Issuu

PROSPECTIVE 801 N. Reynolds Rd. Bryant, Ark. 72022

Bryant High School

Vol. 27, Issue 1

Oct. 5, 2018

Reaching OUT

As the school year begins, the stress of a new year can cause or bring up bigger issues. Students talk about their struggles with mental illness. page 3

KAILEE SPEER | STAFF WRITER

HIDDEN ARMY

Students talk k-pop and BTS fandom

After five years since their debut album, “Dark & Wild,” BTS was the first Korean-pop, or k-pop, group to make it to number one on the Billboard Top 100 Chart, breaking more than 14 records. BTS fans, some known as A.R.M.Y (Adorable Representative M.C. For Youth), have been supporting BTS from all over the world. Sophomore Louis Hobby has been into k-pop for two years. She started off listening to the group Big-Bang. After about six months of being into k-pop, she started to like BTS. “It’s just music in another language,” Hobby said. “k-pop [groups tend to] interact with fans more. They do T.V. shows and fanchants with lightsticks.”

Senior Addison Geary has been interested in BTS since January of 2018. BTS was the first k-pop group she started listening to. “It’s not the average same track with a different beat to it,” Geary said. “It is a breath of fresh air. You might not know what it means at first, but after you translate it, you can actually get into it. It has meaning.” Their latest album, “Love Yourself: Answer,” has concluded the Love Yourself “Era,” in which BTS produced Love Yourself albums to help spread awareness against violence and to promote self-love. “There is so much to [the Love Yourself ‘Era’ project],” Geary said. “Everyone concentrates on the love between two people, and they never

focus on self-love. [BTS] wanted to bring that to life and express the importance of it.” Their song “Fake-Love” has played on American radio and has received senior Makenzi Adkins’ attention. “Yes, [I like it], it’s so catchy,” Adkins said. “It’s not surprising [that they are so famous], they have so many fans.” Adkins does not regularly listen to k-pop, but she thinks that people like BTS because they are from a different country. “They’re foreign and cute,” Adkins said. “Like the Beatles.” Senior J’Lun Herron, who has been listening to k-pop for almost a year, says that he doesn’t like BTS but he thinks that they deserve their fame. “[They are] different,” Herron said.

“They have a meaning.” Herron listens to all different groups of k-pop. “Other music [is good], but it doesn’t really affect me like k-pop,” Herron said. “It almost brings me to tears.”

Photo | Sydney Boswell

NATASHA ARENDT | STAFF WRITER

#SPOOKYSZN Students share their favorite things about fall

As weather becomes cooler and Halloween draws closer, students celebrate autumn in their own ways. Fall officially started Sept. 22, the fall equinox, and many students cherish the beauty of the autumn season, like junior Ashlee Copeland. “I love how it looks outside,” Copeland said. “The leaves change colors and they all fall down and it’s just really pretty. I like that [fall] is not as cold as winter and not as hot as summer, and you get to wear all these cute sweaters. It’s just my favorite time of the year, to be honest.” Many students share Copeland’s love for the colors of fall, including senior Nicolas Ahsam. Ahsam takes three art courses and sometimes turns to an

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autumn color palette for inspiration. “When it comes to art, when I have to do landscapes or something, I really enjoy doing landscapes either in the spring or the fall,” Ahsam said. “For the fall, I love the bright orange and yellow colors. Whenever fall is here, I love all the colors and trees.” For the season itself, Ahsam has other things to look forward to. “I’m mostly excited for the cold weather,” Ahsam said. “I [also] watch a lot of ‘Scooby Doo’ and old Halloween Disney movies and shows. I will literally just listen to the hex girls from Scooby Doo on repeat. I really like the whole mood around Halloween. I get a big bag of Hersheys, though I only eat the crisp and the original.” Sophomore Charlotte Bryant agrees

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with Ahsam when it comes to the spooky season. “Halloween is my favorite holiday,” Bryant said. “I really, really love Halloween. It’s just a good time to be someone who you’re not, just for a day.” Copeland also loves Halloween as an essential fall holiday. “Halloween is my favorite holiday, and I’m really excited to dress up and look cute for Halloween and get a bunch of candy,” Copeland said. “We always decorate the house, and my baby sister is always super excited about decorating the house. It’s so cute. She always freaks out every year, then she dresses up in her Minnie Mouse costumes and all these cute things. I just think it’s so fun, like a bonding experience between me and her, and it’s really great every year.”

Photo | Jae Kubena

NIKE’S KAEPERNICK CAMPAIGN SPARKS CONTROVERSY

CRAZY RICH ASIANS REVIEW

JACOB NEEL HOPES TO RETURN AFTER TEARING ACL

HORNETS RETURN TO WAR MEMORIAL FOR CATHOLIC GAME

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REACHING OUT Students struggle with mental health ALEX BEYERLEIN | STAFF WRITER

SUPPORT FOR BLOOD DRIVE

Students participate in annual Salt Bowl event

.5 million Americans, on average, are in need of blood transplants every year. As much as one pint can save three people’s lives. With 10 pints in the human body, many argue that blood donation is a small sacrifice for such a critical cause. FCCLA has run the annual fall blood drive for the last six years. Because of the club’s role in community service and leadership, they took on the responsibility of the blood drive and officers are expected to care for all the donors. Officers make sure donors are well informed before giving blood. Supplying them with drinks and snacks, officers make sure donors are properly checked in and keep the process moving smoothly. Senior

FCCLA Officer Vice President of Finances Hannah Brewer has been doing this for four years. “I felt bad for [the people giving blood] because I knew it hurt,” Brewer said. “Watching people get sick made me feel really bad, and I just wanted to help anybody I could.” Unfortunately, some students were not able to give blood because of extracurricular activities. Senior FCCLA Officer Vice President of Membership Kajuan Robinson is a football player and was unable to participate in the fall blood drive this year. “I could not give blood, because I am in season, but I would give blood to possibly save or impact someone’s life,” Robinson said. Heather Hare, sponsor of FCCLA, plays a big role in the blood drive. She

has been the sponsor for six years. Hare knows the impact it has on the community and wants to support the life-saving mission. Usually, Hare participates in giving blood, but during her recent pregnancy, she lost a lot of blood and ended up passing out. Hare had to have two blood transfusions and is planning on thanking the people who donated blood to her. “I did not realize how important [giving blood] was until after I had my daughter,” Hare said. “I knew it was for a good cause, and we should be doing it, but now it’s like, holy cow, where would I be if I did not support this cause?”

Kaepernick’s protest would continue throughout the preseason, getting the attention of media, spectators and the President of the United States, Donald Trump. On Sept. 23, 2017, Trump tweeted “If a player wants the privilege of

At the blood drive Sept.11, a nurse moves the needle from senior Aylin Resendiz’s arm. This was her first time giving blood. “It was worth the bee sting,” Resendiz said. Photo | Jae Kubena

protest, but his message was lost in the debating. “It did not violate any constitutional right [Kaepernick] has, but I think it did take away from the message he was trying to say,” White said. People were focused on the fact he was kneeling more than anything else.” White believes that Kaepernick’s protest was focused on police brutality in African American communities. “Kaepernick is protesting police brutality, and police brutality is mostly against African American communities,” White said. “There are racial tones around it since [Kaepernick] Design | Javiya Lawson is African American, and he is protesting an issue that mostly “Everyone’s entitled to their own affects African Americans.” option,” Wallace said. “People do not On Mar. 1, 2017, Kaepernick opted like what is going to happen in this out of his contract to play another world, [but] it is freedom of speech and season with the 49ers. Kaepernick you are able to say whatever you like.” would not be picked up in free agency Senior Chandler White believes by another team for the 2017 season. that Kaepernick had the right to In Oct. of that year he would file a

lawsuit claiming that the NFL owners colluded to keep him from continuing his football career. Time magazine named Kaepernick runner-up as person of the year for 2017, as his lawsuit would continue into 2018. On Sept. 3, 2018, Nike announced that Kaepernick would be one of six “influential” professional athletes named as newest spokesmen for the ‘Just Do It’ campaign. Nike then released a photo of Kaepernick with the caption “Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything.” The ad sparked a backlash for Nike as well as sparking the hashtag on twitter #BoycottNike. In protest, many people would burn their Nike products to show their displeasure of the company supporting Kaepernick’s 2016 protest. “I think it’s a waste of money [for people to burn their Nike products],” Wallace said. “It’s [Kaepernick’s] life and why does his choices have such an impact on others. Following Nike’s new ad campaign, the company’s stock initially dropped in late August and early September but has since grown to its highest point in the company’s history. “Nike has alway [taken sides],” White said. “Whenever Tiger Woods had his ordeal in the late 2000s, they stuck by him. They always stick by their athletes and support them, which I think is a good thing, whether or not you agree with it.”

CARLY LIDZY | STAFF WRITER

FOSTER CARE TO ADOPTION

Students experience local and international systems

Approximately 8,200 children go through the foster care system in Arkansas each year, but there are only 1,600 foster homes available. Because of the lack of foster homes, many kids are taken away from their home counties and moved around constantly. Many students walking the hallways have been through the foster care system, and some have been adopted into a “forever home.” For some, it was a short affair earlier on in their lives, but for others, it was a much longer process. Junior Danté Baker was in the foster care system for 11 years. “I started [in the foster care system] when I was two,” Baker said. “I was in and out for a little while. It was kind of fun going to different schools and meeting new friends. After a while [though], I was going back and forth to the same school and it got boring. I didn’t like moving.” After constantly moving in and out of his childhood home for nine years, Baker finally got adopted.

“I got taken [from my home] for my last time for about four years,” Baker said. “That’s when my [new] family came to adopt me.” Baker still does not have the full story as to why he was ultimately put into the foster care system. “I’ve been lied to by caseworkers a lot,” Baker said. “My [adoptive] parents say that there was some sexual abuse with my little brother and sister, [but] nothing happened to my older brother and me.” While some students are adopted in the state level, sophomore Caroline Coates was originally in the foster care system in Korea and was able to get adopted internationally. “I was adopted when I was a year old on November 17, 2003,” Coates said. “I arrived in America on January 21, 2004.” Coates does not remember her foster mother from Korea, Yung Soo Park, but that did not stop Park from sending traditional Korean items to Coates. “My foster mom sent me some traditional Korean kimonos, small Hanbok robes and little bottles with Hangul [the Korean alphabet] on

them,” Coates said. The only way that Coates would be able to meet her birth parents would be if she were 18 and staying in Korea. “I would want to know the background stuff, sicknesses and genetic, if they ever wonder how I’m doing,” Coates said. While there are many foster kids in Arkansas looking for a home, there are also new people looking to help those who are in need. Theresa Cunningham, a member of First Southern Baptist Church in Bryant, recently looked into joining the foster care cause with her husband, Peter, the youth pastor at FSBC. “We have always had a heart for young people in need,” Cunningham said. “Our family has a lot of love to give, and [we] feel that God commands us to take care of orphans. This is one way we can do that.”

always so easy to ask for help. For some, seeking help can be scary. Their family may not be supportive, and their peers may have trouble understanding their daily struggles. Based on a Mental Health America statistic, over 1.7 million youth who have dealt with major depressive episodes did not receive treatment, and about 80 percent of children who need mental

“It started in the middle of seventh grade and ended towards the end of ninth grade--I went through a really big stage of depression. I think the only people that really know when I’m sad is my family, because they know me. Friends don’t really see it. They think that I’m just this happy girl, but I’m not. When I’m depressed, I feel like I shouldn’t even exist in this world. I feel so lonely, like no one will ever understand what I’m going through. I was really hating myself because I was constantly being told that I don’t fit the perfect image of a girl. I thought I was absolutely worthless, and I wanted to just die. I did self-harm, and I cried all the time. I didn’t get help for it

56.2%

of surveyed students strongly believe mental health should be talked about more in schools.

1 in 3

of surveyed students have struggled with mental illness.

69.5%

of surveyed students strongly agree that they know someone who struggles with mental illness.

Tessa Haley | 11

“I was diagnosed with OCD and anxiety and depression when I was like seven. It was so incredibly hard on my parents, because they really didn’t know what to do. The things that I was doing and saying at seven years old were not things I should’ve been worried about. [My parents] didn’t quite understand what to do with it. Even their closest friends turned away from them. During church, they would say ‘It’s because you didn’t pray enough. You are a sinner. That is why your child is all messed up.’ I wish people could understand that mental illnesses are not adjectives. That may be some astounding new revelation now, but surprise! Just because you are organized, does not mean that you have OCD, in the same way that having a headache doesn’t mean you have a brain tumor. If I wanted to explain this

“My parents won’t listen to me if I tell them I need help.”

“I am unsure if there is a cure for it.” “I feel like I’ll be judged for having those thoughts.” “I just don’t have the time right now.”

Caroline Coates’ foster mother sent her mementos from Korea. Photo |Bradley King

with. During the admissions process, they asked if I tried to commit suicide, and that was one of the biggest things, because I had. I ended up in the situation because I did a lot of lying, and my mom told me that in there, I had to tell the truth, so I felt like I had no other choice but to tell the truth. I was there seven days. I did not think that I belonged there, but after I got out, I was like, ‘Oh, maybe I did’. You can’t forget something like that--it was life-changing. Things don’t really get better, you just learn how to deal with them.”

of surveyed students have struggled with mental illness and are afraid to talk about their experience. Here is why some students are afraid:

“I don’t want to worry my parents.”

because I thought that the only way out was to just kill myself. I made friends, and slowly and progressively, I found my self-worth again. I started to realize that I did have people that cared about me. Jesus really helped me get through that period, too. Depression is hard to get rid of. I mean, it’s a mental illness. It’s not something that will go away just instantly, it’s just there, it’s always there. It got better for me though, because I was constantly being told that I was worth something when I felt like I wasn’t.”

Catherine Anderson | 11

“I was sitting on the floor, and my mom was yelling at me, and I said that she made me want to kill myself. I could feel myself to the point where I was about to have an anxiety attack. I have to calm myself down to bring myself back. I have ADD, anxiety, and depression. Last year, I had a really bad anxiety attack and I ended up in Rivendell. Every Thursday in ROTC, I had an anxiety attack whenever I had to put on my uniform, but I didn’t realize that it was an anxiety attack. After being in Rivendell, I put a name to what I was dealing

1 in 5

“Other people have it worse than me. I have a good life.”

health services do not get them. Look around, be aware and support your peers who are struggling.

Joslyn Graves | 12

*based on 367 student responses

Students respond to Nike’s Kaepernick ad campaign making millions of dollars in the NFL, or other leagues, he or she should not be allowed to disrespect our great American flag (or country) and should stand for the National Anthem.” Trump’s tweet would further the debate to include people outside of football.

25 suicide attempts, there is an estimated one completed suicide. Mental illness doesn’t often simply go away on its own--it’s always there in one way or another. And unfortunately, many students are too afraid or embarrassed to seek help. Look around your classroom--an estimated one in five U.S. teens suffers from a mental disorder. It’s not

by the Numbers

BELIEVING AND SACRIFICING “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses people of color,” Kaepernick told NFL media. Senior football player Nate Wallace saw Kaepernick’s protest as a courageous act. “He sacrificed his whole career just to show people what he is about,” Wallace said. “As for the kneeling, it is your own belief and what you are willing to act on.”

got this,” “Just be happy,” or “Fake it til you make it,” but mental health goes much deeper than that. Internal pain can easily lead to external effects. Anxiety can lead to lower school attendance and a decline in grades. Body shaming can cause teenagers to turn to bulimia or anorexia, and in the U.S., around 30 million people suffer from an eating disorder. For every

Bryant

CHRIS MORGAN | STAFF WRITER

N the night of April 2, 2011, a 22-year-old waited with hundreds of others from the floor of Radio City Music Hall for his name to be called and take his first step to becoming a professional football player in the NFL. The 6’5” quarterback from the University of Nevada had no choice but to wait. Five other quarterbacks were picked ahead of him until his time came in the second round, pick number 36 overall. The pick belonged to the San Francisco 49ers, who in the previous season had gone 6-10, forcing them to miss the playoffs. What the 49ers did not know is that in just two seasons, this draft pick would be a key part in sparking a run to the Super Bowl in the 2012-2013 season, the 49ers first appearance since 1995. However, he would also place the team in the middle of a heated debate on racial inequality in the United States. The quarterback was Colin Kaepernick. On Aug. 14, 2016, Kaepernick sat during the national anthem prior to a preseason NFL game against the New Orlean Saints. In the following preseason games, he chose to kneel rather than sit after Nate Boyer, a former Marine Green Beret, advised him that it would be more respectful

The girl that you sit next to in math who seems to have the happiest attitude about everything or the boy at lunch who keeps to himself may be struggling just to get through each day. Mental illness is a daily struggle for many students. People often say things like, “You’ve

3 PROSPECTIVE Special Coverage Oct 5, 2018

Oct 5, 2018 News PROSPECTIVE

to somebody else in a way that would make sense, I thought like a tsunami. I thought that I was on the beach a few days before it happened. Everybody else ran for cover, and they were fine, but I was like actually stuck to the ground. I could see it coming and I could not move, and it came to the day where the tsunami actually crashed over, and I was drowning for days, and days, and days and finally, there were these people on the surface of the water. I was trying to swim, trying to reach up to them and I would just touch the surface, but I could not break through. People would look down and see me struggling, and they would say ‘It’s not that hard, just swim. Just get up off the water.’”

Taryn Keim | 9 “I used to be suicidal. I was suicidal from second grade on, because I lost my mom in second grade. It messed me up. My aunt took me in, and the summer after sixth grade, she died of breast cancer. Then my dad took me back in. Second grade, after my mom died, I kept thinking completely negative things. I didn’t want to do anything, I didn’t want to be on the earth. I just wanted to be with my mom, no matter what. It just got to me, and you wouldn’t think that

RESOURCES

a second grader would feel suicidal. I didn’t want to go to school the rest of my life. I didn’t go to school for two weeks. My counselors let me eat lunch with them, so I could talk, but then I had to move schools. At Benton, there’s like two counselors for the high school. Thing is, we have so many people here at this school that care. I have so many things to accomplish while I’m here.”

Suicide Helpline: 1-800-273-8255 Textline: Text 741741 Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance: 1-800-826-3632 International OCD Foundation: 617-973-5801 Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Alliance of America: 240-423-9432 SAMHSA Treatment Locator provides referrals to low cost/sliding scale mental health care, substance abuse and dual diagnosis treatment. Phone: 800-662-4357

4 ROWDY BARIBEAU | STAFF WRITER

BOUNCING BACK Neel overcomes injury to return to field

ISABELLA HERRING | STAFF WRITER

13 GOING ON 31

ouncing back from a major injury is no easy task. The sports world has seen it time and time again: a top athlete suffers a setback, and they cannot bounce back to star form. For example, NBA player Derrick Rose, a former MVP, is known for being plagued with knee injuries and has struggled to return to his former caliber. However, Chris Harris Jr., an NFL cornerback, once suffered an ACL tear, and the next season, he bounced back and earned his first All-Pro honor and made his first Pro Bowl appearance. Senior linebacker Jakob Neel is looking to make a Chris Harrisesque return to the football field this season. Neel tore his ACL during a 7-on-7 tournament at Hendrix College in June. “At first, I thought I only hyperextended it,” Neel said. “I got out [on the field] later and tried to run, and it hurt so bad. I knew something worse [had] happened.” At the tournament, there was a doctor on-site, who told Neel the news that no athlete ever wants to hear. “He said I tore my ACL,” Neel said. “I was sad. I thought that my season was going to be done for.” Neel’s mom, Cyndi Neel, was unsettled whenever she heard the news. “I was scared to death,” Cyndi Neel said. “I was torn apart,

Freeform increases nights of Halloween movies

or most students, Halloween is a time of pumpkins, candy and trick-or-treating, but for other students, their plans for celebrating Halloween involve watching Freeform’s 31 Nights of Halloween. Freeform 31 Nights of Halloween is a yearly production that the Freeform channel puts on throughout the month of October. Starting Oct. 1, Freeform will show Halloween classics like “The Addams Family,” “Hocus Pocus” and “The Goonies.” For some students like junior Catherine Sievers, Freeform has been a part of their Halloween celebration for years. Since she was in seventh grade, it has been Sievers favorite Halloween tradition. “I started watching Freeform in middle school,” Sievers said. “I’ve always preferred watching movies more than trick-or-treating”. This is the first year that Freeform will be playing movies throughout the whole month of October. The program is increasing its Halloween marathon from 13 to 31 days and they will be showing up to nine movies a night. “I’m so happy they expanded [the program],” Sievers said. “I’m glad I can watch movies the whole month

instead of just part of it”. As some kids grow older, the magic of Halloween seems to fade, but for sophomore Brent Fee, it is quite the opposite. Fee is obsessed with Halloween and anxiously awaits his favorite holiday every year. “I’ve always felt like I was the only one that still celebrated Halloween, and me and my friends have even started referring to it as ‘Brent’s Day,’”Fee said. Fee also enjoys celebrating the holiday with his favorite Halloween films. It’s his new favorite past time since he feels he is too old to trick-or-treat anymore. “My favorite halloween movie is “Halloweentown,” Fee said. “I start watching them as soon as October starts, and I usually watch them with my friends.” Although many teenagers enjoy celebrating Halloween with a movie,

WHAT’S

there are still a few students that prefer the more traditional celebration. For sophomore Jaelun Thomas, when it comes to Halloween, trick-or-treating is the way to go. “I would have to say I prefer trick-or-treating [over watching movies], because I can take my little brother and let him have fun while I take his candy,” Thomas said.

the

Chandler White | 12 @chandlerwhite32

Bryant has the best student section don’t @ me

Matthew Tribble | 11

@matthewgtribble

If you haven’t cried over sonic running out of mozzarella sticks, you’re canceled

Cassie Ray| 12

@cassieerayyy

Unpopular opinion: band members are the hardest workers in our school

@josielee213

O J.C

I’m akready exhausted just from the idea that I have to wake up early tomorrow

TIFFANY TO | STAFF WRITER

CRAZY ABOUT CULTURE

Western society.” Although the film is a romantic comedy, senior Madison Betz considers it to present an accurate understanding of the customs Asian families have in comparison to what society perceives them to be. “[The movie] is a comedic style to represent what some Asian stereotypes are, like the husband or wife,” Betz said. “In this case, [it] does not live up to the standards of either one of the parents. Since the female lead is not ‘crazy rich’ like her groomto-be, the mother of the groom-to-be is disapproving because of [the female lead’s] social and economic status.” Junior Nga Nguyen, who moved to Arkansas two years ago from Vietnam, perceives the movie to not represent the Asian culture fully, but it maintains the idea of Asian traditions. “It is just a part of Asia, and it is shown as a funny thing in the film,” Nguyen said. “If people were to watch the movie, they would understand the way Asian people live and how different Asians are to let them know about some of the traditions we go through.” Asians are often underappreciated as

individuals, and people rarely see them in a variety of businesses. “In society and the entertainment industry, Asians are underrepresented, and I do not see many Asians in media or around town,” Betz said. “The only real opportunity I have had to see such diversity was at Arkansas Governor’s School, which, to me, was shocking to see.” Betz believes that Asians can be represented in other ways besides entertainment. “Continuing the representation of Asians, we should let them take on roles in different industries. We are often stereotyped into a few distinct categories, where the two prominent ones are medicine and mathematics,” Betz said. “Having this representation can help prove to the younger Asians that they can do more than what is stereotyped, so letting Asians into different industries would be great for Asian representation.” People in Asian countries account for approximately 60% of the world’s suicide rate. Coates thinks the film indirectly refers to the high suicide rates resulting from Asian families and their often high-pressure lifestyles.

“[The creators of the movie] put a lot of emphasis on a full Asian cast, and it is kind of like a stereotype about pressure,” Coates said. “The movie portrays stereotypical and traditional Asian families as very uptight and a family with high standards, which is a nod to the stress to succeed in Asia. The movie is not really related to the [high suicide and depression rates], but I think it is from the pressure to succeed and the education.” Even though the movie does not necessarily represent Asian-American families directly, the film more so portrays Asian families and their cultures. “There are clashes and a sense of [exclusion], because the two cultures are so distinct and different; however, for an Asian family, the image of an Asian family and their beliefs are mostly maintained in this movie,” Betz said. With the positive reactions for the major film, Crazy Rich Asians was able to spark discussion with Asians from around the world about their perspective on their struggles of embracing their culture and traditions in Western society. “Racial prejudice has been a prominent issue throughout history and is still currently an issue, no matter how many people deny the fact, but perhaps society as a whole is finally normalizing cultures and people of color as a whole, which starts with representation in media,” Coates said.

Walking around the classroom barefoot, Coach John Watson interacts with sophomore Kierstin Lee during the discussion of a quiz Sept. 19. Watson’s Psychology classes have collaborated about important psychologists throughout history and the basic structure of the human brain. “I like how comfortable [Watson’s class] feels,” Lee said. “I feel like I’m able to talk to anyone because Coach Watson makes us open up about our feelings and makes us feel at home.” Photo | Jae Kubena

he bell rings as you shuffle to your seat and teachers converse in the hallways. Taking a moment to observe the room, you notice a variety of flags and humorous posters adorning the walls. You squint to read the small puns written on the board by students, unaware of the teacher approaching your desk. BANG. You practically jump out of your seat as Coach John Watson, meeting his goal of gathering everyone’s attention, slams his fist on your desk before yelling, “Good morning, my babies!” to the class. This becomes the normal routine in Watson’s Psychology classes: exciting lessons, corny jokes and fun stories. The resulting jump scares of his daily announcement converts to the students’ loud

Students share views on Rom-Com “Crazy Rich Asians” stare at the massive movie screen with the bright lights casting shadows on my face. Chewing buttery popcorn and sipping my large Dr. Pepper, I see men and women with the same skin tone as mine on the screen. They are adorned in all sorts of luxuries and eating fancy cuisine while talking about the latest gossip. Each character portrayed a variety of emotions that kindled laughter, tears and gasps. By the end of the movie, I developed a new sense of confidence in myself as well as my culture. On Aug. 15, Crazy Rich Asians was released to the public in theaters, earning around $26.5 million during the opening weekend. Crazy Rich Asians was the first major Hollywood film with an all-Asian cast after The Joy Luck Club was released 25 years ago. Not only did the movie garner positive reactions from the general public, Asian students, including sophomore Caroline Coates, noticed the positive representation of Asian culture in the film. “I have heard about [the movie] all over social media and advertisements when many activist pages talked about it,” Coates said. “This is one of the first times a major film has ever had a full Asian cast and the representation for them. I think [Asians] do get represented, but in a negative way, because a lot of the times it is really negative. [This movie] is one of the first positive ways Asians have been represented in

According to Cyndi Neel, Jakob Neel has done extremely well during the rehab process. “I’ve been amazed at how he’s coming back in rehab,” Cyndi Neel said. “Even the doctors are amazed. Most people don’t come back until six months or more, and they’re talking about Jakob playing in four.” Jakob Neel believes he will resume football activities in early October. “I know I’ll be able to play this year,” Jakob Neel said. “I’ll definitely be ready before playoffs.” James has also heard from the doctors that he should be ready to return in early October. “I like to look at things on the positive side,” James said. “I feel like he will be able to participate and participate at a high level when it is all said and done.” While Jakob Neel may be able to participate, James said that he will be limited in terms of playing time at first. “It will take a minute for him to get over the soreness,” James said. “It won’t be as long as it would be for somebody who’s never played the game.” According to Jakob Neel, he will be playing with a chip on his shoulder when he steps onto the football field for the first time his senior season. “I want to be the fastest to come back from an ACL injury and be the best,” Jakob Neel said. “Football is all I’ve known, and it was almost taken from me. I want to make this my best season yet, because I have a lot to prove.”

Walking across the field, senior linebacker Jakob Neel looks for the defensive huddle on the sideline Sept. 14 at the game against the Fayetteville Bulldogs. The Hornets’ comeback attempt fell short as Fayetteville came out on top with a 36 to 35 point win. “I hated not being able to play,” Neel said. “I feel like I could have helped my teammates and made a difference in the game.” Photo |Sydney Boswell

FROM WATSONVILLE TO “IN MY FEELS” Watson creates special connection with students

AubrieKate Moseley| 11

rappers out today ranging from and uniqueness as a rapper.“He doesn’t Soundcloud to studio, there seems to just rap about what other rappers do,” be a major difference between Cole Wilson said. “He has his own ideas and these other musicians. His songs and messages he wants to share with often feature positive lyrics and also us fans, and that’s why he’s such an address many deeper issues, such as important artist.” rape, murder and drug abuse. Senior Xavion “Zae” Jackson is a long-term fan because of these qualities in Cole’s music. “I’ve been listening to J. Cole since AT SE 5 my 8th grade year,” Jackson said. “His 1 music is different to me. I like him because his beats are lit and his lyrics W have meaning.” RO 4 Cole’s music expresses meaningful messages in almost every song. This is a key factor for N IO his wide fan base, including UR 18 CT R E TO S NT D er 20 sophomore Laci Lewis. C O K emb t “His music talks about bigger Sep issues,” Lewis said. “But in a positive way.” According to Wilson, Cole’s concert was a place of unity and expression. “Everyone knew the words and were really feeling the vibe of the music.” Wilson said. Wilson appreciates Cole’s relatability

because his whole life he has played football.” Head coach Buck James said that Jakob Neel’s injury made him and the other coaches “sick.” “It’s tragic for anybody to get hurt in the game of football,” James said. “Especially for a guy like [Neel, who] has so much ahead of him.” James believes that tearing his ACL will only make Jakob Neel stronger and better than before. “The way he’s attacked it, it will only make him a better person and player,” James said. According to James, Jakob Neel has not felt sorry for himself and has been doing all the right things at rehab and in the weight room. “He hasn’t slacked [off] in any form or fashion as far as being part of this team,” James said. As any athlete knows, coming back from an injury comes with a lot of adversity, especially in a sport which involves lots of running and physical contact. Jakob Neel says that the toughest part of getting back to 100% is his conditioning. “I have to get my lungs back [in shape],” Jakob Neel said. “I haven’t been able to run or jog full speed beside[s] doing PT.” Jakob Neel does physical training three times a week, and it usually consists of agility drills, leg presses and other workouts. “It’s all to get my leg stronger,” Jakob Neel said. “When it gets sore, it starts to hurt, but that’s part of it.”

EMILY RUTLEDGE | STAFF WRITER

@aubriekate_m

Students experience J.Cole’s KOD Tour

Josie Lee | 10

I hope my future husband knows he’s killing all the bugs/spiders/ snakes like this is not up for debate I’m sorry sir

DREAMVILLE s thousands roar with excitement, rapper J. Cole enters the stage at Verizon Arena Sept. 12 to entertain his wide range of Arkansas fans. With hits such as “Work Out” and “Friday Night Lights” blaring through the speakers, fans were brought together for one memorable night to appreciate Cole and his powerful lyrics. Sophomore Will Wilson attended the concert. “It was wild,” Wilson said, “Everyone was hyped.” Many students enjoy rappers like Cole, as well as artist Jaden Smith, who opened for the KOD Tour. Cole brought out other rappers too, such as Young Thug, Kill Edward and more. However, once Cole entered the stage, the energy of the arena went from 0-100. “When J. Cole came out, everyone was going crazy,” Wilson said. Cole even had props to entertain the crowd once the music and show began. “He had these cubes on the side of the stage that played videos,” Wilson said. “It was awesome.” Although there are thousands of

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A view of students’ lives in 140 characters or less

CORA PERRY | STAFF WRITER

PROSPECTIVE Features Oct 5, 2018

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response of “COACH!,” in reference to the show Cheers. After three years of teaching freshman students Economics, Watson is now teaching Psychology, AP Psychology and Abnormal Psychology to 10-12th graders. Watson decided to take on the position after former teacher Kim Wilson resigned late in the summer of this year. The shift in responsibility of teaching Economics in the Freshman Academy to Psychology in the senior high has required Watson to adjust to the new experience. “Over the past 17 years, I have taught just about everything in social studies,” Watson said. “I had taught Economics for the past three years, so it was like second nature. Teaching Psychology, especially AP Psychology, has been a total learning experience. I am learning the material along with my classes, [so] I am definitely working a lot harder this year.”

While Watson enjoys teaching now, he had different hobbies during high school. “When I was in high school, I was on the baseball and basketball teams and loved both sports,” Watson said. “After high school, I joined the Navy and was sent to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba for two years. I loved anything to do with the beach [and] learned to surf and scuba dive. Today, I am not much of an athlete, but I still watch the [Los Angeles] Dodgers on TV every night, which takes some dedication, because most nights their games don’t end until after midnight.” It’s easy to connect with Watson regarding sports, but many who work with Watson develop strong relationships with him for a variety of reasons. Civics teacher Frank Fisher, who previously worked close with Watson, is one of many who miss him in the Freshman Academy. “I really enjoyed teaching alongside [Watson],” Fisher said. “He is one of a few people you will meet in a lifetime that can talk intelligently on any subject. Of course, he was always quick with a story or a pun or joke. One of the funniest moments was when he parked in a handicap spot at school and I put a fake parking ticket on his car. Certainly, I will miss working with him.” Although teachers and administrators he worked with in the Freshman Academy do not see him as often, those in building eight are thrilled to have him around. Teacher Will Heatherly has already established a close relationship with Watson in their shared experience of coaching Quiz Bowl; however, he enjoys having Watson in the same building. “John Watson has a great character,” Heatherly said. “He is honest, communicates well, is good natured and cares about everyone he knows. He is a person I consider a close friend and of course a valued colleague. We have a

great relationship from my perspective, but he could be tired of me sending him links to progressive rock bands.” Their close proximity also allows for friendly rivalry. Heatherly wrote on the white board at the front of the class, “Isn’t it too bad they don’t play 8 innings?”, the morning after the Dodgers lost because a relief pitcher blew the game. It has become evident to teachers and students alike that connecting with Watson is natural. Watson ensures that he establishes a close relationship with everyone, especially his students, leading them to feel at home when in his classroom. “I love that light bulb moment when someone suddenly understands,” Watson said. “I like that many of my students feel comfortable enough to come talk to me about their lives, to tell me their crazy stories, to tell me the funny or even the sad things that happened to them. When I was a new teacher, I had a superintendent that would always say, ‘A kid will never care how much you know until they know how much you care.’ I love that my students know that I care about them.” Considering the students, Watson feels a distinct difference in teaching freshmen and sophomores through seniors. Watson was fond of teaching the Academy students since they were more dependent and “special.” “I absolutely loved teaching my freshman babies, [because] freshmen are different than other students,” Watson said. “They are dealing with adult emotions for the first time, and I feel like I had 150 sons and daughters every year when I was teaching in the academy. You don’t get that as much teaching older students, but I do have an amazing group this year.” Students are certainly aware of the care Watson has for them, and they have come to view him as more than just a teacher. Sophomore Hart Penfield, a former student of Watson’s, is one of

many who admire him as a teacher and confidant. “While I only had Coach Watson for one semester, the connection that you make with him makes you feel like you have known him your whole life,” Penfield said. “He’s a role model, a leader, and when his class rolls around, he’s almost like your best friend. He’s the guy you can always count on and you know will help you no matter what the circumstance.” Students have also formed respect for Watson’s teaching abilities, in both his previous Economics and current Psychology classes. The way he has taught lessons has benefited students in class and outside of it as well. Senior Katherine Chambless continues to use information obtained from her freshman year Economics class with Watson, finding it relevant in almost any subject. “He has always taught us what we need to know rather than leave us hanging with information,” Chambless said. “In ninth grade, he taught us how to take notes, and I’ve used it since. He also taught us to be real and straightforward and it has helped in many different situations.” \ Although he has left behind Economics for Psychology, it is social studies just the same. The change in environment has not affected the overall outlook for Watson and the atmosphere within his classroom. His character and passion for his career has been the foundation of many friendships inside and outside of the classroom. “Someone once told me that if you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life,” Watson said. “I want to teach because it does not feel like a job. A bad day teaching is still better than a good day doing almost any other job. Except maybe being general manager of the Dodgers. That would be pretty cool, too.”

BRYCE RHODES | STAFF WRITER

HEART OF BRYANT Math teacher Stevens enjoys outdoor hobbies

ll eyes are on her. Mathematical figures begin to come together and many raise their hands. Every day, complicated equations are made easy in math teacher Kathy Stevens’ classroom. Stevens is a seasoned math teacher with 24 years of experience. However, she has not always taught Calculus and Pre-Calculus, or even math. “I used to be a band director,” Stevens said. “I loved band, and it was just a big part of my life, [but] it was just hard when I had young children.” Stevens is known for teaching upper-level math classes and has taught math courses at various grade levels. “I taught 7th grade math, 8th grade math, and 8th grade Pre-AP Algebra,” Stevens said.

Stevens has ample education and takes college courses as a hobby. “I first went to college at UCA and I got a bachelor’s degree in music education,” Stevens said. “I got a masters degree in math education from UCA. I’ve taken many undergraduate math courses.” Obtaining her education was not easy for Stevens, especially her higher degrees. “Getting that master’s degree in math was the hardest thing I ever did,” Stevens said. “I had to study so much for that.” Even as a child, Stevens had an affinity for math, but chose to pursue music at first. “I did like math,” Stevens said. “It was my favorite subject in high school, and I always did well in math. When I decided teaching music wasn’t for me because [of] family responsibilities, that’s why I thought I would like to

teach math.” Many of her students not only pass the AP exam but also really enjoy her classes, like senior Kevin Weng. Weng is in AP Calculus and responds well to Stevens’ teaching methods. “What I like the most about Mrs. Steven’s teaching style is that nobody gets left out, [and] if asked, I’m sure Mrs. Stevens is more than willing to slow down,” Weng said. “Mrs. Stevens is the type of teacher that always helps her students.” Stevens has many active, outdoor hobbies outside of teaching. “I do long-distance bike riding.” Stevens said. “I do a little kayaking and some backpacking.” Stevens also engages in some activities that few people know how to do anymore. Her lifestyle is a nod to a simpler time. “I have my own sheep, so I raise [them], shear their wool, spin their

wool into yarn and make things with the yarn,” Stevens said. “I’ve [also] got chickens and guineas.” While Stevens has not always been a math teacher, she loves coming to work every day to teach students how to do everything from factoring to finding equations of a derivative of a function as a limit of the difference quotient. “I really love working with kids and love math, [and] every year I’ve enjoyed it more and more,” Stevens said. “I love being at the high school.” Stevens enjoys teaching, joking with her students, and helping them to advance on to college. “My favorite part about teaching is seeing students gain confidence and get excited when they finally get it, seeing the light bulb come on, that’s fun,” Stevens said. Photo | Hunter High

STAFF EDITORIAL

s high school students, we of throwing all jokes aside for a spend a lot of time talking moment to make sure a friend to each other. However, is okay. in the midst of constant While school keeps us busy and Snapchats and group chats grades seem to become more and Facetime conversations that important than our own wellblow up our phones, most of us being, the stigma around mental aren’t talking about the thing that health builds and the conversation has been plaguing our generation, dies out, further isolating our silently taking away our friends classmates and risking them and family. becoming a statistic. We all know that mental health is Statistics released by the National a thing and that people--people who Alliance for Mental Illness show we share classes and lunches and that 20% of youth between 13football games with--can struggle 18 years old will struggle with a with mental health. However, our mental health condition. Suicide is apathetic generation has made the third leading cause of death for not caring about our mental and people between the ages of 10-24 physical states a trend through years old, and 90% of those had an unfortunately relatable tweets, and underlying mental saying, “Oh, that’s tough,” instead health condition.

Mental health isn’t easy to talk about. It’s raw, and it’s messy, and it means allowing yourself to be vulnerable for long enough to recognize that yourself or a loved one needs help. We have friends and classmates that we know need help. Some of us know that we need help. On a campus of more than 2,000 students, we don’t know everyone. We don’t know everyone’s name or everyone’s story, but we do have the power to make sure everyone knows that there is somebody who cares. We talk all the time, and it’s time that we talk about something that we so often brush under the rug. By starting the conversation on mental health, we can open up a dialogue

that could potentially guide other students toward reaching out for help instead of struggling on their own. When we let people sit alone at lunch, say that we are “So OCD” and even make jokes about wanting to die, we are only further isolating each other and pushing the narrative that suffering is cool, trendy and jokeworthy. There is no shame in struggling with mental health, and there is no shame in getting help. The sooner we start to acknowledge something that has been affecting so many of us, the sooner we can start changing the numbers.

had my first massive panic attack at freshman homecoming. Struggling to swallow and catch my breath, shaking uncontrollably, with beads of sweat forming on my forehead, my body shut down. After that, I felt the need to seek help. I confronted my parents and told them how I was feeling. While I may not have been completely taken seriously, my mother and father humored me a little. They sent me to a therapist that our health insurance did not cover. As a matter of fact, our health insurance did not cover any therapy. My weekly appointments turned to biweekly, then to monthly as the doctor bills racked up and no progress was made. It was about this time I had to learn to cope on my own. Shortly after finishing my freshman year, I was reunited with an old friend who ended up becoming my first love. I fell head over heels for a boy at the age of 15. He soon became my only friend, and we spent almost an entire year with each other. I was isolated from my friends and completely infatuated with this boy. He manipulated me and made me feel worthless. He forced me to cut my male friends out of my life, and any contact with them would result in anger. As he turned to drugs, I was no longer a priority in his life. When he stopped caring, I desperately tried to win him back, but of course I knew I would never be enough. My self esteem fell, though I was never able to show it. Shortly after losing my first love, my best friend revealed his romantic feelings for me, and I began to feel the cycle repeat itself. This relationship was different. It was healthy. He did not isolate me or treat me like property, and did not hold me back. However, around the eightmonth mark, his infidelity caused me to question my self worth once again. I had no real way to cope. I could not lose my second love and best friend all at once, so I forgave

caps. They had swallowed them, which helped me realize that I was not that desperate to die and I did not belong there. I met kids who had been to 12 facilities similar to that one and they had not made any progress. That could not be me. I refused to let it be me. Out of fear that I would try to hurt myself, I was put on a finger food diet on my third day there so that I wouldn’t have access to utensils. My meals consisted of sandwiches and chips and not much else. I knew something had to change. I saw plenty of people come and go, and my jealousy grew stronger. Finally, after five days, I was released. It was like getting out of prison. I was taken to eat my favorite foods and was able to finally see my parents, who had put me on suicide watch at home. They did not want to see me die, so they did everything in their power to prevent that from happening. I realized that people did care what happened to me and that my life could be so much worse. I still attend outpatient therapy on a weekly basis and still have those bad days, but I am learning how to cope. I think I will always be learning how to cope, but that is just life. I have a disease, and like any sick person, I have to figure out ways to get around it. It might be the most difficult thing I have ever had to do, but I am slowly making progress, and that is all I could ever ask for.

which he feels line up better with the Republican party. Cerutti believes that people often misunderstand conservatives and their intentions. “I think a lot of people think that we are jerks [or] that we don’t listen to people’s feelings,” Cerutti said. “But we’re not jerks, we are just very efficient with the information that we know.” Freshman McKenzie Hicks is an Independent, meaning that she has mixed views and values which side with both political parties. She leans more towards the Republican party, but explains that both sides have stereotypes that are not always true. “I feel like a bunch of people think that Republicans are all white hillbillies and that we’re all Christian extremists, but that’s not always the case,”

Hornets, fans, band take on football season

Photo Editor

Cheering on the Hornets, seniors Emily Skiavo and Hannah Brewer watch the intense game between Benton and Bryant during Salt Bowl on Sept. 25. The student section supported it’s team with loud chants and screams as the Hornets took the lead later in the game. “[In the student section], there was so much energy and you just wanted to scream and yell with everybody,” Skiavo said. “I was excited because it’s senior year and the front of the student section was our spot.” Photo | Jae Kubena

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Posing for a quick photo, sophomores Mattie Calhoun, Emily Rutledge and Tiffany To participate in the early morning pep rally with THV 11 before the Fayetteville football game Sept. 14. They arrived at the bandroom around 5 a.m.. “By the end of the day, I was running out of fuel,” Calhoun said. “However, an extra hour of sleep would not have been worth spending extra time with my friends and music.” Photo | Savannah Ray

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Running through the smoke, junior Ty Johnson and senior Grant Botti get ready to play the Fayetteville Bulldogs Sept 14. The Hornets got down early and went into halftime with a score of 21 to 7, but entering the second half, Bryant went on to score 28 straight unanswered points. “Our offense fed off our defense’s energy,” Botti said. “We’ve been in similar situations where we got down and came back before. We know the game is never over until it’s over.” Photo | Gracie Kimbrell Performing “Go Big Blue,” senior Matthew Short does a signature saxophone move. The saxophones don’t stretch before performances--they just go for it. “It’s not my favorite, but it’s interesting,” Short said. Photo | Jordan Heath

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Lisa Stine Prospective is a monthly publication produced, edited and maintained by Newspaper Journalism II, III and IV students at Bryant High School. Prospective is a member of the Arkansas Scholastic Press Association, Quill and Scroll, Columbia Scholastic Press Association and National Scholastic Press Association. Ad space may be purchased. Prospective does not accept advertising that is illegal for minors. The editorial board accepts letters; however, letters must be addressed to student interests and may not violate the student publication policy. Letters can be submitted by delivery to 10-319.

Performing at the Fayetteville pep rally Sept.14, juniors Bailey Casteel and Taylor Torres do “trombone suicide.” It is a tradition at pep rallies where trombone players all line up and whip their instruments around each other. “We practice with pool noodles,” Torres said. “We go slow and then we bring it up to speed.” Photo | Gracie Kimbrell In the front of the student section, seniors Emily Skiavo, Hannah Brewer and Jarely Ramirez cheer during the Salt Bowl Aug. 25. The student section dressed out in all blue: beaded chokers, face paint, glitter and various blue shirts. “It was my senior Salt Bowl and it will always be memorable,” Ramirez said. “I helped [my friends] with their face paint, glitter and hair.” Photo | Alex Melton As the game begins, the student section starts cheering at the game against Fayetteville Sept. 14. Senior Kristin Garner got a front row seat. “Everybody was just so hyped up, and right before the game is about to start, there’s so much anticipation building up inside of you,” Garner said. Photo | Sydney Boswell As a reporter from ABC7 begins interviewing for the annual Salt Bowl Aug. 25, sophomore dance team member Kyndal Bentley stands excited for the game. This was Bentley’s first time dancing at the Salt Bowl. “The game was nerve wracking, but it was a good overall experience,” Bentley said. Photo | Sophia Ocampo In a stadium full of fans at the Salt Bowl Aug. 25, senior Austin Trimble and junior Tamuarion Wilson run out on the field. Trimble listens to “old country, headbanging rock music or rap” as a pregame ritual. “When I run out onto the field, I think that I’m going to try and knock the head off of whoever is in front of me,” Trimble said. Photo | Sydney Boswell

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FROM YOUR PROSPECTIVE believe that we’re against the whole government or that everything has to be controlled, which is not the case. There is no ‘all government hands-on’ belief on the Democratic side.” Junior Dominic D’Angelo, who is neutral on politics, states that many people assume that because a person primarily sides with one party over the other, they automatically either support or oppose certain politicians. “I feel like if you say you are a Republican, people think [that you love Donald Trump] but if you’re a Democrat, people think [that you hate Donald Trump],” D’Angelo said. Sophomore Jimmy Cerutti, who is a very strong conservative, explains that his beliefs come from growing up in the south and from his religious values,

Hall,

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olitical views can be controversial and vary widely among students. Along with the disagreements which stem from opposing political views, there are also stereotypes and reputations that form on both political sides. Democrats and Republicans both agree that their parties can sometimes be misrepresented or misunderstood. Each party promotes values and positions that they feel are important. Senior Rachel Beza-Juarez, who is a Democrat, explains that many leftleaning people are not as extreme on certain beliefs, contrary to what many may think. “[People believe] that Democrats are very liberal,” Beza-Juarez said. “For example, with gun control, people

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EMILY HALL|EDITOR blame themselves, but every day I felt like I was dying, physically and emotionally. I went in for my next appointment and told my therapist what had happened. She decided to give me a risk assessment, which would determine how big of a risk I was to myself. It was based on point value, so scoring five to 10 would have been low, 11 to 16 would have been medium, and 17 to 23 would have been high. I scored a 16, which meant that legally I was not forced to be hospitalized, but that I got to choose. I did not think I would get admitted, so I agreed to go. I met my mom at the hospital and sat in the waiting room, holding back tears and filling out paperwork. I had not anticipated the news I was about to get. My feelings had been the norm for me for many years, so I could not see how far I had come from being “okay.” We were taken into the assessment room and asked hundreds of questions. My admissions counselor made me feel mostly comfortable and explained that, although he would have to consult the psychiatrist about my admission, he knew they would say yes. At that point, he left the room, and I went into panic mode. The tears I was so desperately trying to hold back came out and my heart sank to my feet. I was comforted by my parents and even laughed about the situation, but I did not want to be away from my family. After I was taken in, I was not allowed to leave my floor and sat in the day room, sobbing. I was later comforted by a nurse and spoke to my mom on the phone. I was homesick and terrified. Other kids came in, yet I still felt completely alone. I sat silent for days, which only prolonged my stay. It felt like prison. I was trapped in a foreign environment with people I did not know, and I felt forced to pretend to be okay. I was finally put on medication and started to feel at home. I hated that I was getting comfortable there, but I had no choice if I wanted to get out. Trying to make friends, I talked to people who were exactly like me. Every night, I fell asleep to the sounds of kids punching walls and breaking things, but I knew that they were only doing it out of frustration. While there, I saw people try to kill themselves with screws and marker

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Natasha Arendt, Rowdy Baribeau, Madison Basco, Alex Beyerlein, Rosemary Gregg, Emily Hall, Bella Herring, Carly Lidzy, Chris Morgan, Emma Morgan, Rhea Patel, Cora Perry, Maxton Preuninger, Bryce Rhodes, Emily Rutledge, Kailee Speer, Tiffany To

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him. Then, he took advantage of my forgiveness and did other things with other girls, and lies piled on top of lies until I decided that there was no getting back on track. He punished me for this decision, though it may not have been intentional. He was rude and spiteful until he thought we might get back together. He was selfish, but begged for my forgiveness, and I was close to giving it to him. Being constantly torn down by people who claimed to love me took a massive toll on my health. I had good days, bad days and really bad days. My brain would turn itself off for hours on end just to escape the constant pain. My disassociation was taking over my life. There were nights where self harm was the only thing I could do to stay afloat. I reached out to my ex-boyfriend, because he was the only resource I felt like I had left. When he could not fix it, he gave up. He no longer felt the urge to stop me. I felt like no one in the world would care if I died. I scrolled through text messages I received accusing me of things I did not do and condemning me for mistakes I made in the past. One night, while I was at work, my friend called my mom and told her everything that had been going on, and I was immediately put back in therapy that was covered by my insurance. The ups and downs continued, and slowly but surely, I started making progress. I was finally moving forward. The suicidal thoughts became less frequent, and my parents intended to put me on medication; however, after just three weeks of therapy, I hit rock bottom. One night, while I was in my room studying, I looked down at my phone to see a vicious text about how destructive and manipulative I was. I tried cutting, but it did not mend the wounds the text had created, so I took out a notebook and a pen and began to write notes. First, to my mom. Then, to my dad, and so on. I had finished two and a half notes before reaching out to someone to buy pills. I was planning to overdose. Once I had taken steps to execute my plan, I knew it was time for me to seek professional help, but I could not. I was terrified. No parent wants to hear that their child is suicidal. I was scared they would

PROSPECTIVE

1/8 page (21p6 x 15p6): Black & White: $30 Color: $45 1/4 page (31p6 x 31p6): Black & White: $60 Color: $75 1/2 page (31p6 x 63p0): Black & White: $90 Color: $105 1 page (63p0 x 63p0): Black and White: $135 Color: $150 Hicks said. “On the Democrat side, people think they’re crooks and that they don’t have any good morals.”

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Oct 5, 2018 OP-ED PROSPECTIVE

Oct 5, 2018 Sports PROSPECTIVE

CARLY LIDZY | STAFF WRITER

BACK TO WAR MEMORIAL

Students return to stadium for first time since Salt Bowl

fter an incident at the Salt Bowl Sat. Aug. 25 caused panic and chaos and ended the game prematurely, many students were affected mentally, and returning was the last thing on their minds. With the football game against Catholic High Sept. 28 taking place at War Memorial, some students are concerned about returning to the stadium. Senior Kat Richey, one of the drum majors for the Legacy, is not fond of the idea of going back, but she is willing to return. “I feel like when we have to go back, it’s going to be scary,” Richey said. “But we will have grown as an ensemble and as people enough to push past that and do the job we have to do.” Some students are more willing to go back, while some are still skeptical. Sophomore color guard member Abigail Carter is nervous that something similar to what happened at the Salt Bowl may happen again. “I don’t want to go back until I

have some reassurance that it’s never going to happen again,” Carter said. Cheer team member sophomore Madelyn Martin has a more positive outlook on going back to War Memorial. “We’re going to be scared, but we’re also going to be prepared,” Martin said. “I know there are bad memories there, but we don’t need to be stuck in that situation. It’s going to make us stronger and [bring us] closer together.” Junior Ahmad Adams, middle linebacker and running back, is not worried about another event like the Salt Bowl incident occurring when the team goes to War Memorial. “I feel that when we step back on the field to play, people are going to talk about what happened and try to make it a big thing again,” Adams said. “When [the football players] step back on the field, we’re not going to let what happened bother us.” While some students are worried about future events, coaches and extracurricular leaders are doing what they can to calm students’ nerves. Legacy director Josh Gardner understands that some students will

feel hesitant about going back to War Memorial. “Band kids are resilient,” Gardner said. “But there’s always going to be a little bit of edge to going back to any place you have [a] traumatic experience like that. We just have to keep a positive attitude and understand that everybody copes with things differently.” The Bryant Band program has also added new safety precautions in light of the scare at War Memorial during the Salt Bowl. “We now have a new policy for chaperones,” Gardner said. “They have [an] emergency kit, neon vests so they can be located easier [and] every chaperone will have a full roster of the band. It’s hard to keep track of everybody, [so we plan to] have a safe meeting place and meet back at the buses in emergencies.” Before the band directors could stop to catch their breath after the Salt Bowl, a student’s parent had already sent an email concerned about what would happen at the Catholic game. Director Jay Chipman was the recipient. “[There was a parent] concerned that

Paramedics flood the field after panic erupted during the third quarter at the Salt Bowl at War Memorial Stadium Sat. Aug. 25. The event caused some students and fans to be trampled, hyperventilate and fall unconscious and required medical attention. Photo| Hunter High

their child might have a nervous breakdown,” Chipman said. “I said, ‘Why don’t we wait before we make any irrational decisions and let some time pass. They’re going to up security and make sure nothing happens again.’ This student may completely be okay with going [to War Memorial] by the time it comes

around. [However,] I don’t see myself punishing a student’s grade if they truly feel like this is going to be detrimental to their health.”

CHRIS MORGAN |SPORTS EDITOR

TEEING UP FOR STATE

Golf team prepares to compete for state championship

ince playing their first tournament of the season at North Hills Country Club, the Hornet golf team has been preparing for their final faceoff of the season in the 7A state championship. Head golf coach Steve Griffith is in his third season as head coach to the program. “One of the goals for all 7A teams is to be there on day two of state,” Griffith said. “[Playing on day two means] to be among the top eight programs in the state.” Griffith shares this same goal for both the boys and girls team. “The boys have made it the last two years,” Griffith said. “Hopefully, we can compete for top five this year. This is the first time in several years that our girls have a legit shot at making day two; in fact, we will be disappointed if we are not there.” Griffith believes the key for both squads is consistency. “We have had a lot of good rounds by different individuals this year,” Griffith said. “We need

to be consistent and bring those rounds together as a group.” The girls tournament was held at the Shadow Valley Country Club in Rogers Sept. 24-26. Prior to the tournament, Griffith shared his thoughts on what it would take for both teams to succeed. “Freshman Caitlin LaCerra has been a big surprise,” Griffith said. “This is her first year of competitive golf, and she has had some very good rounds. I am hoping that juniors Meredith Medford and Brooklyn Waller have a good state tournament. They both have great potential. Hopefully, they can shine when it counts the most.” As for the boys, the tournament was held at Rolling Hill Country Club in Cabot Oct. 1-3. “We are looking for seniors Clayton Harbour and Landon Allison to use last year’s tournament experience to lead the charge for us this year,” Griffith said. Harbour, who is entering his fourth year on the Hornets golf team, reflected on his personal expectations for the state tournament and what it would take to be among the top five teams. “[Rolling Hills] is a tough course,”

Harbour said. “Cabot is the best team [ahead of] Fayetteville, and it’s on their home course, so it’s going to be tough.” Harbour was confident in his performance before the tournament. “My game is feeling good,” Harbour said. “I should be near the top of the leaderboard.” Harbour is the top player for the Hornets this season. “I do not think [there is any extra pressure being the top player],” Harbour said. “It’s just extra confidence.” Junior Logan McDonald is ranked as the second player for the Hornets, and this is his first time competing in the state tournament. “We should really be good as a team,” McDonald said. “I am hoping I can play good. I have played on the course a couple of times. I know a couple of the guys have played in the tournament before, and they [also] know the course well.” McDonald believes the team can compete with the top teams in the state. “[Fayetteville and Cabot] are both really good teams,” McDonald said. “Anything could happen. We could play really good and they could play poor, or vice versa.” Harbour believes the key for the under-

classmen competing is to play like they have all season. “Do not treat [state] any different,” Harbour said. “It’s the same game we have played all year. [We need to] come mentally prepared.”

Sizing up his shot, sophomore Will Hanson prepares to shoot at the Hurricane Country Club Sept. 18. The Hornet golf team hosted their final regular season match aginst North Little Rock. “I just think about how I want to swing [my club] and how I wasnt to land the ball,” Hanson said. Photo| Jaiden Pearson

RHEA PATEL| STAFF WRITER

FROM NAPS TO NATIONALS Cheer team hosts camp for future Hornets

ooking around next to her friends, the pee wee cheerleader takes in the huge crowd cheering her on in the stands. As a young girl, the feeling of being out on the football field performing was exhilarating for senior Haley Schrader. What she did not know at the time was that years later, she would be on the football field many more times with the same exhilarating feeling as a member of Bryant Varsity Cheer. At this year’s Pee Wee Cheer Camps, Schrader and the rest of the cheer team got to witness some of the best talent at the elementary schools. The camp is a program run by the Bryant Varsity Cheer team for elementary girls in kindergarten to 5th grade. The cheer team teaches the girls a short dance and three chants to perform at a Bryant home football game. They continue to do the program year after year to get more girls interested in cheer.

“We continue to do this to spark an interest in the girls at a young age,” cheer coach Karen Scarlett said. “There’s only so much we can do in two hours, but we hope we create that interest that they want to go to a gym and properly learn.” Pee Wee has gained the interest of many girls, including Schrader and other Bryant Varsity Cheerleaders. “It’s funny to see that some of my own cheerleaders were cheerleaders at the Pee Wee clinic when they were little kids, so somehow it works,” Scarlett said. “We see these girls coming back as 10th and 11th graders.” Schrader recalls being in the Pee Wee camp and looking up to the older girls. “It’s crazy to think back then and now, that I’m the older one and they’re looking up to me,” Schrader said. Pee Wee Camp succeeded in recruiting Schrader. The camp and the student workers influenced Schrader to continue cheer. “It did influence me to continue, because I always saw cheerleaders as positive role models inside and outside

of school,” Schrader said. “I always wanted to be that positive role model.” Teaching at Pee Wee was a new experience for sophomore Hallie Allison. “It was fun meeting all the little girls, and I think they had fun too,” Allison said.

Hugging a little girl, sophomore Hallie Allison comforts her at a summer pee wee cheer camp. They were doing the camp to teach younger students some chants. “The little girl was upset about her mother leaving, so I tried to make her feel welcomed,” Allison said. Photo| Sophia Ocampo