The Viewpoint September | October 2021 Issue

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

STUDENT NEWS Magazine MVHS VOLUME 16 ISSUE 1 September | October 2021 Take a peek at pages 10 & 11 to learn more about cultural appropriation of witchcraft

The

VIEWPOINT

Editorial

Mixed opinions abound on the new schedule change. The staff gave their two cents on the new change.

Only two out of 15 people liked the new 9:35 a.m. to 3:35 p.m. schedule. Juan said, “At least we are getting to wake up a little bit later to get more beauty sleep, which is nice.” However, he did have other concerns for other people who have after school activities. Alex said, “I’m less tired when I get home and am more willing to wake up” with the new time.

Others preferred the 9:20 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. schedule. CateLynn, Tiara, Emily, Molly, Noemi, and Caroline prefer the later start time. Emily said, “It’s nice to not have to wake up at 5:30 a.m.” Meanwhile, Noemi and Caroline have other issues with the later start time. Caroline said, “I would not want to have a later school day because of my after school activities, like field hockey.” Noemi likes the later start time, but doesn’t like the new lunch change. Zöe also dislikes the lunch change. “My lunches allow me to see my friends and now I can’t,” said Zöe.

Milana, Tessa, Maia, Miya, Preston and Michelle would like to go back to our old schedule. Milana says, “Staying at school until four is much too late.” Tessa and Maia both agree that it messes with everyone’s schedule. Miya is concerned about her ride home. “My bus schedule gets messed up every time something like this happens,” she said. Preston and Michelle understand why the schedule changed, but do not like it.

“Kids with jobs and responsibilities are being restricted and sometimes that’s something that is extremely important to fulfill,” said Preston.

While opinions are mixed, the School Board has the final say. We must learn to adjust to the new schedule.

Give-a-Buck Supporters Carlos Lara Sanchez Maria Macias Liam Nugent Cole Webster Aden Barron Haider “Heath” Jan Brian Finley Amy Ellis Josi Brooks Stephanie Smith Carole Lucas Carter Waller Carol Des Rivieres Norma Brown Amy Radics Mark Wyman Isabel Wyman Shannon Mattison Caitlyn Mattison Richard Mattison Ricky Mattison Marissa Jones Daniel Burks Blake Freeze Dishawn King Caroline Roberts Diego Soroza Becky Kowalski

Madi Bachman Robyn Dow Teddy Calhoun Sarah Calhoun Adam Calhoun Bill Inlow Michael Easley Sarah Demmy Makayla Mugele Marin Hawthorne Kimberly Allen Meg Wright Valerie Gayle Lillie Stockham Liv Harrington Rachel Williams Sav Rounds Riley Rivero Breasha Rousseau Rachel Fortiz Rafael Fortiz Alex Fortiz Layne Fritz Mykia Linze-López Susan Steska Moises Diaz Julio Gutierrez Gloria Gutierrez

2 u the viewpoint u september | october 2021 u index

Index 01 Cover 02 Index 03 Briefs 04 Fall sports 05 Jokes 06 America 07 Haunts 08 Recipes 09 Recipes 10 Holy Chic 11 Holy Chic 12 Witches 13 Witches 14 Climate 15 Climate 16 Books 17 Books 18 Diets 19 Recipes 20 Animal Cross 21 DIY 22 DIY Juan Pacheco Oscar Diaz Martha Gutierrez Lucia Bonilla Yessica Bonilla Rosa Alvarez Caroline Alvarez Max Aleverez Sophia Steska Jose Bonilla Manuel Bonilla Adolfo Cuadra Lourdes Cuadra Meghan Johnson Donovan Bender Edgar Rivera

Colin Chu Jillian Pabalan Samuel Obregon Joseph Ryerson Ava Lohmeyer Olivia Scott Genevieve Bannister Kayla Sloan Conner Bastian Keria Scanlan Maria Lopez Iivberes Gabriella Smith Aidan Baileys Dylan Charnick Mike Baileys Renato Roscigno

The Viewpoint SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 VOLUME 16, ISSUE 1

Managing Editor CateLynn Aiman

Social Media Editor Juan Diaz-Gutierrez

Assistant Editors Tiara Bigelow Emily Smith

Advisor

Trisha Strahl

Staff Writers

Alex Baker Preston Bates Molly Calhoun Michelle Des Rivieres Miya Easley Caroline Fortiz Noemi Höhn Zöe Lucas Tessa Mattison Maia Roscigno Milana Waller The Viewpoint is a cross-section of the news and opinions of the student body at Mountain View High School.

It is a forum of expression published by aPrintis. Letters and art to the editorial board are welcomed and should be submitted to room 500.

Front Cover CateLynn Aiman 2014-2018 International Quill and Scroll First Place Articles 2014-2016 VHSL State Championship First Place Award 2013, 2014, 2015 Free LanceStar Best Over All Newspaper 2011 Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Medalist Mountain View High School 2135 Mountain View Rd. Stafford, VA 22556 Kim Salzano Dale Docus Peter Salzano Jason Carrier Megan Baileys Kelli Triplett

What’s new at the View?

Gimme S’more Saturday Nights

by Preston Bates

This cozy get-together will be held on October 30, November 13, and November 27 from 4:00- 6:00 p.m.

Park rangers will be performing demonstrations on how to start fires for those who don’t know.

There will be fire kits sold for $2 each. These kits will include sticks for roasting marshmallows, chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers.

The event doesn’t serve food or drinks, other than the food for smores in the kits.

Jamie Leeuwrik, event manager says, “The s’mores event is a campfire program where park rangers will discuss proper campfire safety.”

The event will start at 8 a.m. and conclude at dusk. It is being held at Widewater State Park, and all ages are welcome.

Stafford County’s Annual Agricultural and Homemaking Fair by Emily Smith This year, Last year, due to COVID restrictions, the fair couldn’t safely be held, but this year, the fair returned. However, much to the disappointment of many, the fair was significantly downsized this year. There were none of the carnival games or rides the fair is so well-known for.

Alexis and Kelly Clark, who were there to show a 4H rabbit, commented that this fair was smaller than most fairs they had shown 4H animals at before.

This year’s fair hosted three food vendors, as well as other various vendors selling knick-knacks such as kid’s toys and $3 jewelry. Other attractions included livestock, some of which were there to be shown for 4H competitions, a SWAT car people could climb in and look at, as well as various other events specific to different days of the fair.

On Thursday, there was drag racing; Friday, there was a truck and tractor pull; Saturday, an antique tractor pull and the Little Miss Stafford Pageant; Sunday, there was a kid’s Power Wheel derby, a 4H rabbit show, and a demolition derby.

All in all, while some events, such as the demolition derby or the 4H show, did still occur, hopefully next year the fair can come back with all of the attractions.

Dog Krazy Adoption Event by Preston Bates On October 30, Dog Krazy is hosting a pitbull adoption event for anyone who wishes to stop by.

It will start at 11 a.m. and end at 2 p.m.

Meghan Cohn, senior who is a Dog Krazy employee, says, “ Dog Krazy is super excited to be hosting Bobbie’s Pit Bull Rescue & Sanctuary. Bobbie’s will be bringing some of their adoptable dogs and dressing them up for the holiday in hopes they find their forever home.”

They will also be giving away free t-shirts alons with raising funds for veterinarian medical fees.

Cohn also states, “It’s very touching to see amazing dog owners, who care about their pets’ nutrition, fall in love with the dog that needs it the most.”

It is being hosted at Dog Krazy located at 315 Garrisonville Rd, Stafford, VA 22554.

Dog Krazy was established in August of 2008. It was created to give dog owners a place to spoil their dogs and bring them joy whether that be by a toy or in treat form.

brief u september| october 2021 u the viewpoint u3

fear the fall sports This school year the fall sports are showing their dominance and reasons why other schools should be afraid by Caroline Fortiz

Kaitlyn Williams

cheer Just recently, the Mountain View cheer team was able to secure first place in districts and earned a spot in regionals. Unfortunately, the team did not place high enough in regionals to continue on. This school year there are a total of twelve seniors on the team including Serena Singh, pictured to the left. Make sure to catch them on the sideline cheering at the remainder of the home football games.

cross country

Krisit Willis

dance

Milestat

One of senior Emma Wunderly’s favorite races is the RVA Relays pictured on the right. She explains that this race is different from the others since it is for fun and participants only run 1.5 miles in comparison to the normal 5ks. Wunderly not only does cross country in the fall, but also partakes in track for both the winter and spring seasons. She is a track state champion and has been the number one runner since her sophomore year.

Currently, Wunderly is ranked seventh in the state.

Pictured to the left are seniors Emma Ingalsbe and Reagan Ramos. Both girls have been on the varsity dance team since their freshmen year. Now as seniors, they work to serve as leaders for the younger girls on the team. The dance team has been very successful in past years. This year, you can find them performing at half-time during home football games. A fan favorite dance features a selection of senior boys dancing alongside them, usually for the Homecoming game.

Senior Meghan Hyatt has been a key player on varsity since her freshman year. Hyatt states that the field hockey team’s number one rival has always been Stafford. The girls fell short to the Indians in both regular season games this year, but hope to defeat them in districts and regionals. Hyatt is very hopeful for a win after working at practices and coming closer together as a team. She is planning on continuing field hockey at the Division 1 level for Longwood University.

Holly Schmidt

football (8-0-0)

Stephanie Snow

field hockey (14-4-0)

So far, the football team has remained undefeated. The only team that was able to get an early lead was Colonial Forge, but the Wildcats responded quickly and ended up winning the game 49-17. This was only the fourth time that Mountain View was able to beat Forge in school history.

Based on the team’s current standing, Hunter Holmquist (senior) believes they will be able to get far.

This year the golf team included four seniors Will Frampton, Gray Margheim, Ryan Hall, and Ty Boles.

Will Frampton is pictured to the right. For golf, matches were held at the Gauntlet Golf Course at least once a week. The boys golf season has already ended. Be sure to keep up with the golf team next year and their eight returning players.

Kofi Ansah-Agyei

volleyball (26-0-0)

The volleyball team completed their regular season going undefeated (25-0). According to four-year varsity player Nalani McBride, the team’s biggest competition so far has been Stafford. McBride states that the Indians try new things in an attempt to catch them off guard since people from Mountain View and Stafford have played together before and are familiar with their tactics. After their district tournament bye week, the team is aiming to first secure the first place district trophy, then the first place regional trophy, heading to states soon after.

4 u the viewpoint u september | october 2021 u news | feature

Lifetouch

golf

🎃🕸

MV’s Spookiest Jokes

🎃

🎃 🕸 🎃 🎃 🕸 🕸 🎃 🎃

Halloween jokes by MV students, for MV students

Why did Dracula get arrested?

🕸 🎃 🎃 🕸 🕸 🎃 🕸

by Emily Smith What music do mummies listen to?

For robbing the blood bank!

WRAP music!

-Jade Pickering, sophomore

-Eric Mensah, sophomore

Why didn’t the skeleton cross the road?

He didn’t have the guts!

Why couldn’t the vampire sleep?

He couldn’t stop COFFIN!

-Paige Sensabugh, senior

-Lydia Green, senior

Why didn’t the skeleton go to the party?

What’s a witch’s favorite show?

He had noBODY to go with!

-Kent Womack, sophomore

Why have we been celebrating Halloween all year long?

We’ve all been wearing masks!

-Corey Bell, sophomore

BROOM-mates!

-Kayla Mattingly, junior

Knock knock!

Who’s there?

Boo Boo who?

Why are you crying? It’s just a knock-knock joke!

-Madelyn Graves, junior

What is a skeleton’s favorite food?

RIBS!

-Aden Barron, senior

What’s a skeleton’s favorite instrument?

A trom-BONE!

-Alexandria Britten, senior

Why are ghosts such bad liars?

You can see right through them!

-Mallory Schumann, sophomore

Where do fashionable ghosts shop?

BOO-tiques!

-Riley Rivero, senior

feature u the viewpoint u september | october 2021u05

America from a different view Exchange students provide their perspective on the US and their experiences here so far

by Noemi Hohn

Have you ever heard about exchange years? Do you know why students from all over the world decide to spend one year in a different country? I interviewed three of the European exchange students here, at Mountain View to share their thoughts about exchange years and living in the US.

Daniil

all it’s really good and there are a lot of people that I’m friends with here.

Reason for exchange year: It’s a fun experience, here I can meet people, practice my English and try some things that are completely new to me and that’s a great opportunity because not everyone can have it.

Leni

games, we can’t choose our own classes. We have classes that we have to take.

Biggest cliche about the US in home country: One cliche is that Americans eat very unhealthy food. I can not relate to that. I mean, there are some Americans that eat very unhealthy food but it’s not just unhealthy stuff.

Opinion about MV: I really like it here Reason for exchange year: I wanted to learn the language better and I love to travel. And I always wanted to experience the American spirit.

Country: Estonia First Impression of the US: Everything is bigger than in Europe: cars, houses,...

Favorite thing about the US: The people because they are open minded and friendly Biggest differences between the US and Home country: Cars play a much bigger role.

Biggest Cliche about the US in home country: That people eat too much and want too much.

It’s partially true but over exaggerated.

Opinion about MV: It’s really different, but over-

Country: Germany First Impression of the US: I think it was kind of similar to Germany. Everything is bigger here, I think, but it was kind of the same.

Favorite thing about the US: Everyone here is so friendly and helpful and you can just have a conversation with a stranger in the supermarket Biggest differences between US and home country: The school is completely different I think, because in Germany we don’t have any sports ( in school ) we don’t have any football

Beatrice

google images

Country: Lithuania First Impression of the US: Everything felt so big, going here was like a dream. My host family was so nice and it was everything that I had expected and more.

Favorite thing about the US: The drink refills! On a serious note, probably the people.

Biggest differences between the US and home country: Public transportation or simply being able to walk anywhere.

Biggest cliche about the US in home country:

People here eat too much and it’s not true at all.

Everyone is different and that’s the same as in other countries.The second cliche is that they are concerned about money a lot.

Opinion about MV: The people are so outgoing.

We are more quiet in Europe.The school is easier than in my country so I’m kind of able to relax.

And I love talking to my friends and doing cross country.

Reason for exchange year: I like to travel and experience new things. That was part of it and I guess making new friends and connections here.

The websites of the exchange organizations for more information: https://afs.org/study-abroad/ https://asse.com/home/ 6 u the viewpoint u september | october 2021 u feature

Fall Haunted Experiences

Look here for some scary good fun

by Michelle Des Rivières

RedveinHaunted House Located in Richmond, VA 59.4 miles; approx. 1hr and 5 mins by car open every Fri. and Sat. through October 31

KingsDominon HalloweenHaunt Located in Doswell, VA 46.2 miles; approx. 45 mins by car open every Fri., Sat., and Sun through October 31

redveinhaunt.com

kingsdominion.com/haunt

Whyshould peoplecome toQOS?

“It is a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else!”

- Joshua King, theatre arts director

Whatmakes QOSsoUnique?

Quest Of Souls Don’t feel like traveling far?

Visit Mountain View’s own fall production. Quest of Souls is an immersive fantasy-themed walkthrough in which the storyline is completely up to your own decisions. Can you solve the puzzles throughout and complete the quest?

Only one way to find out!

Quests depart every 15 mins from 6-10 on the nights of Oct. 28, 29, 30 Tickets going fast at MVWILDACTS.SEATYOURSELF.BIZ

Markoff’sHaunted Forest Located in Martinsburg, MD 74.2 miles; approx. 1 hr and 45 mins by car open every Fri., Sat., and Sun through October 31 markoffshauntedforest.com

“It is a fantastical, immersive experience that allows you to choose your own adventure while walking through a land of mystery and fright!”

-Eric Hokanson, tech. theatre director

BuschGardens Howl-o-scream Located in Williamsburg, VA 119 miles; approx. 2 hrs by car every night excluding Mon. and Tues. through October 31 buschgardens.com/williamsburg /howl-o-scream/ feature u september | october 2021u the viewpoint u7

Are you struggling to find recipes that are short and sweet? Well, try some of our deliciuos Halloween sweets to soothe your sweeth tooth, along with an unique recipe from our very own culinary arts teacher, Chef Cunningham.

Chef Cunningham’s suggestion

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Food Network

Chef/Teacher of the Culinary Arts Class

3

Halloween Bark

3

Ingredients:

3 cups bittersweet chocolate chips

2 cups assorted candy, cut into bite size pieces Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Pour the chocolate onto the parchment paper, and using a spatula, spread it into an even layer about 1/4-inch thick. Sprinkle the chopped candy on top of the chocolate then place the baking sheet in the refrigerator to chill for 30 to 45 minutes until the chocolate has fully hardened. Remove the bark from the refrigerator and carefully slide it onto a cutting board. Cut the bark into irregularly shaped pieces. Serve immediately or store in an air-tight container in a cool place.

Pixabay

8 u the viewpoint u september | october 2021 u recpices

Scary-Good Halloween Recipes Tasty sweets that make you think, “Trick or Treat!”

by Tiara Bigelow

Photo credit for small pumpkins: FreeSVG

Apple Spiderweb Pops Disclaimers and Allergies: Milk products include chocolate Ingredients:

2 large Granny Smith apples, stemmed

4 ounces chopped bittersweet chocolate

2 teaspoons coconut oil

4 ounces chopped white chocolate Line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicon baking mat. Cut apples lengthwise (stem to bottom) into four thick slices each. Remove any visible seeds and keep the core intact. The end slices will be rounded; cut a thin slice offso they lay flat. Poke a small hole in the bottom of each slice with a wooden ice-pop stick and push halfway into the apple. Combine the bittersweet chocolate and one teaspoon of the coconut oil in a medium microwave-safe bowl and microwave at 50 percent power for 30-second incremets, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Add white chocolate and do the same steps as the bittersweet chocolate. Dip half of the apple slices competely in the bittersweet chocolate, letting the excess drip back into the bowl, and place on the prepared baking sheet. Dip the remaining apple slices in the white chocolate. Let sit at room temperature so the chocolate thickens a bit, 10 to 15 minutes. Transfer the leftover dark and white chocolate to two seperate small resealable plastic bags and snip a small corner off each bag. Pipe three to four dark chocolate concentric circles on the white chocolate-dipped apples and visa-versa. Drag a toothpick through the circles, starting the center and working your way out to create a spider web design. Refrigerate until hardened, 15 to 20 minutes. Recipes made by FoodNetwork

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Food Network

2

Halloween Popcorn Treats Disclaimers and Allergies: Dairy products include butter and chocolate. Nut Allergies: peanut butter and almonds Ingredients:

Vegetables cooking spray 3 tablespoons vegetable oil 1/3 cup popcorn kernels 3 tablespoons butter 1 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

6 cups (12-ounces) mini marshmallows

6 fun-size caramel peanut chocolate bars (Snickers)

3(3-inch) chocolate chip cookies, crumbled

1/3 cup chopped salted almonds

½ cup orange and black chocolate candies (M&Ms) Spray the inside of a large mixing bowl with vegetable cooking spray, and lightly spray a baking sheet. Set aside. In a three quart or larger, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the oil and popcorn over medium-high heat. Cover the pan and shake gently. Cook until all the kernels have popped, about three minutes. Place the popcorn in the prepared bowl. In a medium saucepan, heat the butter over low heat. Add the vanilla extract and marshmallows. Stir constantly until the marshmallows have melted and the mixture is smooth, about five minutes.

Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn. Using a spatula, sprayed with cooking spray, stir until the popcorn is coated.

Spread the mixture over the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with the chocolate bar pieces, cookies, almonds and chocolate candies. Using a spatula, gently press the toppings into the popcorn. Allow the mixture to dry for one hour. Break into two-inch pieces and store airtight in a plastic container. Recipes made by FoodNetwork.

Best Products

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recipes u september | october 2021u the viewpoint u9

A modern star

S

ierra answers the Google Meet call bare-faced, her skin bright and glowing against the backdrop of a tall, glittering city. Water gleams in the dying light of a Monday evening, and her face resembles a star as it collapses into a bright smile that reaches her eyes.

She beats me to the punch when it comes to asking how we are, her fingers flashing gold as the rings on her fingers come in and out of focus on the screen. She’s wearing a vintage Star Wars t-shirt and small gold hoops.

You can’t help but feel caught in the moment when she’s talking to you.

She beats me to the punch when it comes to asking how we are, her fingers flashing gold as the rings on her fingers come in and out of focus on the screen. She’s wearing a vintage Star Wars t-shirt and small gold hoops.

You can’t help but feel caught in the moment when she’s talking to you.

An exclusive interview with co-owner Sierra Smith of Holy Chic + Co by Zöe Lucas I’m lucky to steal a moment of her time, her days captured and held taut by the weight of being a co-owner of a business. Sierra Smith is one half of Holy Chic, a new-age nail salon based out of Richmond, Virginia. She was a customer at first, going in to get her nails done, and found herself introduced to a world she now thinks nothing of giving up.

Sierra stops talking and seems to think about what she says next before continuing the process of answering my open-ended question.

She was taken in by Reece Gutierrez, the founder of Holy Chic, who saw potential in her and was determined to see it through. Through her, Sierra was introduced to the lovely atmosphere of the salon and the business. They’ve become close friends, she tells me, and she’ll always be grateful for what she’s done for her.

“Reece has helped keep me accountable, and that’s something that will forever be important to me,” she says. Her face is earnest and opens with gratitude and reflection.

Currently, as a small business owner, she says, “I’m doing well,” she laughs. “I’m feeling blessed and overwhelmed currently.”

She takes a moment before delving more into what she means.

“There’s such a large demand at the moment for services, and people wanting to get in.

We’re trying to make it all work between moving things around and accommodating requests.

It is overwhelming but in a good way.”

We deviate for a moment, as she speaks about the salon further and mentions how her role as an artist is intrinsic to her identity. This prompts me to ask her about being a woman of color and how it has affected running a business, her identity as a whole, and her craft.

She goes on to tell me about the system they have in place for booking appointments, which consists of software that allows clients to see when they book appointments online in order to help facilitate requests for certain nail techs and treatments.

While the client is important, treating her employees as people is important as well.

Her face crinkles in concentration as she thinks about what I’ve asked, the camera refocusing first on the darkened sky and then on the clear, light brown skin of her face.

As she speaks about how she’s feeling at the moment, I become more and more curious about how she’s come to this chapter in her life. When I ask her another question, she takes some time to think about her answer.

“It doesn’t [really] have an effect on me. Some aspects become more apparent to me, such as our clientele being predominantly white. Lately, there’s been a gradual flow of people of color and [LGBTQ+] members coming into the salon, and there becomes more of an emphasis on making them comfortable, making them feel welcome.”

“It’s not a matter of wanting to own a business, but more of being self-employed.” She’s honest, her face coming close to the screen for a suspended minute as she shifts to become more comfortable where she’s

Holy Chic + Co.

sitting.

10 u the viewpoint u september | october 2021 u feature

“Self-employment was always appealing to me, but it was difficult to be an entrepreneur. I had to hold myself accountable in terms of what I could and could not successfully do. I’ve always wanted to work with a team, and I’ve somewhat learned to play to my weaknesses and create a structure for myself.”

Her face softens slightly and her eyes seem darker as the light around her changes, warmer than when we started, as she says, “I understand it, that feeling of being uncomfortable and slightly out of your skin.”

Holy Chic has a mission to make their customers eel at home and wanted, the focus on always catering to an audience. They try not to cater to one clientele over the other, but there is a use of courtesy such as asking for pronouns in an effort to help settle individuals when they walk in.

“We want that experience of being uncomfortable to translate into a comfortable environment,” she tells me.

She starts to naturally snowball into identity, and I nudge her a little onto the path of discussion how identity and interaction with others have intertwined, along with their effect on her craft.

She gives an enthusiastic “yes” when I ask if there’s been an effect at all, and jokes about how being a woman “in this economy” is already difficult enough.

Many women agree with this statement including senior Alexis Duley who told me, “Being a woman in the workforce is empowering as we can constantly prove that we are equal to men.”

“I want to represent a message for other women,” she explains, her mouth curling up into a brief smile before she continues talking.

“I want women of color to see that they have the ability to go above and beyond, that they can do this too. It’s possible and it’s there for us. It’s not too far away.”

In terms of interaction, Sierra says that her policy is simply: the energy she receives is the energy she’ll put out.

“I’m going to be the same person that I already am. I’m not into code-switching. I’m going to take you as you are. The customer is not always right, and it’s important to be held to an expectation. You determine the theme of the appointment.”

It might sound blunt and cool, but it’s greatly appreciated by the employees of the salon. At the end of the day, the person gently taking your hand and making you look your best is a human being. They have a home and people who love them, a tiny world of their own.

You’re not always right, Sierra is essentially saying, because protecting her workers comes before satisfying you as the customer.

“A lot of people treat nails like a necessity and don’t realize that it’s a luxury. I am a human, and I deserve to be treated like one.”

The nail care journey is one the salon especially wants pregnant women to embark on, given that less than fortunate side effects can be given to the child they are carrying.

“Our mission statement is our way of communicating our aesthetic of being open and honest, of being transparent and genuine. A genuine experience not only improves the wellness of the salon but of you and your body.”

Senior Alexa Valverde echoed this statement of connecting aesthetics to personal messages when she said, “My aesthetic is not just what I look like, it is the thoughts and meaning behind the accessories I put on my body.”

Sierra leans forward slightly and makes intimate eye contact, and I feel distinctly as if I’m not alone.

“We care about you, you know? I care about you.”

She says it gently, but the words hit like the soft pressure of a pillow. It’s the perfect thing to hear.

I’m a little caught off guard by the statement, and we sit for a moment as I sip my now lukewarm cup of tea. I’m touched, and I haven’t even walked through the door of this small, intimate space yet.

The night is dwindling and Sierra tells me she has to start getting ready for dinner. If I was with her, I’d draw her in for a hug, but for now, I just smile at her and thank her deeply for giving me some of her time.

She gets up and walks into her hotel room, the sharp lights of her bathroom outline the shape of her face. She smiles with teeth and reaches up to touch her hair, her rings flashing and dancing with gold.

“Of course! Anything for you.”

I feel a flush of warmth and gratefulness for her genuine personality and how lovely she’s been throughout the process. She waves goodbye and wishes me well, and the last image I see of her is her face lit up with a smile, reminiscent of a brilliant city.

The screen goes dark as she leaves the call, and Sierra Smith leaves me with the feeling of knowing the best secrets about her salon and the overwhelming realization that I’m lucky enough to know her.

Many people indeed enjoy getting their nails done. Jill Williams, Mountain View employee, says, “I like to get my nails done for holidays.”

Sierra Smith

As much as I’ve loved discussing who she is and how that’s important to her, my mind keeps mulling over the mission statement on the salon website. It’s a lovely one, constantly stressing the use of a non-toxic process and personal wellness.

When I ask her about it, her entire face lights up, a small lighthouse on my side of the screen.

“I really appreciate you reading that,” she says, the screen shaking as she moves her phone excitedly.

Once she gets going, she’s gone. She never knew about the non-toxic process until the salon introduced her to it. Taking her position within the company solidified it, made it real, and had her communicating the information to friends and family. She knows that people often want to help those they love, but you have to start with yourself, you have to be your own person that you love.

“There are things you’re using to look beautiful that are taking away from your health.”

No other salon offers what she calls the “Holy Chic + Co.” experi ence, which is announced proudly with a bright smile.

For more information visit: https://holychicandco.com/ @holychicandco on Instagram Come visit the salon: Holy Chic + Co. 2510 W Main St Richmond, VA 23220

feature u september | october 2021 u the viewpoint u11

Not everything is as it seems According to the New York Times, T.V. psychics put a plant, someone intentionally in the audience, to volunteer and act surprised when the psychic says something about a loved one or their past. This causes superstition. The T.V. psychics make money by feeding into fear and superstition.

A few people do have the gift of clairvoyance, seeing into the future.

It is a natural gift, not something practiced.

Many self-proclaimed witches love the aesthetic that the pagan religion has. The dark purple mood boards with smoky incense and crystal balls that light up the room. However, incense is used to cleanse the atmosphere and a crystal ball is a very dangerous future- telling device. Knowing anything about the future is considered risky since it can lead to anxiety and paranoia.

A huge belief is that witches can move objects with their mind, or read other people’s thoughts. It may be considered magic, but witches practice magick. The ‘k’ differentes from stage tricks to spiritual practice.

Magick is the practice of manipulating energy. By manipulating energy, a witch is able to change someone’s mood. Caitlynn Mattison, freshman, said “[Witchcraft] has helped me to make better decisions in order to achieve happiness.”

12 u the viewpoint u september | october 2021 u feature

According to the website Bustle, burning and cleansing with sage is a form of appropriation to the Native American culture; however, rosemary and incense can be used instead.

Baker said, “This means not using the materials at all, simply because they are not mine to use.” Native Americans were not allowed to practice their traditions until the late 70s, which is why their practice is considered closed.

A closed practice does not mean there is no information on it. It is allowed to be learned and shared. Not everyone can participate in it and it must be learned with someone from said culture.

W

hen Halloween rolls around, cultural appropriation is on the rise. You will start to see the witches with the big nose and green skin or some Roald Dahl creature, but that’s not right at all. Witches, historically, worship nature and their deity or deities of choice. It can be a dangerous path if one does not know how to navigate through it.

Each tree tells about the different types of cultural appropriation of a witch

by CateLynn Aiman

Palo Santo is another cleansing practice that is closed. It is used by Southern Americans with trees that only grow in South America and they honor the trees.

Hoodoo, Vodou, and Voodoo are all different closed practices. Hoodoo is from Africa, Vodou is from Haiti and Voodoo is from the African Americans in New Orleans. Voodoo has been popularized through T.V shows and movies, such as Disney’s Princess and the Frog, but this can be very dangerous for the Voodoo culture as it spreads misinformation on them.

Being a witch is more than just an aesthetic. It is a culture, a path, a way of life. To start practicing, find a mentor, or read books and articles. Rye Baker, junior, said, “It almost felt like it was something I was meant to do, like I was just so attracted to this idea of living this way I couldn't let it go.’” Tiktok is not a good site for this because a lot of cultural appropriation comes from it. There are many different paths for a witch, so choose wisely.

In 2018, Sephora released a ‘witch kit.’ This kit includes 9 essential oils, a chunk of rose quartz, and sage.

Amazon has a $500 starter ‘witch kit.’ This kit includes sage, palo santo, crystals, and a variety of herbs. The crystals in this kit are a variety of quartz, such as rose quartz and amethyst, however quartz is not worth $500 because it is one of the most common gemstones.

‘Witch kits’ that include sage and palo santo are already problematic culture An open starting practice would wise. Marketing these kits be Wicca. It is a nature-based path towards teenagers with no with 1 god and 1 goddess. However, information most witches move on to a polytheson how to use tic path. Here are some open paths them correctly that anyone can practice. and the culture Rye Baker, junior, said, “[Deities] are great guides and menbehind them is tors throughout your everyday life.” unethical.

Greco Roman/Hellenism is the worship of ancient Greek/ Roman deities. This includes the Olympians, spirits of nature, underworld deities and heroes.

Not much is known about the Celtics. What is known about them is their love for nature. Their religion includes nature-based deities.

Norse has nordic gods, like Thor and Loki. They worship the nine worlds, giants, and deities.

Slavic is all about the impersonations of natural forces, such as sun, fire, stars, plants, etc.

Discordian follows the Greek goddess discord. It is the belief that with order comes chaos.

Finally, Draconian is a spiritual path that follows the way of a dragon. This includes being noble, heroic, and honest.

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Introducing Information: According to the leading scientists at IPCC (International panel on climate change), It has become near impossible to deny that the planet near the next two decades will warm to 1.5 degrees unless more effort is added to suppress greenhouse gas emissions. This could also go over the high warned “2-degree threshold” Which would make extreme heatwaves, large long-lasting bush and wildfires, droughts, and otherwise other ecosystem collapsing events commonplace rather than just events. However, the effects of climate change can be dulled to make sure that we are put on a brighter path.

Effects of Climate Change: As of 2021, we are 1.2 degrees warmer than before the rise of mass industrialization. Regardless of personal belief, the matter of fact is the IPCC is considered to believe that if not for the emissions caused by said industrializations this type of change should not have been expected for another century at the least.

Human-induced climate change has already caused observable extremes (which were already observed in the fourth and fifth assessments and have since been strengthened) Such as heatwaves, much heavier precipitation, tropical cyclones, and droughts.

The surface temperature has risen from 0.84 in 1850 to 1.10 in 2021.

While not seeming like a lot, remember this type of change wasn’t forecasted to happen naturally for another century in 1850.

Global surface temperatures will continue to grow in any carbon emissions scenario. This means regardless if we continue to emit the same amount, produce more, or reduce it completely, The already present Carbon dioxide trapped in the atmosphere will allow the planet to rise.

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Our cha clim

Continued...

More physical damage to other ecosystems and physical terrain have been shown to be and will continue to be affected by climate change. Such as the reduction in glaciers, the ice in rivers breaking and melting faster before the “official” turning of spring, along with various plants and animals unable to exist in already thought to be plausible places for living.

Snow cover in the northern hemisphere for the past two decades has considerably been less and less with each coming year. While evidence for the glacier structure has been limited due to unknown causes (most likely to the regional debate and other outside discourse) it’s been shown that they are melting, slowly, yet surely.

Already plant life and animal life is trying it hardest to adapt to the changes we have caused, such as many trees and flowers blooming earlier than regular.

hanging mate

“We’re reaching the point where we need to face the fact that reservoirs won’t last forever, at a half-century at most even if we were to stretch them out.” ~ Gary Wolford, science teacher

“Honestly, at times I have to stop and think about how much we have done to... EVERYTHING. It’s terrifying to think that in my time I’m going to be and already are experiencing the effects of climate change”~ Charlotte Butler, junior

Since before the beginning of the 21st centu ry, Evidence of human-caused climate change has been available, however never before has it been more important to call attention to the evidence shown today by Alexander Baker

“Grand scale problems with climate have been something constant in my life. Like, it’s always been so prominent. Knowing this it kind of makes me sad to hear that it doesn’t really feel like anything big has been done to make a real impact on slowing it” ~Lauryn Walker, sophomore

Solutions?

While this section is supposed to pose possible “solutions” over the course of reading this is incredibly clear that no true solutions are going to suddenly make the issue go away. As previously stated, no matter what we do, we will deal with rising temperatures. What we can do is limit the damage.

If we would like to see any pathway that holds the promise of no overshoot of global warming to 1.5 degrees, we must figure out the ins and outs of Carbon Dioxide Removal technology. This technology must be cautious of it being caled a “solution” rather then a necessity for our future by big oil.

Conclusion: The world is now on code red. With drastic times coming more sooner than later, we can no longer wait for the inevitable changes.

Instead, we need to brace ourselves and come together with the community and those in our sphere of influence and work to help each other because we will all be dealing with our changing climate.

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Books to curl upwith

ithis fALLa Looking

for some new fall

book recommendations? by

Milana Waller

Here is a list of books of multiple genres and authors. Next to each book, you can read the synopsis as well as the author and genre. Whether you are looking for something spooky, romantic, mysterious, heartfelt, or adventurous, this list can help you decide which book is best for you this autumn season.

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Emergency Contact by Mary H. K Choi When Sam and Penny become each other’s emergency contacts under unlikely, awkwards circumstances, they can’t help but grow closer. But can Penny admit to her friend, who just so happens to be Sam’s cousin, about her growing relationship with her emergency contact?

M Y S T E R Y

“It’s on my tobe- read list” -Mykia Linze-Lopez, senior

“Super The Cheerleaders by kara thomas captivat- Following the unfortunate deaths of two girls involved in a deadly car accident, two more girls are murdered by their next door ing” neighbor. What do these girls all have in common? They were all ~Salena Amin, freshman

cheerleaders. So when Monica, the sister of the last cheerleader to die five years ago, starts finding clues leading to discovery, she can’t help but unravel the truth.

The Invisible Life of Addie Larue by V. E. SchwabAddie Larue made a bargain to live forever, but not without a price. Everyone she meets immediately forgets her. What will happen when a young man in a hidden bookstore somehow remembers her name?

Follow Addie Laure’s story in 1714 France to learn just how far a woman will go to make her mark in the world.

T H R I L L E R

R O M A N C E

“It’s way up at the top of my [Colleen Hoover] favorites”

“Sounds interesting” -Gabriel Wilson, senior

F A N T A S Y

Verity by Colleen Hoover

Lowen Ashleigh accepts a once in a lifetime job offer from the husband of a bestselling author, Verity Craw-Christine Riccio ford. Her job is to finish the series thatthe now paralyzed (Goodreads) Verity is incapable of completing. But when Lowen uncovers the makings of a sinister autobiography she was not meant to see, she has to decide whether to hide or reveal the truth to the employer she begins to grow feelings for.

QWS

The Wrath and the Dawn by Renee adhieh Every night, 18-year-old King Khalid takes a new bride , only to have her killed by the next morning. Sixteen-year-old Shahrzad seeks revenge after her close friend falls victim to the cruel king. Vowing vengeance, Shahrzad becomes the king’s next bride, but somehow manages to survive night after night. As her relationship with Khalid tightens, she nears closer and closer to the truth.

“It’s such beautiful writing. Just perfect” -Jessi H. Vojsk (GoodReads)

F A N T A S Y

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A taste of diets

Learn about the effects of a few popular diets from today’s society by Molly Calhoun

To just start off with, what even are diets? As Dictionary.com says, “Food and drink considered in terms of quantities, composition, and its effects on health”. Diets in general are used to sometimes help with weight gain or loss, thoughts and beliefs and just effects on health in general. Today I will be hitting the topics on some of the few more popular diets and their effects on the body.

W

hat is the vegetarian diet? This diet consists of avoiding meat, such as ffsh, red meat, shellffsh, as well as insects. However, animal products, such as milk, are ffne. Vegetarian diets have been picked up by many restaurants over the years so it’s one of the easier diets to follow along.

As Deakin University’s website says, it can help with obesity, heart disease, as well as some types of cancer. In addition, Tamia Abbott, sophomore stated, “Becoming a vegetarian helped me get up and cook more.” In a test taken early 2021, roughly 8% of the worldwide population identify vegetarian.

C

ompared to vegetarians, many will say a vegan diet is a bit more extreme. It consists of consuming absolutely nothing animal related.

- No meats - No animal by-products - No animal derived products

T

he keto diet has also become popular. How it works is you dramatically decrease your intake of carbohydrates and replace it with fats.

So for example, no pasta, grains, starchy vegetables, high sugar fruits, and soda to name a few. Due to this, it puts your body into a metabolic state called ketosis. The goal of a keto diet is to get more calories from fat than carbs. Compared to the other two diets, keto has many more effects on the body, consisting of both positive and negative effects. According to News Medical, it can improve acne, may reduce risk of certain cancers, may improve heart health and potentially reduce seizures to name a few. Though most of these are short lasting and are said to wear off. It has been known to cause the following if not maintained properly: digestive issues, poor bone health and nutrient deficiencies.

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Some may also go as far as taking out animal products from their day-to-day life too, but it’s not required. Medical News Today says that studies have shown the vegan diet can help with better heart health, lower cancer risk, as well as help with weight loss. In addition, Evelyn Shiner, freshman, said it makes her feel “happier emotionally.” Also, “It made me feel better and more awake and active during the day,” said Anahi Evans, freshman. Following the Get Vegan survey taken in 2021, only about 3% of the world is actually considered vegan.

Diet-friendly snacks A mix of vegan and vegetarian snacks to try

by Tessa Mattison | Photos and Recipes by Food Network

Vegan Potato, Pepper, and Olive Phyllo Cups

Ingredients - 1 medium all-purpose potato (peeled and cut into ¼” dice) - 4 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil - 2 tbsp. nutritional yeast, kosher salt - 1 medium shallot (finely chopped) - 2 tbps. red wine vinegar - 1 tsp. tomato paste Instructions Preheat oven to 425 degrees F then place potatoes in a small saucepan then cover them in water, boiling for about 10 minutes Drain and shake all of remaining water off Return them to the saucepan and cover in 2 tbsp of olive oil, nutritional yeast, and ½ tsp of salt, then mash with a fork until roughly smooth and set aside Heat remaining oil in a small skillet and add the shallots, and pinch of salt. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and starting to brown Next add vinegar, tomato paste, paprika, and

“Yes, it looks good and the ingredients look healthy and wouldn’t leave you guilty.”

- Hailey Wills, freshman Ingredients - 1 small spaghetti squash (about 3 pounds) kosher salt - ¾ cup of your favorite barbecue sauce - 3 tbsp pure maple syrup - 2 tbsp tomato paste - 2/3 cup plus 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions - Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and line a baking sheet with foil - Cut the squash lengthwise into halves and remove the seeds then season with salt and ¼ cup of the BBQ sauce - Place on baking sheet, flesh-side down, and roast until the strands can be separated easily with a fork, about 45 minutes to an hour - While cooling on a baking sheet, combine the maple syrup, tomato paste, 2/3 cup of vinegar, ½ cup BBQ sauce, a pinch of salt, and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan - Bring the mixture to a boil and reduce heat, leaving the pot on until the mixture has thick-

Vegan Banana Bread

“You can’t mess up banana bread.”

- Kamryn Frias, junior

- ½ tsp. sweet smoked paprika - a pinch of cayenne - ½ cup loosely packed fresh parsley leaves (chopped) - 2 large jarred piquillo peppers (finely chopped) - 12 Kalamata olives (finely chopped) - 30 mini phyllo shells cayenne Cook, stirring occasionally, until spices are toasted and oil is brick red, about 1 minute.

Then remove from heat and mix into the mashed potatoes.

Add half of the parsley, peppers, olives, and 3/4 tsp salt, then stir (The filling can be made and refrigerated up to a day in advance) Arrange the phyllo cups on a baking sheet, filling each with about a tsp of the potato mixture.

Bake until the filling is hot, 4 to 5 minutes.

After cooling, cover with garnish made with remaining parsley and peppers.

- 2 tsp mayonnaise - ¼ small head red cabbage (finely chopped) - ¼ small red onion (finely chopped) - 24 mini slider buns - 1 English cucumber (cut into ¼ inch thick slices) ened, about 15 to 20 minutes. (leave it to the side but keep it warm) - Mix together the mayonnaise, cabbage, onion, and 2 tbsp of vinegar, seasoning with salt - Use a fork to separate the squash strands (leaving them in the skins) - Divide 1 ¼ cups of the sauce between the squash strand halves and mix until the strands are covered and season with salt - Slice the buns open, about 3/4 of the way then divide the cucumber slices on the buns - Fill each bun with the squash and cover with the coleslaw (Use the remaining sauce as a side, if desired)

Vegetarian BBQ Spaghetti Squash Sliders

“It looks good and has bread; I like bread.”

- Diana Gomez, freshman

Ingredients (mashed; about 1 ¼ cups) - 1 ¼ cups unbleached all-purpose - ¾ cup sugar flour - ½ cup plain soy milk yogurt - 1 tsp baking soda - ½ cup vegetable oil - ½ tsp kosher salt - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract - 3 very ripe medium bananas Instructions - Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line a 9x5x3 inch loaf pan with parchment (letting 2 inches hang off the long sides) then lightly coat with cooking spray - Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl - In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the bananas, sugar, yogurt, oil, and vanilla - Gently fold the mixtures together until the batter comes together (it’s okay if there are lumps) - Pour the batter into the loaf pan and bake for 55 to 60 minutes (if the loaf is browning too quickly, lightly cover the loaf with foil) - Allow the loaf to cool for 30 minutes then remove onto a wire cooling rack - To store, leave it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days feature u september | october 2021 u the viewpoint u19

Looking for a virtual island get away?

Check out some islands made by people at MV to visit in the Game Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Sydney Motley (senior) Island Name: Andromeda Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Description: “Very messy, like an organized mess”. The island is sectioned into different areas based on the vibe of each section.

What I love about my Island: “I like how personal I’ve been able to make it and how different I can make it!”

Friend Code: 9685-2495-5362

by Juan Diaz

Alex Buskirk (junior) Island Name: Summertime Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ Description: Summertime’s big feature being mostly floral with flowers that are warmer in hue.

What I love about my Island: ”The villagers are so nice” Friend Code: 8344-7473-2948

Shawn Goss (junior)

If you play Animal Crossing: New Horizons and want to know other people from Mountain View who play it- or looking for some inspiration for your island, here are some people you can visit via Friend code! code!

Island Name: Bermuda Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Description: Bermuda has a chill surfer vibe to it, along with a lot of flowers to create gorgeous scenery to it.

What I love about my Island: ”It feels good playing on my island.”

Friend Code: 7655-5439-9875 20 u the viewpoint u september | october 2021 u feature

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Last minute Halloween costumes & fun facts For when you have to walk out the door on the spot by Miya Easley Fun Fact

Crazy Dave Plants vs. Zombies

Plants vs. Zombies was going to have a zombie dog in the final version of the game, according to OC Weekly’s website.

- Cooking Pot - Plant Pot (with a plant in it) - White T-shirt - Jeans Find a cooking pot that fits your head, or attach it to your head. Put the clothes on and hold the pot of plant. There you go. Now you look as as crazy as Crazy Dave.

Mikayla Hoffman, senior, says, “I would suggest focusing on key details... to make sure the character really comes across.”

Fun Fact According to the website Beano, the antibodies in Hulk’s blood can be used as medicine and has saved his teammates’ life before.

Kerri Avery, teacher, suggests, “If you want to make it a little more detailed, ditch the white shirt and paint a green shirt with muscle lines...”

The Incredible Hulk - Ripped Jeans - Button Up Shirt - Green Marker - Green Shirt (optional) Wear the jeans and button up but leave some/ all of the buttons open. Take the green marker and draw on veins. You can also wear a green shirt under the button-up to really sell the look.

Fun Fact

E.T. The Extra Terrestrial - White or Beige Blanket - Phone Cover yourself in the light-color blanket and make sure the only visble part of you is your face.

Then, turn the flashlight from your phone on and cover it with your pointer finger. Now you have a reason to hold your phone all night.

E.T.’s face was modeled after poet Carl Sandburg, Albert Einstein, and a pug dog, according to FestivalBoca’s website.

Mei Rempola, senior, comments, “I think it’s really cute and also unique.

I think you should also add textures.”

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Scary pumpkin cut-out Use this cut-out to decorate your Halloween pumpkins

by Preston Bates

Instructions: Cut around dotted line.

Keep white areas and cut out grey and red areas.

22 u the viewpoint u september | october 2021 u DIY