Pitchfork, Issue 1, 2022-2023 Oct. 7, 2022

PITCHFORK

THE

EST 1928

Marietta, Georgia

Marietta High School

Issue 1

@mhspitchfork

October 7, 2022

Two months, two new principals Etinosa Ogbomo Managing Editor When Dr. Eric Holland arrived at Marietta a mere two weeks before students returned to school, he vowed to make “MAGIC” happen. He noted that his goals were to connect with various groups throughout Marietta while reconciling meaningful connections and academic success.

“Life isn’t just about the A’s and B’s you make, they’re also about the C’s and D’s; choices and decisions,” Dr. Holland said.

The Marietta School Board unanimously selected Dr. Holland on July 13. He replaced Principal Keith Ball who was transfered to a central office position by recommendation of Superintendent Rivera and a 4-3 vote on June 7.

Dr. Holland’s advent was characterized with the implementation of various new procedures: mandating students to reside in the gym or cafeteria prior to 7:45 a.m. to mitigate fighting and maximize teacher preparation time, loosening the dress code, initiating monthly birthday cupcake celebrations, and hosting a pep rally the first day of school.

His ambitions were cut short, however, when he was offered a job as Superintendent of Rome City Schools District. He initially expressed reluctance to renege on the promise he made to Dr. Rivera and the Board, but he eventually made the decision to abdicate from his position as Principal of Marietta High School after just six-weeks on the job. He cited cultural reasoning and a “responsibility” to the African-American community in Rome as his chief rationale for returning back to the district, but his failed commitment to Marietta was a surprise.

Continue to pg. 5 for “Principal”

Rashanti Clark, 2021 homecoming queen, gives the traditonal regalia to newly crowned queen, Icy McFall.

Photo by Zaria Byers

130 YEARS OF TRADITIONS AND CHANGE Wesley Harrison & Addison Moreland Editor-in-Chief & Staff Writer

The school bell rings at the end of the first block on Thursday, students begin traveling to their next classes. However, on this day, students leave early from their second block to go to the Big Blue Gym for their second pep rally of the year. Students dressed as heroes and villains fill the bleachers of the decorated gym. The classes competed against each other to win the coveted spirit stick.

Ultimately, the junior class was awarded as the winner of the pep rally.

Students file back to class excited for the rest of the homecoming events to follow.

Marietta’s homecoming week began on Monday, Sept. 12 with spirit days, followed by the morning

pep rally on Thursday and the annual homecoming parade through historic Marietta Square to Northcutt Stadium on Friday evening before the game.

Students of all ages gathered at the Juror’s Parking Lot in Marietta to fill floats decorated with various comics and cartoons.

MHS JROTC led the parade while the MHS Marching Band followed filling the streets with Blue Devil pep tunes.

Hundreds of fans lined the streets to watch the parade move throughout the city. The community came together to celebrate the MCS 130th anniversary.

After the parade, community members had the chance to attend

Blue Devil Fanfest, a fairly new pregame tradition. The game began at 8:00 p.m. and Marietta was ultimately defeated by Walton 30 to 17.

At half-time, the homecoming court was introduced and the queen was named. Icy McFall (12) was crowned as homecoming queen, and Mariama Njie (12) and Victoria Barnes (12) were crowned as the homecoming princesses.

I am so extremely grateful for being on the court in general and I’m so thankful for my class,” Icy McFall (12) said.

Continue to pg. 6 for “Blue Devil”

Are students’ First Amendment rights protected in schools?

Aidan Allegro Staff Writer Leading up to First Amendment day, students in the cafeteria participated in a quiz to test their knowledge on basic rights in and out of the school building.

According to a similar survey by Freedom Forum Institute, only 64 percent of Americans were able to name freedom of speech as a First Amendment right and 22 percent knew freedom of the press. Naming petition as a right was 4 percent.

As a U.S. citizen, everyone should know their rights and especially the First Amendment, as it outlines the most basic rights of Americans and allows them to go about their day to day lives expressing their ideas and opinions to the world.

There are five main liberties guaranteed in the First Amendment: the freedoms of religion, assembly, petition, press, and speech. These freedoms are given to all people in the U.S. regardless of citizenship status.

Freedom of religion allows anyone in the United States to practice their chosen religion without interference from the government. Freedom of assembly allows people to gather and protest what they believe in a peaceful manner. Freedom to petition allows people to petition the government to try and change the law or other policies Freedom of speech and freedom of press both give people the right to express their ideas and opinions or use them in the media without retribution. However, there are some limitations to these freedoms. A person is protected as long as they don’t release anything with libel, hate speech, or anything that contains classified information.

A common dispute about the First Amendment is whether or not it applies to students in school. Though the freedoms apply, there are some exceptions. A student cannot wear, do, or say anything that is disruptive to the learning environment.

Continue to pg. 9 for “First”

Students scan a QR code to take the First Amendment quiz. Students who took the quiz were entered into a random drawing to win a Zaxby’s gift card.

Photo by Aidan Allegro

Opinions

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page 2

Editorial: The only constant in life is change Change, a word that can be differentiated into two contexts, good and bad. When I hear the word change I hope for the best, but that’s not always the case.

As a senior in High School, change is constantly happening, and it’s difficult trying to keep up with it. School work, college applications, scholarships, extracurriculars, mental healthcare, etc. The neverending list of deadlines haunt me as I try not to stress myself out even more than I already am.

What most don’t notice is that change is happening every single day. It’s never noticed unless it impacts someone in a significant way, whether that be good or bad.

Marietta has experienced so much change in 2022.

For example, two new principals within the span of two months. Meeting one principal, getting used to him and thinking he’s going to be the one shaking your hand at graduation. Then a curve ball is thrown, and you have to accept the fact that it’ll be someone different. There are certain people that don’t care, but to me it matters. I hoped for my senior year to be perfect with no bumps in the ride, but nothing’s perfect I guess. It’s change and you have to accept it,

who knows something amazing can come from this.

Marietta’s 130th anniversary, a huge celebration of change. How would Marietta be without experiencing change? I think Marietta would be unrecog-

Change brings the good and the bad, but then there’s the unnizable to us without going through the ups and downs.

Would we have the traditions that are present today? It was important to take time to honor Mari-

etta’s development as it shows how change can be good and benefit everyone.

Seniors who are 18 or turning 18 are able to make change within the government. A privilege to make your beliefs known within the candidate that you have chosen. The only scary thing about voting is the unknown. Will the change that the winning candidate implements be good or bad for everyone?

Fear of the unknown is present when change is near, I try to think back to when I was dealing with change and managed to handle it. In 2020, COVID-19 forced everyone to go into lockdown, which meant the rest of my freshman year was completed online.

I transferred to a new school and had to navigate a new school without physically being able to experience it. It was scary, but I pushed through and did it. Without going through that change, I wouldn’t be here at this school and writing this editorial as the Editor-In-Chief of the Pitchfork. Just remember change can be frightening, but you’ll get through it so you can look back and see your improvement.

Thoughts on change Anna Kinscherf (9)

Makayla Ferris (11)

Diamond Randolf (10)

Joe Toure (12)

I think I have adapted to chamge at the high school because it’s different from middle school. There is no uniform, it’s easier to get around, the teachers are nicer, and it’s cleaner.

I feel like change is needed all the time. Stuff needs to be changed, a lot of the stuff from last year, and more people’s voices need to be heard.

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I think that change is very healthy/ Things [can change] in good ways and bad ways.

Fall Horoscopes, Comfort Cookies Happy Birthday, Libras!

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They pretty much replaced Dr. Holland with the same person, nothing changed. Change has been tough, we were getting used to Dr. Holland.

Followers will be chosen each issue to win a Zaxby’s gift card from @Zaxbys591SMP This issue’s winner is Carsyn Watters (9) 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

Managing Editor Etinosa Ogbomo

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.

Business Managers Dylan Buehner Ada Chesney

Editors-in-Chief Alyssia Hamilton Wes Harrison Assistant Editor Zaria Byers

Adviser Andrea Lyons

Staff Writers Adalyn Law Addison Moreland Aidan Allegro Alex Kelly Amber Ryan Amelia Jenkins Icy Mcfall Kaia Kirkpatrick Lauren Kelley Lily Kongismark Mae Bullington Quinn Mulkey Sydney Hernandez Sydney Martinez Trinity Seals

Opinions

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page 3

We need more political parties Dylan Buehner Business Manager Currently, in the United States, we have two political parties: Democrat & Republican. While other parties, like the Libertarian & Green parties, are on the ballot, citizens are locked into voting red or blue. The reason for this two-party lock is that our system turns third-party votes into “throwaway votes” that many say end up taking away votes for their related big party.

There are multiple examples of this happening; as early as 1912, President Theodore Roosevelt ran under his Progressive Party, split a chuck of republican votes from William Taft, resulting in an easy democrat victory. Recently in 2000, Al Gore lost to George W. Bush, in part, due to Ralph Nader and the Green party taking away votes from Gore in Florida and New Hampshire.

Fears of split-elections cause many to vote for a major party instead of a third party that represents them better. It is a safer bet to vote for a main party that could win as opposed to your true party and risking the other side winning. But this creates a system where both parties have voters with vastly differing values, beliefs and policy desires compared to those elected.

There is a growing portion of the Democratic Party that pushes for greater federal assistance when it comes to social needs and issues. But a majority of the elected democrats follow a more moderate plan, without the same drive to fix social failings. In the Republican Party, many representatives and their fans had shifted hard in support for Donald Trump, perpetuating the idea of a stolen election. These MAGA groups have

taken the party farther right than any other time in modern history and have completely cut off moderate voices within. On both sides, the representatives in charge either don’t represent what citizens want or only represent a small minority of their party. But with just a slight change in voting, a multiparty system can be created.

Ranked voting is a system where voters rank multiple candidates from different parties on a scale based on the amount of parties on the ballot. A1 means that is a voter’s main choice, with every other candidate being scales lower. If a voter’s first choice doesn’t win, their vote shifts to the second party rank on their list. This continues until a candidate wins. This voting system allows for third parties to get more votes, while keeping voters happy even if their smaller party loses. This type of voting isn’t unfound either, as countries around the globe have adopted it. The UK, Australia, India, Pakistan & Nepal all use ranked voting in their national elections. Surprisingly, six southern states, including Georgia, use ranked voting for military & overseas voters, with similar pilot programs being created throughout the states.

The ultimate goal of ranked voting is to provide citizens with more options instead of two parties that don’t represent everyone. If ranked voting was implemented nation-wide, elections could be held with multiple parties, creating more diversity on all levels of government. Instead of the senate being split 50/50 among two parties, this new system could bring new groups into politics that would break up gridlocks found throughout. Making new parties isn’t a far out idea either, as each distinct group within both the Democrat and Republican Parties could split off into their own section. Democrats could split into a Socialist, Liberal and Centrist party, while the republicans could be split into a Moderate, Conservative and MAGA party. New parties not even conserved yet could run, meaning more focused representation for more people.

Do we not want to enjoy media anymore?

Wesley Harrison Editor-in-Chief I love modern media. It doesn’t matter if they’re good, bad, or just unmemorable. I love watching movies, tv shows, reading books, and watching YouTube videos. However, lots of the modern media that I love has recently been panned by audience members. Which leads me to ask the question, do we not want to enjoy media anymore?

Marvel’s “Thor: Love and Thunder” currently stands at a 64 percent critic rating and 77 percent audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes. A mark that barely passes the marking of “certified fresh.”

The majority of negative reviews are similar to the tune of Mark Kemode’s, “The jokes, the catch-phrases, just incredibly tired.”

The overall opinion is that the jokes are “tired” and the movie “needs to be more dramatic.” Although “Thor: Love and Thunder” has a darker villain in it. The overall story is more fun and reminiscent of past romantic action movies. This is very common to Taika Waititi’s directing style, his movies are fun and made to make people laugh.

However, the overall sentiment towards a darker premise is that they need to be dim and brooding, like with Warner Bros “The Batman.” But the dark tone works for “The Batman” because that is its tone. Thor, under Taika Waititi, has taken on a far lighter tone.

Marvel’s “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law” currently stands at an 87 percent critic score

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on Rotten Tomatoes, which is a sharp contrast to the audience score of 39 percent. For a show that is a situational comedy, some viewers seem to not want the show to be funny.

“I can get that they want to make a show that’s funny, but it became a parody of the heroes that we loved and support all these years.” user Spyros K, an audience reviewer, said.

The reaction is one that Marvel predicted as they directly confront the brash criticism that movies and tv shows experience. In its second episode, it displays reactions to Jennifer Walters’ revelation as She-Hulk, it shows a montage of internet reactions to her powers. This reaction is quite similar to the reaction to the criticism the show has gotten.

Marvel’s mockery of this commentary demonstrates how these critics sound to other people.

After seeing all of these things, I have to ask, why do we want to hate the media we consume? Why does everything have to be dark and serious? Why do we not want people in shows to be happy?

I think that the events of recent times would encourage us to want more happy things.

Art reflects life, yes, but the need for our media to not be happy is reflective of the darker parts of life. Life is far more complex and multifaceted than what people want to see in the media and our art should reflect that fact.

Crossword

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Vertical 2. This character’s powers come the Egyptian god, Khonshu 3. Thanos’s brother that appeared in “The Eternals”

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7. This character can transport to different dimensions

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8. There were three versions of this character in his recent movie 9

13. A master martial artist that wields the Ten Rings Horizontal 1. A teenage Muslim superhero

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4. This character only says one phrase

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5. This character gained her powers from her cousin 12

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6. A witch that used the Darkhold 9. Thor’s ex-girlfriend who wielded the power of Mjolnr 10. A wielder of the Pym Particle 11. A princess of Wakanda

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12. An Eternal with the power to transmutate matter 14. This character is a massive Hawkeye fan

News

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Welcoming freshmen to high school An old tradition

A new tradition

Amelia Jenkins Staff Writer

Adalyn Law Staff Writer

A well-known tradition continues to take place with the class of 2023 and 2026. New traditions and activities awaited freshman during their first week of school.

While both the boys and girls groups were separate with different activities each day, most of the events were very similar throughout.

The week included Man Crush Monday and Woman Crush Wednesday, events in which the freshman “proposed” with a poem and ring pop to their chosen senior.

On Tuesday, the freshmen were asked to bring their seniors their favorite breakfast, followed by a dance battle after school on Thursday. Wednesday consisted of a morning workout for the girls, while the boys performed raps for their seniors. To end the first full week of school, the girls had a sunset picnic at Laurel Park.

On Friday, the initial plan was to dress the freshman up in circus themed outfits for the first scrimmage of the year; however, the activities that occurred earlier in the week began to gain attention from some administration.

Some activities were moved to other locations and/or times so that the freshmen were still able to participate.

On Thursday, circus themed outfits were banned from being worn at Friday’s football game and students were told that if they proceeded, they would be denied entry.

All students were encouraged to participate in the schoolwide theme, Aloha, instead of the separate circus costumes. This caused controversy, as some students felt like the freshmen were not truly getting the experience that has happened in past years.

“I believe it was seen with a negative connotation when really it was a positive, enlightening experience for the young men and women of Marietta High School,” Ethan Payne (12) said.

The reason for the cancellation was stated in a school email sent by former principal, Dr. Holland that read, “Hazing refers to any activity expected of someone in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers them regardless of a person’s willingness to participate.”

Many students were upset by this statement as hazing insinuates forced participation.

“We let parents know every single thing that was going to happen to the freshmen. If they had a problem with it then they had the right at any time to pull their kid out,” Davis Clark (12) said.

Even though the group was “not affiliated with the school,” all events took place on campus which caused a few administrators to step in. While students thought these activities were not true “hazing,” the activities were considered degrading and Dr. Holland stated some freshmen even concerned their thoughts about feeling embarrassed.

This year, in addition to freshman week, a more formal tradition started that welcomed freshmen to the high school. An orientation, led by 14 seniors, gave freshmen a warm welcome to high school before the official first day of school. The orientation was held the weekend of July 29-July 31. The orientation consisted of seniors making songs about themselves, dancing, making chants, performing skits, and telling the new freshman about their embarrassing moments when they were in their position.

From there, the students were mixed into groups and got to spend more one-on-one time with their senior leader and ask more about the school and experiences there. The afternoon ended with learning school chants as well as words of wisdom from the seniors.

“What caused me to want to be a part of this new orientation experience was to learn some leadership skills and also give back to the community. Throughout the entire program I was able to develop new skills including social skills, communication skills, and also developing more confidence. With developing these skills it was easier to help the freshmen more,” Antonio Willis (12) said.

“I felt like it was easier to talk to them and provide my experiences and my help in order to make them feel comfortable and not so much worried about the high school experience. Giving freshman’s advice and support made a change that ensured every MHS student has the ability to be somebody.”

The senior leaders were very passionate about setting up the new orientation for the freshman. Many weeks were spent preparing for every little detail of the orientation, making it the best it could possibly be for the new freshman.

“Starting this new Freshman Orientation at MHS was important to me because of how impactful it can be.

Knowing all of the graduation requirements, clubs, and even knowing your way around the school is a upper hand that not all students are usually able to have. This being said, Freshman Orientation gives every student a chance for a strong start to their high school career,” Sofia Eryadin (12) said.

While the orientation was new and some things might not have gone exactly as planned, the freshman this year were affected in a positive way due to the orientation.

“I was really confused about the entire building, and after the orientation I figured out where everything was and it made my life a lot easier,” Christian Nicula (9) said.

Due to teachers, administrators, and students, the Be Somebody Orientation was a true success, and will hopefully be carried on into the future as a new Marietta tradition.

Dear Freshmen . . . Love, Seniors Danta Young (9) - How do you keep up with your grades?

Jace Arnold (12) - "Taking the time to mark all assignments in my calendar, making sure I’m getting ahead on work about two days early so I don’t fall behind and get late deductions."

Jake Austin (9) - what was your worst year of high school?

Hank Austin (12) - "I would say Junior year was the hardest for me because IB classes start and IB classes have a very heavy workload. I got through that by getting help from teachers and other available resources."

Kimora Valentin (9) - Throughout your high school years, what advice would you give in general about what to expect and what important things we might need to know that you didn’t?

McKenzie Hibbler (12) - "You probably wont come out of highschool with the same friend group you came in with. I definitely recommend going to the games and events at the school and be open to making new friends. "

Bella Zampieri (9) - What overall advice do you have for freshmen about highschool?

Ashley Morelli (12) - "Make sure you join clubs and try to become as involved in the school as you can."

page 4

Restricting 'hazing,' or stopping tradition?

Etinosa Ogbomo Managing Editor When freshmen enter into high school, they’re presented with a landscape that is almost completely foreign. Their preconceived ideas about popularity, academic rigor, etc, are dismantled as they face problems that they’ve never before experienced.

The advice they receive from adults and administrators is often outdated, and a sense of impending doom falls upon them as they feel that they struggle through their new environment alone. To combat the inevitable fear that freshmen have, a tradition was invented: senior-freshman activities. The purpose of the activities? To creatively introduce freshmen to high school while simultaneously providing them with a mentor who can aid them in a variety of ways.

The long-standing tradition has been endorsed by parents and students alike as a fun method to enhance relations between upper and lowerclassmen, and a number of students look forward to the event; however, the 2022-2023 school year presented the tradition with unexpected challenges.

This year freshman week was cut short due to concerns that the seniors were infringing on the freedom and dignity of the freshmen class. Initially, the school noted that the events were permissible as long as they didn’t occur on school property. In response, the events were moved to an alternate location, well outside the jurisdiction of the school. Even after the location change, adults- both parents and administrators- argued that the week was taken too far and that freshmen were upset about the planned activities. Subsequently, the events were canceled and the week concluded.

In a mass email sent to Marietta parents, former principal, Dr. Holland likened the activities to "hazing," noting that the continuation of the activities would be responded to with punishment.

Ironically enough, those who orchestrated the early ending of freshmen week effectively dismantled the freedom they purported to protect.

Freshman week is one of the few events that occur each year in which students are able to express relative autonomy, and a wide array of students participate of their own free accord due to the light-hearted nature of the event.

There were a number of possible outcomes that could have ensured a safe, pleasant week for the majority of participating students. Instead of a complete cancellation of the events, perhaps students who felt uncomfortable with the nature of the week could relieve themselves from the activities. Instead of parents contacting administration to dismantle the pre-planned events, perhaps the parents could have reached out to the seniors to find a resolution and slightly alter the plans.

Instead, senior students weren't able to enjoy the week they had planned since their freshman year, and freshmen were unable to enjoy one of the most loved traditions at Marietta.

John Boland (12) - "Honestly the situation was really unfair.

We [seniors] made sure to inform the parents about the activities beforehand.We also asked for the parents' permission."

Becca Moseley (9) - "I was really bummed when it was cancelled.

I had always seen upperclassmen posts about freshman week and I couldn't wait to experience it myself, so not being able to have the whole thing made me feel like I didn't get the whole freshman experience at Marietta High School."

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page 5

Student life center creates new club opportunities

Kaia Kirkpatrick Staff Writer

The Student Life Center is dedicated to helping students develop life skills needed for the world after graduation. This is why clubs such as Paint Love and Fellowship club are being developed.

“The Fellowship is an opportunity for young men to learn about their identity as well as entrepreneurship,” said Barry Fraizer, a mental health practitioner.

The club acknowledges that there are many different career pathways other than college. Considering college is not for everyone, and the club allows young men to experiment with entrepreneurship. Students in the club will learn about marketing, making logos, and how to present their ideas.

“Just because you may not want to go to college or your parents may not be able to afford to [send you] to college, doesn't mean that you can’t own a company, '' Fraizer said.

The aim of the club is to teach young men how to turn negative things that have happened in their lives into positive developments. The

club wants to inspire young men to determine how successful their lives will be despite failures they have endured as well as give them a sense of hope.

“We wanted to give students something positive so that they can look beyond what may be going on in their homes or communities,” Frazier said.

At the end of the program, students will be able to pitch their ideas during a shark tank event. There will be various different professionals within the community that will be interested in hearing and judging student ideas.

Painting is beneficial for youth within our community. It creates an opportunity for students to get creative and experiment with different ways to showcase their emotions.

Paint love is allowing students to do just that.. Paint Love is a non-profit organization that strives to produce creativity within youth that have endured adversity such as trauma or poverty.

“Our programming is open to all, but designed for kids who have faced trauma or adversity in mind,” Executive Director Laura Shaw said.

“Access to arts education is shown

to reduce stress and anxiety, build critical skills, and close the academic achievement gap.”

Paint Love will bring in a different artist every week for 10 weeks - each a professional in their own medium. It will vary from graffiti art, to sculpture, to visual journaling, and even spoken word. This is a great opportunity for students from any artistic level to enjoy learning new methods and meeting new friends. It is also a great opportunity to learn the background and struggles that some artists face.

“As individuals, we are supporting black artists and donating to causes that uplift black voices and fight racism,” Shaw said.

Space in the club is limited to only 30 participants and meetings started on Oct. 4. Paint Love presents amazing community service opportunities through their website. Students can volunteer to assist in leading virtual or in person art workshops. Students also have the opportunity to sign up as camp counselors for a Paint Love summer camp experience.

"Principal" continued from p. 1 “He reached out his hand, shook my hand, looked me in the eye and said, 'I commit to you that if selected for the Marietta position, I will stay for three years.' He gave me his word. And I accepted at face value. So when I found out that he was a potential candidate for that position, I was as shocked as everyone else and disappointed,” Superintendent Rivera said in an interview with Pitchfork, explaining the situation.

Superintendent Rivera expressed that regardless of his feelings about the broken promise, he respected the fact that it was a deeply personal choice.

“I respected the position that he felt he was in and the decision he had to make. I didn't like it. I didn't feel like it honored what he told me, but I respected that,” Rivera said.

To replace the absence left by Dr. Holland, the School Board selected Mr. Marco Holland as the interim principal.

Superintendent Rivera strongly endorsed

Principal Holland and cited his experience and character as compelling factors.

“For him, as a person, he brings middle school, elementary, middle and high school experience. And he served as principal at three different high schools,” Rivera said.

“He came to me very selfless, and said I'm here to serve the students. I live in Marietta. I care about Marietta. And if they need me, I don't care what job you hired me for, put me in.”

Prior to his position at Marietta, Principal Holland served as senior officer of secondary school governance for SavannahChatham County Public Schools, overseeing all middle schools and highschool in the district. In addition to his position at Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools, he served for 16 years as a principal at a variety of elementary, middle, and high schools.

Even though Principal Holland was hired by Marietta City to serve as the newly instated HR Chief, he willingly took up the mantle of Principal.

Interim Principal Marco Holland poses for a picture at the homecoming parade. He is accompanied by junior student councl representatives. Photo by Wesley Harrison

“I just thought ‘we don’t want our school high school at Marietta to go without a principal for a period of time,’” Principal Holland said.

He also noted the difficulties of finding someone to fill such a large role on such little notice.

“Finding a high school principal at this particular juncture from an HR perspective is very challenging, and I felt like I had a skill set that I could use to help out and fill the void,” Holland said.

Ultimately, Principal Holland attributed the decision to temporarily take the job to his professional responsibility.

“Part of our work as the district is that we believe that we should be supporting the students, and when an opportunity is presented for you to do that it’s like rubber meeting the road. You have to ante up and do the best you can do. It was just the opportunity I saw to step in and help,” Holland said.

Student reception of Prinicpal Holland was overwhelmingly positive.

"The first day that he became the new principal he came over to my friends and I to say hi. I think he actually cares about students which isn't something you see often amongst administration," Kennedi Manery (11) said.

A number of student appreciate his participation in day-to-day activites and his support.

“He shows that he cares about students. He even comes to support us at our cross country meets which isn’t something previous principals have done,” Skylar Mwaniki (12) said.

When asked about his message to the student body, Principal Holland hoped to convey his excitement about his new position.

"I'm excited about being here. We have a beautiful school with a great group of students," Holland said.

Principal Holland noted that he wasn't sure if he would be a permanent principal, but he would work as hard as he could while he was here.

Former Principal Eric Holland smiles for a picture with members of the student body on his last day at Marietta High. Photo courtesy of Andrea Lyons

B

BLUE DEV

Community of Marietta celebrates its Marietta City Schoo

Harrison & Marietta City SchoolsWesley (MCS) cele

Editor-in-Chie

With nearly 8,000 students filling the district, Marietta City Schools has grown immensely from its initial 733 students.

Over its 130 year storied history, the district has created traditions and experienced change. Marietta High School has been home to six different buildings around Marietta. Each of these locations is indicated by street signs hanging in the current building.

Marietta was originally a small district with graduating classes of about 10. However, after the construction of the Lockheed Martin Plant, the population of Marietta grew by the hundreds and the system’s population grew with it.

The district’s Lemon Street School built in 1894 served as the only school for people of color in Cobb County. In 1968, the desegregation of Marietta High School and other area schools began for the Marietta City Schools community to come together.

“I don’t know of another community that wraps its arms around the school, and its students and its staff, [we] are truly special, different and better,” MCS Superintendent Dr. Rivera said.

The long history of community involvement has led to continued, altered and new traditions throughout the district.

Students note favorite Marietta traditions, including the rolling of the high school as well as varsity football games.

MHS seniors blanket the campus in miles of toilet paper every August; the first day of school. What began as a prank is now a sanctioned event, and is hoped to continue for several generations to come.

During Fridays in the fall, students, alumni, and community members of Marietta crowd the stands of historic Northcutt Stadium to cheer on the varsity football team. Football has been a staple of MCS; in 1967 and 2019, the Marietta High Blue Devils won the GHSA 3AAA and 7AAAAAAA State Championship and in 1966 the Lemon Street Hornets won the GIA Class A State Championship “My favorite Marietta tradition is the Friday night football games because I love the atmosphere and all of the community coming together,” Maddie Johnson (10) said.

The district’s goal is to foster sympathetic individuals and critical thinkers by enabling creativity and critical thinking. “[Former MCS Superintentdent] Dr. Emily Lembeck, who was Dr. Grant Rivera’s predecessor started moving down that pathway, to prepare kids for college and Dr. Rivera has followed through on that in spades with the College and Career Academy,” said Joesph Kinstle, Executive Director of the Marietta Schools Foundation. “Marietta has increased the ability of people who are going to get out in this world and be productive, thrive, and be prosperous, no matter where they are in the world.”

Dr. Grant Rivera began his time as superintendent of MCS in 2013 after being a part of Cobb County Schools.

“My favorite thing about the district without question is the students pre-K through 12th grade, it’s what brings me the greatest joy in my life outside of my own two children,” Rivera said.

Cartoon by Quinn Mulkey

Student Council Advisor Mrs. Kibbie DeJarnett reconnects with 2021 Homecoming Queen, Rashanti Clark.

ols’ (MCS) 130th anniversary VIL SPIRIT

& Addison Moreland ebrates its 130th anniversary.

ef & Staff Writer

Mrs. Katie Gaudette is a literacy coach at A.L. Burruss Elementary School. She attended West Side Elementary, Marietta Junior High, and Marietta High.

Ms. Gaudette wanted to raise her family in Marietta and have them attend Marietta Schools. In 2020, through a Marietta tradition, she was able to give her daughter, Mary Jane, he diploma on stage.

“My mother and I both graduated from Marietta, so it was very emotional that my daughter was also a part of this very special school system,” Gaudette said. “Marietta was the only choice for me.”

Her twins, Luke and Amelia are currently freshmen at Marietta.

Student Body President Parie Desai guides students before the annual homecoming parade.

The Durhams have a long line of family history at Marietta. Marymayes Durham (9) is part of the fifth generation of her family to attend Marietta City Schools.

Lucille “Sugar” Suhr, Marymayes’ Great Great Grandmother, was the first editor of the Olympian yearbook, published in 1917. Due to her prominent status in the community, St. Joseph’s Hospital now owns a building known as “Sugar Hill”, named in her honor. Marymayes is currently active in MHS Theatre and dance.

Dr. Corey Lawson is the principal at Marietta Sixth Grade Academy (MSGA), which has an enrollment of 660 students. He has been the principal for over a decade.

He and his family have been enrolled from the beginning, and he was also able to hand his daughters their diplomas when they crossed the stage at graduation.

“The levels of commitment from our families, Board of Education, School Governance Teams, PTA and PTSAs, community and business partners and district office align to one goal across all of our schools: Preparing each student for success,” Dr. Lawson said.

The Seals family have four generations of MCS students. Trinity Seals (10) is currently a student at MHS. Her greatgrandfather attended MHS but was drafted for WWII before he could graduate.

His two daughters attended MHS, when it was located at Winn Street, present day Marietta Middle School.

Trinity’s mother was a writer for “The Pitchfork” when she attended MHS and Trinity followed in her footsteps; she is currently a staff writer.

“Marietta has grown so much in the past few years and its incredible to watch.” Trinity Seals (10) said.

Gregory Papp (10) films the homecoming game for Blue Devil News.

MHS Marching Band marches through historic Marietta Square in 1950 photo courtesy of Hardy’s Studio

News

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page 8

Monkeypox: fact vs. fiction

Within the past 40 years, festering disease outbreaks have brought rumors along with their health risks. HIV/AIDS, COVID, and currently, monkeypox have had many misconceptions formed around them.

Monkeypox is a rash-causing disease with symptoms similar to those of smallpox. Although it is not fatal, monkeypox causes painful aching, swollen lymph nodes, and sores that last anywhere from 2-4 weeks. It is spread through skin-to-skin contact, sharing of clothes or linens, and touching infected objects. In spite of it being a rare disease, monkeypox cases are increasing rapidly in Georgia. There were 1,785 confirmed cases as of Sept.

2022.

Following the announcement of monkeypox outbreaks, people

have been formulating false facts regarding monkeypox via social media. These videos have sparked misconceptions about how the disease is spread, contracted, and where it originated. Some posts even convinced people to base their daily habits around untrue speculations.

Marietta High School’s Nurse Trippe gives students advice on how to avoid contracting monkeypox and slow the spread.

“It’s really about normal cleanliness and hygiene, proper handwashing, social distancing, and wiping things down properly,” Nurse Trippe said.

The information found on social media is not to be trusted if it is not from a credible source.

There are many ways false information can be spread from seemingly legitimate sources.

A TikTok video began as a misheard news report and turned into a full-blown rumor. This rumor claimed that Atlanta's water supply was being contaminated with monkeypox. Some even claimed that it was a government tactic to accelerate the spread of monkeypox.

Truth: Monkeypox was detected in wastewater as a result of runoff from infected patients. It has not been found in any drinking water.

No studies have found monkeypox being spread through water.

Zaria Byers Assistant Editor

Truth: The CDS explains that it is deemed highly unlikely for such contamination to occur.

The lasting effects of monkeypox are scabbed-over rash lesions that will become faint over time.

The JYNNEOS vaccine is the primary vaccine being used in the U.S for monkeypox. It is a twodose series, and each dose should be given 28 days apart. How long the vaccine lasts is unknown, but it is available for all ages.

A false post shared via Facebook led people to believe that the CDC classified monkeypox as an airborne form of herpes that can result in paralysis. The post also claimed that the disease lasts 2-4 months and that it was authored

by BBC News.

Truth: Monkeypox is not an airborne disease, nor is it a form of herpes. It lasts only 2-4 weeks, not months. There have been no reported cases of paralysis from monkeypox to date.

Senators: left, right, and center Dylan Buehner and Mae Bullington Business Manager and Staff Writer

The Senate is home to the two political parties of the United States: The Democrats and The Republicans. Each state elects two representatives to craft laws on the federal level. This legislative body holds a wide array of different views, all under the guides of representing their citizens.While their sentiments can be pretty, it is important to critically look at the leaders in the senate, and check them and their goals. These leaders work for the American people, and it is important to make sure they keep that interest

at heart. Mitch McConnell and Chuck Schumer are the leaders of the Republican and Democratic party respectively. And along with Senator Lisa Murkowski, they make up the right, center & left sides of the political spectrum. Their platforms differ greatly, and their actions stand out from the rest. What these representatives say and what they do are vastly different but hold important information for understanding the system.

Chuck Schumer Democrat Current Senate Majority Leader

Lisa Murkowski Republican Centrist Senator

Democratic Senate Majority Leader Schumer's platform falls in line with his colleagues. His goals revolve around creating & developing equality in every sector of American life. His website highlights his efforts to forward equality among women, minorities, immigrants and the LGBT community. His website also touts his efforts to forward the economy through student debt relief and job creation. While not writing many bills, he states that his support for many left-leaning bills gave them the power to make it through the senate.

As the current senate leader, his state mission has been to pass good bills, not just democratic bills. With the flipping of the senate, Schumer became the head of both his party and the legislative body as a whole. But while he touts his attempts at bipartisanship, he co-sponsored the fewest bipartisan bills while also getting the least bipartisan co sponsors on bills he wrote. He did, however, get his bill, the Fentanyl Sanction Act passed with bipartisan support, even though said bill was most certainly going to pass without his help. He has spent most of his time as a party leader corralling members of his own party like Joe Manchin and Kristian Sinima into supporting more liberal bills such as the Inflation Reduction Act. But while his efforts at bipartisanship have been lackluster, he has managed to get more bills out of community and onto the floor compared to many other senate leaders, showing his efforts to push important bills through.

Republican Centrist Murkowski has a diverse line-up of ideas and goals, from Fishing and Nature Conservation, to Infrastructure and Energy. She has supported bills that fight to preserve second amendment rights & increase military spending, both of which are republican cornerstones. But she also promotes influential energy policies and bills that would expand health and education quality and access. Her website highlights her prioritization of indigenous people and rural Alaska at large. Outside news organizations and her website tout her as a prominent senate centrist.

During her time in the Senate, she’s been an influential figure in bipartisan politics. 56 percent of the bills she cosponsored were proposed by Democrats, similarly, she got bipartisan cosponsors on 69 percent of the bills she proposed. She is known specifically for her efforts to better the lives of indigenous people within her state & around the country. The Indian Health Care Improvement Act and the Tribal Law and Order Act are two landmark laws that have helped those within tribal communities. When it comes to issues like Fossil Fuels and Government Programs, her stances have been a mix of both sides. She got The Energy Act of 2020, which expands renewable and nonrenewable sources, passed. She has also sponsored different bills that promote and discourage government funding of education and healthcare respectively.

Every representative is different, and if people only look at the senate, party ideals become more narrow. While parties outline their general views, each candidate holds their own, and can choose to "betray" their party whenever they feel like it. This is especally noticable in the house; many far right house republicans have openly denounced the actions of more moderate republican senators. At the same time, there’s a growing movement in leftist circles of the House that push hard for greater social reforms that

Mitch McConnell Republican Current Senate Minority Leader Republican leader McConnell runs on a Kentucky Tough platform, driving home the fact that he works for the good of the Commonwealth. He promotes his efforts to change certain tax codes, which he states have yielded tremendous benefits for Kentucky families. He also highlights his efforts to confirm pro-Constitution judges to both the Supreme, Circuit and District courts. He has been in the Senate for a long time and has stayed a stringent conservative throughout.

As both majority and minority leader of the senate, McConnell has maintaned his reputation as a convervative crusader, holding firm to his republican values, but also highlighting his partisan nature. He has flouted his goal of blocking the democrats on every level. During President Obama’s last term, McConnell blocked many attempts to appoint judges on both the circuit and supreme levels.

When the Senate was under republican control, McConnell said on Fox News that 395 house bills were sitting in the senate with no expectation of being passed. An modern case of his partisan nature was during the introduction of the PACT act, a bill created to provide better care for veterans injured by burn pits. Initially, he and other senate republicans filibustered the bill causing it not to pass.

They only revoted and passed the bill after public outrage from both sides. He’s been referred to by Democrats and Republicans as one of the most partisan senate leaders to date.

some moderate democrats shun. From extreme leftists to radical right-wingers, the political spectrum is diverse, and partisanship still remains. Ultimately, citizens have the right to express their views through their votes. And partisan leaders can be replaced by those that represent the values of the majority. Representatives work for the citizens, and checking on them periodically keeps the system safe.

Graphics by Ali Patrick and Libby Barnes

Community News

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page 9

Get involved in voting Alex Kelly and Quinn Mulkey Staff Writers As a teenager, it can be difficult to get information about adulting, especially voting. Mariama Njie, an on-campus intern for Vote Your Voice, brought voter registration help to MHS students the week before break. Pitchfork will be available today during lunch for anyone who still wants to work the polls or register to vote.

As voting has become more inclusive and available to the citizens of America, Marietta students and faculty have a wide variety of voting experiences and opportunites available.

As the voter registration season draws near, students look to our veteran voters to ask for advice and assistance to provide information and help in the registration and voting process.

Brad Simmions, a social studies teacher at Marietta High, recalls the first time he voted.

“I had just turned 18 in 1980. It was the first time I was able to vote,” he said. “I’m not sure I really saw the significance at the age of 18 or the true importance of voting.

I think I did it just because my parents said that it was something I should start doing."

But through the years, voting for him became much more important and meaningful instead of just a simple thing to do at 18.

“As I’ve become older, and especially since I’ve been teaching American government, those that take my class, hear from me, I think, very much about the importance of someone participating in our political cycle by voting,” Simmons said.

“Everybody has a voice, and if you don’t like what’s going on up in Washington or in the state of Georgia, you have every right to participate in the vote.”

Along with more experienced voters, we have seniors looking forward to their opportunity to finally cast a ballot.

Franklin Bonilla (12), an inexperienced voter, shares that even though he is not fully prepared to vote, he wants to get more information about voting and help inspire other seniors to make a change in their local community.

“I like talking one on one. And I'd like to help in the process of registration,” Bonilla said.

Obviously, not everyone in high school is eligible to vote; however, as early as the age of 16, students can work the polls.

Working at the polls can help the community and protect the integrity of voting.

As a high school student, it is important to gain familiarity and experience with the process, and it can impress colleges while earning a bit of extra cash.

The infographics and QR scans provide basic information and access to rules and regulations for Cobb County residents of Georgia.

Pitchfork will be by the senior courtyard today at lunch to assist with voting registration and poll worker sign up.

"First Amendment Day" continued from pg. 1 The most common example of this is a student cannot wear anything with vulgar words or images and they cannot use curse words. Schools can create dress codes for students, but they cannot make a student comply with gender stereotypes and the dress code must be enforced equally to all students. A school cannot allow boys to wear certain clothes while reprimanding girls for wearing the same. While there are many other similar rules regarding the First Amendment in schools, these are some of the most relevant.

Over the last century, many cases have been brought before the Supreme Court that relate to First Amendment rights of students. Tinker v. Des Moines is one of the most famous court cases related to this. In this case, Mary Beth Tinker took her school to court after she was sent home for wearing a peace armband to protest the Vietnam war. The Supreme Court ruled in her favor with a 7-2 vote in 1969, creating the iconic 'Tinker Standard' with this explanation: “students and teachers do not shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.”

In a 1986 Supreme Court case that still impacts student rights today, Bethel School District v. Fraser, the Supreme Court ruled that free speech is limited in schools. It must not contain any lewd or vulgar language and speeches can be prior reviewed by administration.

Engel v. Vitale in 1962 ensured that school-sponsored prayer was not allowed in public schools. However, in 1990 the Supreme Court upheld the Equal Access Act of 1984,

Congratulations to the First Amendment contest winners, Raymonet Adeyemi (left) and Angelina Fortuna Mabrini (right). A free Big Zax Snak compliments of @Zaxbys591SMP

which allows religious groups to meet on school grounds. An example to clarify would be Fellowship of Chritian Athletes can meet at school and pray, but they could not lead a prayer over the school intercom.

An important case for freedom of press in schools is Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier. In 1988, a journalism class at Hazelwood East Highschool wrote and published an article about their peers’ experiences with teen pregnancy and the impact of divorce. The principal mandated the removal of the articles because he did not think the topics were appropriate to be discussed in the school paper. The students took the principal to court on the basis that he was restricting their right to the freedoms of press. This case made its way to the Supreme Court where the judges ruled against the students, 5-3.

This case limited First Amendment rights of student press, and it states that schools must have a "legitimate pedagogical concern" in order to censor. That creates a unclear, undefined standard that can be abused, but it is currently being fought in a student-led, grassroots movement called New Voices. 15 states have adopted a New Voices law, and 20 more states, including Georgia, have students actively campaigning. The media programs and publications at MHS have not faced direct, administrative censorship, nor has prior review been directly used in order to limit student expression.

Student equity for First Amendment rights will always be a divisive topic. It is important for everyone to be informed so that we can properly assure students rights and prepare for the future.

Kaleb Crider (11) holds up the QR code for a friend to scan and the First Amendment quiz. Students passed these around at lunch to maximize student participation and awareness. Photo by Kaia Kirkpatrick

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Sports

page 10

College football kicks off a new season Trinity Seals Staff Writer College football is back and fans are excited to see how this season will look.

The thrill of Saturday football is revving up; the dedicated fan bases of the teams making the competition even more exciting on gameday. Last season, The University of Georgia won the college football national championship, and football fanatics are wondering if the team’s success will continue.

The win of the previous season came as a shock as UGA battled the reigning national champions, The University of Alabama. It was an intense game with the Bulldogs making their breakthrough victory in the fourth quarter. Rivalries such as the Southeastern Conference and Atlantic Coast Conference. Conference rivalries make the watch at home all the more interesting.

“The Southeastern Conference is by far the greatest conference in college football and the Pac 12 is the worst, Georgia should not be ranked number one, it should be Alabama again, as usual,” Mr. Gazaway said.

Now heading into the current season, as of the first week UGA is currently ranked third in the NCAA’s preseason top 25 ranking, behind Ohio State in second and Alabama in first, but the Bulldogs still rank number one in the Southeastern Conference. Saturday game days starting back bring many unpredictable games that

will keep the experts guessing.

According to CBS Sports, the top twenty five rankings are expected to shift keeping Alabama in first but shifting around Georgia and Ohio States ranks.

Teams went head to head on Saturday, Aug. 27 to kick off college football. There were many intense games with many unexpected outcomes. NCAA’s top three teams, Alabama, Ohio State, and Georgia all pulled through with a win. Even though all three teams won, the rankings still shifted, UGA trading ranks with Ohio State. These recent rankings have caused some expected upsets.

A main component of what makes college football so popular is lifelong rivalries. Fans going head to head while their favorite teams face off on the field. Rival games are some of the most anticipated and long awaited games of the entire season. For example teams like Georgia and Georgia Tech or Army and Navy are large games that really draw out fanbases to come watch.

“I would say either Georgia and Georgia Tech or Georgia and Alabama are the best rivalry because it’s funny to watch them fight,” Libby Barnes (10) said.

The spirit of college football, and the fans interest in rivalries and ratings is officially backup. Fanatics will continue to see how the season turns out and are patiently awaiting the biggest game of the year, The College Football National Championship.

“UGA, I think they are going to win because they won in 2021 and I think they are set up to win again.”

Catherine Timko (9)

“Georgia, we had a good season last year and I’m hoping that it carries through to this season.”

Lauren Giles (12)

“Bama, I think they are going to win because of the players and coaching staff and they win every other year.”

Jkelyn Carrol (11)

“Alabama because they have better players and coaches then everyone else.”

Shawn Morgan (10)

Varsity softball swinging into action

Ada Chesney Business Manager

With one game left in the season, the team has an overall record of 9-7, giving them a 60 percent win rate. The team’s region record is 2-7 putting them fifth in the region. They have made significant improvements from last year’s 0-19 season.

Team stats include 396 plate appearances which is equal to the national average, 336 at bats which is 4 more than the national average, 78 runs batted in which is 1 more than the national average, and 11 home runs which is seven more than the national average.

The team has a new head coach this year, Coach Brandon Durden. Along with the head coach, the team also has two assistant coaches, Coach Lauren Thornton and Coach Thomas Turner. Coach Durden said that all the players play an important role on the team, but McKaela Walker (11) has been an MVP on the team from a pitching perspective. She has a 3.53 earned run average, meaning she allows 3.53 runs per seven innings.

“The girls have made consistent progress from the start of the summer workouts to this point in the season. Everyone is working hard and having fun,” said Coach Durden, “I have been privileged to coach such special ladies at this school.

My coaching staff is the best in the state and we have worked together cohesively to win games.”

The team still has a few games left in the season. Their last game is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 11 vs. Harrison High at home.

BLUE DEVIL

sports update

Football: 1-5 , 0.17%

08/20- vs. Grayson 32-12 L 08/26- @ West Forsyth 24-17 W 09/02- vs. Roswell 24-20 L 09/09- @ North Cobb 35-21 L 09/16- vs. Walton 30-17 L 09/23- vs. Buford 14-0 L

Volleyball: 14-7, 0.67%

Creekview Tournament 08/12- Kennesaw Mountain 2-1 L 08/12- Pope 2-0 L 08/13- West Forsyth 2-0 L 08/13- Northside 2-0 W 08/13- Creekview 2-1 W 08/16- @ Chapel Hill 2-0 W 08/16- vs. North Paulding 2-0 W 08/18- vs. Wheeler 3-1 W 08/23- vs. Harriosn 3-0 W 08/24- vs. Holy Innocents Episcopal 2-1 W 08/24- @ Campbell 2-0 W

McKaela Walker (12) prepares to throw a pitch to a Hillgrove player on Sep.15. Walker has 49 plate appearances and eight home runs this season.

Peachtree Tournament 08/27- Milton 2-1 L 08/27- East Hamilton 2-1 L 08/27- Marist 2-1 W 08/27- Trinity Christian 2-1 W 08/27- Mount Vernon 2-0 W 08/27- Northside 2-0 W

08/30- @ McEachern 3-0 W 09/01- @ North Paulding 3-2 W 09/07- vs. Hillgrove 3-0 L 09/22- vs. Cartersville 3-2 L

Softball: 9-7, 0.56%

Caroline Bryant (10) at bat on Sep. 15 at the game against Hillgrove. Bryant has a fielding percentage of 0.857 and a total of 12 put outs this season. Photos courtesy of Peter Chesney

08/11- @ Wheeler 6- 1 W 08/16- @ McEachern 4-2 L 08/17- vs. Etowah 12-5 W 08/18- vs. North Paulding 16-0 L 08/22- vs. Pebblebrook 19-1 W 08/24- @ Galloway 12-7 W 08/25- @ Hillgrove 5-4 L 08/29- vs. Whitefield Academy 15-0 W 09/01- vs. McEachern 6-4 L 09/06- vs. Johns Creek 3-1 W 09/06- @ North Paulding 10-2 L 09/12- @ Etowah 4-2 W 09/13- @ Pebblerook 21-18 W 09/15- vs. Hillgrove 4-1 W 09/20- @ Harrison 13-1 L 09/22- @ McEachern 7-4 W 09/29- vs. North Paulding 15-2 L

Sports

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First games from ‘The Benz’ to ‘The Cutt’ Alyssia Hamilton Editor-in-Chief 76 seasons of football, three state championships, and eight NFL players. This program has produced award winning athletes. Eric Zeier, a former quarterback, was the latest to be recognized and congratulated at the first home game for being inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame.

Ending the 2020-2021 season with a ranking of 111, improvement was made in the 2021-2022 season with a ranking of 21. The movement in ranking allows Marietta to face more competitive teams.

Marietta currently holds a record of 1-5.

Corky Kell: This was the first time Corky Kell has been held at the Mercedes Benz Stadium. The last time Marietta competed in this tournament was in 2019 against Rome at Barron Stadium. The score was Marietta 48, Rome 14. Three years later, the Blue Devils are back playing against the Grayson Rams. Grayson is ranked fifth in the state and currently holds a record of 5-1.

“It’s always exciting to play a high ranked team like Grayson, especially on a big stage like the Benz. It’s definitely good competition that will get us prepared for the region and playoffs,” Jake Maggard (12).

Through the first, second, and third quarter, Marietta attempted to score, but there was no gain. In the fourth quarter touchdowns were made. The first one was scored with less than 12 minutes in the game by quarterback Chase McCravy.

The final touchdown was scored near the end of the fourth quarter by wide receiver Christian Mathis. The final score was Marietta 12 Grayson 32. Coach Morgan explained what the team could have improved on.

“It was the first game with 16 new starters, and we needed a little more experience. We needed more game experience because most of the starters had never

played in a varsity football game before, most of them were on JV last year,” Coach Morgan said.

An experience for the Blue Devils as they worked with their new starters to learn the routes of competing at a higher level.

First Home Game: The first home game of the season is a big deal in this city. The traditions of tailgating with Marietta alumni and their families, the band playing, color guard dancing, and the cheerleaders cheering on the green field behind the home side of the stadium. Die hard Marietta fans dressed in their gear with their big Marietta hats and bells.

“I have been attending Marietta games for my entire life, and I look forward to every season. Coming to Marietta games is like coming to a big family reunion.

Between family, friends and classmates, Marietta is and always will be a family,” Rosser Southerland (class of 2011) said.

Cheerleaders and football players from 1st-8th grade lined the field to be recognized for Youth Appreciation night.

Marietta didn’t score in the first quarter. In the second quarter Da’marion West scored a touchdown as he pushed through Roswell’s defense making it to the end zone. Kicker Ben Parrott followed by making a field goal, earning Marietta an extra point. Four seconds left in the quarter and McCracy threw a 60 yard pass for Nacari Ashley to catch as he waited in the end zone. Roswell came back in the third quarter and led in the fourth quarter.

Christian Mathis scored a touchdown and the score was 20-24. Marietta attempted to score another touchdown but they were stopped by Roswell’s defense. Final score Marietta 20, Roswell 24.

“I thought we played well, we just need to lower our mistakes and play looser as a team,” Luke Morgan (11) said.

The upcoming games for the Blue Devils are on Oct. 7 against Hillgrove at home.

The following game is Oct. 14 against McEachern at W.H. Cantrell Stadium.

Jace Arnold runs the ball to avoid being tackled by Grayson’s player.

Arnold had two catches during the Corky Kell Tournament. Photo by Alyssia Hamilton.

Brotherhood takes the field Chase McCravy

The quarterback transfer from his former school, Hillgrove High School brings his talent into the Mercedes Benz Stadium. Chase McCravy is one of the newest additions to the Marietta lineup. He brings his work ethic and passion for football into the Marietta family dynamic.

“Ever since I have stepped on campus, I have felt the love from everybody, and it really feels like a true family here,” McCravy (11) said.

As shown in all of his academics and also with his work he puts into games and practices, McCravy is motivated to work hard with everything he does.

“My teammates and striving for my goals are for sure my motivations,” McCravy said.

He wants to build a bond with everybody on the team and focus on making his coaches, teammates, and family proud.

Christian Mathis

Christain Mathis, known to many in the Marietta community, is a wide receiver for the Blue Devils. Mathis has received many college offers including Morehouse College, Alabama State University, and Faulkner University.

He wants to be the best he can for the Marietta team and work his hardest to help get the Devils a win.

“I do feel that because I am a senior, I’ll bring leadership to the team so just trying to lead by example and my teammates following [by my example], we could be great,” Mathis (12) said.

Mathis continues to have fun in every environment he gets put in and also staying focused to work with his team so they can win and be the best they can be.

Christian Mathis and Chase McCravy at practice.

Photo by Sydney Hernandez

page 11

Sydney Hernandez Staff Writer

More than a Game Chase McCravy and Christian Mathis have a relationship that unites them on and off the field. This can make it easier for these two to look at the field through each other’s eyes. McCravy and Mathis have this relationship with one another. They can be found in the cafeteria sitting with each other smiling and laughing. McCravy and Mathis have a bond that demonstrates togetherness.

They work with each other and make sure they are always there for one another.

“We have been friends for a little while now and it helps on the field knowing I can trust him and he can trust me too,” McCravy (11) said.

These two young men have a bright future ahead of them and hope that they can always have a strong bond.

Although McCravy is new to the team this coming season, Mathis wants to make sure that he welcomes him with open arms to gain a deeper connection.

“I think I can use my creativity to help us win,” McCravy (11) also said.

He will continue to work with Mathis to increase their chances of a winning season. McCravy and Mathis share the aspirations of becoming successful football players, hoping to exceed their goals and help the team work together. They always communicate with each other in and out of the sport.

“Having a great relationship off the field helps in so many ways because it builds trust and a sense of security so that when we need a play made or needs a question answered, he’s comfortable finding me” Mathis (12) said.

The respect each of these athletes have for each other is apparent.

Entertainment

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page 12

Hits on the silver screen Amber Ryan Staff Writer

Top Gun: Maverick An action-filled sequel to the original 1984 movie beginning back with the original cast and some new faces at Top Gun. Introducing actor Miles Teller as Rooster with his own rendition of “Great Balls of Fire ‘’ which was on par with the original. According to Variety, it is now the 5th highest-grossing movie ever in North America. It has now passed ‘Black Panther’ in the rank of most grossed movies of all time. This movie was able to draw the attention of 40-year-olds and teens alike.

Jurassic World: Dominion The conclusion of a dynasty of movies including the original Jurassic Park cast and Jurassic World cast. It received mixed reviews with longtime fans being let down by the lack of action. The film received a 5.7/10 rating on IMDb making it the lowest-rated movie in the franchise. This was shown in fan reviews with the fan page, “Jurassic Outpost” saying, “‘Jurassic World: Dominion’ had its heart in the right place, but the execution is dreadful.”

Minions: The Rise of Gru The minions have captured the hearts of teens across the world due to social media. Teens dressed up to see the movie in minion costumes, prom dresses, and other formal clothing. Some teens took the dressing up to an even higher level with one person in the group being a minion while the others were security guards. According to IMDb, 34% of the audience on opening night were teens ages 13-17.

Thor: Love & Thunder One of the many Marvel movies released in 2022, Thor Love and Thunder is the 4th Thor movie to be released. It introduces a “Female Thor ‘’ played by actress Natalie Portman who was in the first two Thor movies. As of September 8, 2022, it is now available to stream on Disney +. If you are a Marvel fan, then you will love to know that in the MCU timeline it is the most recent sequence of events to occur, following the show Mrs. Marvel.

Students participated in a survey choosing their favorite movie from the year. Top Gun: Maverick won overall best film, with 45.7% of total votes. Minions The Rise of Gru got 28.7% of student votes, Thor Love and Thunder received 11.7%, and Jurassic World: Dominion received 5.7%. The survey had an “other” section where MHS students could type in their favorite movie if the survey didn’t include their top movie choice. Those honorable mentions are Nope, Elvis, Where the Crawdads Sing, and Purple Hearts. The “other” category made up 8.2% of the votes.

The celebrity scoop: catch up for fall Lauren Kelley Staff Writer

Actor and producer Alec Baldwin, 64, fatally shot Halyna Hutchins, a cinematographer working beside Baldwin on set.

According to Independent UK, Baldwin has denied responsibility for the murder.

The New Mexico Office of Medical Investigation has deemed the shooting an accident and there have been no criminal charges. The film was indefinitely suspended following the accident.

Many crew members have stated on social media networks that cast and crew member safety was not a priority in the production of “Rust”.

The industry is now working to ensure that sets are following proper safety procedures so that an accident similar to that involving Baldwin and Hutchins never occurs again.

Colombian singer, Shakira, has been found guilty of tax fraud by Spanish investigators. The Spanish government requires declaration of Spanish residency if staying in the country for more than 184 days per year; Shakira had spent over 200 days each year between 2012 and 2015.

She has been prosecuted on six charges, which will require her to spend up to 8 years in jail. This fraud equates to 14.5 million euros, nearly 17 million U.S. dollars. Prosecutors have also stated that they will be seeking an additional fine of 24.5 million U.S. dollars.

While her trial date has not been set yet, it is likely to occur in the next year. If the trial occurs before 2024 and she is found guilty, she will be in jail until she turns 54 in 2031.

On Aug. 28, Taylor Swift announced her new album, which has a release date of Oct. 21. She has stated that there will be thirteen songs on her album that will be “stories of 13 sleepless nights” throughout Swift’s life.

Taylor Swift has referenced her lucky number, 13, many times throughout her career and it is only fitting that she incorporated this into her newest album. Swift is also known for her “easter eggs” and hints that she subtly drops about upcoming albums and singles.

For Midnights, Taylor Swift has created cohesive original artwork, which creates a clock, symbolic of her album title, on the backs of her Target exclusive CD. In the coming weeks, she will likely release more.

Trisha Paytas, TikTok and YouTube star, has been deemed controversial for over a decade. She has been made known as an “internet troll” for her countless scandals.

On Sept. 14, she and her husband, Moses Hacmon, gave birth to their daughter, Malibu Barbie Paytas-Hacmon. Just a week before, the day the Queen of England died, a large TikTok trend theorized that Trisha’s baby was born and was a reincarnation of the Queen.

Obviously, this theory was proven false, but it demonstrates just how easy it is for the internet to feed into controversial topics surrounding Trisha Paytas.