Vol. 42, Issue 3

Vol. 42, Issue #3

The

November 11, 2016

Knightly News

p. 2 Faculty Pursue Citizenship

p. 3 Five Minutes with Mbiti Williams

p. 7 Mia Wright on Race

Pace Community Speaks Out on Race Alexis Wilkins

Co-Editor-in-Chief Class of 2017

Photo: Alexis Wilkins

New York City, New York.

Dayton, Ohio. Ferguson, Missouri. Florence, California.

Madison, Wisconsin. Vineland, New Jersey. Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Milwaukee and St. Paul, Minnesota. Charlotte, North Carolina.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana. San Francisco, California. What do these cities have in common? All have been publicized as places where black people have been shot and killed by the police.

Many people argue that they would not have been killed if they only obeyed the law. However, this can be a smoke screen for people who do not want to acknowledge that many of the victims were unarmed and did not pose an immediate threat.

The Civil Rights movement occurred in the mid 1900s. In 2016, some people are still assumed dangerous based on the color of their skin. But according to Pace Academy police officer Chris Golphin, people are shot every day, and police officers do not wake up in the morning planning to shoot someone.

Officer Golphin, who is frequently seen on the Pace campus during the week, was first hired by the Atlanta Police Department in 2003 and sent to the Bankhead Highway area to patrol. According to Officer Golphin, who is mixed race,

Street art under the Krog Street bridge in Atlanta reads “Stop Shooting People.” everyone has the right to protest.

However, he also says that people should not break the law.

“How hard would it have been to say, ‘Hey officer, I got a gun in my pocket.’ Nine times out of ten, nothing’s gonna happen to you. What’s better: going to jail or having somebody carry you out in a box because you were stupid?”

Social media and news outlets focus on events in certain cities, but these tragedies are not limited to places mentioned on TV. People in our very own

Pace community deal with racial discrimination every day. “I’ve been [at Pace] for 16 years,” said upper school visual arts teacher Donice Bloodworth. “It’s not always comfortable.” Donice is a well-renowned artist and an approachable teacher who draws waves from students when they walk into the FAC. Donice is also a member of INSTEAD – a group of faculty members that students can come to if they have an issue related to alcohol or drugs.

“Starting in elementary

school, I was one of the smartest kids in my grade,” said Donice. “I was in a school in Tucker when it was transitioning to being a mixed [race] school, so it was predominately white when I first started. I didn’t have anybody that looked like me in my class. I got into arguments. I was taken out of people’s classes because of the way they treated me… That was my first experience in an educational environment.”

“In middle school, we used to get pulled over and questioned

and searched,” said Donice. “At that time, it was normal to me.

I never thought anything of it.

Growing up and working with kids, my middle schoolers that I coach right now are the same age that I was when police used to make us lay down on the ground with our hands behind our backs.” He recollects that times have changed drastically in our country. Nevertheless, he has been pulled over multiple times as an adult, and cops have pulled their guns on him for simply running a stop sign. “Cops pull their guns out all the time,” he said. “It’s hard for people to fathom that, but it’s a normal thing for me to see the cop grab his gun when he pulls me over.”

Lori Baker is a Pace parent and spouse of Pace Athletics Director Troy Baker. “With all of the violence that we’ve seen captured by social media over the last year between black men, women and children and the police it began to feel suffocating,” she said. “As a mother, I began to feel very, very scared for my children and husband.”

“Being afraid for everyday occurrences and encounters with police is now a scary reality that I have to live as a mother and wife,” said Mrs. Baker. “It seemed like even when you do the ‘right’ thing like speak politely or keep your hands where they can be seen at all times, the only way to keep my children safe is to keep them in the house.

(Continued on page 4)

ICGL Scholars Study Global Theme of Climate Abby Meyerowitz Staff Writer Class of 2019

Photo: Trish Anderson

This year, the Isdell Center for Global Leadership focuses on incorporating Pace’s third annual global theme, climate, into the studies of all students as well as informing Pace faculty, staff, and families of issues regarding climate. Building awareness of our world’s climate conditions for the Pace community is a priority for this year’s ICGL scholars, sophomore Jenny Luetters, junior Melanie Crawford, and seniors Ross Cefalu and Max Irvine. “I really liked the topic for this year,” said Jenny, “The trips sounded really cool, I

think it’s a great learning experience, and I really care about our environment.”

The four scholars were selected through a tough and competitive application process to research the current climate situations around the world. “I wanted to be an ICGL scholar this year because I believe climate change is a serious issue that needs to be discussed and I want to learn how to reduce it,” said Melanie. The ICGL scholars work to teach those around them about climate’s significance in our society. “We spend the year studying climate and immersing ourselves within the climate study community,” said Max. “We hope to relay the information we learn to the student body

The ICGL scholars shiver as they observe the extremely cold climate in Churchill, Manitoba. throughout the year.”

“When a lot of people think of climate, they first think about science in terms of weather, tem-

perature change, ice disappearing, and glaciers melting,” said ICGL supervisor and history teacher Caitlyn Morris, “but in

terms of humanities, climate has actually helped shape the rise and fall of civilizations through-

(Continued on page 5)

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Pace News

November 11, 2016

The Knightly News - Page 2

John Anderson Announces Retirement Genna Schwarz Staff Writer Class of 2019

Photo: Laura Inman

Students will remember Head of Middle School John Anderson for his famous line, “it’s a great day to learn,” and his love of literature, education and Pace students. Head of School Fred Assaf recently announced that the beloved Mr. Anderson will not be returning to Pace Academy next year.

“I promise it is not because of sudden cravings for shuffleboard, Bingo and naps,” said Mr. Anderson in a letter to the Pace community. “It is simply because I know deep down that it is time. Pace is so very strong with shared, multi-layered leadership and with a clear pathway for the future.”

The first person he shared

this news with was Mr. Assaf, whose first hire was Mr. Anderson. “The thought of our school without him breaks my heart,” said Mr. Assaf in his letter announcing Mr. Anderson’s retirement. “At the same time, I’m thrilled for John and his family and the opportunities their post-Pace future holds.”

Mr. Anderson will now be able to spend much needed time with his wife, focusing on his music, following his dreams and making a difference in the world with his charity work.

Mr. Anderson has been working at Pace for 12 years and has been an educator for 41.

When he arrived at Pace in 2005, a year after the Middle School opened, Mr. Anderson’s goal was to “unencumber talented Pace teachers to make full use of their gifts for the guidance of children.” He is proud of the

Mr. Anderson joins middle school students at lunch. teamwork involved in achieving the best experience for his students. “[My greatest accomplishment was] probably my very first one, putting recess into the

Immigrants on Faculty Pursue Citizenship

Sydnie Jiang Staff Writer Class of 2018

When people talk about the United States of America, they often mention basketball or football or some of the famous fast food restaurants. But the U.S. offers much more than sports and good food.

The United States has a variety of options for education, and it also offers the idea of the American Dream, where everyone has an equal opportunity for success. But one of the most appealing aspects of being an American for many is the right to vote, and in order to do that, you must become a citizen.

Here at Pace Academy, Spanish teacher Paula Pontes is in the midst of applying for her American citizenship. Strength and Conditioning Coordinator Clement Rouviere applied for citizenship in March of 2016, and after a 6-month long process, he became an American citizen.

One can become an American citizen one of two ways. You are either born on American soil, or you have immigrated to the United States and applied to be a citizen. To apply for citizenship, there are several qualifica-

tions you must meet. After that, the actual application process begins, which includes filling out forms, getting fingerprinted, taking a citizenship test and then doing an interview. If everything is approved, you take the oath to become an American citizen.

“The actual citizenship application process was easy,” said Coach Rouviere. “However, the requirements and paperwork to become eligible was more difficult.”

Before a person is able to become a citizen, they must have been a permanent resident of the United States for at least five years, but you can start the application process to become a citizen 90 days before your fiveyear anniversary.

Dr. Pontes is eager to obtain her citizenship after enduring a long process to get to this point. She first came to America from Brazil on a student visa to pursue her education at the University of Georgia. After completing her degree at UGA, she had to get a work visa that only lasted six years and during that time, she had to apply for a green card. This process involved hiring lawyers and paying hefty legal and government fees.

Immigrating to a new country can be exhilarating but

Soccer + Service Equals Win–Win Graham Hurley Staff Writer Class of 2018

The Universal Language Club is a new service club led by juniors Schuyler Drose, Jordan Shoulberg and Sam Delman.

The club sets up soccer games, picnics and equipment drives with Syrian refugees and South Africans. “We want to teach these refugees about our culture and language while having fun at the same time,” said Jordan.

The refugees came to America because of the ongoing Syrian Civil War. They’re living in horrible conditions, lacking everyday supplies. Plus, the majority of the refugees do not speak English well nor do they know about America as a whole.

Through playing soccer the refugees can forget about their worries for a bit and just enjoy themselves.

The Universal Language Club works in conjunction with two organizations, the Third Half and Kick4Life. The Third Half is an organization that believes in a “third half” of a soccer game that represents international leadership and social relationships. Kick4Life is an organization centered in Lesotho that uses soccer as a forum for HIV and AIDS education. The club is collaborating with these organizations to start service projects.

Jordan, Sam and Schuyler talked about their inspiration for starting this club. Last year over spring break Jordan and Sam went on the ICGL service trip to South Africa. Thanks to Kick4Life they were able to play soccer with people from Lesotho.

“After this amazing experience, Jordan and I decided that we wanted to do something because soccer can bring people together even if you don’t speak the same

Photo: Sam Delman

Photo: Sydnie Jiang Junior Khaki Loughran quizzes Dr. Paula Pontes on citizenship questions.

also terrifying. “I never thought about immigrating,” said Dr. Pontes. “I thought I would finish my education and then go back to Brazil.” Although Dr. Pontes did not intend to stay in America, marriage and good jobs kept her in the United States and now she feels more at home here.

Coach Rouviere is proud to be an American because he feels a great sense of accomplishment leaving his life in France to move to the United States. The idea that he could continue his athletics and academics on the university level appealed to him because France’s system did not offer such multitasking beyond the high school level.

ICGL Director Trish Anderson decided not to apply for American citizenship and instead renewed her permanent residency. Ms. Anderson was born in Jamaica and received her British citizenship from her parents, retaining dual citizenship with Britain and with South Africa where she spent most of her childhood on through her studies at the University of Southern Africa. Her decision not to become an American citizen was based on the fact that she would have had to renounce her British citizenship.

Although it is not forbidden for Americans to hold dual citizenship, it does say in the American oath of citizenship that a person has to renounce their previous citizenship. “Britain is where my family is and I don’t want to cut off that avenue to them,” said Ms. Anderson.

Permanent residents receive all the same rights as a citizen, barring the ability to vote, and she decided that her cultural identity was more important to her than being able to vote. However, Ms. Anderson still feels at home in America, and her loyalty to the United States does not change just because she chose not to apply for citizenship.

schedule,” said Mr. Anderson.

“Also, I’ve been very fortunate in the hiring of great middle school teachers. They are the best I’ve ever had the privilege

of working with, experts in their fields, but also understanding of the middle-school-aged kid.

Even though it was his choice to retire, leaving is rarely easy for someone like Mr. Anderson who has devoted his life to educating young people. “Part of me is already in mourning about missing my kids,” said Mr. Anderson. “I just love them, no other way to say it. I’ll miss my colleagues too, who are also my friends.” Students will miss him as well. “Mr. Anderson was in my life as an educator for three years, and every year I was astounded by his generosity and interest in the individual students,” said sophomore Charlie Warren. “I’m happy for him, but also heartbroken for the kids going to the Pace Middle School who won’t be able to experience his astonishing guidance while going through middle school.”

Leaders Jordan Shoulberg and Schuyler Drose and Jordan Shoulberg recruit members during the club fair. language,” said Sam. Schuyler saw a spreadsheet of supplies needed by the Syrian refugees in Stone Mountain.

“If they live like this without these materials then they are not having fun,” he said. Sam and Jordan’s interests lined up with Schuyler’s, thus the Universal Language Club was created.

Right now the club is still in its beginning stages having only been created this year. This service club has potential to be one of the biggest service clubs at Pace because it balances fun and service. “You don’t have to be amazing at soccer to join this club because that’s not the point,” said Schuyler. “We want to help these people.”

There’s actually nothing to lose by joining this club. You get service hours by eating food and playing soccer with Syrian refugees. The Universal Language Club’s end goal is expanding beyond Syrian refugees to people from other countries who have resettled in the Atlanta area.

Pace News

Vol. 42, Issue #3

The Knightly News - Page 3

Five Minutes with Mbiti Williams Landon Goldstein Co-Editor-in-Chief Class of 2017

Photo: Landon Goldstein

Knightly News: Hey Mbiti, it’s nice to meet you.

Mbiti Williams: Nice to meet you, too.

KN: So, let’s just jump right in. What inspired you to play football?

MW: I’ve loved it since I was young. For Christmas, my parents bought me a Lions helmet and jersey. I don’t know if I was a Detroit fan, Calvin Johnson maybe, but they knew I just loved football. When I moved to Archer in third grade, I started playing. I wasn’t very good but I got better and I knew it was my passion. I started to get training and that’s when we found Elite Talent, one of the people I train with, and it just went on from there.

KN: What position did you start off playing?

MW: I started playing DB (defense back), safety was my main DB and then corner just started coming, and I felt better at corner. I’ll play anything now.

KN: So what do you play for Pace?

MW: DB and wide receiver.

KN: Are those your favorite positions?

MW: DB is my favorite. I like offense, but I don’t think it’s something I’ll move on with. But yeah, I think DB is my favorite probably cause I grew up playing it so I probably just got used to it.

KN: What other activities do you participate in at Pace?

MW: I do acting, which is the class I just left. And I’m an ambassador.

KN: Were you in the One Act or the fall musical?

MW: I was gonna do the One Act, but I never got to it in time.

I’m looking forward to doing something else when more things come up. I’ll probably be in some next year.

KN: How do you have any free time?

MW: I asked the same question when I first got to Pace because it’s a lot. I have Mrs. [Ryann] Smith, and she helps me balance out all my work. Getting the work done in school takes a lot of relief off you because when I get home late I can just go straight to bed.

KN: So you’ve been using your frees wisely?

MW: I go to the ARC every free period I have.

KN: What do you do in your free time on weekends?

MW: On Saturday, I usually watch college football. Sunday, I have practice. I live like an hour away from Pace so that takes a lot of my time. Not much else, though.

KN: What’s your favorite college?

MW: I don’t really have one. I root for Florida State, I love Vandy, but I don’t have a favorite.

KN: What about NFL teams?

MW: I don’t have a favorite one either. I just watch whenever it’s on. I have players I like, but not really team-wise.

KN: Who are your favorite players?

MW: I like Patrick Peterson, that’s on the defensive side of the ball, and Tyrann Mathieu.

KN: Moving on to Pace, who do you think your favorite teacher is?

MW: I don’t really have a favorite teacher. So far all my teachers

Freshman Mbiti Williams studies for English during one of his free periods. are pretty caring, none of them are mean or a pain or something.

It’s pretty balanced for who I like the most.

KN: What about your favorite class? Are you a math and science kid?

MW: Yeah, I like math and science. Math comes easy to me. It runs in the family. Science I like.

I like English now because of my teacher, Mr. Canfield. I used to not like it because it was so much reading and I’m not much of a reader, but he makes it fun.

The books we read also make me want to read more.

KN: What about peer leadership?

MW: That’s going well. Carl and Eno, I like them a lot. The activities we do are fun and we have good kids in the class, too.

KN: OK, change of pace. You’re on a desert island, and you can have one movie, one book and one friend. Go. MW: I’m gonna leave the friend for last because that is hard. For the book I would say... there are some pretty good books I just don’t remember the names. I would say “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.”

KN: Would that be your movie, too?

MW: Hmm, I have a lot of good movies. Something I can watch over and over again I would say is “The Chronicles of Narnia.”

KN: The first one?

MW: Yeah, the first one. I grew up liking that and I watched it a lot when I was younger. The friend? That’s extremely hard, honestly. Can I bring Tony? No,

but I don’t know, I can’t say.

KN: What is your most embarrassing moment from school this year?

MW: I gotta say when they broke the ping pong table. I was just dying because of how it snapped.

KN: What’s your favorite food?

MW: Just because this was my favorite food when I was younger and I still like it, I would say French fries. I hate sweet potato fries, though.

KN: If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

MW: Caring, funny and passionate. Yeah, I like that.

KN: Anything else you want to say, any shout-outs you want to give?

MW: Shout-out to Carly Silverstein, Gabe and Reign. That’s it.

Pace Works to Expand Mindfulness Michael Simon Sports Editor Class of 2018

Photo: Michael Simon

If there is one thing that all students remember from the properly named “Matty Ball Mondays” from the 2015-16 school year, it is mindfulness meditation. “Research has shown that practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress and increase focus,” said Woodruff Library Director Matt Ball, one of several committee members working to incorporate mindfulness into the Pace Upper School culture. “Additionally, practicing mindfulness can increase empathy for others, creating more compassionate citizens of the world.”

Mr. Ball first introduced mindfulness to the Pace community in 2014, his first year at Pace. “I was inspired to introduce mindfulness to Pace, because one role of the library is to help students become better learners,” said Mr. Ball. “I thought the benefits of mindful-

Some teachers have been meeting to figure out how to better incorporate mindfulness into the Pace upper school culture. ness would be directly applicable to that goal.” Through his efforts, Pace began hosting mindfulness meditation sessions before school and during break on Wednesdays and Fridays.

This provided a resource for students to de-stress midway through the week, and end the week strong.

A group of five upper school teachers took online mindfulness courses over the summer

with the aim of working to incorporate mindfulness into the classroom setting. They include guidance counselor Sara Eden, chemistry teacher Stephanie Harrell, math teacher Matt Marsico, academic coach Ryann Smith and newspaper advisor Lee Wilson. “I find Mindfulness very multi-faceted,” said Mrs. Smith. “One aspect of it is helping the students with academics and relieving them of possible

stress. However, there is an emotional aspect of mindfulness that allows students to release their emotions.”

High school places a lot of stress on students, especially at a school like Pace, and managing that stress can be difficult.

“High school is one of the toughest parts of students’ lives,” said Mrs. Smith. “Finding a way to decrease stress, like mindfulness, could be incredibly useful

for students, academically and athletically.”

This year, the mindfulness team, which also includes middle school counselor Lele Fallon and ARC tutor Jill Sabulis, is working to start mindfulness sessions on Monday called “Mindfulness Mondays.” The goal of “Mindfulness Mondays” is to provide mindfulness sessions for upper school students in Fuqua during every period on Mondays.

Basically, if a student has a free period on a Monday, they will have the opportunity to participate in a mindfulness session.

“Our goal is to have mindfulness available to students in Fuqua for the first ten minutes of each period on Mondays,” said Mrs. Eden. “The sessions would be led by a member of the mindfulness team. Where we have gotten stuck is that during some of the periods throughout the day, there isn’t a member free to lead the sessions.”

Once everything gets worked out, students can enjoy de-stressing during a free period, getting them ready for the upcoming week.

Pace News

November 11, 2016

The Knightly News - Page 4

Brothers Reap Highest Scout Honor Margaret Bethel Staff Writer Class of 2019

Photo: Jason Ferguson

“A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.” (The Boy Scout Law) Since 1910, the Boy Scouts of America has been one of the largest youth organizations in the country. Promoting leadership and helping others, the BSA opens its doors to boys ages 10-18. Throughout a boy’s years as a Scout, he has the opportunity to earn many honors and awards. Pace sophomores and twin brothers Carter and Jack Ferguson of Troop 467 are on their way to achieving the highest honor for a Boy Scout: becoming an Eagle Scout.

To receive the Eagle Scout title, a boy must represent all values of an ideal citizen and member of society and complete one supervised project. Searching for ways to help, Carter and

Jack went to the Chastain Horse Park for their project. There was a deteriorating storage shed that called for immediate attention. Carter mounted the roof and mended the shed. “I firmly believe you should help someone every day,” he said. “It’s not all about you, so do something for someone else. Be selfless.”

Also stepping up to serve the horse park, Jack constructed a rest area complete with a new frame and roof. He attached the paneling for the roof and anchored the posts into the ground.

The twins’ father and supervisor, Jason Ferguson, guided the boys through their projects. “I look to my dad so much,” said Carter. “I wouldn’t be a Boy Scout if not for him.” Their father’s motivation and support was instrumental in the twins’ success as Scouts. “My dad actually quit as a Cub Scout,” said Jack. “It’s one of his biggest regrets in life.”

Over 50,000 Boy Scouts this year have taken the leap to becoming an Eagle Scout. With Eagle Scout being the highest

Ferguson twins Carter (L) and Jack embarked on the Boy Scout Troop 467 High Adventure trip along with their parents. The troop is sponsored by the Peachtree Road United Methodist Church. honor a Scout can earn, it is no surprise that celebrities and esteemed politicians sought this status as teenagers. From astronaut Neil Armstrong to President Gerald Ford, the BSA produces some of the most notable citizens in our society. Following the trail that Afred Eldred, the first Eagle Scout, blazed, these young

men often become leaders and role models.

The Eagle Scout ceremony includes lighting several candles representing the years of dedication the boys put in as Scouts.

A mentor of the boys’ choice endows them with their longanticipated achievement. “I think I’ll choose my dad to present my

award,” said Jack. “He’s really been there with me through it all. It would hopefully mean the world to him.” The brothers have been working toward this highest honor for five years. “I want to represent what a good citizen should be, and always be ready to do my part in society.” said Carter.

Pace Community on Race (Continued from page 1)

Photo: Genna Schwarz

Freshmen Ada Jane Agolli and Lucy Ferry make sandwiches for the Zaban Paradies Center.

Service Program Advances Genna Schwarz Staff Writer Class of 2019

The Pace Service Learning Program is evolving, adding new and meaningful service projects to the already impressive list.

Zeena Lattouf, Pace alumna and student body president in 20112012, now directs the program for the Arthur M. Blank Family Upper School. Service leaders senior Zoe Weitzner, juniors Cameron Perchik and Marissa Schwarz and I as a sophomore have worked tirelessly to bring the Zaban Paradies Center to Pace Academy.

Previously known as the Temple Zaban Night Shelter for the Homeless, the Zaban Paradies Center started in 1984 in Atlanta. When created, it was the first shelter for homeless couples without children in Atlanta. Many struggling people are separated from spouses or partners because of safety reasons and end up staying on the streets, but the Zaban Paradies Center provides a place for cou-

ples to stay until they can find a more permanent residence.

The center provides beds, food, basic necessities and assistance while teaching people how to live independently. The couples shelter can hold about 22 couples and helps up to 55 couples a year, and the organization is dependent on volunteers.

The Zaban Paradies Center is located next to The Temple at 1605 Peachtree Road in the Selig Building.

We as service leaders are ecstatic that we get to bring a part of our everyday lives to Pace. “I used to intern there when I was their Facebook manager,” said Marissa. “Even though it was an awe-inspiring job to be helping in any way I could, I wanted to do more. I loved going there and meeting all the couples so much I had to start a service club so the people at Pace could have the experiences I had volunteering for them.”

Cameron, Marissa and I are members of The Temple; we have seen the Zaban Paradies Center across the street for many years and have always been eager to help. Zoe’s mom has aided

the center a lot throughout the year and is very familiar with it. “Communication-wise it was a lot of talking to other people about setting up dates in advance and we needed to find the money to pay for sandwiches, but I’ve worked there before and I find it interesting that it is one of the only couple shelters in Georgia,” said Zoe. The service opportunities for this program are once a month after school in the Pace cafeteria.

Volunteers can make sandwiches and get to know how the Zaban Paradies Center is really trying to make a change. There are also opportunities during the weekend where volunteers can go to the actual shelter and interact with the people whom they are impacting.

“It’s an amazing idea and I hope everyone will join us because we as Pace students can learn so much from the couples there,” said Cameron. “They can impact our lives as much as we impact theirs. I hope that the club becomes popular enough that it will continue growing and running for many years.”

I spoke with friends of mine, other Pace moms, who all seemed to have the same feeling.

How can we protect our boys?

It weighed very, very heavy on me.”

Joanne Brown is the Associate Director of Admissions for Pace Academy’s Middle and Upper Schools. She is also the mother of two graduates of the Academy, Tiger Brown ‘13 and Jean Luc Brown ‘16. Mrs. Brown went to Madagascar this summer as a ICGL chaperone, and she is seen around the Academy giving admissions tours when she is not busy in the Castle.

“As a mother who raised two black sons, I’ve never spent more time talking about [racism] than now,” she said. “I think my husband and I subconsciously felt that if they went to the right schools and participated in the right activities, dressed a certain way and spoke a certain way, we would be immunizing them from ever having to experience those things. That is probably further from the truth.”

At the beginning of this school year, Mrs. Baker approached Pace mother Jeny Mathis about creating a safe place for mothers, black and white, to discuss race relations in their community. “Once the media began to pick up the story of Terence Crutcher in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a few facts that jumped out at me were: 1) he was a father of four, and 2) he was enrolled in a school to get a degree of some sort,” said Mrs. Baker. “Not only does my family share the similarity of having four children, but before we moved to Atlanta from Memphis, Dr. Baker drove back and forth from Memphis to Nashville every other weekend for three years while pursuing his doctorate. I can’t put into words how

hearing that similarity shook me to my core.” Mrs. Baker and Mrs. Mathis created a Facebook group inviting parents and faculty to speak up and discuss their experiences. People were also invited to listen, empathize and ask questions as to how they can promote healing.

The first forum was held in the Fuqua room in the Upper School in September and the second was in Pace mom Linda Fuller’s house. Mrs. Brown attended both forums. “I think what made them so effective was that people came understanding that maybe they didn’t know everything,” she said. “What we heard from white parents and faculty and students that were there was [they] don’t know how to address this in [their] own personal life or with [their] own children. Those questions came after personal stories were shared by black members of our community.”

“When it’s a story that’s reported in Tulsa or another city or state or maybe appears to be a demographic that looks different than the one that we are in every day, it’s easy to say, ‘Oh, well, that’s happening outside of Pace,’” Mrs. Brown said. “I think those conversations only highlighted the fact that racism exists everywhere. Sometimes it’s subtle and sometimes it’s in your face.” “[At the first parent forum], what I heard was there is suffering, and the black families and individuals in our community are desperate to be seen and heard,” said Mrs. Mathis. “Until that moment on Friday, the injustice was only something I sensed. What I felt was embarrassment that I had not responded yet.” Mrs. Mathis and Mrs. Baker plan to continue these meetings throughout the year.

Pace News

Vol. 42, Issue #3

The Knightly News - Page 5

Seniors (and Juniors) Plunge Into College Visits Amy Butler

Opinion Editor Class of 2018

play in a football game. “Texas has been my dream school for a very long time,” said Ashley. “I love it more and more each time I visit because Austin is such a great city and UT is an amazing school.”

A question that starts to enter juniors’ minds is, “when is it too early to start thinking about the college process?” Junior Marissa Schwarz spent her fall break visiting as many colleges as she could in the limited amount of time that she had. She traveled throughout the mid East Coast, stopping at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of Virginia, Duke, Wake Forest, Elon, Washington and Lee, Georgetown and American University. “It was very overwhelming,” said Marissa. “I think it gave me a good sense of what I like and don’t like in colleges.

Even though students aren’t assigned college counselors until the end of junior year, kids continue to explore their different college options throughout high school. “It is never too early to start looking at colleges,” said Mr. Ferrell. “However, I think that kids shouldn’t actually start scheduling tours until junior year.”

Photo: Sophie Zelony

As first semester nears an end, the thought of Senioritis among the seniors looms.

However, this cannot kick in until the college applications are finished and sent off. Before seniors determine their fate and select which colleges they want to apply to, many students visit various colleges on long weekends and breaks.

The purpose of visiting colleges is to give prospective students a sense of what college life is like at that particular school.

When visiting, students can go on campus tours, hear presentations on specific aspects of the college, and ask their student tour guides any questions that they might have. “Students need to feel the vibe and see the student atmosphere at colleges, so it is very important that prospective students visit colleges before they make their final decision,” said college counselor Jonathan Ferrell. “If they don’t do this, then it is impossible to see how they would fit in at the school.”

So far seniors Kate Bethel and Kaki Cox have visited Auburn University. Kate applied

to Auburn and has already been accepted. “I’ve been going to Auburn since I was five years old with my dad for game day, so it was really cool to see the school itself this time,” said Kate. “The school was a lot bigger than I had imagined.”

Senior Will Movsovitz has visited multiple colleges, beginning his junior year with the Universit of Georgia. He has also visited Yale, Harvard, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Pennsylvania and Tulane. His favorite campus that he has visited is Penn because it is in the heart of Philadelphia.

“I definitely see myself in a big city in college,” said Will. “I like the vibe that big cities give off and all of the opportunities they have.” While in Philadelphia, he went to a Penn football game to cheer on the Quakers.

Senior Ashley Estroff has grown up as a University of Texas legacy because her mom attended there. She has visited University of Texas in Austin numerous times and applied early action there, which is nonbinding. When she most recently visited, she visited the Alpha Epsilon Phi sorority house, which her mom was a member of, and watched the Longhorns

Seniors Kate Bethel and Sophie Zelony visited University of Georgia and went to a football game during a weekend in October.

Magical Freshman Stuns Students Margaret Bethel Staff Writer Class of 2019

Photo: Margaret Bethel Freshman Jason Rosenbloum is quickly mastering close-up card tricks.

New to Pace this year, freshman Jason Rosenbloum has already captured the attention of the Pace community. Jason is a practicing close-up magician who has been performing for two years.

There are three types of modern professional magic: close-up, parlor and stage.

Close-up magic, or micromagic, is performed in front of smaller audiences, with card tricks and sleight-of-hand. Parlor magic is a combination of close-up and stage magic, with more largescale illusions. “Stage magic is what the big guys do, like David Copperfield or Criss Angel,” said Jason. “They do the huge illusions in front of huge crowds.

It really depends on how many

people can see.”

Jason’s close friend Ari Eisenberg, a student at Galloway, first introduced Jason to magic in 2014. The boys attended a magic camp over the summer that year. “Ari brought me with him to this amazing camp for magicians, Tannen’s Magic Camp. I had been collecting cards for a while, but Ari got me into the world of magic.” said Jason. Tannen’s Magic Camp is at Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania, hosting wannabe magicians from middle to high school, with all levels of experience. “I began the camp in a beginners class, but now I would definitely consider myself an intermediate,” said Jason.

Very early in the school year, this young illusionist was already drawing crowds. Teachers have allowed Jason to execute minor tricks in their classes, and even Pace Theatre Director

ICGL Scholars Study Climate

out history and influenced the success of many different civilizations.”

Compared to last year’s theme of food, climate “is a broader issue and I think it has the ability to attract a lot more people to think about it in different avenues,” said Ms. Morris, “and while food is important in our everyday life, climate change poses a problem that we are dealing with today.”

The scholars recently returned from a trip to Churchill, Manitoba with science teacher Kevin Ballard, ICGL Director Trish Anderson, and Ms. Morris.

They wrote about everything they did each day on their travel blog (which can be found here: http://knightlife.paceacademy. org/travel/) and their reactions are recorded below.

They even got to see polar bears up close and take tons of pictures. ”Words cannot quite describe how amazing it was to see such a voracious beast so close,” said Ross. Each day of their trip was filled with new activities including seeing lots of wildlife, going dogsledding and learning about various plants.

“The eight of us piled in the van without a guide to go dog

sledding,” said Melanie. “We met about 35 huskies and some pups. The head dog sledder told us about dog sledding and his story. Then we got to experience it in groups of two for a little over a mile.” The scholars even learned to shoot a gun.

“I’d better mention that on our way back to the research center, our guide taught us to shoot a rifle,” said Max, “He took us out in front of the bus and let us pop off a few rounds into a wooden barricade.” The evenings consisted of a lecture to cover what was learned that day and how it relates to climate

Sean Bryan let him perform an act of mentalism at the auditions for the fall musical. “Mentalism is like reading minds, kind of,” said Jason. “It’s like a mind trick.” Jason can make an entire crowd of people think with one mind. In order to make people think what he wants, he has to be confident and take control of the room. Using a loud, persuasive voice, he can make an entire audience collectively focus on something as simple as “gray elephants in Denmark.”

Although Jason could have a promising future in illusions and magic tricks, he does not plan to pursue this profession. “I actually want to be a real estate developer,” said Jason. “Magic is just a hobby, but I’m definitely passionate about it and have a lot of fun. I’m actually learning a cool trick right now. It’s for the talent show here, and I plan to win.”

(Continued from page 1)

change. “We truly got down into some of the ‘science-y’ aspects of why the climate is changing,” said Max. The trip to Churchill, while teaching the scholars tons of information on climate change, was filled with fun and bonding as a group. “On our way back to the bus, we had a big snowball fight with the scarce patches of snow on the ground,” said Melanie. However, what the scholars truly took away from the trip was how beautiful our world is and how we have to protect it.

“One could not overstate the beauty of the nature we had

witnessed,” said Ross, “but one could also question the ethics of disturbing this nature for the sake of our own viewing pleasure.”

The scholars have already learned a great deal and are hoping to help the rest of the Pace community learn about the significance of climate change in our society as well. “I’m hoping that I can help inform our peers in a fun and educational way,” said Jenny, “I want to show them what’s so good about our environment and why we should continue to protect it.”

Opinion

November 11, 2016

The Knightly News

966 West Paces Ferry Road, NW Atlanta, Georgia 30327 (404) 262-1345 Knightlynews@paceacademy.org Published by students at Pace Academy Member of Georgia Scholastic Press Association Co-Editors in Chief: Landon Goldstein Alexis Wilkins Managing Editor: Jonathan Rushton Lifestyle Editor: Sloan Wyatt Opinion Editor: Amy Butler

Staff Writers: Margaret Bethel Eden Kerker Graham Hurley Sydnie Jiang Abby Meyerowitz Genna Schwarz George Shepherd Anna Stone

Sports Editor: Michael Simon

Faculty Adviser: Ms. Lee Wilson

Online Editor: Sarah Kitchen

Tech Adviser: Mr. Matt Walker

The Knightly News Editorial Policy The Knightly News is the student-run newspaper of Pace Academy. For over 40 years it has reported the news that affects Pace, as well as the opinions of students.

The Knightly News is published by the students of Pace Academy, and approximately 500 copies are printed

by Florida Sun Printing.

The Knightly News welcomes letters to the editor

and guest opinions, which may be edited for spelling and grammar, as well as space constraints. Neither Knightly News-generated opinion pieces nor guest opinions are reflective of the official policy of Pace Academy.

Every effort is made to publish accurate facts, but if you recognize an error or omission, please email knightlynews@ paceacademy.org.

The Knightly News - Page 6

Refugees Denied Warm Welcome Sarah Kitchen

Given much attention throughout the presidential campaigns of both top contenders, the United States’ immigration policies have been studied in the polls and debated in the streets.

The question of immigration has always loomed over America, even during times of prosperity and stability, threatening to split the nation and provoke fighting within our borders over what we should be doing about the borders themselves. Support and opposition to opening the country to more waves of immigrants does not stem from two opposing belief systems; instead, a variety of concerns dictate people’s views on the issue.

Advocates for mass immigration raise a valid point: unless you are Native American, you are an immigrant in this country.

Among our population, though, distinctions have emerged between immigrants who are fifth or even tenth generation, as well as between recent immigrants who have achieved the status of citizenship and between those who are still undocumented.

Due to a dangerous civil war, Syrian refugees have been trying to immigrate to the U.S., but they are greeted by unfriendly and hostile “Americans” who are in favor of tightening up immigration policies. A large number of Americans have continuously been opposed to the latest group of immigrants, especially when these groups are in need of an escape. Discriminatory policies have often been established, like the Chinese Exclusion Act and the quota system, assuring the disadvantage of migrants that make it past U.S. borders.

Unfortunately, the Syrians seem to be in the wrong place at the wrong time: their Muslim and overall Middle-Eastern status during an era of perceived radical-Islamic terrorism has made the process much more complicated than it could be.

Before 9/11, for instance, Middle Eastern immigrants would have experienced looser policies and gained more support from the American population as a whole.

However, even though most of the refugees are of good intent, the anti-Muslim and anti-terror sentiment in America has escalated and citizens are reluctant to trust these immigrants.

This crisis presents a moral

Monday instead of a Wednesday, which would be an easy fix.

The current calendar should be changed, whether by choosing one of the options above or by going another route.

With attendance already spotty and minds wandering in anticipation of break, the two days before the Thanksgiving break don’t seem to be an efficient use of time for Pace.

There must be a way to avoid so much make-up work, which burdens students and teachers alike, while helping Pace families travel with less stress.

This will keep the focus on what we’re really trying to celebrate: gratefulness and family.

Senior Sarah Van Zyverden examines turkeys as she prepares for Thanksgiving.

Online Editor Class of 2017

dilemma similar to that of the Holocaust, forcing the nation as a whole to choose between political and national security and helping others. Jewish peoples sought asylum in the U.S. in an attempt to escape Nazi discrimination (and eventually extermination), and even though they were all harmless and helpless, the U.S. still denied most of their visa requests. New immigrant groups are easy to target and exclude, especially when the current residents of the U.S. are already divided among themselves.

Since we as citizens cannot agree on our immigration policies going forward, we blindly follow others to unite against a common enemy. The ignorant notions that all of these people are spies, terrorists and threats to our jobs may be understandable, but only a small portion of these refugees are probably “dangerous.” We cannot make gross generalizations about nationalities and assume that just because ISIS fighters are Muslim, all Muslims must be terrorists and a threat to our great country. As with the Jews from Nazi Germany, innocent lives may be lost if we fail to consider the situation in its entirety.

Thanksgiving Break Eliminates Opportunities Sarah Kitchen Online Editor Class of 2017

Photo: Sarah Kitchen

The very concept of Thanksgiving break can evoke frustrating, confusing emotions. Something about attending school for just 11 hours in one week calls into question the efficiency of this use of time. These hours of class time may be necessary, but surely they could be incorporated into another week.

The current arrangement of this week in November seems like a missed opportunity for a better use of school holidays.

One solution would be to add more hours into the week.

We could have three full days of school on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, then have Thursday, Thanksgiving Day, off as well as Friday. This option would create a four-day weekend, which is a bit shorter than our current five-and-a-half-day weekend.

However, the extra hours of school tacked on could be exchanged for one or two days off at some other point in the year.

Adding an extra day to a threeday weekend, which we have a great number of throughout the year, would allow students and faculty to take longer vacations or accomplish more on their days off.

On the other hand, adding extra classroom time to the week of Thanksgiving also has its dis-

advantages. Some folks intend on visiting relatives and may need extra time before Thanksgiving to arrive on time for the celebration.

The alternative to adding classroom time to this week in November would be to just cancel school for the entire week.

This would create a break equivalent to Spring Break, allowing families a much wider variety of options for celebrating the holiday. Traveling to relatives or just local family bonding would be very easy to accomplish with nine days off from school. If you wished to, you could even plan a trip to another country or continent.

November is a great time to travel somewhere warmer, like the Caribbean or Australia, to escape from the unpredictable Atlanta autumn. Also, students with multiple family gatherings would be able to cover more ground.

Some students already have elaborate Thanksgiving plans with our current schedule, causing them to miss school on Monday and Tuesday. Students can get penalized for these plans and be placed in study hall, just for missing those 11 hours.

Even if students have to leave early on Tuesday, this twoday week proves to be rather inconvenient. Finding places to add more school days is more difficult than taking days off, but there are still some options for making up the lost time. The year could begin in August on a

It’s Not History

Miles Hsu

Guest Contributor Class of 2017

Opinion

Vol. 42, Issue #3

The Knightly News - Page 7

Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?

Photo: Mia Wright

By Guest Contributor Mia Wright ‘17

Being Black is an experience.

So when I sit with black kids in the cafeteria, it is not just because they look like me, or like the same things, because that’s not what it is to be Black. It is very simply because they are living, to some extent, the same experience as I am. For people of color, we do not get that luxury of being able to go through life and not think about our race.

Race is everything, it pervades every single aspect of our lives from the day we are born to the day we die. It affects the way we are viewed in every setting, and in an environment like Pace that is so overwhelmingly White, it’s even more pertinent.

I think about my race in a place like Pace more than any of my white peers could ever comprehend. Will being late to class make me look lazy? Will

the way I dress or wear my hair make me too black – or maybe not black enough? Will wearing a Pace shirt when I go down to West Paces get me less stares?

Will it make people know I belong? Will smiling as warmly as I can at this older white couple make them feel more comfortable? Will it remove that look of nervous anticipation from their eyes that they think I don’t notice? Does that Publix employee honestly think I can’t see him constantly walking down the aisle to eye my bag?

These questions continue even into the classroom. “Why is my teacher so hesitant to call sexual encounters between African slave-women and White slaveowners rape? Why did I spend three days learning about the white middle class in the ‘70s but only one lecture on

Martin Luther King is supposed to magically encompass all of race relations in this country?

Why, before the current period, do I see no one that looks like me in my textbooks unless they are shackled like livestock and packed onto a boat to the Americas, hunched over a cotton plant or crouched in the corner of a white aristocratic family’s portrait?

Will my white peers probably ever have to ask themselves these questions? No. Will they have to live through these questions? No. So when you ask such a complex question as “Why are all the black kids sitting together in the cafeteria?” there’s no simple answer, but this is mine.

I can’t speak for every black kid on earth or even every black kid at Pace, but that’s my answer put as briefly as I could manage.

Photo: Mia Wright

Note: On a recent Wednesday Mr. Carson’s AP English class ended as follows: Senior Ross Cefalu compared the black kids tending to sit together in the cafeteria with him sitting with white friends because of their shared interests, and a hair before the bell rang, Mia responded, “It’s not the same at all.” Below is Mia’s response.

My disagreement with Ross’ statement stemmed from what I interpreted as a misunderstanding about race and what race is in our society. Ross, however well intentioned he may have been, made his mistake in equating “shared interests” like “liking the same things” and perhaps watching the same movies or playing the same sports with race, and in this case with Blackness.

As a class our initial answer to the question, “Why are all the black kids sitting together in the cafeteria?” was, in someone’s

words ( I can’t remember who), to see someone that mirrors themselves. However, the answer is far more complex than that.

The disconnect in the conversation for me came with Ross’ comment, “Well, I like the same things as my friends and that’s why I sit with them, isn’t that the same thing? Isn’t that why anyone does anything?” Short answer: No. However, I can understand why Ross might say something like this and why, although they did not burst into applause or all nod in agreement, I’m sure many of my white classmates agreed with him in the moment.

For white kids living in an environment like Pace, Ross’ answer to the question makes perfect sense. They can go days, months, even years and not be confronted with their race in a majorly negative way. Even if they are, it is very unlikely that it is very far-reaching or coming from any larger institution than an individual. They are represented widely and positively in their school, in their textbooks, on their TVs, and essentially, they are “mirrored” all the time.

The default in our society is Whiteness. Yes, even today, as we’ve watched a black president sworn into office twice, and as some of the wealthiest people in the world are black, this is still true. So for white kids, being white is something that actually does affect them about as much as what sports they play or what they like to do. Being black, however, is so much more than what you like or what you do.

Mia and her friends celebrate on their first day of senior year.

Pace Rotating Schedule Under Scrutiny Anna Stone

Staff Writer Class of 2018

chael Gannon, on the other hand, is pleased with the schedule. “I don’t think any schedule is ideal but this is a good one,” he said.

“The rotation allows periods to drop so there isn’t homework each night in every class. It allows for community times like morning assemblies, and provides more time for testing like with the 80-minute period, and also has break.”

Mr. Gannon came to Pace when they had seven periods per day with shorter classes. He says that it was exhausting for students and didn’t allow for flexibility for things like assemblies and lab periods. Many students agree that meeting for every class is exhausting. Students have this experience with Xdays, days in the schedule where every class meets for a shortened period of time.

“It is unfair how we have less time to do work by dropping frees,” said junior Caroline McRae. “I have a busy afterschool schedule and a hard course load so it’s difficult to do my homework after school since there’s so much work to

be done.” Students said that the worst things about the schedule is when both frees drop on the same day and X-days. So, one could presume that a reversion to the old schedule and/or having fewer frees would not be wellreceived.

A good schedule must be built around what holds the

maximum benefit for the students. Having X-days or losing free periods may be good for the students’ comprehension of the material but if it exhausts them, is it worth it? The loss of frees or the switch to X-days would be a crushing blow to student morale, therefore the Pace schedule may currently be as ideal as it can be.

Photo: Anna Stone

At Pace Academy, high school students have an eightday rotation schedule. It rotates by having the third and the last period of class drop each day, only for the last dropped period to become the first period the next day. Generally, two of the eight periods are free periods, unless the student takes a double-period AP class. In these frees, students can do anything from homework to playing ping pong. Although the frees are loved by students, one has to ask if having free periods and classes that rotate out is the best approach for students’ academic pursuits.

Students’ and teachers’ opinions vary on this topic and there have even been committees that have instituted schedule revisions over the years. Most students are probably unaware that the Pace schedule used to include all classes meeting every day. Over time, it changed to one

class rotating out, followed by two classes dropping each day.

“We spend time covering material as opposed to having time to explore and to work on what we care about individually,” said history teacher Helen Smith. “What supporters [of the current schedule] miss is that we sacrifice continuity and creativity to the demands of the schedule.” Ms. Smith would prefer if we only dropped one class per day.

Since classes rotate out, kids may forget the material they learned previously, and it interrupts the flow of their learning.

AP classes should optimally meet 140-150 times during the school year, according to Ms. Smith. Due to Pace’s schedule, they meet only about 100 times.

If classes met the appropriate number of times, AP students would actually have less work and therefore reduced stress. Ms. Smith also believes that teachers would assign less homework because they would have more class time to go over what they teach.

Head of Upper School Mi-

Junior Graeme Davidson spends his free time on his phone.

Lifestyle

November 11, 2016

The Knightly News - Page 8

Fun Things to Do in Fall Anna Stone

Staff Writer Class of 2018

Photo: Anna Stone

Whether fall's your favorite season or not, it's here so you might as well enjoy it. Here is a list of fun activities to embrace the autumn spirit: Apple Picking – Georgia is home to 16 beautiful orchards that are just a Google search away. Anyone who wants to spend a nice day walking through the trees and appreciating nature can take a leisurely car ride to H&H Orchards, for one.

“Apple picking is a good way to take a day off, destress and enjoy nature," said junior Jennifer Spalten. "Plus, you get apples.” As a side benefit, you can even spend the rest of the day making a delicious apple pie.

Go to Starbucks – It’s that time of year again and everything pumpkin spice is back.

Starbucks has a variety of drinks that are perfect to enjoy in the crisp fall air. Starbucks offers the Pumpkin Spice Latte, Chile Mocha and other drinks along with new foods to celebrate the season.

Jump into a pile of leaves – When asked about his favorite thing to do in fall, English

Juniors Grace Dwyer and Nicole Ortiz enjoy drinks from Starbucks and each other’s company. teacher Dr. DuPree said, “Run and jump and dive into great piles of leaves with my son." It’s simple, but it is a beloved tradition for a reason. All you need is a rake and some leaves, and the rest of the day can be spent cavorting and frolicking with a tinge of childhood nostalgia.

Buy UGGs – How can anyone go to Starbucks and drink Pumpkin Spice Lattes without the accompaniment of UGGs

or UGG look-alikes? These soft shoes are acceptable to wear with any outfit and will keep feet nice and toasty when it’s chilly outside. So, what better way is there to kick off the fall season than by buying a brand new pair of cozy fleece-lined boots?

Make a fire – The cavemen enjoyed it and so should people in the 21st century. Whether it’s roasting marshmallows over a bonfire, or reading by a cozy

Photo: Eden Kerker Sophomore Paige Fleming reads her favorite book, “Twilight.”

Eden Kerker Staff Writer Class of 2019

Ever since e-books arrived, scientists have forecast that they would ultimately replace print books. E-books’ advantages include how they are delivered quickly and without hassle.

Within minutes, users can purchase, download and start reading new books without leaving their chair. Readers don’t have to go to a bookstore or wait days or even weeks for books to arrive.

E-books are portable. Users can access thousands of books without carrying their weight or worrying about finding space to store them. Today’s technol-

ogy allows users to purchase and read e-books anywhere, anytime: on the bus, train, airplane or even while standing in line. “E-books are better for travel since I read several books at once,” said librarian Marty Hamburger. “You also have the ability to look up references immediately, like the dictionary.”

Other interactive accessories, including video, audio and animation, are available as well.

Fonts can now be changed and resized, allowing users to alter the book to their comfort level.

In addition, no trees are destroyed for the use of paper.

“E-books would make my backpack so much lighter,” said junior Katie Brown. Many scientific studies show that the younger generation prefers

e-books due to their familiarity with new technology.

However, several other studies suggest that reading on paper is better for memory retention and focus. “Students are better off with print books because it’s easier to highlight and annotate for school work,” said Spanish teacher Cappy Lewis.

E-books often provide digital substitutes for these actions, but they just are not the same. “The physical act of holding a book and turning page by page is so pleasing and rhythmic,” said English teacher Ricks Carson.

“It is easier to navigate print books and they are just cozier.”

A Harvard Medical School study found that light-emitting e-books, especially before bed, interfere with users’ ability to sleep, alertness in the morning and overall health. According to a 2009 study, researchers found that just six minutes into reading print books, both heart rate and muscle tension decrease.

Reading on a device impacts stress levels negatively and may even cancel out the effect of the relaxation. “E-books are better for reference books, whereas print books are better for pleasure reading,” said librarian Linda Teague. With disagreement over the advantages of e-books versus print books, it all depends on personal preference.

Photo: Landon Goldstein

Students, Faculty Discuss Books Vs. E-books

fireplace, fire is a great addition to any chilly fall day.

Corn Mazes – There are a number of corn mazes around the Atlanta area and Pace community members can get lost in any of them. “It was a great experience because it brought me back to my childhood,” said junior Jordan Shoulberg. From haunted to nearly impossible, corn mazes are guaranteed to provide all participants with a

little scare and a lot of fun.

Hayrides – Hayrides are the perfect sidekick to corn mazes.

Just sit back, relax and watch the countryside fly by.

Make a Thanksgiving feast – It’s almost time to bring out the turkey and break out the cranberry sauce, so why not go all out? With some extra time, you can make a feast 10 miles wide. Well, maybe not that large, but an amazing feast just might make it the best Thanksgiving ever.

Service – In the spirit of Thanksgiving, it’s the perfect time to give back to the community. Pace offers many service opportunities and there are plenty more available outside of Pace. Whether it’s going to the Atlanta Community Food Bank or simply letting loved ones know they are appreciated, fall is a great time to do it.

Scroll through Pinterest for more fall ideas – There can never be enough things to do in fall and ambitious individuals may want to do more things than those listed here. Pinterest has a plethora of creative and tasteful ideas – although they might not look as good as when made by others – that anyone can do. If you really want to take advantage of fall, explore Pinterest for inspiration.

Managing Editor Jonathan Rushton sounds off on life's annoying aspects.

What Grinds My Gears Jonathan Rushton Managing Editor Class of 2018

I, along with most people, can become easily frustrated, especially with the stress of student life at Pace Academy. Here is what grinds my gears (and maybe what grinds your gears as well.)

1. Mango and raspberry day at the soft serve machine 2. Last period tests on a Friday 3. When everyone files through one door, and doesn’t open the second door, when the option of a second door is available (in front of Mrs. Culp’s desk)

4. Fogies and Snakes 5. Getting in trouble for having my shirt untucked 6. Photography assemblies 7. Parents who take the students’ parking spots 8. When people hide in the anonymity of the crowd 9. School days without break 10. People who put up Christmas decorations before Thanksgiving 11. Budapest announcements 12. People who don’t cheer during football games (freshmen...)

13. Kids who postpone taking their test and the rest of the class has to wait to get their grades back 14. Morning double periods 15. Freshmen in the Commons

Lifestyle

Vol. 42, Issue #3

The Knightly News - Page 9

Food Trucks Return Amy Butler

Opinion Editor Class of 2018

Reyes is in charge of researching the different food trucks, contacting them and finding a date that works best. For example, Waffle House is difficult to bring in because Pace must pay them in advance, which could lead to Pace losing a lot of money. “Food trucks are a great way for the students to bond over culinary treats, while simultaneously celebrating their Fridays,” said Eno. "But a lot of people don't realize how much time is spent hiring a food truck."

Still, food trucks remain something to look forward to. “I can’t wait for next year when I can go to the food trucks,” said sophomore Charlie Trimble.

“The upperclassmen's lunches from the food truck always taunt me when I have to eat in the cafeteria.”

Photo: Jordan Shoulberg

Although there are many advantages to becoming an upperclassman at Pace Academy, one of the most important ones is having access to the food trucks on campus at lunchtime. “I have been waiting for this moment my entire high school career," said junior Emma Lellyett. On the first Friday of every month, the Student Council brings in a local Atlanta food truck that parks in front of the Castle. During lunch period, juniors and seniors rush to the food truck in order to beat long lines and savor their food for as long as possible.

The first food truck that

came to Pace this school year was TastyBus. TastyBus’ food options varied from spicy corn on the cob to cheese pizza to meatball subs. Even at 11:50 a.m. when the lunch period bell rang, the line was already growing.

After much anticipation, lots of students’ hopes were let down.

“The line was definitely not worth the wait,” said junior Jack Douglass. “I spent most of my free waiting for a mediocre piece of pizza.”

Since it has been over a month since the last food truck, students eagerly await the appearance of the next one. Some ideas tossed around for food trucks are Waffle House, Genki and Mac the Cheese. However, hosting food trucks is not as easy as it seems.

Student Body Secretary Eno

Junior Ben Bernstein was excited for the TastyBus food truck.

‘Killer Clowns’ Instill Fear Michael Simon Sports Editor Class of 2018

Photo: Graham Hurley

Juniors Ethan Much and Zeke Diamond play games on their phones for a quick study break.

Mobile Games Great Stress Relievers Graham Hurley Staff Writer Class of 2018

Puzzle games provide satisfaction from beating levels and it stimulates your brain with success showering your thoughts.

Recently at Pace, “Trivia Crack” has returned to the fray with lots of students playing it. “’Trivia Crack’ is my favorite iPhone game right now because it is fun to test your knowledge as a whole and against your friends,” said junior Marc Mitchell. “Trivia Crack” tests your basic knowledge on geography, art, science, history, entertainment and sports. The game is turn-based so you and your opponent do not have to play at the same time.

One of the appeals of mobile games is their stress-relieving capabilities. When you have an essay due and a test in a few days, a quick five minutes of playing a few rounds of “Jetpack Joyride” provides a great escape.

The selection of mobile games on phones is massive right now.

Explore the app store and you will surely find a game that captivates you.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

After the “Pokemon Go” craze died down, fewer people have been playing mobile games.

“Pokemon Go” is still being updated by Niantic and new content is constantly coming out.

However, there are still mobile games that are great for a quick escape or a feeling of satisfaction from putting time into a game. Mobile games can help immensely when you need to alleviate stress.

Mobile games fall under two categories: long-term and shortterm commitment. Two of the more popular long-term games are “Clash Royale” and “Clash of Clans.” “Clash Royale” combines strategy game with elements of card games. “Clash Royale” is a fantastic game since you can play against your friends and former clans,” said freshman Austin Fuller. The popularity of “Clash Royale” and “Clash of

Clans” allows the developers to constantly release new content to make sure that people still play their games. You start off small and months pass while you develop something huge. The appeal lies in seeing how far you have progressed.

Short-term games are games like “Doodle Jump” and “Subway Surfers.” These games are great for when you want to waste a small amount of time. “‘Tetris’ and ‘Yahtzee’ are the two games that I play because they provide a quick escape,” said librarian Marty Hamburger. Other games within this category are the famous “Candy Crush Saga” and “Angry Birds.” These games require you to be active with your fingers and your mind because their appeal lies in making quick decisions.

Smartphones boast the widest selection of puzzle games on any platform. The game 2048 came out almost three years ago and it experienced immense success since it is a game that you can just pull out for five minutes between classes or during break.

Even though Halloween was 11 days ago, some people are still holding onto the spooky holiday spirit. These people dress up as clowns and wander through the streets at night, just like the average trick-or-treater on Halloween; however, they are no ordinary trick-or-treaters.

These clowns, dubbed the “killer clowns,” amble through streets throughout the world, night and day. This clown frenzy is not new, but it seems to be more widespread recently.

While this may seem alarming to most people, some are fascinated by the people behind the masks. “I don’t believe that the people are actually going to hurt anybody if given the opportunity,” said junior Graeme Davidson. “I actually think what they are doing is very amusing.” In fact, some people have become so obsessed with the “killer clowns” that they actually attempt to contact the clowns through social media, giving the clowns suggestions as to what cities and states they should pursue next.

People have even created a type of game involving the killer clowns called “clown hunting.”

Basically, people gather into groups of about two to five people and drive or walk around the streets searching for clowns.

“I went clown hunting with my friends once,” said sophomore Nate Robinson. “We only went for about 30 minutes before we gave up. We did not see any clowns.” Some of those who are “fortunate” enough to run into a clown during their hunt take videos of their interactions and post them to social media. In a lot of the videos, some people actually are brave enough to get out of their cars, strike the clown with an object such as a bat and get back into their car, driving away like nothing happened.

Some clowns have begun to trespass onto people’s property.

Many videos have been posted to social media of residents’ security cameras catching clowns.

The footage shows clowns looking through windows, trying to open doors, going into backyards and even picking up and moving stuff on porches. “I am worried that I am going to wake up in the middle of the night and see a clown staring at me through my window,” said junior Hannah Schrager. “I don’t even know what I would do. I think I would be too scared to even scream.”

Atlanta-area schools have also been affected. Clown sightings have forced schools like Grady High School into lockdowns. In Grady’s case, there had been several reports of clown sightings leading up to Tuesday, Oct. 4, when the school ultimately declared a “soft lockdown.” Grady was able to tweet that everyone was safe shortly after declaring the lockdown.

The killer clown craze has caused waves of fright over social media.

Lifestyle

November 11, 2016

The Knightly News - Page 10

Disney Declines Eden Kerker Staff Writer Class of 2019

Photo: Genna Schwarz Sophomore Max Creasman remembers his time in Greece by looking at a rock from the Parthenon.

What’s in Your Backpack?

Genna Schwarz Staff Writer Class of 2019

The backpack is not only a statement piece but a necessity used throughout the world by students. One might assume that a backpack holds only the necessary books and supplies for class; however, many students at the Academy carry a variety of items that could not be found duplicated in any other backpack.

Childhood Memories – Freshman Madison Edwards still keeps a little bit of her childhood alive by bringing Play-Doh to school every day. “Whenever I

Landon Goldstein Co-Editor-in-Chief Class of 2017

Life Saver – Sophomore Kayla Ross is dependent on her backpack not only for the books, but because it holds one of her most important and lifesaving possessions, her EpiPen. “Anything could happen at any moment to me while eating,” said Kayla. “I put my EpiPen in my backpack every morning just in case I need it. As long as it is in my backpack, I will be safe.”

Comfort in Seconds – Freshman Andrew Miller seems to be the most prepared of all the Pace students. Rest is vital because of the effort and time students invest to improve their experience and learning at The Academy. Andrew has found a perfect, easily portable device to enhance his resting experience.

“The inflatable pillow is the greatest invention ever. I bring it every day to school, and whenever I have the time, I pull it out and rest comfortably,” he said.

“All my friends are jealous when

they see it and I’m so much happier throughout the day.”

All Day Beauty – Sophomore Regan Bates, just like many students, wears makeup, but unlike the normal routines of most, her method is a little unorthodox. “I live really far away so I need to get ready quickly in the morning,” said Regan. “My makeup is always in my backpack so I can put it on in the car and have it all throughout the day. It’s just something I have done for two years and I cannot break the habit.”

Lifting Weights – The four flights of stairs in the Arthur M. Blank Family Upper School are used by almost every student throughout the day, which is an intense workout for most. Imagine having to haul an extra fifty pounds walking up those same flights of stairs.

That’s exactly what senior Brennan Murphy did for a whole week. “He lost Fantasy Football and his punishment was one of the best ones so far,” said senior Parker Payne. “I could’ve never carried that much weight up all those stairs. I’m so surprised he survived the day.”

Freshman Matthew Friestad takes a break to watch “The Little Mermaid.”

Photo: Eden Kerker

A Piece of the Parthenon – Sophomore Max Creasman visited Greece through the Pace ICGL program during the summer after his eighth grade year.

He loved the Parthenon so much that he wanted to keep a piece of it forever. “I still hold the rock today in my backpack to remind me of the most amazing trip of my life,” said Max. “Every day I see it and remember like it was yesterday, and I never want to let that feeling go.”

have nothing to do, Play-Doh is definitely my go-to,” said Madison. “I never get bored with it because the options are limitless.

It also provides a stress release throughout the pressures of high school as a freshman.”

When flipping through Disney Channel, many kids of this generation are disappointed by the TV shows airing today.

“Shows like ‘Lab Rats’ and ‘Dog With a Blog’ have taken over Disney Channel,” said senior Laura Shelton. “I think Disney Channel has definitely gone downhill in the last couple of years.” Some people say that the acting has gotten way worse, whereas others complain that the new plots are considered cringeworthy. “It just seems like they are getting lazy,” said sophomore Joe Hirsch.

To this day, the songs from “Hannah Montana” and “High School Musical” are still sung word for word by the kids who watched them years ago. “Just hearing the introduction to ‘Best of Both Worlds,’ I start singing along like I saw the TV show yesterday,” said sophomore Calla Kaminsky. “Now they are trying too hard to make the TV stars sing and their songs just aren’t good or catchy anymore.”

People even complain about the commercial breaks that Disney has recently changed. “I miss when they had that glowing wand and said ‘I’m Selena Gomez from ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ and you’re watching

Disney Channel,” said junior Presley Marxmiller. “Now they just make it boring and show a video of clouds and say ‘wow that cloud looks like a pig.’”

Although the TV shows are a disappointment to many, there aren’t that many complaints about the Disney movies. “The movies aren’t as bad as the TV shows, they just aren’t as good as they once were,” said freshman Charlotte Little. “I think they need to hop back on animation because stuff like ‘Kim Possible’ and ‘Bambi’ were amazing.” Disney first started out by creating ‘Mickey Mouse Cartoon Shorts’ in between commercials.

“I am a big fan of their animations,” said Spanish teacher Paula Pontes. “My favorite movie is ‘Snow White’ because it was their first animated film in 1937.”

When the actual Disney Channel first launched in 1983, their original concept was to air movies, shows and specials aimed at the entire family, not just kids. Early audiences loved Mickey Mouse. But because of the new shows like “Austin and Ally,” Mickey was moved to “Mickey Mouse’s Clubhouse” designed for younger kids in their preschool years. “It might be because we have just gotten a lot older, but the Disney we had when we were younger was much better than it is today,” said senior Prashanth Kumar.

Students Reveal Thanksgiving Favorites

Photos: Landon Goldstein

(L-R) Senior Taylor Upchurch, freshmen Gabe Wright and Dagny Whitlock, and sophomore Max Creasman share their favorites.

Sports

Vol. 42, Issue #3

The Knightly News - Page 11

Basketball Seeks Another Ring George Shepherd Staff Writer Class of 2018

Photo: Fred Assaf

This year the boys basketball team looks to repeat last year’s state championship season.

The Knights face some challenges, including moving up to class AAA along with tougher competition and graduating four seniors who were instrumental in the team’s past success.

The team will look for leadership from current seniors Barrett Baker, Wendell Carter Jr., Parker Payne and Mark Sommerville. Juniors Sebastian Bradley, Isaiah Kelly, Harrison Lewis, Jonathan Rushton and Michael Simon will need to step up as well. The Knights plan to dominate the paint this upcoming season by using their height with Wendell at 6’10” along with Isaiah, Jonathan and Sebastian, all at 6’7”.

Complementing Barrett and Mark in the backcourt are sophomore Myles Todd and freshman Reign Watkins, who will both see signifi-

cant minutes. Reign has played for the AAU team Southern Stampede and looks to continue developing his game under head coach Demetrius Smith. “As an individual, I have the goal of being class AAA freshman of the year,” said Reign. “I especially look forward to games against rival schools, because I’m new to Pace and the rivalries.”

The week of Jan. 23 is crucial for the Knights, as they face Lovett, Westminster and Holy Innocents’ in that order. These games will all be played in the span of five days, and will surely test the stamina of the Knights.

According to sandysspiel.com the Knights take the #1 ranking in AAA Region 5 ahead of Westminster (#2) and Lovett (#3).

Pace’s official, competitive season begins over Thanksgiving break at the Lighthouse Classic in Corinth, Mississippi, and the Knights will see strong competition at other invitationals, including City of Palms Classic in Ft. Myers, Florida and the Beachball Classic in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. “We have a challenging schedule to

Members of the 2016 boys varsity basketball team pose for a picture after winning their first state title. start the season, but we know from last year that this will push us to be at our peak once region play begins,” said Barrett.

The Knights have eight regular season home games, with the first against McNair High

School on Friday, Dec. 2. Pace aims to conclude the season like last year, in the state championship, but this year GHSA has moved the championships from the Macon Coliseum to McCamish Pavilion at Georgia Tech

and Stegeman Coliseum at the University of Georgia. You can catch the Knights tomorrow, Nov. 12, at 11:30 a.m. in the Inman Center as they make their public debut in a scrimmage versus East Jackson High School.

amount of time, and they have to do it synchronized, which is a lot harder than some people realize.

If you have been to a Pace football game, then you’ve seen these cheerleaders tumbling in front of the banner before the football team breaks through.

You have to wonder how these cheerleaders can do roundoffs and back handsprings fast enough to stay in front of the on-rushing football players.

The only logical answer is these tumblers have an amazing level of athleticism. The topic of cheerleading as a sport has been a controversial one, with some people saying that it doesn’t count as a sport, but people have to take into account that not everyone can do these difficult moves. “It definitely upsets me since we are throwing people,” said freshman Hayden Sample.

“We work just as hard to do what we do and it takes a lot of determination, especially for tumbling.”

As for tumbling, it’s not a

skill that can be acquired overnight. It’s just like perfecting a shot for basketball or getting down a backhand in tennis. Tumbling requires a lot of practice, strength and flexibility to pull off. “I have been cheering for ten years,” said senior Cameron Russ. “And it has pretty much taken me that long to perfect my tumbling skills.”

There are some tumbling skills that are easier to learn, such as back handsprings and back tucks, but learning how to do a perfect layout, full and a double full are much harder to learn. Cameron cheered competitively as a member of the Stingray Allstars squad for eight years and is still an active participant in the Stingray community. Cameron talked about how double fulls took her a long time to achieve perfect timing and height.

“Although it was frustrating, I’m really glad that I learned these skills and went through this process,” said Cameron.

freshman Paula Sandoval and senior Julia Ross, finishing 24th and 26th, respectively. The girls team finished 3rd overall.

The boys varsity runners had a tough day on the course. Junior Jack Douglass was the first Knights runner to finish for the boys, coming in 10th place.

Following Jack were seniors Rob Warren, finishing 18th, and Max Irvine, finishing 24th. The boys varsity team ended their season with a 6th place finish in Class 3A. Last season, the boys varsity

team finished in 2nd place. Although their finish this year was not what the team was expecting, they still had a successful season, with Jack breaking the record for fastest time on Westminster’s course on his way to a 1st place finish in region competition.

The girls’ 3rd place finish this year was an improvement on the team’s 4th place finish last year. With freshmen as two of the three top runners for the girls, the team expects to do well again next year.

Cheerleaders Elevate School Spirit Sydnie Jiang Staff Writer Class of 2018

Photo: Fred Assaf

Shaking bleachers and deafening screams define the atmosphere of Pace Academy varsity football games. The student section jumps and shouts in their themed clothing, filling the air with their chants.

But the fans wouldn’t be as hype without the cheerleaders leading the way with their stunts and synchronized cheers. Fans are in awe while watching their stunning halftime routine, in which the cheerleaders execute flawless flips and round-offs.

They make it all look so easy, but in reality, they have to practice for two grueling hours every day, sometimes staying even later when big events are coming up.

As for the catchy cheers, “some routines are easier than others,” according to junior Han-

Junior Aly Satisky balances on the hands of her teammates. nah Schrager. The classic “rock with the white and roll with the blue” cheer is one of the many chants that get the fans on their

feet, but the more complicated ones are easy to overlook. The cheerleaders have to complete multiple moves in a short

Cross Country Ends Season on High Note Michael Simon Sports Editor Class of 2018

Photo: Fred Assaf The girls cross country team revels in their 3rd place finish at State.

On Nov. 5, the boys and girls varsity cross country teams travelled to Carrolton, Georgia to compete in the GHSA 3A State Championship meet.

The girls raced first, led by freshman Peyton Payne. Peyton finished the 3.1 mile race in 10th place. Other notable finishes for the Lady Knights include

Sports

November 11, 2016

The Knightly News - Page 12

Volleyball Makes Pace History Jonathan Rushton Managing Editor Class of 2018

Photo: Fred Assaf

After a historic 2015-2016 year for Pace athletics, in which both boys varsity football and basketball won the state championship for the first time in history, the varsity girls volleyball players have taken another historic step in athletics. With consecutive Elite Eight appearances in 2014 and 2015, the team was poised for success heading into the 2016 season.

After winning the area championship against Lovett, the team fought their way through the state tournament, making the 2016 squad the first ever volleyball team at Pace to make it to the Final Four and the State Championship. “I think this year’s team set important precedents for future teams, which is vital if you want to constantly strive for excellence,” said head coach Anna Bush.

The Knights began the state tournament with a home match against Fannin County High School, dominating the Rebels.

Winning the game by set scores of 25-10, 25-15 and 25-12, Fannin County was no match for the Knights’ size at the net. Senior Meghan Botsch had 32 assists and the Knights combined for seven aces, as they breezed into the Sweet Sixteen.

The Knights played host to Jackson County, and cruised to a straight set victory, which was followed by yet another straight set victory against Sonoraville High School in the Elite Eight.

“Our size and athleticism helped us in the first couple of rounds,” said senior Kaki Cox. “We really started playing our best volleyball. Our serves, sets and spikes were really working.” The Knights were fortunate to have home court advantage in each round all the way up to the State

The Knights squad comes together for the last pre-game talk in the state championship.

Championship.

The volleyball team finally met their first real challenge in the Final Four, as the Lovett Lions came to the Inman Center.

The Knights had already beaten the Lions three times in the season, making this game a chance for revenge for Lovett.

An electrifying atmosphere combined with the fierce rivalry resulted in a memorable game.

Both student sections were packed, as neither school was willing to let the other gain an upper hand.

The Knights lost the first set 17-25; however, the Pace team battled back quickly, winning the second set 25-16. “It was a slow start for us, but we knew we were the more talented team,” said junior Cameron Perchik. “Winning the second set gave us confidence that we could still get the win.”

But after the second set Lovett quickly got into their groove, taking a 15-10 lead, and didn’t look back, winning the

third set 20-25. The Knights found their own mental toughness in the fourth set, recovering from multiple early deficits and tying the game at 23.

Meghan made killer serves to the back middle, which Lovett couldn’t handle, giving the Knights a 26-24 lead and forcing a fifth set. “It was crazy how we fought back so much in this game, but seeing the student section going crazy like that was so much fun,” said Meghan.

The fifth set was one for the ages, as the Knights clawed their way back from an 11-8 deficit, winning 15-12 and sending the Pace faithful into pandemonium.

“Honestly, I was really worried about Lovett, because it is so difficult to beat a good team multiple times,” said Coach Bush. “I had already planned what I was going to say to the team about five different times thinking we were going to lose, so when we finally scored that 15th point in the fifth set, I was still in shock.

All the kids storming the floor, it

was just a tidal wave of emotion and pure joy. I will never forget it and the girls won’t either.”

The State Championship marked another memorable chapter in the intense PaceWestminster rivalry. Both schools brought hundreds of students to the Holy Innocents’ gymnasium, creating a raucous atmosphere for the final game.

“The student support was insane,” said senior Summer Brown. “I was amazed to see all the fans that came out and made so much noise. I hope to get half of that support in college.”

After a tough 19-25 loss in the first set, the Knights dominated the second set at the net, winning 25-23. “We started the game slow, yet again, but we made strides in the second set, showing how we could play with Westminster,” said Kaki.

Senior McKenzie Baker spiked home numerous Meghan Botsch assists, which created confusion for the talented Westminster squad. After some

banter between sets among the fans, the Knights came out firing in the third set, taking numerous early leads.

After Westminster’s star junior Gabby Nolan began to find her groove setting and spiking, the Wildcats pushed back and took the third set 24-26. “It was tough for us to fight back after that killer set,” said Cameron.

The Knights were unable to reproduce the same fourth and fifth set magic from the Lovett game and lost 18-25. “Going all the way to the State Championship and how things played out was so incredible for the school,” said Coach Bush. “I don’t think I was prepared for all the support by the students, school and community. As far as this season, we accomplished a great deal. We defeated Holy Innocents’, Mt. Paran, Wesleyan and Westminster for the first time ever.

I think it helps create a culture of higher expectations as our program continues to grow and mature.”

Sydnie Jiang Staff Writer Class of 2018

two years ago, and Molly took the fall semester last year to go to school abroad at the Alzar School. Molly wasn’t able to join the team in time last year, but she was a member of the team her freshman year.

Although the freshmen are new to the scene, they’re not to be underestimated. Freshmen Virginia Hobbs and Jordan Upchurch are two new players to keep an eye out for, and they both have considerable experience under their belts.

Both Virginia and Jordan have been playing for a club basketball team outside of school for six and four years, respectively. But even with all their experience, they’re still nervous and excited for the varsity scene.

“I’m a little nervous for tryouts, but mostly excited for the chance to be a part of Pace basketball,” said Jordan.

Pace Athletic Director and girls varsity basketball head

coach Troy Baker will be making some changes this season.

According to Coach Baker, the varsity and junior varsity teams will be divided better concerning practice times, with separate practices so that the teams will be less distracted and more devoted to the play at hand. “Last year was more about keeping the Pace basketball culture going and creating positive energy,” he said. The 2015 season was Dr. Baker’s first season as the team’s head coach. Dr. Baker is excited to get back with the team and see the combination of new and returning players, but mainly to work hard with the girls so the team can hit the ground running the first game.

Coach Baker is making some changes with the tournament schedule. For instance, the team won’t be participating in the Westminster Schools Holiday Classic but instead will be playing in the Campbell High School

Christmas Tournament. The Independent School Showcase at Wesleyan is also a new tournament added to the schedule in December.

Players report that the team’s chemistry is instant, and it can be seen on the court. “Our pre-game rituals and post-game celebrations contribute to making one of the most close knit teams I’ve ever played on,” said senior Julia Ross. The relationships developed within the team have translated to games because the girls have learned to communicate on the court and play as a unit, instead of as five individuals.

The girls are eager to get back on the court to get the season started, and they will be playing a scrimmage away at Fellowship Christian School on Nov. 12. The first home game of the season will be against Providence Christian Academy on Nov. 15.

Girls Basketball Eager for Start of Season

Photo: Fred Assaf

For many, Pace basketball is one of the most anticipated sports of the year and it often lives up to its expectations. The Inman Center gym is typically packed full with fans from the home and visitor teams to watch dunks and buzzer beaters. Although the girls basketball team doesn’t dunk and it doesn’t draw a crowd quite like the boys team, it can still excite the spectators.

This year’s girls basketball team will have a mix of wellseasoned veterans and fresh faces. This includes ten returning players along with an influx of new players. Most of these new players are freshmen, except for junior Molly Shapiro and sophomore Madeline Janki.

Madeline returned to Atlanta after moving to Connecticut

During Spirit Week 2016, sophomore Joelle Zelony anticipates the Lovett defenders in a close game in the Inman Center.