner Horizon and ABC Entertainment said in a statement to US Weekly. Former Bachelorettes Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe stepped in to replace the iconic host for Katie’s season of “The Bachelorette” and are confirmed to reprise their role in the historic, up-coming double season lead by Michelle Young. Former
“Bachelorette” and “Bachelor in Paradise” star Wells Adams will serve as a host for “Paradise,” in addition to special guest stars David Spade, Lance Bass, Tituss Burgess and Lil Jon (yes, Lil Jon will be hosting “The Bachelor.”) “Bachelor in Paradise” airs Mondays and Tuesdays at 8 p.m. on ABC.
“Bachelor in Paradise”: what’s the tea?
Pieper James, Natasha Parker and Brendan Morais (left to right) has led to online backlash against James and Morais, while new followers have flocked to Parker. Parker and Morais were in a relationship during the first weeks of “BIP,” until James entered, revealing her previous relationship with Morais.
Serena Pitt, Joe Amabile and Kendall Long (left to right) entered the “BIP” spotlight after Amabile’s ex-girlfriend Long, who refused to move from Los Angeles to Chicago with Amabile, finds him in a relationship with Pitt. Photo illustrations by Alexandra Audrain
“Big Brother” 23’s Cookout alliance turns up the heat
For the first time in “Big Brother” history, the final six contestants are all Black. “BB23” has included strategic and social gameplay at a whole new level, largely instigated by the season’s largest, and most close-knit, alliance: the Cookout. On Nov. 9, 2020, CBS announced a commitment to cast 50% BIPOC contestants in all unscripted series (namely “Big Brother,” “Survivor” and “The Amazing Race”). “CBS announced today a target for all future unscripted programs to have casts with at least 50% of the contestants being Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), beginning in the 2021-2022 broadcast season. The network will also allocate at least a quarter of its annual unscripted development budget to projects created or co-created by BIPOC pro-
ducers, also starting in the 2021-2022 season,” Phil Gonzales said in a ViacomCBS Press Release. “BB23” features six Black houseguests, the most in the show’s history, offering Black contestants an opportunity they’ve never had. These six contestants, Azah Awasum, Hannah Chaddha, Derek Frasier, Tiffany Mitchell, Xavier Prather and Kyland Young, seized this new opportunity to form the Cookout and work together toward a mutual goal: crown the first Black winner in “Big Brother” history. While the Cookout continues to prove successful, some fans of the show have accused the group of targeting players based on race and said the production team should prevent the alliance from eliminating White contestants. “@CBS how is it okay to show people
targeting white people? We are all equal. This is showing hate and racism. #racist #bigbrother #racism #endracism” @ mr_doesn said on Twitter. Contestants and fans alike are clapping back at these remarks, saying that the alliance is not targeting houseguests based on the color of their skin, but instead have formed an alliance with one another based off of mutual understanding and refuse to betray those relationships. “To the people who claim I was evicted by the Cookout because they are racists, these remarks need to stop. You can have your own opinions but regardless of what you say I don’t agree. The Cookout is the strongest, best, most trustworthy, well rounded alliance that is formed this season and I wasn’t asked to be a part of it. Although I do appreciate everyone’s
support, the ones who say I was evicted for my race need to get over it,” Christian Birkenberger, a “BB23” contestant voted out in the season’s 5th week said in a statement on Twitter. While the alliance proved to be incredibly successful, the gameplay has inevitably ramped up now that the Cookout are the only players left in the game. Young won the Head of Household competition at the Final Six, meaning he holds the power and decides who will be the first Cookout member eliminated from the game. He nominated female houseguests Chaddha and Mitchell, steering the game inevitably towards a battle of the sexes. “Big Brother” airs Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8 p.m. on CBS.
Entertainment
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Britney Spears campaigns for freedom Isabelle Lovejoy Section Editor Britney Spears, the world-renowned pop star, has spent nearly half of her career under a conservatorship, without full control of her life. According to the California Court’s official website, a conservatorship is when a judge appoints an individual or organization to be responsible for another adult who is deemed unfit to care for themselves or to manage their own finances. In the case of Britney Spears, Britney is considered the “conservatee,” and her father, Jamie Spears, is the “conservator.” Britney has been held under this conservatorship by her father, Jamie Spears, since her infamous public breakdown in 2007, which led to her hospitalization and rehab sentence. Her breakdown was sparked by divorce from her husband, Kevin “K-Fed” Federline, and a wearisome custody battle. This, on top of battling drug addiction and years of fame and publicity, led Britney to leave rehab, publicly shave her head, and attack the surrounding paparazzi with an umbrella. Despite the stigma around her mental health, Spear’s career never faltered, and arguably gained more success from all of the publicity. The star has since released albums, gone on tours, and launched business ventures. However, longtime fans
have vocalized discontent in seeing the star held under this conservatorship years later at age 38. Convinced that Britney, too, wants to be free from her legalities, fans launched the #FreeBritney movement, utilizing social media platforms to spread awareness on the discrepancies associated with her conservatorship.
Jamie was Britney’s estate and personal conservator until 2019, when he stepped down from the personal conservatorship due to health issues. As conservator, he collects a salary and a percentage of the profits from her tours. According to court documents obtained by People, Britney is “strongly opposed” to her father returning to his role as the sole conservator of her affairs and finances. In November 2020, Britney privately filed to have her father removed from her conservatorship. This petition was denied in June 2021. On June 23, Britney testified in front of the courts. ”I’ve lied and told the whole world, I’m okay. And I’m happy.” She claimed to be traumatized and believes that,”this conservatorship is abusive.” She also called 911 the night before her hearing to report herself as a victim of conservatorship abuse. Britney even went as far as to compare her treatment to sex trafficking. “I worked seven days a week no days off, which in California the only similar thing to this is called sex trafficking. Making anyone work, work against their will, taking all their possessions away- credit cards, cash, phone, passport.” She’s unable to get married and her reproductive rights have been taken. Her request to go to a doctor to have her IUD removed has been denied, since the conservatorship doesn’t want her to have more children.
Conservatorship There are two types of conservatorships. The first “conservator of a person,” covers the conservatee’s individual needs such as health care, medical needs, and housing. The second is “conservator of the estate,” which entails handling the conservatee’s business and financial affairs. Britney is currently under both forms of conservatorships. Following her 2007 breakdown, Britney was put under a 5150, a 72 hour involuntary hold in a psychiatric hospital. Jamie petitioned the courts for an emergency temporary conservatorship, implying that Britney was unable to properly care for herself due to her mental health issues. However, in the conservatorship paperwork the box was ticked for “conservatee having dementia,” a claim that went unchallenged by her lawyer. This gave grounds for the conservatorship to be made permanent eight months later.
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“She is a grown #Fre eBr woman and should itne y be allowed to make her own decisions.” -Maddie Jones (9)
Fans, outraged by the recent findings of her testimony and the release of the documentary “Framing Britney Spears,” has brought the #FreeBritney Movement back to the forefront and stronger than ever.
Movement The #FreeBritney movement first gained traction in 2009, with the formation of FreeBritney.net. Britney fans have long expressed concerns on the conservatorship terms and questioned whether it’s in her best interest. FreeBritney.net released an official statement as to why Britney should no longer be under her conservatorship. “During the twelve years of Spears’ conservatorship she has repeatedly toured the world, released multiple albums, and worked on a variety of television shows. Her conservators decide whether or not she works, as she cannot enter into contracts for herself because she is legally not her own person. Britney Spears needs permission from her conservators to leave her house or spend any of her own money.” Fans have held protests in the street in support of Britney, demanding an end to her conservatorship. She has shared that supports her fans speaking out on her behalf. “Britney welcomes and appreciates the informed support of her many fans,” read a statement from Britney’s lawyer.
JUSTICE!!!
end the conser
e t sh h g thou re and e . n u eryo immat she’s v E “ just know .” s a w we ting now en hur s (12) en be Ow ddie -Ma
Graphic by Kate Williamson
Now playing: theaters vs. streaming Cooper Shaw Staff Writer In the past, the movie theater has been an integral part of the experience of growing up in America. In the decades on either end of the turn of the century, one could expect for movie theaters to be packed with young adults eager to watch a new release. This, however, has proven to be a dying trend. As it becomes more and more convenient to access movies online, people are beginning to prefer to watch movies from the comfort of their own homes, with their own (more affordable) snacks. “Streaming is way more convenient than movie theaters. I can do it anytime, anywhere on my phone,” Christian Wells (11) said.
When it comes to the paradigm shift in regards to the consumption of movies, convenience is the name of the game. Watching a movie on a streaming service like Netflix or Hulu doesn’t require the consumer to drive to a movie theater where they are greeted by an expensive ticket, overpriced snacks, and filthy, decades-old theater snacks. Instead, the movie viewers may find themselves comfortably nested among the covers of your own bed, with the privilege to decide between a wide variety of movies or TV shows for as little as $8.99 a month on Netflix, or even $5.99 with ads on Hulu. “I don’t want to waste gas driving to the movie theater, just to get there and pay $15 for a ticket. When would I do that when I can watch as many movies as I want for a
month on Netflix for less than the price of a movie ticket?” Josh Beyene (11) said. Market trends can confidently back up these opinions. In the past 10 years, Netflix’s stock has grown 2,000 percent, and, in 2020, Netflix alone made $25 billion as compared to the global box office making $12 billion. Clearly, consumers enjoy the convenience of streaming services. On top of this, the COVID-19 pandemic destroyed movie theater attendance, falling to 20 percent of what they had been the year prior, allowing Netflix and Hulu to be clear favors for the year of quarantine. However, as people are re-entering daily life, movie theaters are fighting back. AMC recently negotiated a 45-day theater-only exclusivity deal for upcoming releases from film giant Warner Bros. This
exclusivity draws movie viewers back into theaters, promising early viewing of new films. Jason Kilar, Warner Media CEO, thinks this is a dying trend. “I certainly don’t anticipate us going back to the way the world was in 2015 or ‘16 or ‘17, where windows were quite lengthy between theatrical and home exhibition,” Kilar said to the Verge. Movie theaters are also beginning to adapt by offering an experience that is better than one might have at their own home. Luxury movie theaters where the customer might be served a meal, or be able to relax in a comfortable recliner or bed have popped up all around the country as a reaction to loss in demand for tickets to traditional movie theaters.
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Ser Familia advocates for Latino community Nina Clark Section Editor Ser Familia is an organization with centers located across the Metro-Atlanta area that works with Latino families, parents, couples, and youth. The organization’s mission is to strengthen and encourage Latino participants and families to thrive, and they accomplish this through a wide array of services and programs that are free of charge. “For youth, we have a group called ‘Renovación Juvenil (RJ)’. It’s a group of Latino teens leading other Latino teens in navigating the culture that our kids live in, helping them with social and emotional learning, coping skills, and peer resistance skills,” Belisa Urbina, Founder of Ser Familia, said. “We also offer a program called Strengthening Families in which the teens have a series of classes or workshops that are two hours long for eight sessions. And during those sessions, they not only learn how to cope, specifically with peer pressure and bullying, but it also fosters better communication with their parents and their families.” In addition to their services for youth, Ser Familia provides Latino adults and parents with services such as parenting classes, domestic violence support groups, couples counseling, and emergency assistance if the participants are in need of rent support or food. A feature
of Ser Familia services is how specific and personal they are to the family or youth being served. “Everything is delivered from the optic of a family,” Urbina said. “We do a very thorough set of assessments on everybody in the home and then we create a plan that is tailored to that family, to their needs, their aspirations, their strengths, and we walk with them for whatever time it takes for them to go from that moment of difficulty or crisis to a moment in which they are thriving.” Urbina stresses the importance of Ser Familia as the Latino population continues to grow in Georgia and how she feels that as a Latina, she has a bigger role to play for the community. Urbina hopes to be able to make a positive impact for all children and all families the organization works with. “What we foresee is that the families will have better communication in their relationship, and in the end it’s going to help those families create a more stable and positive environment in which the kids and teens can develop better,” Urbina said. “Usually if you have a situation at home in which you are not feeling comfortable or there’s not good communication, what then happens is that you become a less apt worker and less apt student because you are emotionally consumed and affected by that environment. So if we help the family gain stability and become more functional, the
kids are going to benefit tremendously from this ability that we create.” Families and youth participating in Ser Familia can benefit greatly from their services and are quick to recommend the organization to other families and teens. “I would recommend Ser Familia’s services because they are a very good team that helps many families and teens to keep going forward and guides them by advising them. For example, personally it helped me and thanks to their services, my family is not the same and how we once were. I have very good communication with my sons thanks to Ser Familia,” Narcisa Rodas, Marietta City Schools parent, said. As a non-profit organization, Ser Familia relies on the support of volunteers to function. Though limited because of COVID-19, the organization accepts support in the form of collection drives for items such as school supplies and gift donations, and youth volunteers as group leaders for “Renovación Juvenil (RJ).” For more information on Ser Familia, their services, and how to get involved, visit the organization’s website or contact/visit one of their four centers located across the metro-Atlanta area. The closest center is located at 1000 Cobb Place Blvd NW in Suite 170 in Kennesaw, Georgia.
Ser Familia aboga por la comunidad Latina Nina Clark Section Editor Ser Familia es una organización con centros ubicados en el área de Metro-Atlanta que trabaja con familias latinas, padres, parejas y jóvenes. La misión de la organización es fortalecer y alentar a los participantes latinos y a las familias a prosperar, y ellos logran esto a través de una amplia gama de servicios y programas que son gratuitos. “Para los jóvenes, tenemos un grupo llamado Renovación Juvenil (RJ). Es un grupo de adolescentes latinos que lideran a otros adolescentes latinos en navegar por la cultura en la que viven nuestros niños, ayudándolos con el aprendizaje social y emocional, habilidades para enfrentar problemas y habilidades de resistencia entre pares,” dijo Belisa Urbina, fundadora de Ser Familia. “También ofrecemos un programa llamado Fortalecimiento de las Familias en el cual los adolescentes tienen una serie de clases o talleres de dos horas de duración para ocho sesiones. Y durante esas sesiones, no sólo aprenden a hacer frente, específicamente a la presión de los compañeros y a la intimidación, sino que también fomentan una mejor comunicación con sus padres y sus familias.” Además de sus servicios para jóvenes, Ser Familia provee a adultos latinos y padres con servicios tales como clases para padres, grupos de apoyo a la violencia doméstica, consejería para parejas y asistencia de emergencia si los participantes necesitan ayuda de alquiler o
comida. Una característica de los servicios de Ser Familia es ser específicos y personales para la familia o los jóvenes que reciben servicio. “Todo es liberado de la óptica de una familia,” dijo Urbina. “Hagamos un conjunto muy completo de evaluaciones sobre todos los habitantes del hogar y luego creamos un plan adaptado a esa familia, a sus necesidades, sus aspiraciones, sus puntos fuertes, y caminamos con ellos durante el tiempo que les lleve pasar de ese momento de dificultad o crisis a un momento en el que están prosperando.” Urbina enfatiza la importancia de Ser Familia como la población latina continúa creciendo en Georgia y como ella siente que como latina, ella tiene un papel más grande que jugar para la comunidad. Urbina espera poder tener un impacto positivo para todos los niños y todas las familias con las que trabaja la organización. “Lo que prevemos es que las familias tendrán una mejor comunicación en su relación, y al final ayudará a esas familias a crear un ambiente más estable y positivo en el que los niños y adolescentes puedan desarrollarse mejor”, dijo Urbina. “Generalmente si usted tiene una situación en el hogar en la que no se siente cómodo o no hay buena comunicación, lo que entonces sucede es que usted se convierte en un trabajador menos apto y un estudiante menos apto porque usted es consumido emocionalmente y afectado por eso medio ambiente. Entonces, si ayudamos a la familia
a ganar estabilidad y ser más funcional, los niños se beneficiarán enormemente de esta capacidad que creamos.” Las familias y los jóvenes que participan en Ser Familia pueden beneficiarse mucho de sus servicios y son rápidos en recomendar la organización a otras familias y adolescentes. “Recomiendo los servicios de Ser familia porque ellos son un equipo muy bueno para ayudar a muchas familias y jóvenes a salir adelante y guiarlos por aconsejarlos. Por ejemplo, personalmente me ayudó, y gracias a los servicios de ellos mi familia ya no está como estaba. Tengo una buena comunicación con mis hijos gracias a Ser Familia,” dijo Narcisa Rodas, padre de las Escuelas de la Ciudad de Marietta. Como organización sin fines de lucro, Ser Familia confía en el apoyo de voluntarios para funcionar. Aunque limitada debido a COVID-19, la organización acepta el apoyo en forma de unidades de recolección para artículos tales como materiales escolares y donaciones de regalos y voluntarios jóvenes como líderes de grupo para “Renovación Juvenil (RJ).” Para obtener más información sobre Ser Familia, sus servicios y cómo participar, visite el sitio web de la organización o comuníquese / visite uno de sus cuatro centros ubicados en el área metropolitana de Atlanta. El centro más cercano está ubicado en 1000 Cobb Place Blvd NW en Suite 170 en Kennesaw, Georgia.
Graphic by Kate Williamson
Ser Familia provides emergency assitance with food and beverage options available for participants at their Kennesaw center. Photos by Nina
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News
Continued from "9/11" pg. 1 “I remember I was sitting in the gymnasium with my sophomore class to honor our seniors during the senior assembly,” Mr. Hurd said. "Then, some moments later, our principal, Mr. Pritz, was with the microphone in hand, with a look on his face that gives me chills to this day.” “It was so quiet you could’ve heard a pin drop. Mr. Pritz broke the news to everyone at Marietta High School—students, teachers, counselors, custodians, parents. A plane had crashed into one of the Twin Towers in New York City. The silence that followed seemed like forever, but I remember it now like it was yesterday,” Hurd said Marietta residents came together to comfort one another in the midst of what then seemed like the end of the world. While the trauma of 9/11 should not be minimized in any regard, the experience united Marietta, and the country, in a manner that could not have been anticipated. “I remember that day myself and a group of students went down Whitlock and circled up and prayed for the victims and their families,” Shannon Lawson, the 20012002 Marietta High Senior Class President, said. “I’ll never forget the silence that was on that main road that day. Even with all the traffic, the only way to describe it was eerie and mournful. That silence stayed for an extremely long time even after that day. I think it was almost six months after that, perhaps even longer, until I heard someone honk their car horn or saw someone drive aggressively. People were very mindful and kind to one another. As a city, state, and nation we were united in a way that I have never witnessed since.” In remembrance, Mr. Dempsey, the audio-film video technology teacher and "Good Morning Marietta" broadcast supervisor, directed a video project in honor of the event's 20th anniversary. “The 9/11 video project was a way for those of us who lived through that time, to explain that for younger genderations. We don't don't have any students who were born at that time, so no one knows the world before that moment. This project hopefully helped everyone realize how that day changed the world as we know it,” Dempsey said. The video was broadcast during advisement on Sept. 8, and students enjoyed hearing from the perspectives of teachers and staff. “I really liked it because I had a lot of the teachers that spoke and it was cool to see what that life event was like for them given it wasn't possible for me to experience. I thought it was important because it makes it harder for us to forget about it given we weren't alive during 9/11,” Jack English (12) said.
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This was the intention for the comemorative video in honor of 9/11's 20th anniversary. “This was an important project because any history lesson is. This was one thing that unified our country in such a clear and resolute way and remembering the pain of those moments helped to prepare us for the future, hopefully giving us a way to prevent such tragedies going forward,” Dempsey said. Also in remembrance of the event, the 9/11 Commitee at Marietta High, consisting of teachers and staff, constructed the 9/11 20th Anniversary Field of Flags Memorial on school grounds. “The 9/11 Committee and I purchased 3,000 of those small American flags, and we placed each and every one of them near the stone-chiseled 'MHS' which is right outside of the band room. Anybody who wanted to take one [after Sept. 11] was welcome to do so as sort of a commemorative momento,” Ball said. Mr. Ball’s idea for the memorial was inspired by the Field of Flags Memorial, which was created by Devan Seabaugh two years after 9/11. “As President of Kiwanis in 2003, 9/11 fell on our weekly Thursday meeting and I felt compelled as a career paramedic to recognize those who lost their lives. My friend Glen Graham and I were riding by Kennesaw Battlefield National Park and I visualized the field covered in American flags, one to represent every life lost and made the remark to Glenn this would be the ultimate Flag project of which he was the committee chairman for at the time. He agreed. Family members of those lost that tragic day came from all over the country to walk among the flags. Marietta Kiwanis made the decision to resurrect the project at the five year anniversary and every five years to follow,” Seabaugh said. The memorial is breathtaking when complete, but demands a great deal of effort to construct. “It takes a great leadership team, funding, sponsors and a great coordination of volunteers from multiple organizations to prepare the flags, plot the field, light the field, place the flags, and remove the flags. Materials are ordered, flags are prepared, permission from the National Parks must be confirmed, and lights are put up to light the field at night. These are just a few of the activities. It’s a lot of work, but well worth the effort and everyone willingly contributes. It’s amazing the number of citizens that want to be a part of this project and Marietta Kiwanis is proud to host the event every 5 years.” This year being the 20th anniversary of 9/11, it is more important than ever to honor the lives lost on such a historic and horrific event.
“Even the smallest act of service, the simplest act of kindness, is a way to honor those we lost, a way to reclaim that spirit of unity that followed 9/11.” Former President Barack Obama proclaimed 9/11 a National Day of Service and Remembrance
Kiwanis volunteers walked over a mile from Grace Community Methodist Church to place American flags in their respective stakes.
Volunteers take the remaining American flags out of a truck in order to complete the Field of Flags at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.
Bagpipe and drum instrmentalists play while flags are being placed as a tribute to the lives lost during 9/11. Photos by Ella Chesney
Students and teachers place miniature American flags into the ground to complete the 9/11 20th Anniversary Field of Flags Memorial at Marietta High.
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Taking the next step: college recruitment Maelyn Moore Staff Writer For athletes looking to play college sports, getting recruited is a dream come true. Previous MHS athlete, June Mwaniki, offers insight into her personal experience. Mwaniki, a 2020 Marietta High School graduate, currently attends American University. She is a D1 track athlete and studies international relations and journalism. “It’s a scary process at first but once you’ve outlined and understood what your values are before picking a school then it becomes easier to deal and negotiate,” Mwaniki said. She explained that breaking down the process makes it easier to handle. Focus on one part at a time and don’t be overwhelmed with pressure. “The hardest part was getting the SAT and ACT scores in on time. Getting that done ahead of time allows the process to be much easier,” Mwaniki said. Remember that colleges don’t just look at stats. They also take into consideration academics. Students must maintain passing grades. Grades and exam scores show coaches a level of commitment and character, open up opportunities for an academic scholarship as well, and prove to the coach they don’t need to worry about academic ineligibility. Another great way to stay ahead of the game is to join a recruitment website. Here student athletes can upload footage of their games including stats, highlights, and academics. NCSA, National College Student Athlete, is a great website to use. It’s also important to reach out to the colleges athletes are interested in. Don’t wait for the coach to get in touch. Send them an email stating personal interest in attending their school. Some important information to include in emails is an athlete’s high school, sport, graduation year, and a major of interest. Student athletes can also include a link to their sports profile and it never hurts to include a sports schedule. Getting noticed and capturing the interest of colleges can be very tricky, but consistency is key.
“Specifically in my sport, personal records would be a great gauge as to which colleges you can pick from and also ones that are willing to reach out. Also, our coaches have various connections to most colleges,” Mwaniki said. Now for all the freshmen and sophomore athletes, it is never too early to start thinking about recruitment and getting out there. However, colleges cannot legally contact athletes until January of their junior year, so athletes shouldn’t worry if they aren’t hearing back from any coaches. Choosing the right college can be scary, and it’s hard for athletes to put themselves out there. “You also have a voice as to the offer they give you, do not be afraid to ask more questions, especially around scholarships because the school indeed has money. It’s a matter of being firm and believing in yourself,” June said.
The ball is turned over to McEachern. Cam Traylor runs the ball back 20 yards before being tackled by Marietta’s Anthony Lopez (11). McEachern quarterback, Bryce Archie, hands the ball to Makari Bodiford but he can not break through Marietta’s defensive line. Archie throws right to Kaleb Webb, who catches the ball before being tackled by Jah’vaughn Hamilton (12). Archie feigns a handoff to Bodiford, dropping back then running left but he is tackled by Ezekial Durham-Campbell (12). Marietta fans cheer at the sack. McEachern tries to run through the middle but is stopped by Marietta’s defensive line for a third down. Archie again drops back, runs right under pressure from Overton and Durham-Campbell, throws to Webb, two yards short of the first down. McEachern changes their formation so that Steven Kukabuka, a 5’9”, 225 lb linebacker, receives the snap. He breaks through the defensive line for the first down. Archie then makes a 50 yard pass to Webb, who jumps to catch the ball and falls into the endzone for a McEachern touchdown. Webb quickly jumps up to celebrate. Even with fewer numbers, McEachern fans match the enthusiasm of their rivals. Marietta’s Charles Hill (11) blocks the ball during the extra point attempt. The clock runs down and the score is 6-7, Marietta. “The success of the football team was amplified by the energy of the students, and overall created an atmosphere that brought the stands closer together,” Gilreath said. As the clock resets, first stringers huddle on the field to listen to their coaches. Play begins with Marietta at the seven yard line, in front of McEachern’s end zone. Hughes runs the ball for the first and goal from the three yard line. Hughes runs the ball again, this time into the end zone for his first rushing touchdown of the game. Renee Galomo (12) kicks the extra point. In the visitor stands, an older man sees Ryan Chestnutt (12) walk onto the field and begins yelling advice to McEachern coaches, shouting that they better move the line back because “that boy’s got a leg.” Chestnutt punts the ball to the endzone. The man can be heard yelling, “I told you so.” Bryce Archie makes a 40 yard touchdown pass to Savion West. They go for the two-point conversion but Archie makes an incomplete pass to Mathis. Marietta scores another touchdown with a six yard pass to KJ Ford. The ball
Football: 2-1, 0.67% 08/20- vs. Colquitt County 28-25 L 09/03- vs. McEachern High 42-21 W 09/10- vs. Camden County 40-17 W 09/17- vs. Parkview High 38-12 W
Volleyball: 3-17, 0.15% Sequoyah Classic Tournament 08/13- Creekview 2-0 L 08/13- Northgate 2-0 W 08/14- Cherokee 2-0 L 08/14- Columbus 2-1 L 08/14- Pope 2-0 L 08/17- vs. Allatoona 2-1 L 08/17- vs. Chapel Hill 2-0 W 08/18- @ Pope 3-0 L 08/24- @ Harrison 3-0 L 08/26- @ Mount Paron 2-0 L 08/26- vs. Holy Innocents 2-0 L Peachtree Tournament 08/28- Lambert 2-1 W 08/28- Etowah 2-1 L 08/28- Pace Academy 2-0 L 08/28- Columbus 2-1 L 08/31- vs. Walton 3-0 L 09/02- @ Sequoyah 3-0 L
Upcoming Games
Photo courtesy of June Mwaniki
Continued from pg. 1
BLUE DEVIL sports update
is turned over to McEachern with 4:52 left in the quarter. Webb catches the ball at the five and runs for 22 yards before being downed by Carlos Cervantes (12). They gain another six yards before a key play. Archie drops back to the 24 and throws to a wide-open West who runs 27 yards to the endzone. McEachern makes a 67 yard touchdown pass. The visitor stands explode in roars of triumph. The quarter finishes with two touchdowns and one point after touchdown (PAT) for McEachern and three touchdowns and three PATs for Marietta. After each touchdown, the Marietta offense grabs a water bottle and heads to the tent on the sidelines. The coaches congratulate the team before beginning their analysis. The score is 21-28, Marietta. Marietta scored another touchdown with six minutes left in the third quarter. Hughes made a 32 yard pass to Durham-Campbell in the endzone. The score is 21-35 Marietta. “In the third quarter, we decided to use our hands more and contact receivers so they would not get free releases like they did in the first half, and it worked tremendously,” Coach Terrance Duke said. With ten minutes left in the fourth quarter, Overton intercepts a McEachern throw at the 40 yard line. Hughes hands off the ball to Jones at the 43. Jones runs four yards with a clear path, then pushes to the 50. Hughes now runs right under pressure from McEachern, he throws to Luke Morgan (10) at the 37 but the ball slips through his fingers. On the sidelines, Coach Morgan shakes his head as the offense resets. Hughes again drops back, this time throwing to West. West catches the ball at the 45 and rolls to the ground. Marietta is three yards short of the first down. Hughes throws down field to wide receiver Christian Mathis (11), who runs the ball into the endzone. The extra point is good. With eight minutes left on the clock, the team is told not to make any big plays, just keep McEachern out of the endzone. McEachern does not score another touchdown. Marietta players rush onto the field, crashing into each other as they celebrate. They then meet McEachern in the center for a handshake. The rivalry is strong but players get along. Several players ring the Marietta victory bell before taking a knee in the center of the field with their teammates to listen to words of wisdom from their coaches. The final score of the game is 42-21, Marietta.
Softball: 10/05- vs. Hillgrove High Volleyball: 10/05- @ Wheeler High Football: 10/08- @ North Paulding High
Ellis Reed (12) tackles Makari Bodiford (10) of McEachern. Reed had 13 total tackles in the game.
Devion Hall (12) smiles as he walks off the field after deflecting a pass. Hall had seven solo tackles during the McEachern game. Photos by Ella Chesney
Sports
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New coach, new opportunities for growth and trust Alyssia Hamilton Staff Writer Alishia Sexton, the entrepreneurial pathway teacher, is the new head coach for the Lady Blue Devils softball team. Last season the softball team struggled with Covid interruptions and a competitive region. According to Sexton, this year is focused on trust and growth. Why were you interested in the head softball coach position? “Softball is the first sport that I’ve ever loved. I wanted to share my love for the game with others who share the same thought.” How do you feel about being the new coach? “I am excited to grow into this program that competes every year. I will take time.” How would you describe your coaching style?” “I feel like I am more of a holistic style coach. Everything is connected, and there should be a balance between being authoritarian and democratic.” How has the team adjusted to you being the new coach? “I feel the team has adjusted for the most part. During the summer, we had more participation than in years past. However, we are still working towards team unity and trusting each other.”
Before the season began, how did you hope for it to go? Is it different than you expected? If so, what will you do to change it? “I had very high hopes before the season started. The girls looked great at practice. The reality of the season, however, is that we are very young and inexperienced. We also had to contend with COVID and injuries early on this season. We will have to keep working hard on the basics and the mechanics. We also have to continue to learn and study the game to improve our knowledge of the game.” What approach do you take when your team is struggling?” I try my best to keep them going. We have a thing that we do, if they make a mistake, they have to literally shake it off by shaking their torso/shoulders.”
Coach Sexton encourages Ahubrey Carter (10), RayJ’nai King (12), and Ondrea Wagner (11) at the Sept 16 game against North Cobb Photo by Alyssia
What are your goals for the season? “I have told the team since the summer, the only thing that we ask of them is to improve every day and try their best. I would like the team to bond, trust each other, and continue to grow as individuals and as a team.”
Coach Sexton was in the Air Force for four years. Her favorite sports are basketball and softball. She has a belgian malinois, red bearded dragon, a ferret, and a betta fish. Coach Sexton loves James Patterson books. Her favorite movie is “A League of Their Own.”
The upcoming softball games are October 2nd against Sprayberry, and October 5th against Hillgrove.
Hamilton
Fun Facts
Life Lesson
Coach Sexton has learned that it is important to not take things for granted, enjoy the small things, and remember your priorities
Volleyball, switching teams up Ada Chesney Staff Writer For the first time ever at Marietta High, volleyball has no established JV or Varsity teams. There is only one team. Why is this? The team is comprised of five freshmen, ten sophomores, six juniors, and five seniors, for a total of 26 players. A typical volleyball team has 12-18 players. “We have a lot of young talent and athleticism…but need more game experience,” Coach Jeff Black said. “Not playing for a designated team gives the players more incentive to work hard so they can play in the varsity level games.” Coach Black is the head volleyball coach at MHS. This is his fourth year at Marietta. He played all through high school and two years in college.
Coach Black graduated college with a degree in Sport Management and founded the 575 volleyball program. The volleyball coaches, Jeff Black, Nancy Donnelly, and Ashley Jones, have the authority to move players up or down based on their demonstrated performance and dedication. After the JV season ends, all players will be pulled up to Varsity. This gives the players another three weeks of practice time and competition and, if the team qualifies for state, even longer to hone their skills. Cycling more experienced players with new talent benefits every player and the team as a whole as teammates can learn from one another. Volleyball games consist of five rounds, the team that wins three of the five rounds wins the game. The two teams will hit the ball over the net, or rally, until a fault occurs. There is a maximum of three hits per
side before the team has to send the ball over the net. Each team has six players on the court at all times, these players can be subbed out but can only be subbed back in for the same position. The next game after break is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 5 at 7 pm at Wheeler.
“I feel excited that we get to have a lot of support and a closer team,” Nicole Hurioglu (10) said.
“I like the dynamic of the big team but would like there to be JV and Varsity, especially because it’s my first year on the team,” Gabby Stanley (9) said.
Gabi O’neill (10), Nicole Hurioglu (10), and Caroline Owens (11) prep for a return at the game against Walton. Photos by Ada Chesney
Schuyler Parker (12) serves the ball at the Aug. 31 game against Walton. Parker has been starting setter on Varisty all four years at Marietta High.
“It gives everyone a chance and allows us to be more competitive and closer as a team and it pushes people to do their best for the team,” Jaya Moore (10) said.
Features
Olympics: Tokyo to Texas @mhspitchfork
page 12
Olympic, Paralympic and Junior Olympic athletes face obstacles returning from the pandemic to compete in the games Kaia Kirkpatrick and Quadriyah Williams Staff Writers
Paralympics
Simone Biles
Surfing
Sha’Carri Richardson
The Paralympics are for athletes that have a wide range of disabilities. This special opportunity fosters inclusion and empowerment. This year the games took place in Tokyo following the Olympics. However, this year, the games faced controversy when United States deafblind swimmer Becca Meyers pulled out of the Paralympic games following disagreements with the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee. Meyers was born with Usher syndrome, causing complete hearing and vision loss. She won three gold medals and one silver in the previous 2016 Rio Paralympic games. The Paralympics is supposed to be an opportunity for people with physical, visual, and mental disabilities to compete. This program is managed by the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee which supports all United States Olympic teams. The committee has stated that there will be only one personal care assistant (PCA) for all 33 of the paralympic swimmers. Under normal circumstances, athletes would be allowed to bring their own PCA. However, due to COVID-19, the committee is trying to bring in as few people as possible. Considering Meyers needs a trusted PCA to navigate daily life, this is a major problem for her. “The USOPC has denied reasonable and essential accommodation for me as a deaf-blind athlete,” Meyers said in a tweet. “The USPOC has approved me having a trusted PCA at all international meets since 2017… So, in 2021, why as a disabled person am I still fighting for my rights?” Although the USPOC isn’t providing for her, Meyer’s sponsor Speedo is fully supporting Meyers and her decision to pull out of the games. “[We] continue to stand alongside Becca and support her journey and all that makes her an inspiring role model for the next generation of swimmers,” Speedo said.
Simone Biles, 32 time Olympic and World Championship medalist for USA gymnastics, is the most decorated gymnast in the U.S. As a top renowned athlete, she was expected to display another outstanding performance at the 2021 Olympics in the hopes of taking home the gold. Tuesday, July 27, Biles attempted an Amanar vault, which was not unusual for her. The attempted skill by Biles was supposed to feature two-and a half twists in the air. Once she was airborne, she only completed one and a half twists before appearing to slip. She then got up and looked frazzled. Biles completely lost her bearings mid-air. This is known as the “twisties,” every gymnast’s worst nightmare. After talking to her trainer, Biles exited the competition. The following day, she shocked the world when she withdrew from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics after qualifying for the team final. Biles revealed she was dealing with a combination of stress and mental health issues alongside the pressure of competing at the top-level. Although Biles’ team members were understandably shocked, they completely supported her decision, understanding the physical and mental stress of being a professional athlete. “At the end of the day, I have to do what’s right for me and focus on my mental health, and not jeopardize my health and well-being,’’ said Biles. “I decided to kind of take a step back, let [her teammates] do the work, and they did it. The girls did exactly what they needed to do.’’ After her unexpected exit, Sunisa (Suni) Lee, eighteen year old American gymnast, stepped up replacing Bile’s spot leading her team to win a gold medal in the Tokyo Olympics gymnastics all-around competition.
Surfing is a historic, cultural event to Native Hawaiians. However, after being added to the roster of sports in this year’s Olympics, debate has resurfaced on whether outsiders are appropriating the Hawiian culture. Surfing is historically viewed as a sacred act by the indigenous people of Hawaii. It was used for competition and spiritual acts. Traditional surfers would pray to their gods for a safe surfing ride in the ocean. “You had Native Hawaiians in the background being a part of the development of it and just not being really recognized,” Isaiah Helekunihi Walker, Brigham-Young professor and Hawaiian activist said in an interview with ABC. His argument states that native Hawaiians are being walked over by white Americans that profit off of the now 10 billion dollar industry. With the rise in popularity of surfing, he believes business men saw the opportunity to benefit from the sport. “It’s the paradox and hypocrisy of colonization,” Walker said. However, some believe that the sport is there to be shared. Tatiana Westen Webb was a surfer for Brazil in the olympics. While she believes that Hawiians deserve to be represented, she doesn’t believe anyone is disrespecting their culture. “I don’t think that they’re being overshadowed, it just depends on how you look at the situation,” Webb said. Native Hawiians agree that the best way to disengage from cultural appropriation is to appreciate the culture. Buying from local businesses and choosing to surf in Hawaii are great ways to support the indigenous government and people.
Sha’Carri Richardson, a twenty-one year old sprinter, was on the fast track to fame after demolishing the competition at the USATF Golden Games earlier this year. Known as the “Fastest Girl in Texas,” she clocked times of 10.74 and 10.77 seconds in the 100-meter dash, shocking crowds with her incredible speed. She is one of four U.S. performers to reach the 10.74 time. Her signature look with colorful hair and long nails are reminiscent of the women’s all-time great sprinter Florence Griffith Joyner, also known as Flo-Jo. Richardson was viewed by many as a shoo-in for victory in the 100 meter dash at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics until testing positive for THC. She was ultimately given a one-month period of ineligibility which led to her not being able to compete at the Olympics. When the news of her suspension caught the public eye, Richardson was met with an uproar of controversy and support due to the fact that THC is not a performance enhancing drug. The slogan: “Let Sha’Carri Richardson Run’’ became the face of the issue at hand, but Richardson took full responsibility for her actions. She disclosed that she had recently used marijuana to cope after she found out about the death of her birth mother. “I know what I did. I know what I’m supposed to do. I know what I’m allowed not to do. But I still made that decision,” Richardson said in an interview with TODAY. Despite an emotional and jarring turn of events, she still took a positive outlook on her circumstances. “Whatever you can do, whatever voice you have, use it to see change. Even a kind act could make a difference and could trigger change. Every day could be a way to impact the movement in a positive way,” Richardson said in an interview with TeamUSA. Using this motto, she used her time off to focus on bettering her mental health and looking toward the future with optimism.
Graphic by Kate Williamson
Max Herman
Max Herman (11), competed in the hammer throw at the USATF National Junior Olympics in Florida. It is a chance for elite level, young athletes to showcase their talents and compete against each other. The hammer throw is a field event in which a hammer is attached to a handle and thrown an average of 50 meters. Herman threw 59.2. He reflected on his performance at the Junior Olympics and his plan going into the high stakes competition. “I’m lucky to have great coaches so we went in with a plan and all I had to do was execute the plan,” Herman (11) said. ”The plan was to slowly build my throwing
Junior Olympians
distance to guarantee I would make it to finals.” Herman placed second in his meet, and he offers his advice for new athletes. “My main advice is to trust your training. If you have done something 1,000 times in practice, there is no need to be nervous to perform,” Herman said. Herman was glad to have such a great experience in the Junior Olympics as it helped him to further his athletic goals. Herman’s next hammer throw competition takes place at the Marietta Sixth Grade Academy on Oct. 9.
Ashlee Watson
Ashlee Watson (10) competed in the 4x400 relay for track and field at the Junior Olympics in Texas. The 4x400 consists of four athletes running around the track once then passing a baton to the next runner for a mile total. “We had a meet in Florida, nationals to qualify for the junior olympics. It was very nerve wracking,” Watson said. To qualify, the team must be in the top eight in the meet. Watson’s team, the East Cobb Cheetahs, qualified at seven. Watson was nervous for the Junior Olympics considering it was her first year ever running track. She first started running with the Cheetahs in January of 2021.
“I think eventually I kind of calmed down and got locked into the event,” Watson said. Being around the high levels of competition got Watson focused and ready to run her best during the competition. Watson also had an amazing support system behind her. Her parents took her to the meet to cheer her on. She stayed with her aunt, uncle, and cousins who supported her as well. Watson plans to continue her track career in the spring by joining the Marietta Track and Field Team.