The Viewpoint 2021 Senior Issue

TH E

VIEWPOINT

Mountain View High School 2135 Mountain View Rd. Stafford, VA 22556

STUDENT NEWS Magazine MVHS

VOLUME 15 ISSUE 4 May | June 2021 Take a peek at pages 12 & 13 to hear from our seniors.

01: Cover

Index

02: Index

12: Viewpoint class of 2021 13: Viewpoint class of 2021

The Viewpoint MAY | JUNE 2021 VOLUME 15, ISSUE 4 Managing Editors Lexi Jackson Sean Jones Blog Editor Ceci Alvarez

03: Briefs

14: College athletes

04: The future awaits

15: College athletes

Photography Editor Jules Torrice

05: Class of 2021 in 21 words

16: Sports recap

Adviser Trisha Strahl

06: Seniors in the spotlight

17: Sports recap

07: Seniors in the spotlight

18: What your zodiac says

08: Off we go...

about you

09: Off we go...

19: Gaming places near us

10: Off we go...

11: Senior Shout Outs

20: Viewpoint staff superlatives Editorial

Social Media Editor Jules Torrice

Briefs Editors Catelynn Aiman

Staff Writers Catelynn Aiman, Ceci Alvarez, Destiny Fitzgerald, Jules Torrice, Lexi Jackson, Na’Syr Jackson, Sean Jones, and Taylor Cooper Front Cover Lexi Jackson 2014-2017 International Quill and Scroll First Place Articles 2014-2016 VHSL State Championship First Place Award 2013, 2014, 2015 Free Lance-Star Best Over All Newspaper 2011 Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Medalist Mountain View High School 2135 Mountain View Rd. Stafford, VA 22556

Though it was difficult, The Viewpoint managed to publish three issues to our online forum and one issue in print. Not be able to meet in person was challenging, but we made it through. We’re looking forward to next year, where our remaining staff members can continue printing issues and handing them out in person.

CateLynn Aiman, junior, said, “I am looking forward to getting to be at the top of the chain and bully all the freshmen as the alpha.”

Ceci Alvarez, senior, said, “Being in college, experiencing freedom and being on my own for the first time. It’s also exciting to be in the first steps of getting where you want to be in life.”

Senior Jules Torrice said, “I’m looking forward to the freedom and new people I will have and be around. I’m going to Christopher Newport in the Fall and I don’t know anyone who may be going there so it will be a clean slate for me and that’s where the freedom and people come in.

Senior Lexi Jackson said, “I am most looking forward to moving on to the next step in my life and going to college.”

Senior Na’Syr Jackson said, “I’m honestly just looking forward to going to college.”

Sean Jones, senior, said, “I can’t wait to experience a vastly different environment then what I’m used to. Sure it will be somewhat familiar, but it’ll still be pretty much a whole new experience. I can’t wait for college!”

Taylor Cooper, junior, said, “I’m looking forward to a more normal year. Class of 2021 lost their senior year and I’m grateful for getting the chance at a normal one.”

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What’s new at the View COVID Vaccine Freebies by Lexi Jackson In order to motivate people to receive the COVID vaccine, many businesses have been providing incentives when shown a vaccination card.

According to the American Association of Retired Persons, or AARP, “These days, you can get free doughnuts, a beer on the house, tickets to an amusement park, a no-cost hunting license, or cold, hard cash if you get a COVID-19 vaccination.”

Beginning in March, companies like Krispy Kreme began to offer free doughnuts every day for the rest of the year when given proof of vaccination. Fast food restaurant White Castle is giving out “dessert on a stick,” available until May 31, too.

Not only have businesses offered incentives for customers, but their employees, as well. Many companies are offering paid time off, or money in the form of cash or gift cards. Grocery store Publix is giving out $125 to employees who provide proof of their vaccination.

Though some may not be swayed by these incentives, it should not be the only reason that you decide to receive the vaccine, just an added bonus. If you still have not gotten your COVID vaccine, sign up through Mary Washington Hospital to get it.

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RAD Training by Ceci Alvarez Mountain View recently offered a R.A.D. Training course to any senior girls interested. R.A.D stands for “Rape Aggression Defense” and is a course designed to teach you self defense methods and tactics for a multitude of scenarios. Over the course of four days, you learn how to handle a situation as small as someone following you to someone physically attacking you. 8 of us participated in the course and learned so many useful skills. The course is offered through the Stafford County Sheriff Department and is open to everyone, including children.”

Taking this course was very helpful and taught all of us a lot. We learned the power of our voice alone and just how strong we can be.” Olivia Ojeda, senior, says, “[It was]super fun and informative. It’s something I feel all girls going into college should get the chance to do”

Robot Jobs by CateLynn Aiman Technology is advancing everyday. This makes the future uncertain of where civilizations will stand. Some people believe that society is going to be taken over by robots, however, there are some jobs that a robot can not replace.

To be a writer means you need to have creativity and good grammar. Since robots do not have a personality to tell a story, they can never be writers. However, robots can help write.

An example of this would be Grammarly, where a robot detects grammar errors.

A lawyer needs to know the rules and how to bend them to their favor. They have to be smart enough to use evidence in their favor. A robot may be smart enough to know the rules, but they could never be able to use something that is against them for them.

Designers and artists, these are both jobs that require creativity. Robots may know which color goes with which, but they do not know how to put them together to tell a story.

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There are more jobs but these are the jobs that definitely will not be replaced by robots.

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The future awaits

Learn more about Brooke Chambliss and where she is going

by CateLynn Aiman

H

igh school is hard, and being at the top of your class is even harder. However, Senior Brooke Chambliss managed to do that and many other things during her time at school.

During her freshman year, she claims that she was not as dedicated to her academics because she did not know what she wanted to be.Chambliss quickly realized math and science are her favorite subjects. IB Spanish was Chambliss’ favorite class, while Personal Finance was on the boring side for her.

Chambliss was involved ina multitude of after school activities, such as the IB Diploma Program, IB Tutoring, Wind Ensemble, Marching Band, Pit Orchestra, Tri-M Music Honor Society, National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, and Spanish Honor Society. By doing this, she became a well-rounded student.

According to Chambliss, her favorite thing to do was play in the pit orchestra for the Wildacts because she has a passion for music.

She attributes her time at Mountain View to what has prepared her for the future. Chambliss is in the IB Diploma Program. Through this program, she has developed a strong work ethic and is able to balance time and life.

After taking IB Math Analysis and HL Biology, she has decided to major in Biomedical Engineering and minor in Spanish. Chambliss decided that Georgia Tech was a perfect fit for her, because of their

quality engineering program, and great campus.

“If I were to assemble the dream team of students, Brooke Chambliss would be the team captain. She is capable and committed while still caring about others. To help her peers prepare for their IB exams, Brooke led study sessions, reviewing materials and answering questions as if she were the one teaching not taking the course. This speaks to her commitment to her studies and her desire to help serve others in need,” said Theresa Gaddy, IB coordinator.

A big role model in Chambliss’ life are her older sisters. Chambliss says, “They are extremely intelligent and talented women who I’ve looked up to since I was a child.”

The hardest thing for Chambliss is how fast high school went by for her. However, she is thankful for making memories with her closest friends over the years.

Chambliss is honored and proud to be at the top of her class.

She wants to thank her teachers, friends, and family for not only allowing her to succeed, but for playing a huge role in her accomplishment and her hard work.

Chambliss' advice to future freshmen is “Take the classes that you want to take and spend more time with your friends!”

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Lifetouch

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Class of 2021 in 21 words

Amari Walker- High school was the best of the times and worst of times, but i got to realize who my real friends were

Connor Christian- High school was a lot of fun.

I learned tons about everything and got to form my own point of view

Ethan Scott- It was kind of unbelievable, I mean, wearing masks and having virtual classes are both experiences that no one would’ve imagined

Class of 2021 describes the class of 2021 in 21 words

by Ceci Alvarez

Kylie Holt- Class of 2021 was like no other graduating class. We made the best of our year despite the global pandemic

Thea Hanse- I luckily got to learn a lot about staying away from certain people and I learned how to grow by yourself

Alex Davis- Dawgggg imma keep it a stack, I’m just glad it’s almost over. School has given me two diseases, senioritis and depression.

Brooke Chambliss- My entire high school experience was full of passionate and intelligent teachers, supportive and caring friends, challenging academics, and lifelong memories

Stellan Hinz- A group of those who waded through the dark unknowns because they had no other option. Now we are almost through.

Natalie Monze- Furry jackets, dawn, tears make my face cold, confusion, warm drinks, new friends, honeysuckles, loud music, sleepless nights, glitter, heartbreak, growth feature u may | june 2021u the viewpoint u 05

Seniors in the spotlight A brief look into seniors and their accomplishments in the art departments by Sean Jones (All photos supplied by advisors)

Band

Orchestra

Owen Alligood - All county band, All District Band, Rank Leader, Brass Captain, Tri- M Historian Rachel Brewer- Marching Band Brooke Chambliss- All-County Band, All-District Band, All-State Eligible, Clarinet Section Leader, Woodwind Captain, Drum Major, Tri-M Treasurer, Tri-M Vice President Kenneth Collins- All-County, All-District, Rank Leader Brianna Cox- All-District Band, Saxophone Section Leader Simon Crothers- Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble Brendon Dash- Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Marching Band Thomas Graves- All-County Band, All District Band, All-State Eligible, Frontline Section Leader Kevin Halpin-Percussion Captain, All-County Band, All-District Band, All-State Eligible, Senior Regional Orchestra Stellan Hinz- All-District Band Matthew King- All-District Band Abena Koranteng- Concert Band, Symphonic Band Caden LaValley- All-County Band, All-District Band Cheddy Matthews- Jazz Ensemble, Marching Band Phoebe O’Kelley- All-County Band, All-District Band, All-State Eligible, All-State Band, Tri-M Secretary Karington Owens- All-District Band, All-County Band, Senior Regional Orchestra, All-State Eligible, Rank Leader Ceci Alvarez- All-District Band, All-County Band Joshua Pratt- Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble, Marching Band Dominic Rishmond- Rank Leader Marilteyxa Rodriguez Guerrero- Color Guard Captain Erik Ruane- All-County Band, All-District Band, All-State Eligible, AllState Band, Senior Regional Orchestra, Sousaphone Section Leader Nyleese Sanchez- Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Marching Band Alexander Stump- Band Letters, All-District Band Michael Scalercio- Concert Band, Symphonic Band Alexander Sturgill- Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble Bailey Sword- All County Band, All District Band, Clarinet Section Leader, Rank Leader, Tri-M Secretary, Tri- M President, Christian Taylor- Rank Leader, Percussion Captain, All-County Band, All-District Band, All-State Eligible Tiffany Truax- Marching Band Rank Leader Landry Waters- Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble Alison Williams- All-County Band, All-District Band, All-State Eligible, Low Brass Section Leader Christian Windsor- Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Percussion Ensemble, Marching Band

Kira Williams- Viola, Concert Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia, Section Leader Matthew Kemp- Violin, Concert Orchestra, Symphonic Orchestra, Section Leader Victoria Simone- Cello, Concert Orchestra Andrew Thibodeau- Bass, Concert Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia, Section Leader Catheryn Stumpf- Violin, Concert Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia, All County Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia Concertmaster Emily Robinson- Cello, Concert Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia Ileana Mattison- Violin, Concert Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia, All County Orchestra Isabella Stusse- Cello, Concert Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia Justin Smith- Violin, Chamber Sinfonia Kaysea Calvert- Violin, Symphonic Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia, All County Orchestra, Section Leader Rachel Brewer- Violin, Symphonic Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia, All County Orchestra Riley Bowling- Violin, Concert Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia Shane Rucker- Cello, Concert Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia Virginia Walker- Viola, Concert Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia Yasmeen Erraziqi- Violin, Concert Orchestra, Chamber Sinfonia Aiden Flynn- Cello, Concert Orchestra, Symphonic Orchestra Christopher Gregory- Bass, Concert Orchestra, Symphonic Orchestra Isabella Ricciardi- Cello, Concert Orchestra, Symphonic Orchestra Katia Williams- Violin, Symphonic Orchestra Noah Boyd- Bass, Concert Orchestra, Symphonic Orchestra, Section Leader

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Chorus Emily Cox Erika Divine Brenston Furr Nic Kennedy Colin Lafley Riley Limbert Avery Lundgren Elizabeth Marples- VCDA District Choir, VMEA Honors Choir, Lead in the annual performance of Reluctant Dragon Angelique Miller Lauren Mills Kanini Muturi Brianna Nowicki- VCDA District Choir, Lead in the annual performance of Reluctant Dragon Harley Preston- featured in the SCPS Fine Arts Festival in a jazz solo Keana Roberts- VMEA Honors Choir, featured in the SCPS Fine Arts Festival in a jazz solo Erik Ruane- VCDA District Choir, VMEA Honors Choir, alternate for All-State Elizabeth Steenhoven Yasmine White Cody Willis Erin Wright

Art Brynn Olden- IB Art Eva Dow- IB Art Grace Kirkpatrick- IB Art Destani Carter- IB Art Anna Puddimott- IB Art Kirstin Sturgill- IB Art Lois Heden- IB Art Isabelle Peren- IB Art Olivia Ojeda- IB Art Sydney Penella- IB Art Ileana Mattison- IB Art, NAHS Olivia Ojeda- NAHS Ceci Alvarez- NAHS Ana Avellanet- NAHS Frances Stanley- NAHS Samantha Greer- NAHS Kanini Maturi- NAHS Kaylee Flores- NAHS Anastasia Washington- NAHS Abigail Tucker- NAHS Sophie Miller- NAHS

Theatre Katie Hasenecz - involvement all 4 years, on stage and off, runner & painter, Thespian President, Improv captain Stellan Hinz - backstage runner for 3 years, on stage this current year, improv team, Thespian Vice President Cat Stumpf - on and off musician, on stage last year and this year, Thespian Vice President, Improv team Sam Greer - scenic artist & backstage runner all 4 years.

Lizzy Marples - on stage for 3 years (not this year) Nick Wilson - Make Up Designer for 2 years, on stage (ensemble) for two years Hailey (Kai) Hughes - backstage runner for 3 years (not this year) Jenna Wilsher - backstage runner for 2 years, Improv team for 2 years

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Off we go ...

Looking at where our seniors plan to go after high school by Jules Torrice Class of 2021 will be facing the next chapter of their lives starting this summer. Here we will look at the colleges and trades our seniors plan to attend and the majors and hobbies they are looking forward to (Big thank you to the seniors who submitted their answers).

Virginia Commonwealth University: Rachel Brewer (Major: Mathematics or Finance) Riley Limbert (Major: Business/Marketing - Music) William Hayes (ROTC Program - Major: Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness) Olivia Ojeda (Major: Undecided) Christopher Costanzo said, “I’m planning on double majoring at VCU for both photography/film as well as education in English! I figured VCU as one of the most optimal places to pursue both of these paths as it is an amazing art school with an amazing photography and film program as well as the opportunity to double major in a non-art major that I plan to pursue as my career!”

Kirsten Sturgill Shelby Huggins Ceci Alvarez University of Virginia: Dominic Richmond (Major: Economics) Kamylle Reid (Major: Computer Science) Virginia Tech: Cassandra Sturgill (Major: Engineering) Sophie Miller (Major: Food Science and Technology) Madison McDonald (Major: Exploring Biology and following the Pre-Med path) Emaan Rahman (Major: Mathematics) Sean Blatstein (Major: Wildlife Conservation) Carlos Gonzalez (Corps of Cadets while doing Air Force ROTC - Major: Computational Data and Analysis) Dalton Arce Samantha Kang Reilly Moore (Navy scholarship - Major: Aerospace Engineering) Jesse Scott (Corps of Cadets Program) Germanna Community College: Samantha Keller (Major: Business Management) Clayton Williams said, “I went to Germanna to obtain my OSHA 10 certification. The program only took me about 3 days to complete because it was accelerated. I’ll be getting my OSHA 10 card sometime around April 25th.”

Jenna McCarter Kayla Gregory Kyle Wilson (Major: Cybersecurity) Jasmine White (Major: Business) Christopher Newport University: Juliana Torrice (Major: Undecided) Adalyn Perez (Major: Business) Justicia Nyantakyi (Major: Sociology) Anna Whelan (Swim and Dive team) Brianna Nowicki Ayden Cox Christina Mayo

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Coastal Carolina University: Kylie Holt (Major: Environmental Sciences)

Shenandoah University: Phoebe O’Kelly (Music Education)

Concord University: Alex Hernandez (Committed; Football - Dual Major: Psychology and Human Behavior )

University of California, Los Angeles: Nia St. Cyr (Major: Chemical Engineering - maybe a double Major with Architecture)

Brigham Young University of Idaho: Shannyn Furness (Major: English)

University of North Carolina: Jasmine Alexander

Hollins University: Lisa-Marie Bastian (Equestrian Team)

Washington & Lee University: Jason Raymond (Major: Biology)

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: Dominic Oladipo (Major: Aerospace Engineering)

University of Kentucky: Chloe Schmitz (Army ROTC Scholarship - Club Swim Team - Major: Biology & Pre-Med)

Liberty University: Evangeline Wilkerson said, “I am going to Liberty University because of its strong Christian values, to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics - Commercial/Corporate, and to play Division I Field Hockey. I completed all of the required courses for an Advance Diploma at Mountain View High School in December and entered Liberty University in January. I joined the field hockey team as a “Gray Shirt.”

Rebekah Simmons (ROTC Program - Major: Sports medicine) Marymount University: Marisol Zuñiga-Castañeda (Committed; Soccer team - Major: Biochemistry)

Brigham Young University: Brayden Hitz (Major: Cybersecurity) Thomas Jefferson University: Annalise Pudimott (Committed; Softball - Major: Pred-Med) Colorado State University: Alexa Hill (Major: Equine Science) Appalachian State University: Kendall Cooke (Field Hockey - Major: Education)

Northern Colorado University: Ryleigh Woodall (Major: Biology Medical Science)

Savannah College of Art and Design: Allyssa Downey

East Coast Polytechnic University: Rebecca Garnett

University of Delaware: Preston Stanford

Regent University: Megan Pikkaart (Major: Information Systems)

Georgia Institute of Technology: Brooke Chambliss (Major: Biomedical Engineering)

West Virginia University: Nicholas Wilson (Major: Criminology)

Case Western Reserve University: Lauren Meyer

Virginia Polytechnic Institute: Isabella Stusse (Major: Human Development)

University of North Carolina Wilmington: Skylee Jones said, “I’m going here because it’s not in my home state, but still close. Not to mention only a 10 minute drive from the beach. I’m also going to major in Social Work!”

Belmont University: Abigail Vance (Major: Science in Nursing) The College of William and Mary: Benjamin Boateng (Major: Sociology) Radford University: Brenston Furr Old Dominion University: John shaner (Major: Business Management) Paige Jannereth (Major: Biology) Jasmin Chavero (Major: Nursing) Michael Roman (Major: Cyber Security) Saint Anselm College: Patrick Carroll (Major: International Relations) University of Roehampton: Anna Florio Fairmont State University: Zara Christophe (Major: Exercise Science)

Brigham Young University Hawaii: Emma Reid said, “I have been attending since January and it’s a great school with a challenging and rewarding academic program. It also doesn’t hurt that campus is about 1/2 mile from the beach. The university also has diversity and the opportunity to learn about cultures from throughout the world with a majority of the students being international.”

Mary Baldwin University: Deyonnia Moore (Major: Engineering) George Mason University: Roshell Palma (Major: Biology) Alexander Stump (Major: Business) Patrick Binion (Major: Computer Science) Joseph Thibodeaux III (Major: Computer Engineering) Marileytxa Guerrero (Major: Psychology) James Madison University: Brooke Long (Major: Pre-med) Kenneth Collins Jr (Major: Music Education) Elizabeth Marples (Honors College - Major: Biology) Alexandra Hatzis (Nursing Program)

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James Madison University (continued): Catheryn Stumpf (Major: Psychology) Teagan Levesque (Dance Team - Major: Architectural Design) Charles Cann (Major: Music Education) Karrington Owens (Track & Field - Major: Health Science) Morgan Bass Northern Virginia Community College: Elizabeth Steen (Associate Degrees in Biology) Daniel Hicks (Major: Cybersecurity and Computer Science) Aleia Dvorak (Major: Forensic Science) Ariana Reinaga-Lemus (Major: Political Science) Bryan Martinez Takima Watkins (Major: Psychology) Kaylee Flores (Radiology Technician) Olivia Durham (Major: Early Childhood Education) University of Connecticut: Keana Roberts said, “I am so excited to be going to UConn! I am majoring in Pathobiology and the opportunities I am going to have at the University of Connecticut for pathology I wouldn’t be able to receive anywhere else. In college, I want to join the women in the STEM learning community in hopes to meet other girls with my same interests. I also am participating in UConn’s chorale program as well as the lacrosse and field hockey club/Intramural teams!”

University of Mary Washington: Emma Sanford Sean Jones (Major: History with a teachers licensure) Samantha Greer (Major: Elementary Education) Ainsley Logar (Major: Psychology) Harley Preston (Softball - Choir - Major: Psychology) Kevin Halpin Lexi Jackson (Major: History)

Catawba College: Bridgette Pearson (Committed; Swim Team) Bridgewater College: Julia Frick (Committed; Lacrosse) Annaliese Franklin (Softball Team - Major: Biochemistry) Johnson and Wales University: Ashleigh Thornton (Major: Baking and Pastry Arts) University of Vermont: Olivia Endler (Major: double major of Political Science and Environmental Studies) Lesley University: Emily Winkels (Committed; Soccer - Major: Biology) Penn State: Seneca Gregory (Basketball - Major: Kinesiology) Noah Cahoon (At Harrisburg - Committed; Soccer) Kathryn Hasenecz (Major: Stage Management) Marian Rempola (Honors College - Major: Computer Science and Business) Virginia Military Institute: Hannah Thompson (Major: International Studies) Skyler Bushno (Army ROTC - Major: Biology) Western Michigan University : Leland Fry (Major: Aviation Flight Science)

Lynchburg University: David Brady (Committed; Swim Team) Lauren Mills (Major: Business) HaileyMarie Rice (Major: Biology) South Dakota State University: Laura Peterson (Major: Engineering)

Right out of high school...

Tyler Mugele (Marines) Fabyan Ramirez (Professional Boxer) Sarah Gambale (Esthetician schooling) Anastasia Washington (Receptionist at a resort in Colorado) Mikayla Robertson (Cosmetology career) Wyatt Furlong (Special Effects Makeup) Alano Chavez-Saiz (Army) Jonathan Krob (Orange County Fire Rescue)

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I need a wildcat

Disclaimer: I do not support bringing a live wildcat into the school. This is purely for the sake of comedy by Jillian Pabalan, freelance writer I’ve never asked for anything before, right? Well, sorry, I’m asking now.

I need a wildcat.

“A wildcat,” I hear you echo. Yes, a wildcat. Barring the fact that there are technically two in my home and hundreds in the hallways of my school every day, my life is unfortunately devoid of the creature, and its absence is holding me back. It’s holding us all back.

I need a wildcat so I can help my school resuscitate two unlikely victims of COVID-19: our pride and our culture. 75% of Mountain View High School students surveyed feel that the school’s culture has suffered as a result of the coronavirus shutdown. 16.7% say that they don’t care whether or not the culture returns. And 25% said that despite being proud to be a Wildcat in the past, they now feel apathetic towards our school, with 8.3% saying that they “could not care less” about being a Wildcat.

The vibe is gone, and that fact is as clear as the bottles of hand sanitizer on every desk. Maybe it’s because we can’t see our friends’ smiles from behind their masks. Maybe it’s because we’ve had to resort to bumping elbows rather than giving hugs. Maybe it’s because we find it hard to stay socially connected when we’re supposed to stay socially distant. I could go on, but I’ll spare you a few seconds and get straight to the point. No matter the cause, the best prescription for the poor vibe’s affliction is to rally up as much school spirit as possible, and I have a slightly impish, moderately foolish, and definitely outlandish plan to do so.

Hear me out. Excitement is contagious. Just look at pep rallies (remem-

Tristen Muterspaw You did it! We are so proud of you and the woman you have become! School hasn’t always been easy but you graduate today because of your hard work and determination. You have proven you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. This is just the beginning! We cannot wait to see where life takes you and we will be there to support and cheer you on. Please don’t forget to enjoy life, always be true to yourself and take pride in everything you do. We love you Tristen Skye!

Love, Mom and Dad

ber when those were a thing?). Two thousand cheering teenagers stand packed together like sardines while the band sets the soundtrack by blowing spit into wood and metal. All eyes are fixated on the cheerleaders’ reconstruction of the Great Pyramid of Giza. Nowadays, post-pep rally burst eardrums and sore throats are a distant dream—the coronavirus violations in that scenario number in the hundreds.

My proposition to get around that? A socially distant pep rally, complete with a live wildcat to tie it all together. A live wildcat would cause a stir for sure. A stir leads to excitement. Excitement leads to, well, more excitement. And if we can get enough people excited about a symbol of Mountain View, we can get them excited about being a part of Mountain View. It’s easy logic, despite how illogical this whole plan may sound.

Now, why would I suggest this if I know it’s a horrible idea? Because it’s been done before. Greg Brady kept his rival school’s mascot in his house on an episode of The Brady Bunch. Fictional? Yes. Impossible? No. As the saying goes (and as Sigmund Freud once claimed), there is a grain of truth in every joke. If Greg Brady can house a goat in his attic for several days, I’m pretty sure a team of high school volunteers can coordinate bringing a caged wildcat to school for an hour. Plus, not only do I have a cat at home, but I also have leadership experience from a school organization! That’s double the qualifications! What better person to plan a pep rally and figure out the logistics of transporting a live undomesticated animal than yours truly?

Believe me, it may sound like the worst idea I’ve ever had, but I assure you that I’ve had worse. Will it be difficult to pull off? Maybe. But it’ll be so worth it. With one wildcat, we can lift the spirits of thousands of students and faculty, so just hand me the keys to the enclosure and let me save my school’s atmosphere with the large furry gremlin inside. I swear you won’t be disappointed. No matter how this goes, you’ll be entertained, which is all I want, anyway, so you really can’t lose if you decide to support this.

It’s time to make a choice: Are you going to trust a seventeen-year-old with a live wildcat? Or are you going to drive the vibe of Mountain View High School further into its grave?

‘2 S 1 h o S u e t n o o u i t r s

Kylie Holt We are filled with so much pride and joy as you embark on the next chapter of your journey. Believe in yourself, trust your heart and go make your mark on the world!

We love you to the moon and back, Mom, Dad, Grandma, Hudson, Lindsay & Jay

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t n i o p w e 2021 i f V o s s a cl Parting words from our senior staff members

Ceci Alvarez

Take it easy

Where did the time go? I can distinctly recall my New Cats Day orientation with my best friend, Olivia, wearing ugly Thrasher shirts and galaxy leggings. I remember being so young and so unprepared for what the future had in store. Especially a global pandemic. Our class gained the unique experience of losing your senior year. We lost a normal send off to the adult world. But nonetheless, our experiences and perseverance prepared us for the future.

Quarantine was hard, but provided time for self growth, reflection, and care. Having the time at home to completely focus on the things you enjoy brings so much clarity to your life. I started to value the time I had to myself a lot more, even down to the minute. I spent my time learning bass guitar, playing video games all night, and thinking. Thinking about my high school years, and how they were coming to an end. You truly take for granted what high school has to offer. It brings you to your lowest lows and also your highest highs. It pushes your limits, it tests your perseverance, and shapes you into the person you’ll become.

But who do you become when you don’t get that? I believe you get something much better.

You get people who will never take for granted the time they have with their friends and family, being able to walk outside, going to the store without a care in your mind about social distancing, going to the park, meeting people. Senior year taught me the value of life, and how quickly it can change.

One thing I wish I could’ve reminded myself was to take more pictures, even if you think you look ugly, because you’ll want to remember EVERYTHING. You also do NOT want to grow up, as much as you think you might want to, you really don’t. Also, DON’T GET BANGS.

It sure was something

I wish I had something to say to upcoming and future freshmen like those cheesy YouTube advice videos I watched at the end of 8th grade did, but I don’t. High school was always presented to me as being the place you’ll find your interest and hobbies, make friends through clubs and classes, have amazing parties on the weekends, and the occasional drama on the side. However, for me this was not the case. It was assignment after assignment, strict parents so parties were a no go, social anxiety, and toxic snake-like people. It seemed to be this way on and off through freshman and sophomore year but let me not forget the pandemic that barged in during my junior year. Because of the uninvited virus, my junior year was eventually cut short and my senior year was no senior year at all.

At this point I kind of wish I could go back to my freshman year, yet at the same time I don’t know what’s worse, then or now. Don’t get me wrong, when we were in school, I did look forward to the pep rallies, spirit week, eating at the lunch table with people I knew, meeting my best friend during bathroom breaks, and of course my journalism class. But now my lunch is limited to a 30 minute break at my kitchen counter alone, no real school functions to attend, not having a junior or senior prom, fluctuating grades, and seeing my current friends from a distance. My high school experience was sure something and it will probably continue to be until June 12, when the class of 2021 graduates. Though what you have read up to this point is mostly negative, I’ll leave this on a positive note: The main three things I can take away from high school experience are meeting my two forever best friends, being on Viewpoint staff, and finally leaving this place.

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Jules Torrice

On the bright side

There have been many low points of high school, but the high points far outweigh the low. One thing that I have missed from a normal school day was having lunch with my friends. I loved sitting outside in the courtyard and enjoying my lunch. It was definitely a nice break from sitting inside all day. I wish I could’ve had a normal senior experience in club activities too. I was so excited for my senior year with The Viewpoint and FCCLA. On the bright side, I did have more time for myself because I wasn’t super busy with school.

Take some advice from me. It’s okay if you stray from your friend group, it’s better to have a few good friends than a bunch of friends who don’t put in the same effort. If you need to take a day off for the good of your mental health, take it. Missing one day will not harm you.

There are a lot of things that I need to work on before going to college in the fall and getting prepared for the rest of my life. Lately, my procrastination has been taking over my life and I need to work on how to motivate myself to get my work done and on time.

I’m very grateful for my time spent in high school, especially with my friends. However, I’m very excited to move on to the next step of my life.

Na’Syr Jackson

Lexi Jackson

Peace out...

I genuinely don’t know what to write here, so here is some word vomit. For me, I guess looking back at these last four years of high school, I’m kinda just ready to move on. I mean, this is the moment every freshman looks forward to their first day of high school. I remember the PowerPoint that hit us with the astronomical, absolutely down bad count of 600-ish days of school until graduation, so you already know I’m ready to go.

This year, specifically, I’ve just noticed that I am kinda looking forward to life AFTER high school and what’s to come. The only regrets I have looking back are not joining a couple of clubs and not taking my studies as seriously, but I’ve already had a yearlong break from the high school environment since I’m fully virtual. So I guess the moral of the story is, I’M OUT (mic drop *boom*).

This year sure did suck No, honestly, it wasn’t a very good year for us seniors. We lost both of our chances at a prom (unless you were one of the cool kids who got invited your freshman and/or sophomore year). We didn’t get senior privileges until the very end of the school year. We didn’t really get to see friends.

Some of us struggled with online school. We didn’t get to have sports as we normally would. And as much as I know how important masks are, they are indeed very annoying to have on every single day, all day.

On the flip side, we learned new things about ourselves. Personally, I learned that I don’t work from home very well. I eat way more than I should when I’m stressed. My childhood dream of playing video games all day, every day actually leads to me growing tired of video games. As much as I hate to admit it, I do need to see people every once in a while for my own sanity. And I learned the importance of going for a walk or drive to clear the mind and replenish the soul.

So with all these mandates starting to be lifted and life starting to get back to normal, think about some of the positive stuff you learned from this school year. What was something good you did? What is something you can do a little better? What did you learn about yourself you didn’t know about before?

Was it a bad year? Yes! Absolutely! Could it have been worse? Maybe for some people. But the best thing we can do at the end of it is take something from it, whether good or bad, big or small, broad or personal. It is important for us to learn something and take it with us to the next step of our lives.

Sean Jones

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21 Baseball

Bode Lindauer - King University

Bradley Warren - Mary Baldwin University Brittain Yount - George Mason University

Cameron Murray - Western Carolina University Evan Hamil - United States Naval Academy Larson Vogler - Montgomery College

Seneca Gregory - Pennsylvania State University Nicolas Rodriguez - Grove City College

Cheerleading

Victoria Simone - University of South Carolina

Field Hockey

Evangeline Wilkerson - Liberty University

Kendall Cooke - Appalachian State University(*Pictured 5)

Football

Alex Davis - Seton Hill University

Cristian Solorzano - Bridgewater College

Justin Watson - US Coast Guard Academy Patrick Carroll - St. Anselm College

Gymnastics

Zara Christophe - Fairmont State University

Lacrosse

Ava Corcoran - Beloit College (*Pictured 2)

Julia Frick - Bridgewater College(*Pictured 6) Justin Redfearn - Undecided

Soccer

Anne Darling - West Virginia University

Catherine Dittmer - Virginia Wesleyan University Emily Winkels - Lesley University

Marisol Zuniga - Marymount University

Matthew D’Lugos - Shenandoah University

Noah Cahoon - Pennsylvania State University Samuel Wiler- Hampdem-Sydney University

Softball

Annaliese Franklin - Bridgewater College

Annalise Pudimott - Thomas Jefferson University

College Athletes Look at where our student athletes are going

by Na’Syr Jackson | Photos by student athletes

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Swimming

Anna Whelan - George Mason University (*Pictured 1) Bridgette Pearson - Catawba College

David Brady - University of Lynchburg

Lauren Meyer - Case Western Reserve University Virginia Walker - Pace University

Track and Field

Colton Ocetnik - George Mason University(*Pictured 3) Janelle Anderson - Shenandoah University

Volleyball

Alexis Edmonds - Mary Baldwin

Hannah Myers - Mary Baldwin(*Pictured 4)

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Sports Recap Sports highlights thoughout the year by Taylor Cooper Disclaimer: All stats are up to date as of 5/25/21.

Football

Ike Daniels avg. 100+ yards a game, led the team with 6 touchdowns Amari Walker led the district with 27 receptions for 368 yards and 5 touchdowns Alex Solorzano averaged 39.6 yards per punt Jackson Sigler led the team with 7 touchdowns with a 60% completion Aj Gordon led the team with 4 interceptions They placed 2nd in the region after a successful season.

volleyball

Senior Captains Isa Diaz and Alexis Edmonds along with Junior Captain Lauren Nelson led the experienced team to a 9-3 regular season record.

Alexis Edmonds - Honorable Mention All District Claire Weise - Honorable Mention All District Isa Diaz - 2nd Team All District Nella Bayard - 1st Team All District Lauren Nelson - 1st Team All District Nalani McBride - Commonwealth District Libero of the Year Free Lance Star - Libero of the Year

Cross Country

All-District Athletes: Craig Swain, Charlie Schilling, Emma Wunderly, Bekah Simmons, Aiden Billings, Laura Peterson, Natalie Kingston and Helena Griffith.

All Region Athletes: Craig Swain, Charlie Schilling, Emma Wunderly and Bekah Simmons

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Girls Basketball The girls basketball team only had four returners. Junior, Emma Stalteri was voted first team all conference. Jasmine Alexander and Taleah Gaither were voted Honorable Mention.

The team will miss graduating seniors: Jasmine Alexander, Janelle Anderson, and Hannah Myers.

Boys Basketball Alex Watts was the leading threepoint shooter.

Alex Davis was the leading scorer and rebounder.

Alex Davis won the MVP Award and earned 2nd Team All-District honors. Duncan Beaumont won the Coaches Award... Brendan Robinson and Jason Bonk were recipients of the Hodges-Slagle Award.

Field Hockey In a season with no seniors, there was a lot of underclassmen leadership. Underclassmen captains include Meghan Hyatt who was 1st team all district, 1st team all-area, and MVP. Breasha Rousseau made 1st team all district and Kat Druitt made 2nd team all district.

Swim The swim team had 7 boys and 6 girls qualify for the State meet. Anka Whelan was named to the Free-Lance Star’s All Area Winter Team. The MVPs were Anka Whelan and Peyton Meyer. Girls got third at districts and third at regionals. Boys got 5th at districts and 4th at regionals.

Gymnastics The team was District Runner-Up. Zara Christophe was 2nd in the regional all-around competition. She also qualified for states and came in 5th in the all-around at the state competition.

Girls Soccer

Girls varsity soccer is currently 5-0. Ruby Darling 9 Goal, 3 Assists, 21 Points, Emily Winkels 6 goals, 2 assists, 14 points, Lauren Forgas 5 goals, 4 assists, 14 points, Hailey Baltzelle 4 goals, 6 assists, 14 points.

Boys soccer

As of May 24, the boys soccer team has a record of 4-1-2. The four wins are key motvators for the team and allow them to keep putting everything onto the feild. . They keep each other motivated and play with every blood sweat and tear they have. Each goal, each assist, each practice has really shown this teams dedication

Boys lacrosse Currently the boys lacrosse team is underfeated with a record of 5-0. Seniors Eddie Nevgloski, Brandon Nast, Colton Ocetnik, and Justin Redfearn are doing an amazing job at being team leaders for the freshmen on the team.

Girls Lacrosse The captains are Ava Corcoran, Kendal Light, and Emma Stalteri Their leadership has led us to a successful season so far. We have three freshmen on the team that start Gabby Bartels, Ava Windham, and Delainey Hinson that are making an impact on our season. They are competing in district play right now and their record as of May 23, is 4-1.

Cheerleading 2021 All District Athletes: Staci Thacker, Lily Nugent, Sarah Perry, Hailey Poland, Emma Van View 2021 All Region Athletes: Delaney Bartlett, Kendal Light, Victoria Simone, Reagan Smith, Kaylee St. Marie 2nd at Commonweath Districts Championship 2nd at Regional Championship

Wrestling Nicholas Sanders (FR) 106lbs State Runner Up 2nd Place Geoff Whelan (FR) 113lbs 4th Place, Daniel Smith (FR) 120lbs 3rd Place, Dalton Arce (SR) 126lbs 4th Place, Ethan Heitchew (SR) 132lbs 6th Place, Nicholas Howe (JR) 152lbs 6th Place Nicholas Sanders made Mountain View Wrestling History becoming the only Freshman to be a State Runner Up! He was also named team Most Valuable Player (MVP).

Six Mountain View Wrestlers receive recognition in the Freelance Star’s Honorable Mention for Area Wrestling!

Honorable Mention Dalton Arce, Ethan Heitchew, Nick Howe, Nick Sanders, Daniel Smith

Golf The golf team placed 3rd in region.

Grayson Margheim made all state and all area. He shot an 85 at the Region 5D competition.

Boys Tennis Elijah Hernandez had the best singles record 6-3. Edgar Rivera came to the team as a football player who had never played tennis. On a team of 11 he worked his way up to be my 7th player in ranking. William Hudson was the only win against the #2 seed in the region Stafford. He won 10-7 at first singles.

Girls Tennis For this year Kaitlyn Williams played as the their strong number one spot and was the positive energy the team needed.

The matches were tough but the top six (Serena Singh, Katelynn Calvert, Dawn Forrest Alyssa Miller, and Jasmine Muturi) were a well place pack to push us in each match.

Softball

The softball team is currently 4-3. Layne Fritz, junior pitcher, is having a great year so far on the mound and at the plate. There are 6 seniors to note: Catcher Annaliese Franklin, SS Annalise Pudimott, CF Caleigh Eberhart, LF Teagan Levesque, OF Harley Preston, 1B Kayla Gayle.

Baseball This years averages are looking great. Britt Young with an avereage of 0.372, Evan Hamill with an average of 0.321, Bode Lindauer has an avergae of 0.375 and Tj Johnson with a 0.304.

Track & Field 300- Karrington Owens, Aiden Billings, Nella Bayard, Elias Richardson 500- Madelyn Anderson, Nella Bayard, Aiden Billings, Karrington Owens, Noah Cahoon 1000- Laura Peterson, Rebekah Simmons, Jacob Petska, Charles Cann, Craig Swain 1600- Emma Wunderly, Natalie Kingstong, Craig Swain 3200- Emma Wunderly, Craig Swain, Charles Schilling 4x400- Laura Peterson, Rebekah Simmons, Madelyn Anderson, Karrington Owens, Noah Cahoon, Jacob Petska, Elias Richardson, Aiden Billings 4x800- Helena Griffith, Madelyn Anderson, Skyler Bushno, Alexa Hill, Charles Cann, Diego Pons, Issac Avery, Jon Fernangel Long Jump- Casandra Opoku-Mensah, Suhani Amin, Elias Richardson HIgh Jump- Reggie Anor, Casandra Opoku-Mensah Tripple Jump- Elias Richardson, Casandra Opoku-Mensah, Suhani Amin Pole Vault- Colton Ocetnik Shot Put- Kayla Dunbar, Elizabeth Mensah, Eric Mensah, Justin Watson

feature u may | june 2021 u the viewpoint u 17

Your sign in a block Find your sign in a block by CateLynn Aiman ARIES March 21 - April 19 According to Prepscholar’s website, You can be passionate and confident, however hotheaded.

LIBRA September 23 - October 22 You can be compassionate and empathetic, however indecisive.

TAURUS April 20 - May 20 You can be intelligent and hardworking, but stubborn.

GEMINI May 21 - June 20

SCORPIO October 23 - November 21 According to Allure’s website, you can be determined and independent, but aggressive.

SAGITTARIUS November 22 - December 21

You can be analytical and playful, nevertheless inconsistent.

You can be optimistic and honest, yet unreliable.

CANCER June 21 - July 22 You can be protective and caring, yet overly sensitive.

“ I love water. I’m creative and emotional,” said Amy Ellis, design and personal finance teacher

CAPRICORN December 22 - January 19 You can be loyal and consistent, however unforgiving.

“When I stick duct tape to the wall it sticks because it's loyal like me,” said Lucas Sherry, senior

LEO July 23 - August 22 You can be dynamic and charismatic, although arrogant.

VIRGO August 23 - September 22 You can be practical and modest, nonetheless self-critical.

18 u the viewpoint u may | june 2021 u astrology

AQUARIUS January 20 - February 20 You can be eccentric and assertive, nonetheless reckless.

PISCES February 21 - March 20 You can be creative and merciful, but still naïve.

“On a scale of one to ten, I am a 8 on how merciful I can be,” said Lenny Klepic, junior.

local arcades A review of some local arcades BY CECI ALVAREZ

Round 1

Imagine a Dave and Busters that fulfills your anime and gaming needs, well, has it all!

Walking into Round 1 radiates this overwhelming feeling of just pure fun.

This place will fill your weeb hearts with joy as the claw machines at the front of the arcade have stuffed plushies from your favorite anime including “My Hero Academia”, “Demon Slayer”, “Attack on Titan”, and many more. This place also provides cute kawaii claw machines with plushies that will melt your heart. As you make your way to the back, you come across various fighting game stations (a personal favorite of mine). Rhythm and music is a huge feature to Round 1, as they have a giant Piano Tiles Game, Guitar Hero, Rock Band, Dance Dance Revolution, and so much more. I’d also like to highlight the Mario Kart arcade racing game with 4 seats to compete against your friends. Be aware as Mario Kart has the power to break friendships. Earning tickets and winning games is one of the most essential parts of an arcade and Round 1 does great with prizes, as the kawaii theme continues. Round 1 is the perfect place to spend a day filled with innocent fun.

I went on my birthday, which honestly was a great choice. It was my first time going and I will definitely go again. Seeing the super cute claw machines in the beginning instantly made me excited to see more. I went with three friends as we competed our hearts away at our favorite games. My favorite game to play with them was the huge Mario Kart machine they had. It felt like we were actually racing and was so fun. One of my other favorite games to play was this Kung-Fu Panda game that had actual drums you had to hit in order to hit opponents in game. Round 1 does a great job of bringing in all types of games into one place to have a good time. Anyone can come to Round 1 and thoroughly enjoy themselves.

Reclaim arcade

REclaim Facebook

is a retro-modern arcade that highlights vintage arcade games from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Walking in, you can expect to pay $15 for about 2 hours of full access to free to play arcade games. Reclaim also offers Reclaim video, a family video store featuring 80s and 90s movies playable on VHS, Betamax, and Laserdisc. Reclaim also has an 80s console room that actually started as an interactive curiosity at the University of Mary Washington that now claims its home at Reclaim. There, you can watch old tv shows, listen to music, or just chill and relax while your friends play some arcade games. Reclaim offers a wide selection of arcade games including Centipede, Galaga, Crystal Castles, Mario Bros, Mortal Kombat II, Popeye, Space Invaders, and so many more.

Sage Mantis is not your typical arcade. In fact, I don’t really consider it an

arcade as its main attraction is actually it’s tournaments.

Many people all around Stafford and Fredericksburg gather with their friends at Sage Mantis to host tournaments such as Pokemon, Super Smash Bros, Digimon, Tekken 7, and many more.

Sage Mantis also offers a wide selection of retro games and a number of games that are hard to find. With the option to trade in games for money, there’s constantly new selections of games and controllers available. My favorite thing is going in and seeing the old wii controllers and gameboy games. This store carries around a nostalgic feel.

I love going into Sage Mantis for whatever reason it may be. I always make sure to buy Pokemon cards in hopes of getting a good pull. My favorite thing there is DodgeCap’s Tekken 7 tournaments (Iron Fist Fridays). The atmosphere is great and competitive and everyone is there to just have a good time.

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Viewpoint staff superlatives The Viewpoint staff’s most likely to

by Lexi Jackson

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