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Living with diabetes: Treating her illness as a Type 1

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Northwest Guilford High School

Greensboro, NC

Volume 56, Issue 2

December 2019

FRONT PAGE FEED

WHAT’S INSIDE

News Op-Ed Spread

3-5 6-9 10-11

Sports 12-14 Features 15-17 Arts & Entertainment 18-19

5 13

Flu season approaches

Fitz on Main attracts the community

Reiber goes Division 1

Project Beloved makes bundles

16 19

Figure skater reﬂects after injury

The Toll of Type 1 : Diabetic tells her story of chronic illness Madison Magyar features editor

iabetes is a disease in which your body has elevated blood sugar levels; symptoms include always feeling hungry or thirsty, fatigue, blurry vision, weight loss and the numbing of limbs. For a few students at Northwest, this is their reality. Senior Madeline Lacopo is one of these students. She experiences many of these symptoms as well as others nearly every day of her life. Through the years, she has found ways to cope and deal with her disease but still is affected daily by it. “I have Type 1 diabetes,” Lacopo said. “Type 1 diabetes is when your pancreas stops working and doesn’t produce insulin.” This means Lacopo must monitor her glucose levels and manually give herself insulin shots that her body refuses to give her. Type 1 diabetes is not caused by diet but genetics or environmental triggers. “I got it when I was five; they knew something was wrong when

I was always thirsty and hungry, and then I started peeing the bed and throwing up a lot,” Lacopo said. At that age, Lacopo was unable to take care of herself and had the help of her parents. However, as she got older, she soon realized the magnitude of responsibility her disease was. Middle school proved to be the most challenging due to ignorant kids and even teachers. “In middle and elementary school, I had people pull my pump tube, so my pump would come out,” Lacopo said. The bullying became nearly unbearable, which resulted in decisions that would affect Lacopo’s health for years to come. “For the first 13 years of my life that I knew I had diabetes, I didn’t take care of myself because kids were so mean,” Lacopo said. This resulted in her losing the privilege of having a pump. Her doctor decided it would be best to put her back on manual insulin shots so that she would be accountable for her health and couldn’t rely on a machine.

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“Diabetics try to be discreet about everything; we take into consideration that people don’t like needles,” Lacopo said. “I always try and hide my shots or do it under my desk.” Sometimes even being discreet is not good enough for public areas. “I have had people ask me in restaurants if I could go somewhere else to check my sugar and give myself shots,” Lacopo said. Even something as simple as eating a snack to balance blood sugar levels can cause issues and feelings of isolation. “Last year, I had a teacher that said I wasn’t allowed to eat in her class, so I had to stand outside the door and eat when my sugar went low,” Lacopo said. “I always got weird stares when I would eat in class even though we weren’t supposed to.” Judgmental looks and stares occur everywhere for Lacopo; however, they are not nearly as concerning as some of her more serious health problems that come with living with Type 1 diabetes. “When my sugar goes high for

a certain amount of time, my body goes into Ketoacidosis,” Lacopo said. “I was throwing up every hour and couldn’t sleep; I was so sick I couldn’t even sit up, so I missed a week of school.” Lacopo deals with a variety of symptoms on a daily basis that arise from things that are out of her hands. “When I have to take a test I get stressed out, but then my blood sugar goes high which makes me feel sick and nauseous,” Lacopo said. “If I get scared my sugar goes low and I get hot and sweaty and delirious.” Even things as simple as room temperature can affect how her body acts. “I woke up this morning and my sugar was high, so I already had a headache and was nauseous,” Lacopo said. As for Lacopo’s future, there are also many other concerns due to previous years of neglecting her disease. “My biggest concern is that Continued on page 16

Front page photo by Kaylen Ayres

December 2019

NEWS

New policy sparks debate about discrimination Highly controversial county board meeting announced that students can now appeal short-term suspensions Kimberly Brown, Christy Ma arts & entertainment editor, news editor

new Guilford County Schools’ policy was passed in November with a five-four vote and has left the county divided. This new policy revision--pushed by the local NAACP, Pulpit Forum of Greensboro Business League and community members--would allow students who have been suspended for less than 10 days to appeal their suspension to the school board. Currently, only students who have been suspended for more than 10 days have the right to appeal this decision. The North Carolina General Assembly consolidated report noted the disproportionate number of minority students among suspensions. In the 2017-18 school year, there were 221,228 shortterm suspensions--82,157 for high-school students--in North Carolina. The short-term suspension rate was 1.39 suspensions per 10 students, but it was three per 10 for black students. “Male students, black students, American-Indian students, ninth graders and students receiving special education services are among the groups that continue to be disproportionately represented among suspended students,” the report said. The story is reflected in the Guilford County School district. According to the Southern Coalition for Social Justice (SCSJ) racial equity report card from 2019, black students make up 40.6 percent of the student population while white students make up 32.5 percent. However, the similarity in population doesn’t translate in the demographics of shot-term suspensions. “Black students were 4.2 times more likely than white students to receive a short-term suspension,” the SCSJ report said. “Statewide, black students received 57 percent of all short-term suspensions, even though they made up only 25 percent of the student population in 2016-2017. This disproportion exists despite the face that studies show black and white students misbehave at similar rates.” In the past few years, North Carolina public schools have seen a significant difference in the rate of short-term suspensions for black students. “There are 16.9 suspensions per 100 black students, but only 4 per 100 white students,” SCSJ report said. These numbers are not limited to black students. According to the SCSJ, in 2017-18, males were 2.83 times more likely to get short-term suspensions. American Indians make up 12.5 percent of all short-term

December 2019

suspensions in Guilford County, but they only make up 0.4 percent of the population. According to the North Carolina General Assembly consolidated report, Asian students had the largest increase of short-term suspensions by 12.5 percent. Plus, exceptional children also suffer from a disproportionate percentage of short-term suspensions. “Exceptional children received

For 2017-18 North Carolina public schools...

it is alarming. Something does need to be done about it, and I support (this policy).” Other people who favor the policy include Reverend Cardes Brown of the New Light Missionary Baptist Church, who is also head of the local NAACP chapter. He cited his own role in the out-of-school suspension program, New Light at Risk Intergenerational Outreach Program, as a reason for his support. Brown stated two words that continue to impact the conversation: due process. “When students get short-term out-of-school suspensions, they go home, serve their suspension and get behind on their work,” Brown said.

55% 26%

short-term suspensions were given to black students

public school students are black

according to the North Carolina consolidated report

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211,228

short-term suspensions in N.C. 2017-2018

Some kids get unjust punishment for what they do. It is alarming. Something needs to be done.

“Many times they get into more trouble. I know that when it comes to long-term suspensions, there’s due process. Now (we should) apply it to students math teacher who have shortMatthew Andrews term suspensions 52,228, (because) every child or 24.7 deserves a right to at least percent, of the be heard.” 211,228 short-term Other community members, suspensions in 2017-18,” the North such as Cyril Jefferson from the Carolina General Assembly consoliHigh Point City Council, agreed dated report said. with Brown. Jefferson cited the 14th As a result of the short-term Amendment and described how suspension policy revision, these “states may not deprive any person of students will be able to appeal this life, liberty or property without due decision to the school’s principal, process of law.” then the principal’s supervisor and “The Supreme Court of the U.S. then the superintendent’s designee. has ruled that public education is Previously, whatever the administraa property right,” Jefferson said. “It tion decided was final. may not be taken away without first “I think the main reason (this providing due process protections. policy was proposed) is that you have It is easy for these issues to become certain kids who do get discrimipoliticized. It is easy for us to choose nated against,” mathematics teacher our sides, (but we should rather) Matthew Andrews said. “I definitely choose what’s right for our students.” believe that some kids do get unjust These rights are applicable to all punishment for what they do. I think students as administration could give

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unfair suspensions on the basis of distrust, dislike or misinformation. “I think it’s designed to alleviate discrimination,” history teacher Kimberly Deyton said. “Often times, due process has been stripped from those with less money and minorities, but this policy is not just (for minorities). It’s for every student just to make sure that there is that extra level of oversight. (Suspensions) are going to affect you later in life; if you’re going to take someone out of school for multiple days, the reason should be reasonable.” However, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida parent Andrew Pollack argues that disciplinary leniency would increase the risk of violence in classrooms. He described his own experience of losing his daughter, who was killed during the Parkland shooting. In his letter to Guilford County Schools, he called the Parkland school shooting “the most avoidable mass murder in American history.” “In Syracuse, where (superintendent Sharon Contreras) previously pushed these policies, teachers felt helpless in the face of violence,” Pollack said. “36 percent said they’d been assaulted; 57 percent said they’d been threatened; 66 percent said they feared for their safety. Ultimately, after a wave of violence, the district attorney stepped in to force the school district to reverse course.” The county states that the review of a student’s suspension would just act as a “safeguard” to ensure that the suspension was applied appropriately to the student, and that it would not increase the chances of violence. “(The policy) just extends due process to shorter suspensions,” Deyton said. “It’s not allowing kids that are a threat to students to stay on campus; it’s for minor offenses. I don’t think there’s any harm in allowing kids and their parents to have another step to ensure that the right decision was made. If the right decision was made, it’s going to stand; if the wrong decision was made, then it’s going to be corrected.” Andrews thinks that this is the right solution to a problem in Guilford County. However, he still believes that the board might need to change their approach. “I think in the short term, (this policy won’t work),” Andrews said. “I would feel more confident with the policy if there were a board of people looking at a kid that got suspended, not necessarily just (individuals.) However, that would be a good start.” Because the policy is still new, no one truly knows how it will actually affect students in Guilford County. However, some are hopeful about the possible prioritization of students. “When we choose our youth above all else, we will find what works in our best interest,” Jefferson said.

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NEWS

CIEE creates global classroom Council on International Exchange gives scholarships to students studying abroad Val Orozco staff writer

any people dream of traveling the world. Whether it be through a gap year, a foreign exchange or some kind of study abroad program, students have several opportunities to travel to another country and submerge themselves into a first-hand learning experience. Senior William Kieffer applied to the CIEE--or Council on International Exchange--a non-profit study abroad and intercultural program during his junior year. At the time, he was taking German 2 and was planning to take AP German the next year, the program would help him better adjust to the pace of the class after he skipped the honors German 3 course. “Hearing and speaking German almost 100 percent of the time for a month helped a lot with listening and understanding German; the courses we took there helped with overall understanding, too,” Kieffer said. CIEE focuses on giving students an outside-of-the-classroom enriching experience in dozens of different locations. Students can travel from an isolated town in Africa to the busy streets of Paris, France. Students take classes either at night or during the day where they can focus on whatever program they applied to. “I went to Seville, Spain for a four-week Spanish Language and

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Culture immersion program,” senior Claire Bercaw said. “I was placed in the highestlevel class at night.” Bercaw is now an AP Spanish student at Northwest. She excels in her class, and now that she has that first-hand exposure to Spanish culture, her understanding of the class is much more preeminent. “It definitely

helped with my Spanish, especially my speaking skills from the class, talking to my host family and talking to locals,” Bercaw said. But study abroad trips aren’t just about being stuck in another classroom for a month of summer break. Group activities are equally prevalent: from visiting museums and historical monuments to experiencing different activities their location has to offer. Students are encouraged to make friends on these trips, and sometimes they give them more independence and freedom to go visit different places on their own. “I went to Berlin, Germany for one month on the language and culture program. (I was able to) explore and visit places in the city that weren’t necessarily on the agenda for the group to go see,” senior Andrew Shuttleworth said. “On one of our free days, my friends and I went to a really cool lake in Northern Berlin that we wouldn’t have been able to see otherwise.” CIEE has provided numerous opportunities to go and immerse themselves into a culture that is very different from theirs, and students are taking these opportunities. But there is one downside to the wonders of traveling: cost. Traveling is expensive on its own. Paying for tickets, saving money for souvenirs and keeping cash to go out with friends while exploring the city can add up while you travel. “The cost (for my trip) would have been around $5,000,” Bercaw

CIEE covered half the price for me. It was the best month of my life.

senior Claire Bercaw

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said. Fortunately for these students, CIEE provides the opportunity to travel at a much lower cost, with the best possible learning experience. “CIEE covered half the price for me,” Bercaw said. Several participants are interested in applying for these CIEE scholarships. They hand out scholarships for both financial need and merit-based grants. CIEE goes through every possible measure in order to provide these students with a chance to go abroad. “I received around $1,000 for merit-based scholarships, which definitely helped me pay for the trip,” Shuttleworth said. These merit-scholarships are handed out to students who have proven to have academic competitiveness and an interest in the language and culture of the country they plan to visit. CIEE also hands out scholarships for global awareness and interest in diplomacy. “I would definitely study abroad with CIEE again,” Bercaw said. International study can be an eye-opening experience for many students, and CIEE gives them a chance to pursue those global interests. “It was the best month of my life,” Bercaw said. (Top) Photo by Kaylen Ayres (Bottom) Contributed by Willl Kieﬀer

(Top) A map of Europe pictures some popular studyabroad locations. Studying abroad gives greater language enrichment to prospective students. (Bottom) (Pictured left to right) Andrew Shuttleworth, Alvin Xu, Northwest senior Will Kieﬀer and Langston Jones stand in front of the Branderbug Gate in Berlin, Germany. CIEE helps give scholarships to students who want to study abroad.

December 2019

Mary’s House closes its doors Laina McCoy staff writer

ntil its sudden closure in October, Mary’s House was a substance abuse organization in Greensboro, North Carolina. Known for housing mothers and their children when they needed shelter, Mary’s House—located at 520 Guilford Avenue—had assisted families since 1996. Each year around the holidays, Northwest clubs have adopted a family at Mary’s House to donate gifts, but this year, it won’t be happening. “We have different things; now, we’re adopting kids at the Freedom House,” guidance counselor Stacy Garner said. Mary’s House website has already been deactivated, and its

Facebook page dormant. One Facebook commenter posted, “I do not work here anymore, and I don’t know if or when they will open back up!” The reason behind the closure is insufficient funds. Former executive director Jacqueline Phillips said Mary’s House had received several generous donations throughout the years, including aid from local churches. However, it still wasn’t enough to keep it financially solvent after losing its biggest donor in 2016. Donations, services and volunteers from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) also fell through, and as resources began to dwindle, the likelihood of Mary’s House’s closure became imminent. However, it leaves behind a notable legacy. As a faith-based, non-

NEWS

The charitable organization shuts down due to lack of funding

profit organization, Mary’s House provided free substance abuse rehabilitation services, including cognitive/behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-related counseling, rational emotive behavioral therapy and more. Women who lived at Mary’s House left with a higher rate of maintaining sobriety. Following their long-term stay, Mary’s House helped its patrons find permanent housing and helped them grow their skills in providing for their family. Whether or not it will reopen is uncertain; for now, its residents have been relocated elsewhere. “Most of the mothers in the organization have already been placed in housing and have exited the program,” Garner said.

Photo by Laina McCoy

Mary’s House is a quaint building with decent greenery. The non-proﬁt organization was a charitable outlet for the students at Northwest up until its close.

Faculty prepares for flu season Nathan Vescio, Jacob Teague webmaster, staff writer

s temperatures drop, so has the health of Northwest students. Like every year, teachers and administrators are preparing for the flu season that plague their classes with illnessrelated absences. The past two years are recorded as having some of the worst flu outbreaks in recent history. The 2017-2018 flu season alone killed about 80,000 people according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. This total surpassed the previous record of 56,000 flu-related deaths in 2009. Northwest too saw a proportional increase in the severity of flu outbreaks that season. “The number of cases of the flu have increased over the years,” health science teacher Angela Hamilton said. When flu outbreaks occur, principal Ralph Kitley typically sends out a letter to students and parents. The letter contains information on precautions to take to avoid illness, as well as general information on the flu. This year, scientists expect the number of flu cases to be as high as they have been in recent years based on predictions made with regard to Australia’s flu season. “The flu season was really bad in

December 2019

to wait for the whole immunity.” This year, local pharmacies are offering incentives to patrons obtaining the flu shot. CVS is providing a $5 coupon and Publix grocery store is giving out $10 gift cards for every flu shot given. Even Northwest had its own flu shot clinic. The session of inoculations took place Oct. 24. According to the CDC, the vaccination had a 40 percent effectiveness rate. “Get a flu shot as soon as possible,” Hamilton said. “All that can get the flu shot should to protect those who can’t.” Kersting echoes Hamilton’s view with concerns about the risk unvaccinated people pose to her child. “I would be upset if people didn’t get the flu vaccine, Photo by Nathan Vescio because then (my daughter) Social science teacher Greg Shue gets the ﬂu shot. In recent years, the ﬂu epidemic has been could get (the flu),” Kersting said. getting worse. Many sick students still attend Australia, and their winter is before and elderly are especially at risk. classes, putting the health of others ours, so that’s how we can kind According to the CDC, people 65 and at risk in addition to their own. of predict how bad our flu season older account for anywhere from 70 “Deaths have already been is going to be,” science teacher to 80 percent of flu related deaths. reported,” Hamilton said regarding Meredith Kersting said. Children under the age of two, the flu this year. “If (you’re) running According to the Australian meanwhile, are at risk of developing a fever, stay home.” Department of Public Health. flu-related complications like While completely preventing the Australia had more than 275,000 pneumonia. flu is an impossible task, Northwest reported flu cases by the end of Further complicating matters, has at least undergone preparations the usual season. This number vaccinating infants against the virus to lessen its impact. makes the flu season the worst in is more difficult than vaccinating “Use hand sanitizer, wash your Australian history. teenagers or adults. hands and cough in your sleeve,” Because of certain risk factors “I have a 10-month-old baby, Hamilton said. “Attendance is such as age and genetic strength of and she has to get two flu shots,” highly expected (as) kids don’t want the immune system, some people Kersting said. “There’s a month in to be out because of the workload, are more susceptible to the flu than between, so she’s more likely to get but don’t come to school if you’re others. As such, small children the flu because she’s young and has sick.”

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OPINION

Consumerism of the Holidays:

What needs to be changed

Lily Hughes staff writer

in the spirit of greed. hen people think of the holiday To Denny, Black Friday shopping season, they typically picture themselves has taken away from the true meaning alongside their friends and family. Whethof the holidays: spending time with the er decorating a Christmas tree, lighting ones you love. the menorah or sharing a Thanksgiving “I go Black Friday shopping at the meal, this season is defined by its commumall every year, but I believe that (the nion and cheer. holiday season) is almost one hundred The holidays are supposed to be a time percent about retail,” Denny said. “It’s of gathering; however, a recent shift has all about who can spend the most occurred, promoting the material aspect of money on presents.” the holidays. How did present-day society In the modern age of technology, let this ulterior meaning divert from the Cyber Monday, often seen as an “online true focus of the joyful holiday season? Black Friday”, has seen a rapid rise in “To me, the whole point of Christmas is popularity. Companies like Amazon celebrating God’s gift to the world,” junior and Apple promote their biggest sales Cat Denny said. “I think that Christmas of the year, all accessible from the shopping has been over-commercialized.” comfort of your home. Although students from different Cyber Monday specializes in backgrounds have varying opinions as to electronic sales, a commonly gifted why the holidays are important to them, item during the holiday season. Senior they can all agree that this is a time for Gretta Overmyer enjoys Cyber Monday gathering, rather than consumerism. As a shopping yearly, seeing it as an opporsociety, we have created a plethora of days tunity to start the season of gift-giving. intended to glorify our shopping addiction, “I take advantage of Cyber Monday using the holidays to justify such. ThanksGraphic by Kaylen Ayres deals because (they) are more convegiving is now overridden by Black Friday, nient (than Black Friday),” Overmyer A gift is presented, only it is made of money. The holidays have increasa consumer-based holiday signifying the said. “I can get them anywhere I’m at.” beginning of “America’s Christmas shop- ingly become materialistic rather than quality time spent with loved ones. Despite the newfound greed in the ping season.” holiday season, consumers continue Once intended to take place on the day to enjoy the financial perks of Black Friday and has turned from a simple shopping event to a preceding Thanksgiving, Black Friday sales now Cyber Monday. Although these days are now gloricompetitive, greed-based campaign. On Thanksoften begin on Thanksgiving Day. In 2018, most fied by retailers, it is important to remember why giving Day, it is not uncommon to see shoppers major retail stores, including Target, Walmart, one believes the holidays are truly important. engaging in fights, riots or stampedes. Best Buy and Macy’s, all began their Black Friday “I feel like all the shopping and gift-giving has According to a study by the Black Friday Death sales during the afternoon of Thanksgiving Day, taken away from the true meaning of the holiday thus forcing shoppers to choose between engaging Count, the holiday has caused 111 injuries and 10 season,” Overmyer said. “But I think that it’s nice deaths since 2006. This now-dangerous event has with their loved ones or securing a bargain. to be able to give the people you care about gifts taken away from the brotherly love of the holiday Black Friday, a holiday once created by retailand show your appreciation for them.” season, turning communities against each other ers to promote big-ticket items before Christmas,

What can be done about funding at Northwest?

STAFF EDITORIAL

unding is always an issue for schools. Over the last several years, Guilford County Schools has seen an increase in federal, state and local funds. But these funds still fall short of the budget requested by GCS. For the 2018-2019 school year, GCS requested more than $767 million to fund increase in bus driver and teacher salaries, safety and security measures and additional instructional materials. However, GCS only received $700 million in funding. “We have award-winning arts programs, award-winning gifted programs, award-winning programs for exceptional children that suffer when we don’t receive this basic funding,” Guilford County Schools Superintendent Sharon Contreras said in an interview with WFMY News. These award-winning programs include the Northwest arts department, which receives little funding. The lack of funding for the arts program puts stress upon students and

teachers. Supplies that are necessary for art classes don’t just appear out of thin air. Most, if not all students involved in the arts have to fundraise in some way to get the supplies they need for each specific class. “There are so many supplies that you need in art. Many students have to buy their supplies due to a shortage of materials. Right now, our art club is in severe need of things like brushes, tape, erasers and Sharpies,” sophomore Stephanie Oh said. For the 2018-2019 school year $2,207,461 in the Guilford County Schools budget were allocated for “classroom materials/instructional supplies and equipment.” This number is only up $9,143 from the 2017-2018 allocation for the same category. In 2017 nearly $3 million were allocated for athletics programs compared to just under $2 million were provided to “classroom materials/instructional supplies and equipment” in the same school year. Fundraising to make up for the lack of funding for arts programs

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is a difficult process. Most forms of fundraising require students to sell things that might not catch the interest of potential buyers, who are, in most cases, students. “It was kind of hard because we had a quota to fill, and not many people were willing to buy. A lot of us, including my friends and I, ended up just buying some ourselves,” Oh said. “The fundraiser was optional, but I felt obligated to participate since our art program is in desperate need of help.” In terms of Northwest’s help in fundraising for the arts, Oh believes there are many things that could happen. “I think that funding directly from the school can definitely help us. This year, the entire budget for art has been cut, and we have no money. Even if it isn’t a crazy amount, even a little can help,” Oh said. “I feel like the lack of money is also stressing our art teachers out. Like I mentioned before, there’s so many materials that we really need.”

Although art may not seem like a big deal to students who aren’t involved in the arts, the problem doesn’t just lie there. A lack of funding impacts the majority of Northwest’s classes. “Classes such as science should definitely receive funding,” Oh said. “But we can’t ignore our art classes. We are classes as well, and are working towards our future. Lots of our students will go on to higher education in the arts, and just as many people will go on to higher education in math and science. We need to provide equal opportunities to all of our students, whether they are in art classes or ‘normal’ classes.” Contreras agrees. She believes that additional funding is needed in order to continue to support schools, as stated in the 2018–2019 GCS budget recommendation. “To truly transform our students’ lives, we need to make evidencebased changes that will support a continuous system and student improvement,” Contreras said.

2 HEAD

HEAD TO HEAD

Gen Z are more tolerant and knowledgable

Sarah Teague op/ed editor

“I think we do see kids that are more involved with knowing what’s going on out there, but we also see n argument breaks out in kids that read something and think class. it’s 100 percent the truth without Generalizations fly across the knowing the sources. Because room. Statistics are flung at each there’s just so much out there it’s student with no source flying behard to figure out what’s legit and hind. Two students are now out of what’s not,” Hilliard said. their seat; the words ‘devil’s advoThrown into the news cycle, the cate’ has been said so many times first thing I saw were the riots over Satan himself has been summoned police brutality. The whole country from the depths of the cracked was in turmoil, but my family was mobile flooring below them. Two eating Thanksgiving dinner behind sides of the same spectrum seem me. to be miles away from a common Having that little window into opinion. the problems of the world, Gen Z But, it’s over now. The Generawas able to get information at a tion X teacher has waved his hands speed never seen before. We were over the room like a king silencing exposed to the struggle of those not his subjects, a smug smile hooked in power, the corruptness of those on his face, as he has accomplished who were, and a general apathy exactly what he wanted: a fight. from our parents, who thought “When electing a phones black presifirst started dent would coming out, end racism it was very in the US. difficult to “Everymanage, thing’s got everyone its good and had them, its bad, I everyone think that wanted to we’re into a see what was point where going on,” there’s social studies no turnteacher Dana ing back Hilliard said. from social “I think media. I social studies teacher, Generation Z think it’s at is better with Dana Hilliard a point to it because you grew up with it and where we have to figure out how to learned the do’s and don’ts for hav- deal with it and how to not be so ing a phone,” addicted to it,” Hilliard said. Generation Z has often been Along our journey through called ‘over-sensitive snowflakes’ social media, we were exposed to and ‘offended’ by older generapeople from across the world, peotions, our ‘PC’ culture a plague on ple from all different backgrounds comedy and the political climate. and identities and opinions, giving However, our out-spoken opinions us a wide-eye in examining the are a result of growing up in a problems we were coming to face world where political agendas were The biggest block to the develcorrupt and hidden and racism and opment of civil rights is simply igsexism finally exploded as a movenorance, but Gen Z teenagers have ment on social media. witnessed, if not met, people and As I was growing up, social movements from around the world. media played a heavy role in my Our parents most likely grew up life. Before, 12-year-olds didn’t in small towns like Oak Ridge, and generally have access or interest in when you grow up in a small town, what was happening in the world you grow small town opinions, it’s around them, but our generation inevitable. paid attention. While there were So when your student, daughoften missteps along the path of ter, whatever, comes to you with a navigating opinion vs. fact, that correction on pronouns or how to foundation of knowledge heavily refer to people, listen. They might influenced my opinions today. know a lot more than you think.

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Everything’s got its good and its bad, I think that we’re into a point where there’s no turning back from social media.

Gen Z are too sensitive

young adults coming into the office claiming to have anxiety, depression, or any other mental or psychological illness,” Williams said, “I think counseling should be the first priority over eneration Z, or, the generamedication, but because pills seem tion between the ages of roughly 7 and 22 (born between 1997 and 2012), to be an easier solution for doctors, young patients, and also the parents has consistently demonstrated that they are one of the most oversensitive of those children, unnecessary medication has become very prevalent.” generations of our modern time. The New studies suggest that people generation that statistically sees the who fake mental illnesses for attenmost therapists, believes they have tion or as a way to get out of difficult the highest anxiety and depression situations can actually end up conrates, and overall is “offended” at a vincing themselves that the illness is large quantity of ideas and subjects, real. Thus, whether or not the young Gen Z needs to take a step back and person realizes they are faking an learn how to cope with adversity as illness, it is important to note there well as their own emotions. have been detrimental medical obGen Z is the first generation to servations. Continued use of drugs as grow up with technology and social media platforms. The overall respons- a way to cope with normal emotions contributes to the growing opioid es and attitudes towards technology crisis in America and can have longis heavily observed by subsequent standing negative effects on these generations, and the precedent Gen Z is setting could potentially be a dan- young people’s lives. “I would say a large number, posgerous one. The “self-diagnosis” trend sibly up to 40 (also known or 50 percent, as factitious of young adults disorders) in and adolescents particular who come is a risky into the office fad that is claiming to negatively have mental impacting illnesses in many adoreality are lescents that just unable would othto cope with erwise have registered nurse at Cone life stressors,” been healthy. Health, Jennifer Williams Williams said. This is when “It definitely people claim can (contribute to the opioid crisis) to suffer from anxiety or depression because once a person takes these because it is either “cool” or because drugs and gets hooked on them the they do not understand how to cope factitious disorder tends to ‘get worse’ with regular human emotions. in the patient’s eyes so they can con“I think this generation uses the tinue to receive medication.” words ‘anxiety’ and ‘depression’ very Whether people are faking serious loosely; they do not want to try other illnesses for attention or because they strategies to lessen stress or unhappiness in their lives,” registered nurse genuinely do not understand their at Cone Health Jennifer Williams said. emotions and cannot cope with them, “These young people look for the easy unhealthy exaggeration should never be the solution. In a society that is way out: medication.” The generation, and young people beginning to normalize these emotions of anxiety and depression, we in general, are known to exaggerate ought to take a step back and evaluoften to get points across, and such ate how there can be serious harm to exaggeration can lead to inaccurate the medical industry, family life, and measurements of their own mental professional life all because of one’s well-being. Such inaccuracies cause oversensitivity and inability to manmore doctor office appointments, age. more parental stress and the nor“I think there needs to be more malizing of mental illness which communication between young should not be considered a normal, people and their parents, counselors, day-to-day occurance, and in reality or other adults so they can seek help needs serious medical evaluation. In in relieving stressors that would addition, the technological era has otherwise cause them to turn to fakled to many not understanding how ing an illness for medication or other to express their emotions to others unhealthy coping mechanisms,” Wilbecause of the overall decrease of liams said. interpersonal skills. “I truly do believe doctors too eas* Name changed ily prescribe medication to Morgan DelFava staff writer

“

HEAD

These young people look for the easy way out: medication.

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“

OPINION

Comparing school schedules BLOCK VS TRADITIONAL

Angela Lam, Sophia Carson staff writers

chool schedules are an important factor in a student’s life. They dictate the structure of each day for the entire school year. Different schools have different types of schedules, the two most prevalent being traditional schedules and block schedules. Traditional schedules typically have six to seven classes lasting around 45 to 55 minutes each. A variation of this schedule is the A/B traditional schedule in which students’ classes vary depending on whether it is ‘A’ or ‘B’ day. “I don’t really like my schedule,” Grimsley freshman Elisabeth Hornfeck said. “The 55-minute class periods can make it hard for teachers to cover all the material they might want to, and the (lack of) continuity of the course (can make it) a little difficult for students and teachers.” Block schedules usually consist of four 90-minute classes. There are many variations of this schedule, such as A/B Block, similar to A/B traditional, but with fewer, longer classes; 4x4 block, where students take four classes in the first semester, then take four different classes in the second semester, and two core two elective block;

Letter to the editor

cademic pressure is a term most who attend Northwest have experienced. But honestly, who can blame us? Students are tasked with balancing a seven-hour school day, six classes varying in difficulty (not including those who attend GTCC or take zero periods), extracurriculars and many other things not even related to academics. Sometimes I feel as if we’re operating under a system that both favors and then punishes students who are able to take on the most rigorous--and sometimes unhealthy--schedules. There’s such a push to take AP classes, to boost GPA, to get all A’s and so many more things that sometimes I feel as if everyone gets so lost, leading us to forget to look at the people behind those numbers and academic standards. Some students get extremely frustrated and stressed with both themselves and school because of academics. Sometimes this can even lead them to have to make tough decisions in order to take care of themselves while also being able to remain competitive in their academics. I believe in working hard like many others at this school, but sometimes it’s hard to work hard when there’s just so much on our plate. In addition, some students are so

and a variation of 4x4, where students take two cores and two electives each semester. Weaver freshmen Mackenzie Berg and Meredith Alt both operate on a 4x4 block schedule. “I enjoy the way (my) school day works,” Berg said. “(I) get to cover a lot of material in class, and it’s not too many different subjects to keep up with.” Northwest High School currently uses a traditional schedule. Many other schools did as well until the 1990s, when schools started switching to the block schedule. English teacher Lora Medley previously worked in Alamance County on a block schedule before transferring to Northwest. “Block schedule allows the students and teachers to have a more detailed instructional schedule. There is more time in each class daily,” Medley said. Traditional schedules typically make it easier for teachers to plan out lessons. It’s much easier to prepare for 45 minutes, and it gives students a manageable amount of material each day. This makes it easier for students to catch up if they miss a day of school. “The only obvious downside (of a block schedule) is that when you miss one day of school, you become very behind because of how much

scared of getting bad grades that they might commit actions such as cheating or sacrificing their personal health to achieve high marks. These actions don’t benefit the students nor the teachers. If a student is given too many tests in one week, they become plagued with burnout and extreme stress. Students should be tested not on what they can remember on a specific testing day, but on what they’ve learned from the course as a whole. Sometimes because of scheduling, the best way to achieve high marks is to just memorize the material for the test. In the long term, excessive testing and overbearing schedules don’t help students grow or learn.. Granted, none of this is the direct fault of Northwest, nor is it the fault of the exceptional staff at our school who do their best to provide students with the best education possible. This is the education system as a whole; these are things that we all deal with. School shouldn’t be about seeing who’s able to take on the most rigorous schedule possible. It should be about learning, and right now I feel as if we need to place a higher emphasis on learning how to take care of ourselves. Respectfully submitted,

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material is covered in one day,” Alt said. Students form better bonds with teachers on a traditional schedule because teachers see each student everyday for the entire year. Because there is less lecture time in class, there is less chance for students to lose focus and not pay attention in class. The rigid schedule helps students better remember classroom routines and due dates. For classes such as math, music and foreign languages, which typically require daily practice, a traditional schedule is better because students get the required practice during class time every day. However, traditional schedules are also argued to be stressful for students. Seven to eight classes a day typically means lots of homework from many different classes. Because sometimes 45 minutes isn’t enough to get through all of that day’s material, teachers might have trouble fitting a lesson plan into their class. “As a teacher, you have to plan for 90 minutes. You cannot lecture for 90 minutes,” Medley said. “I was able to do a mini-grammar lesson, read and discuss a piece of text, complete a class instruction and finish off with an independent assignment. It was nice.”

Block schedules are an interesting alternative to traditional scheduling. Less classes mean less homework, along with more time to really learn about the subjects. Teachers typically have longer periods to teach students, and they can go more in depth into their classes. The longer classes prepare students for the rigor of college. “I believe that students tend to do better in block schedule. Only four (or) five classes to manage instead of six (or) seven,” Medley said. On the other hand, block schedules may be more trouble than they’re worth. It can be hard to plan for a 90-minute period. Longer classes mean students are more likely to lose focus, and a missed class means that a student must catch up on twice the work. There are also continuity problems. If a student takes a class in the first semester, and the test is at the end of the year, he or she may have trouble remembering the necessary information. Students may take a class and then take the next level up a semester to even a year later. “I am interested as to why we have not switched to block,” Medley said. “Is there a reason that we are one of the few schools that still follows a traditional schedule?”

Restaurant Review: Fitz on Main, Kernersville Jacob Teague staff writer

itz on Main isn’t your normal fast food. It’s something special. Established in 1947, and re-established in 2009, its fed the hungry working men and women of Kernersville for more than 50 years. Using a single flat-top grill and a deep fryer, they manage to serve food fast, and they prepare it right in front of you. Located at 109 N. Main Street, Fitz features a compact setting where patrons sit at a counter while food is being prepared,

similar to a diner. Known for its breakfast and lunch options, Fitz offers eggs, pancakes, sausage and more, plus a variety of sandwiches and burgers. Fitz is open from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. each day, and they only accept cash. However, they have a 4.8-star rating on Facebook, Yelp and Trip Advisor showing their universal appeal to patrons. They are ranked #6 out of 108 restaurants in Kernersville. “The prices are cheap, but the atmosphere and the experience are great,” sophomore Aidan Myers said.

Ed Pena, 11th grade

Photo by Jacob Teague

OPINION

Should white students apply for minority scholarships? Hinal Patel contributing writer

inority. A minority is defined as “a part of a population different from others in some characteristics and often subjected to differential treatment” from Merriam-Webster. The word “minority” is classified as many different things throughout America. From opinions to race, minorities are generally not as highly regarded as the majority. Being a minority comes with its hardships; many believe minority scholarships are a way for minorities to have an opportunity to attain higher education, not a way for white students to secure more money for themselves by being 1/16 minority or being a minority at a singular university. “While white students have a right to apply for minority scholarships at colleges where they would be classified as a minority,” senior Shelby Lester said. “I think that it’s unethical and cheating the system for a white student to do so because they would not be not classified as a minority in the United States as a whole.”

Thus, white students should not be allowed to apply for minority scholarships because, in the grand scheme of things, they are not minorities. “It is statistically proven that minorities have lower incomes and have a lower standard of living versus white people overall. I feel like these scholarships are intended to help those minorities who are unable to fully afford the college they are going to or afford any kind of education,” senior Michelle Semaan said. These scholarships intend to help minorities afford college by alleviating the cost of books, on-campus housing and tuition. “Average wealth for white families is seven times higher than average wealth for black families,” a study from the Economic Policy Institute said. Looking at the United States as a whole, white households typically have a higher standard of living and do not need these scholarships as much as minorities need them. “If you are living very comfortably and your family is very well off, you should not apply for something like that where there is someone who could be in need who won’t get (the

scholarship) if you get it,” Semaan said. White students applying for these scholarships take away from the objective of this scholarship, which is to help those who cannot afford to go to college. “If you let non-minorities enter into a minority scholarship, it doesn’t become a minority scholarship. It just becomes a scholarship,” junior Seeva Cherukuri said. Using the smallest thing to classify yourself as a minority takes away from the people who are actually categorized as minorities. Claiming to be 1/16 Cherokee and applying for a minority scholarship takes away from someone who is Cherokee that needs the scholarship in order to go to college. “If non-minority people apply for a minority scholarship, I feel like it would become a majority because the whole world has at least one thing different about them. No one is 100 percent one thing,” said junior Hana Ishige. “If they apply, it will become a majority scholarship not a minority scholarship.” Some go as far as to believe that these scholarships should not exist in general.

“You’re essentially allocating a certain amount of spending towards funding for a group that has no say on if they’re part of that group,” senior Abhi Gandikota said. “Most other scholarships, like athletic or general academic scholarships, are awarded to people who have achieved at an exceptional level and are things you can work towards and improve on, and that can’t really happen with minority scholarships.” Minority scholarship seem to favor a characteristic that people cannot control. No one can control if he or she is a minority or not, so the whole concept of minority scholarships could be something that needs to be reevaluated. “I believe that minority scholarships shouldn’t exist because colleges do not need to judge you based off of your race, they should judge you off of who you are as a person and a student,” Lester said. Minority students are seen pushed to the foreground by a white student. From left to right, senior Hua Jiang, senior Gabrielle Kim, junior Hannah Gillespie, senior Greg Potter, junior Seeva Cherukuri, senior Kyndall Cherry, junior Hana Ishige.

Photo by Hinal Patel

NORTHWEST HORIZONS STAFF Editors in Chief Megan Harkey Nathan Vescio News Editor Christy Ma Op/Ed Editor Sarah Teague Spread Editor Autumn Dixon Sports Editor Kaylen Ayres Features Editor Madison Magyar

Arts & Entertainment Editor Kimberly Brown

Adviser Melanie Huynh-Duc

Webmaster Nathan Vescio

Principal Ralph Kitley

Staff Writers Adam Sasser, Jacob Teague, Morgan DelFava, Lily Hughes, Val Orozco, Kaitlyn Sumner, Kelby Shouse, Laina McCoy, Mycheal Warner, Sophia Carson, Ava Rickelton, Jhenesis Hines, Angela Lam

Northwest Horizons

Contributing Writers Hinal Patel Sarah Arteaga

@nw.horizons

@nwhorizons

Statement of Policy Serving as a primary printed and online forum for student opinion, Northwest Horizons publishes four times each year published by the staff at Northwest Guilford High School. The paper is supported through community advisers. Staff Editorials are unsigned. The stance of each editorial is voted upon in staff meetings, but requires the approval of the majority of the editorial board. All members of the school community are encouraged to express their views. Letters to the editor must be signed when submitted.

www.northwesthorizons.com

SPREAD

Vaping:The new cigarette? Morgan Delfava Staff writer

Anderson is one of many teens in this situation. How did the vaping crisis become so widespread so quickly? student sits in third period, Within one year, the rates of 18 desperately waiting for class to end. The boredom grows, as well as some to 21-year-olds who vaped increased by 400 percent, and researchers are unexplainable bounce in his leg. Is struggling to identify the root of the the student hungry, needs a break problem. Many studies claim that to stand? The bell finally rings, the reason for this sudden jump was and he walks briskly to the nearest primarily because of the flavors that bathroom, finding an empty stall entice young people to smoke, as and bringing his vape to his lips well as the reviving of the “smoking simultaneously. The anxiety dissiculture” that was around during the pates, his racing heart slows and he 1960s and ‘70s. breathes a sigh of relief. “In the past two years, the regular vaping rates increased from 27 percent usage to 38 percent usage in just 17 and 18-yearolds,” health coach and registered nurse at Cone Health Kim Broome said. Nicotine in these devices takes hold of the consumer quickly, as the teens who participate senior Amelia Anderson* show symptoms similar to those of cigarettes from years ago. Similar practices are beThis is the routine for many ing used to aid in the cessation of adolescents, especially in schools. vaping because of the similarities The growing vape epidemic has raced to the top of the headline page that are being seen when compared to cigarettes. for nearly every news and research “Switching to vaping is not in organization. The real question is, our guidelines for recommendations how did it get this bad so fast, why to patients attempting to come off is vaping so trendy and why can’t cigarettes,” nurse practitioner at the adolescents stop? Wake Forest Medical Center Athena One student, senior Amelia Brummett said. Anderson*, shares her story with Instead of using vaping as a way vaping--her journey from the first to diverge from cigarette or tobacco breath to the last cough. She began use, many medical professionals recat the beginning of her junior year, ommend prescription medication. trying a vape for the first time “To be able to stop vaping, a because everybody had told her the nicorette or a patch would be able to trend was harmless, not to mention help,” Broome said. “The same thing her best friend participated in the (is true) with Wellbutrin medication fad. that people use to stop smoking, “My best friend had bought a vape and I always wanted to try one, which is for addictive personalities.” Even short term usage of a but I wouldn’t consider my start of device can have consequences for vaping to be peer pressure,” Anlonger than many believe, and derson said, “I just wanted to live a Anderson touches upon her own little in high school and enjoyed the feeling until I realized that an addic- experience, detailing that for her it seemed impossible to quit, and tion was developing.” affected her other daily tasks--such It is known that one JUUL pod contains as much nicotine as a pack as playing in the band--because of her shortened breath and attention of cigarettes, and the highly addicspan without nicotine. tive substance takes hold quickly, “As someone who has not even especially to teens who are not vaped for a full year, you can get knowledgeable or simply want to addicted to nicotine immediately; try the substance one or two times I realized I would become more without realizing that they will be irritable towards people unless I was coming back more frequently for able to get a source of nicotine, and months to come. my breathing was affected during “I consider myself previously band, as well,” Anderson said. addicted,” Anderson said. “I was The negative impacts do not very reliant on vaping for seven or simply stop at breathing and mood eight months and realized I would changes, however. Recent studies vape before each class period and a have shown that young adults in lot after school. It just became a big their 20s have picked up vaping as problem; I noticed mood changes a way to cope with stressors in their without a source of nicotine, and it lives. This is potentially even more affected my breathing. I have a feelharmful than the adolescent trend ing (it) is irreversible.”

“

I just wanted to live a little in high school and enjoyed the feeling until I realized that an addiction was developing.

Photo contributed by Sierra Dixon

”

10 www.northwesthorizons.com

because many of these young adult personal lives; vaping truly does couples who vape are beginning become a positive and convenient families of their own, and vaping alternative. can have detrimental impacts on Therefore, why do we as a society unborn children. weigh the negative effects on young “Vaping is essentially the same people greater against the reliefas smoking; if a pregnant woman bringing positive results seen in smokes or uses nicotine, it constricts cigarette smokers? blood flow to the fetus, babies’ birth One answer is that many teens weight is lower and they are likely do not use vapes as they were to be NICU admission babies, many intended, thus leading to the of which are prone to have feeding extreme results that have been or respiratory issues,” Brummett observed. An aspect of vaping that said. has begun to gain steam is the use The detrimental impacts go of black market pods or carts that beyond even health risks and reach contain THC chemical within them, even psychological levels. Broome allowing the user to get a high in recalls a story in which a man addition to the regular nicotine began to panic because he could buzz. In research thus far, it seems not find (and subsequently use) as though this has been the case for his vape in the hospital when they many of the deaths recorded. were supposed to be going over “Several vaping deaths appear to important information about his be tied to vaping THC, and there is newborn baby. a focus on vitamin E acetate as the “His addiction was his concern potential culprit,” Johnson said. over his new baby,” Broome said. Teens abusing the intended The effects of vaping do not purpose of the vapes is resulting just impact the user, but also their in tighter constraints on the families. This leads to a continuing availability of the products to adult effect of influence, primarily on smokers who truly need them and younger members of the family, as are trying to get off. Additionally, Anderson relates. it creates an entirely new problem “I first knew about vaping when relating to the increasing marijuana I saw my mom was trying to quit usage rates when it comes to law smoking; she used one of the first enforcement. e-cigarettes that came out when I “The concentration of THC in was probably 11 or 12,” Anderson these (vape cartridge) oils runs at a said. much higher number than mariIt is true vaping was created as juana grown by an average grower,” a way to ease adults off of smokThomasville city police officer Jeff ing. The aerosol inhaled through McCrary said. “I think it’s a lot more electronic cigarettes is 95 percent potent and the effects are much less harmful than tobacco cigarettes, higher, which is probably attracting according to an expert independent teens to it honestly.” review published by Public Health There seems to be no end in England. Hundreds of thousands of sight for how to stop the inapproadults, including Anderson’s own priate use of teen and young adult parent, took a step toward ending vaping while also maintaining the their cigarette habit by switching to original purpose: the switch from vapes. “Turning to vapor products as a convenient and effective alternative might save (the smokers’) lives; however, nobody actually knows the longterm effects,” Charles Johnson*, an adult smoker of 20 years said. “Consider that the rise in lung cancer rates trailed a corresponding rise in smoking rates by two decades; the point registered nurse Kim Broome is that nobody may know for a long time which is better.” cigarettes to e-cigarettes. The fad of Johnson states while it is vaping may just be another trend unknown which is truly less that dies down in a few years, but harmful--smoking or vaping--his may also be a health crisis that four-month time period being cigapersists for 20 or 30 years, similar rette-free has been a relief thanks to to the cigarette era. the new e-cigarette options avail“I do believe this is an epidemic able. Many are in the same position that we’re seeing with teens and where smoking cigarettes (due to vaping,” Brummett said. “ I couldn’t the smell especially) is a hindrance even give a positive as to why anyon their daily professional and one should start.”

“

In the past two years, the regular vaping rates increased from 27 percent usage to 38 percent usage in just 17 and 18-year-olds.

”

*Names have been changed

December 2019

SPREAD

Possible solutions Age raise

Flavor ban

Prescription

Photo by Autumn Dixon

Photo by Vaping360 on flicker

Photo by Autumn Dixon

Raising the age for being able to purchase a vape could potentially lower the percentage of teens who vape. There has been much speculation surrounding an age raised from 18 to 21, and while this may seem like a good idea at first, medical professionals point out similarities to the alcohol realm. “I don’t think (the age raise) is going to make a difference; if they want it, they’re going to get it just like alcohol,” Broome said. “I could (actually) see teens potentially switching to cigarettes if the vaping age is raised to 21.” While this could potentially address the situation, this only offsets the problem in a minute way and fails to get to the root of the issue or the cause of why teens participate in the practice.

Flavors are the most popular part of vaping, and many deem it the reason teenagers begin. The good taste (along with the nicotine buzz) is enticing to students and young adults. The nicotine subsequently gets them addicted, and results in a continued return for the product. Banning flavors that are advertised towards teens has already started taking place, and medical professionals believe this to be the best solution that has been proposed thus far. “Making (vaping) less attractive by taking certain flavors away could help; kids are more likely to be attracted to the smell of the fruit,” Broome said. “I can’t imagine a teen saying ‘That tobacco smells so good.’’’

Vaping by the numbers

teens surveyed vitamin E acetate smoke as a chemical of concern regularly. among people with vaping, product use associated lung percent injury. of teens surveyed said In 2015, vaping increased by they have percent in high tried smoking school students. before. Boys are more likely to vape than girls in a teens are The CDC has identified

11.8 18 45

2:1 ratio.

7/10

exposed to vaping ads.

Information sourced from online sources

28.4

out of

percent of teens surveyed said they regularly vape. 9 of those students are 18.

10.4

900

One way that vaping could potentially be attacked head on is to force its users to go through a medical professional to obtain the substance. This could be strictly for diverging cigarette users off of the dangerous habit; however, this tactic is not popular among medical professionals because of the unknown risks involved. “I would not feel safe prescribing a vape or similar product to a patient; there’s just not enough research, and we don’t know what the long-term effects are,” health coach and registered nurse at Cone Health Kim Broome said. “It could be just as bad or worse than cigarettes.” Putting the burden on medical professionals to prescribe a product that may, in fact, be more dangerous than cigarettes and is more of a redirect of the problem, rather than a solution.

2 29 out of

sophomores have tried vaping. Of the students surveyed, sophomores have tried vaping the most.

freshmen have tried vaping. Of the students surveyed, the least amount of students who have tried vaping are freshmen.

percent of teens surveyed said they have tried vaping before.

have close friends “Ithat vape and I

believe (they) are addicted to nicotine

”

Junior William Vaughhan

Information sourced from survey of 144 students, compiled by Angela Lam and Mycheal Warner

How many students have tried vaping?

4.9 26.8

Freshmen

Sophomores Juniors 43.9 24.4

Seniors In a survey of 144 students, 4.9 percent of freshmen, 24.4 percent of juniors, 26.8 percent of seniors and 43.9 percent of sophomores have tried vaping.

Graphic by Autumn Dixon

December 2019

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SPORTS

Tennis prospect reﬂects on her time as a Viking S Megan Harkey editor in chief

ince she was able to stand on two feet, senior Elizabeth Weidl two has had a tennis racquet in her hands. With an extreme competitive spirit and over 12 years of experience, Weidl has dominated in the sport. From originally learning the sport from her father Michael Weidl, a professional player, Weidl has developed into a seemingly undefeatable matchup. She has not only grown physically, but also mentally as the sport of tennis is an intellectual game. “I’ve definitely matured emotionally,” Weidl said. “I used to get upset, and I still do, but I used to get annoyingly upset.” Like her father, Weidl hates to lose. Her individual senior year record of 17-1 proves that it is a rare occurrence, and her ability is well beyond her opponents’. “You have to find that internal motivation because you’re alone on the court, and there’s no one else to help you,” Weidl said. Weidl practices for up to two and a half hours every day along with her team or her father. To keep a constant growth of her game, practice consists of one-onone sets, using the ball machine, jumping rope, sprints, footwork and a drill called mini tennis that strengthens reaction speed and racquet handling by putting the opponents closer together. On the Vikings girls’ tennis team, Weidl has a major role as a leader. “She’s a great teacher, and anytime I need her to take a

player to the side to work with, she will give them lessons,” head coach Bill Davidson said. Her vast knowledge about the sport from her father leads Davidson to believe that she is another coach on the sidelines. “Trust me, there was not a lot of coaching that I did with (Weidl) because her dad raised her to play,” Davidson said. “But I have really tried to help her with her game strategy.” Weidl’s teammates look up to her as a player. The seven freshmen this year have been able to grow tremendously alongside her. “She’s tough. When she’s in a match, she comes to win and doesn’t care about anything else,” freshman Fabby Castillo said. “She just hits the ball as hard as she can and is always at the top of her game.” The team had an overall record of 9-5 and went 5-3 in conference. Their loss in the conference championship was disappointing, but Davidson and Weidl know that the team has grown this year. “The people that I play with (inspire me) because I love seeing how well they do, and I want to see them improve, which makes me want to do the same,” Weidl said. This year, Weidl earned her fourth conference championship, fourth MVP award, was conference player of the year for the fourth time and won regionals for the first time. This placed her in state finals where she prevailed until the quarter finals. Weidl was up one set and was winning the current set 3-0 when

her calf cramped severely. “She had a good opponent that was playing well, and she was playing well, then all of a sudden she gripped her calf,” Davidson said. Although some teams give Weidl good competition, she is still not pushed physically most of the season. Her extreme skills blow out others with ease, and this changes when she is faced with top players in the state. “I played tennis on one leg, and it didn’t go well, so I was mad,” Weidl said. Davidson believes she could have gone all the way to the final match, but her calf ended her time as a high school tennis athlete. Weidl’s hard work and intelligence also transfers into the classroom, and she is relying on her academics for college. “I want to focus on getting in (to college) first, and then I’ll look at being a walk on or playing club after that,” Weidl said. Although many, including Davidson, believe she could play at a higher level, Weidl’s deci-

sion to focus on school first shows her maturity that she has gained as a student athlete. “(Tennis has) helped me because I don’t really depend on anyone in any situation,” Weidl said. Weidl is looking forward to her future and will continue tennis since it has been such a huge part of her life. The young Northwest girls’ tennis team has a bright future ahead, even without their star player. “I hope the team next year does well because I’m so proud of how well they’ve done this year,” Weidl said. “I love them.” Like every sport, athletes learn more than just how to play it. Weidl is a prime example of a student athlete who was able to thrive on and off the court in her high school career. “In three years, I’ve seen her lose three times,” Davidson said. “We’re losing a lot with Elizabeth, but other teams lose their top players, too.”

Photo contributed by Elizabeth Weidl

Senior Elizabeth Weidl hits the tennis ball with her racquet. With over 12 years of experience, Weidl has dominated her high school career and won MVP and many championships.

SPORTS proﬁles Madison Magyar, Lily Hughes features editor, staff writer

Thomas Hoffman Sport: varsity swim Grade: 11th Position: 100 freestyle and 200 freestyle Hype song: “44 More” by Logic Pregame ritual: “I eat bagels and hang out with the team.” After game: “I go home, eat and watch movies.”

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Reagan Kargo Sport: varsity basketball Grade: 12th Position: combo guard (mainly shooting guard) Hype song: “Hot” by Young Thug Pregame ritual: “As a team, we all warm up and shoot around while listening to music.” After game: “I usually go out to eat when we win to celebrate.” Photos contributed by Reagan Kargo, Noah Ray, Alexis Looney and Thomas Hoffman

December 2019

SPORTS

Figure skater’s injury ends her career

Autumn Dixon spread editor

s one of the most popular winter sports in the United States, figure skating is well known, whether having seen it being competed at the Olympics, during the holiday season at the outdoor ice rink or while attending a friend’s birthday party when you were younger. Despite its popularity, few people have taken the leap to actually compete in the sport. For senior Katelin Nierle, that isn’t the case. After enjoying a friend’s birthday party in the fourth grade at the Ice House in Gareensboro, Nierle’s parents and grandparents gifted her group ice skating lessons for Christmas, and then her hobby picked up from there and turned into a passion. “I enjoy it because it’s my quiet time to get away from everything else and it gives me something to work towards that’s not school-related,” Nierle said. As her escape away from school, it was difficult for Nierle to figure out the balance between skating and school work. “Understanding the difference between when I should go to practice or when I should stay home and do homework, or should I wake up at five and go to practice if I stayed up until one doing homework was difficult,” Nierle said. “It is tough making sure you’re doing what’s right for you, and not overdoing it.” As a competitive skater, Nierle would spend hours at the ice house preparing for competitions, repeating skills over and over during practice in-order to master for competitions. But one

Alexis Looney Sport: JV cheer Grade: 10th Position: side base Hype song: “Japan” by Famous Dex Pregame ritual: “I always get ready with one of my best friends, Ava Rickelton.” After game: “I go home and do my AP world homework.” December 2019

day during practice, the unimaginable happened. “I was at practice, and I fell on my shoulder,” Nierle said. “When I fell my shoulder, it dislocated, or they think it did, and I tore the cartilage, stretched the ligament, frayed the tendons, got a bone bruise and nerve damage.” After her injury, it took her a while to get cleared for surgery. Before her surgery, she went through six months of conservative methods like physical therapy, cortisone shots and rest. Before the surgery, it was hard to understand the damage of her injury and what her recovery would be like. During the surgery, doctors discovered the extent of her injuries and have not cleared her to practice or compete. If she were to fall on her shoulder again, she could tear the repairs that

were made during surgery, possibly making it worse than it was before. “I struggled a lot last year, coping with the fact that I had worked so hard for it all to end in a split second, on top of the stress of junior year

and outside stress,” Nierle said. “Now it bothers me less, but it’s still sad knowing that a portion of my life has come to a close.” Post-surgery, Nierle wore a sling and was required to not move her arm

for six weeks. Two weeks after her surgery, she began physical therapy again, and she will continue to make sure her shoulder has enough strength. “I miss being able to wake up in the mornings to go to practice,” Nierle said. “There I would have quiet time before my day started to think about how my day was going to go, what I have going on and what happened the previous day.” Since the injury, Nierle has found fulfillment in coaching at the Ice House. “I enjoy being able to make an impact on the lives of the younger kids who come in,” Nierle said. “They get so excited when they finally master a certain element or they pass on to the next level. And it’s just exciting knowing that you made a difference in their skating life, especially since my coach was a big part of mine.” Despite the changes Nierle’s injuries caused, she is still grateful for the impact figure skating has had on her life. “I’ve made a lot more friends through skating and I’ve met a lot of people,” Nierle said. “It’s also changed my outlook on school because it’s a different kind of challenge. It helps me focus more and it provides me with an outlet to do different things, rather than everything else that’s going on.” Photo contributed by Katelin Nierle

Senior Katelin Nierle performs a routine on the ice. After a shoulder injury, she had to give up skating.

Noah Ray Sport: varsity indoor track Grade: 10th Position: sprinter Hype song: “Hot Shower” by Chance the Rapper Pregame ritual: “I listen to music and pray that I do good during the race.” After game: “I look back on how I did during the race and see how I can improve on that.” www.northwesthorizons.com

SPORTS

Reiber commits to Rutgers Kaylen Ayres sports editor

Rutgers.” His first scholarship offer came from Rice University during his sophomore season. “It was an awesome feel-

ing,” Reiber said. “Everyone was happy.” From there, Reiber received around 20 offers in total. His ultimate choice was Rutgers University. “They showed the most interest in me,” Reiber said. “They’re a very good program. All the players are really cool. My grandpa went there, so that also adds to it.” During this season, Reavis expects Reiber to help lead the team with the rest of the seniors both in the classroom and on the court. “The (seniors) should really take a leading role this year with the guiding our program and the direction they want to go.” Reiber’s family, mentors and peers are excited about his accomplishments and are looking forward to his future.

“I’m really proud of him,” junior Kyle Reiber, Dean’s younger brother, said. “I’m glad to see that he is going to a great school for all the time he puts into basketball.”

As for the upcoming season, Lovato plans to have more skill sets and work more in smaller groups of athletes in order to have a stronger team with stronger athletes.

to practice more and focus on what is troubling me in my events,” Latimer said. “I am going to practice more on my strokes and flip turns.” Latimer also offered a bit of

Sophomore Reece Latimer has been swimming on the team for two years and swims freestyle, breaststroke, butterfly and backstroke. “In order to get stronger, I plan

advice to newcomers to the team: “Always stretch before swimming or you will get cramps,” Latimer said. Lovato is looking forward to the new additions to the team.

“I am ready to see what they (the team) are going to do,” Lovato said. The team does participate in states in their 4A conference. The event lasts one day and schools from all over the state participate. “It’s a lot,” Lovato said. “It’s overwhelming and there are a lot of really good swimmers.” Latimer is hopeful about this season and is prepared for the upcoming stresses that result from swimming. “You should expect the best from the team this season,” Latimer said. “I think if we really tried, we could win states, but that comes with hard work and determination.”

or many athletes in high school, playing in college is something not guaranteed. For one student, however, he had his pick of around 20 colleges to choose from. Senior Dean Reiber committed to Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ in late August to continue his basketball career at a Division I level. Reiber grew up playing football and didn’t start playing basketball until the summer of seventh grade. “I was very bad,” Reiber said. “I improved a lot over the summer from seventh (grade) to eighth and from eighth to ninth.” Throughout the past four years, varsity basketball head coach Lee Reavis has watched Reiber grow as a player both on and off the court. “He’s really come around the last couple of years,” Reavis said. “He’s now a little more aggressive than he has been. He’s showing why he’s committed to

Scholarship Stats Reiber received full ride scholarships from the following schools: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Penn State Liberty University College of Charlestown ODU UNCC Elon University American Manhattan Woﬀord Rice HPU Rutgers University Coastal Carolina UNCG Boston University GW JMU UNCW Ohio University

Photo contibuted by Dean Reiber

Senior Dean Reiber poses in his Rutgers jersey. He is commited to play Division I basketball at Rutgers University in Brunswick, NJ.

Dive into a new season with the swim team Kaitlyn Sumner staff writer

s the winter sports season approaches, the swim and dive team prepares for its upcoming season. The team is coached by math teacher Jennifer Lovato. This upcoming season will be Lovato’s fifth year coaching the team. Lovato believes that the team has had a lack of interest over the years, which has kept the team from growing. “Interest for swimming and diving has gone down,” Lovato said. “I have noticed with both summer and school teams have had a decrease in numbers (of participants), so it’s not as strong as it used to be.” Lovato is also a coach of a summer league, and she has been advertising school swim in hopes to increase the numbers.

www.northwesthorizons.com

Photo contributed by Jennifer Lovato

A swimmer competes in a race. The swim and dive team, coached by math teacher Jennifer Lovato, has been training for a successful season this year.

December 2019

FEATURES

Changing the conversation on sexual assault: ‘Project Beloved’ creates Beloved Bundles

Christy Ma, Valeria Orozco, Kaitlyn Sumner news editor, staff writers

exual assault is a difficult topic to navigate. It can be uncomtopic fortable, unsettling and horrific. But it’s a reality. Molly Jane Matheson was a sweet and lovable girl who lived in Texas, was studying to be a social worker. On April 10, 2017, she was raped and murdered. She was only 22 years old. “No parent should lose a child,” Molly Jane’s mother Tracy Matheson said. “To lose a child to violence takes the pain to an almost unimaginable level.” In 2018, following the death of Molly Jane, Project Beloved was created by Matheson. Project Beloved: The Molly Jane Mission hoped to bring positive change from a painful nightmare. The name was garnered from a series of coincidences; the logo is American Sign Language for beloved. “I joined Project Beloved because it’s a chance for me to be a part of something bigger than myself,” senior Greg Potter said. “I’m able to help people who are often forgotten about.” Senior Claire Halterman, cousin of Molly Jane, has established a Project Beloved club at Northwest, which brings the Project Beloved organization to student volunteers. She had been considering the idea for a while but finally initiated it

this year. “I wasn’t as close to my cousin Molly because we had a nine-year age gap,” Halterman said. “I was just starting to become closer to her, so I feel like helping out with Project Beloved as much as I can is a way for me to connect with her.” The goal of Project Beloved is to bring comfort to victims, justice to perpetrators, advocate the truth and change the conversation on sexual assault. “We do not talk about sexual assault,” Matheson said. “We need to talk about it, and when we do, we need to talk about it like any other violent crime. We should not blame the victim. We need to do more than teach girls how to not get raped. We need to talk about consent and bystander intervention. We need to make it clear that we are a safe place (for) victims to tell (their) stories.” Beyond shifting the dialogue to be more constructive, Project Beloved also offers Soft Interview Rooms--which is a comforting room for survivors to be interviewed--and Beloved Bundles-which are created for men and women who have to take a rape kit. Beloved Bundles are bags with shirts, sweatpants, undergarments, toiletries, flip-flops, stress balls and notebooks. “When rape survivors go to get a rape kit done at a hospital or rape crisis center, all their clothing and belongings are taken from them for investigation,” Halterman said. “Usually, they leave a hospital

with just a paper gown. (They are already at) a low, low point in their life, so a Beloved Bundle (helps restore some dignity).” Project Beloved has received positive feedback from the community for opening up the dialogue about sexual assault. The organization even passed the Molly Jane law in Texas with the help of senator Greg Abbott, a friend of the Mathesons. The law allows local police to input and access information in the Violent Criminal Apprehension Program--or VICAP--database, run by the FBI. The database holds information about rapists and crimes which can help link it to other crimes. This helps catch serial offenders. “If they did put information in VICAP, the person who killed my cousin would probably be in jail,” Halterman said. “My cousin and another woman would still be alive, so my aunt helped create this law. (There) should be a law like this everywhere.” The future of the Project Beloved club is unknown, but Halterman hopes it will continue on at Northwest. “It’s really great to see so many young people interested,” Halterman said. “(They know that) rape culture has to stop, and that we need to believe people if they say that (they) were raped.” There is sometimes a disconnect between crimes and reality, and Halterman hopes to dispel that idea. “It’s important for people to see

that this does happen,” Halterman said. “It’s not just something in a TV show or movie. The people around you (might have been) raped; there are a lot of rape survivors at Northwest. People have been reaching out to me about their stories. We need to let them know that ‘we believe you’ and that ‘we are here for you.’” Beyond its impact towards the community and survivors, Project Beloved has also changed Halterman’s and Matheson’s extended family. After the unbearable tragedy, the nonprofit served as an outlet. “A lot of my family members (got) beloved tattoos,” Halterman said. “I definitely think this is very therapeutic for (Matheson) and her family. It’s just (Matheson’s) whole world. She works part time as a realtor, but Project Beloved has definitely become a fulltime job for her. She is speaking at a bunch of colleges, like Texas Christian University.” Project Beloved aims to be a positive force against sexual violence and misinformation. You can help by donating money to ProjectBeloved.org or joining the Project Beloved club. “If I could tell sexual assault victims one thing, I would tell them I am sorry,” Matheson said. “So sorry. And I would want them to know that what happened is NOT their fault. There is nothing a person can do which (would) cause rape. Rapists cause rape. I would want to do all I could to (make) sure they know this.”

Photos by Valeria Orozco

(Left) Girls and boys from the club attended a meeting on Halloween. They packages Beloved bundles for rape victims. (Center) Claire and Becky Halterman pose holding beloved bundles. Claire Halterman is the president of Project Beloved at Northwest. (Right top) Journals are put into each bag along with clothes, stress balls, shoes and hygiene products. Journals are for helping the victims cope. (Right bottom) Hygiene products are put into bags. These bags inculde hair ties, a comb, a tooth brush, tooth paste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash, and deoderant.

December 2019

www.northwesthorizons.com

FEATURES

The toll of Type 1 continued

when I’m older, I will have organ failure or need to have a limb removed,” Lacopo said. Although the diabetic community at Northwest is not that large, websites and online communities can provide reassurance and comfort for these concerns. There is also a burgeoning support group that recently originated from Cone Hospital. Diabetics in the Triad area can meet to socialize and also to hear presentations from medical consultants about the advancements made in insulin technology. “I was always the odd man out, and I didn’t want to be that,” Lacopo said. “I got involved in communities that are actually really supportive of each other.” This being said, people who are not diabetic can be supportive in other ways. “So many people don’t understand (but) I want more people to,” Lacopo said. “People can be so ignorant, asking good questions is important.” Learning about what someone is going through can be extremely beneficial to understanding their situation. “Be nice to people; you don’t know what’s going on with other people’s lives,” Lacopo said.

What lights your ﬁre?

Senoritis calls student motivation into question Photo by Angela Lam

Angela Lam staff writer

enioritis. An ‘illness’ characterized by a decrease in motivation in students towards the end of high school or college. The term is widely used across the U.S. and Canada. Many seniors suffer from this malady, although it typically starts manifesting in the second semester. “I think they become unmotivated as they see their last year of school as the ‘homestretch,’” freshman Luis Estrada said, “As a result, they get into a mindset as if the year is already over, and become less invested in school.” College acceptance letters typically come out around late winter or early spring. Many seniors feel that once they’re accepted, their fate is sealed and that they can stop caring about school.

This line of reasoning is false. Colleges may revoke acceptances or college benefits if a student’s grades drop too much even after the admission letter is sent. “Seniors become unmotivated because applications have been turned in, and it seems like high school should be over,” senior Lauren Pollock said. Students’ motivation may also atrophy because they lose the passion they originally had in their freshman and sophomore years. Many realize that they don’t really care about college, and that they haven’t pursued their passions. “I can relate heavily to this,” freshman Ethan Julian said. “Perhaps it is because of the futuristic mindset of children of that age and how it can negatively affect their work ethic later in the year, especially when a current piece of work seems so trivial compared to what is to come.” Some students compete with their

peers for good grades, lending schoolwork a competitive spirit. Other students try to remember what they’re working toward, whether if it’s just lunchtime, or their bright future. Possibly both. “Senioritis is so real,” senior Hua Jiang said. “I look foward to the weekend, breaks and even after school but mostly next year at college.” Some online articles suggest finding something to preoccupy yourself with, while still keeping focused on rigorous schoolwork, such as an internship or a significant other. Other experts say to decrease your workload, avoid stressing about things in general and find time to relax. “Seniors often become unmotivated because they feel tired from all of the work that they’ve completed during their previous years of high school,” senior Kyndall Cherry said. “Students often forget that they still should continue working hard during their last year of school to ensure success.”

North Carolina. “I really enjoyed my time at Parkland; it’s a highly impacted school,” Farrow said. However, in 2012, Farrow decided that she needed to have a career that would leave a positive, lasting effect on the school. As a result, Farrow decided to further her own education in order to gain the necessary degrees to become an assistant principal and receive her doctorate. Farrow just began her first year as the assistant principal at Northwest High School for the 2019-2020 school year. She believes that she can make a difference for the entire school as an assistant principal as opposed to making a difference

to just her German classes. “I was really happy being a German teacher, but I was at a school where I saw one of the assistant principals who wasn’t really effective,” Farrow said. “I thought to myself that she could have been doing a better job.” Moreover, Farrow has been an assistant principal for seven years in Guilford County Schools. Farrow was appointed as the assistant principal at Northwest after the announcement of Bert Webb’s retirement. Farrow enjoys administration because it enables her to be more effective in providing students with the necessary tools to succeed in the future. “I thought that maybe I would be interested in a role where I could impact students on a greater level and be able to support students in their growth and learning outside of just my classroom,” Farrow said. At Northwest, Farrow has had a greater opportunity to connect with students and provide them with help when needed, rather than solely distributing discipline as her main job requirement. “I love it (Northwest)—it’s my favorite school I’ve ever been at,” Farrow said.

Northwest welcomes Dr. Wendy Farrow

Sarah Arteaga, Jhenesis Hines staff writers

r. Wendy Farrow is the new ninth grade assistant principal that has more to her than her extensive education. “Dr. Farrow has been an amazing contribution to the Northwest community—her passion for students and creating an accountable environment is refreshing and exciting,” Civics and Economics teacher Autumn Martin said. Farrow started her career by attending Ursinus College to receive an undergraduate degree in German to teach at the college level. Farrow then decided to move to Germany to study at the University of Heidelberg and received her masters degree in German. “I love Germany. It’s one of my favorite places in the world,” Farrow said. Wake Forest University, in Winston Salem, NC, was the first college where Farrow taught German. Later on, Farrow taught at Appalachian State University and Sam College. In addition to teaching German, Farrow also gains satisfaction through a variety of hobbies

in her free time. Along with her family, Farrow likes to camp, hike, skydive and travel. “I like to travel somewhere exciting and exotic about every year,” Farrow said. However, Farrow realized that she could be doing something more beneficial to society within her career. After teaching German to the three colleges, Farrow decided to make a huge change in her career: teaching German at high schools. The first high school Farrow taught at was Parkland High School in Winston Salem,

Photo by Jhenesis Hines

Dr. Wendy Farrow sits for a photo in her classroom. This was her ﬁrst year at Northwest.

16 www.northwesthorizons.com

December 2019

FEATURES

The cost of colleges inﬂuences seniors decisions Christy Ma, Sophia Carson news editor, staff writer

$37,172.

ccording to an article from CNBC, this is the average student loan debt in 2017. For many seniors applying to college, the cost of college can greatly weigh in on their decisions, and even cause people reject some colleges altogether. Application fees can range from $60-$85. “I was going to apply to seven colleges,” senior Krystyna Derezinska-Choo said. “qut I’m applying to four because it takes a lot of time and money. (You) should consider in-state v.s. out-of-state and if your future career can pay for an elite college education.” It’s not just seniors who feel the crushing weight of college debt; some staff members at Northwest are still dealing with this reality. However, with a mixture of luck and planning, others were able to graduate debt free. “For undergrad, I decided between Duke and Chapel Hill,” biology

teacher Meredith Kersting said. “I had to consider cost, but I think I made the right choice. That decision I made as an 18-year-old impacted my entire life. The best fit might be a small school rather than an expensive private school; we have an amazing assortment of state schools which are a bang for their buck.” Everyone has his or her own post-high school route; this can range from immediately going into work to going to university. Some keep costs low by going to colleges near their homes or going to the local community college. A large percent of seniors last year went to GTCC after high school. “Room and board and meal plans can add an extra eight grand,” an anonymous senior, who didn’t want to reveal their financial situation, said. “If I go to UNCG, I’ll be able to commute from home, and I’ll save my parents so much money. That’s why I changed my mind from applying (anywhere else), because while I knew I could get in, I couldn’t afford it.” For some, not going to college may be the better financial route in the long run. However, for most, this is not a viable option if they want a steady income. “This is a really big step toward your future,” anonymous said. “Most of us have to continue school in order to get where we want to be. (I feel like) if you work hard and want an education, you deserve an education. Some people can’t go, but want to go and need to go in order to better their future.” While colleges try to remedy the issue, there are still a

Average for all four year institutions

$26,120

giant handful of people who might fall through the cracks of needbased scholarships. “A lot of these colleges say they make it accessible to everyone,” senior Madison Bradley said, “but it’s only for families that have $60,000 or less a year income. For people in the range of $62,000 to $100,000, they can’t realistically afford to go to these colleges, but they qualify for (little to) no aid. It’s more than just frustrating; I don’t want to graduate $100,000 in debt.” Beyond undergraduate debt, some are also worried about graduate school. “With undergraduate, more money is given through aid,” senior Christa Simaan said. “Graduate school is more on you. However, if you don’t have a lot of undergraduate debt, and since graduate school is closer to having a (full-time) job, it’s not as scary because you can (hopefully) slowly pay it off.” There are multiple reasons as to why student debt is so hard to pay off in America. Most of the time, the interest rate has to be paid off before the debt. Plus, it is extremely difficult to declare bankruptcy for student loan debt. “U.S. schools are much more expensive than Canada,” DerezinskaChoo said. “It’s less than ten grand for everything a year in Canada, but in America, the price can go up to 60 grand a year. (I feel like) the costs of colleges in America can be lower.” Some also believe that there is a layer of elitism when it comes to college costs. “When you look at Ivy League schools, they are (usually) over $50,000,” Bradley said. “There are definitely people who are smart enough to

get it, but they can’t afford it.” These issues can be exacerbated by the fact that some people feel ashamed about discussing their situations. “A lot of people here are very fortunate,” anonymous said. “However, there are a lot of people, especially minority groups, who are financially struggling. You may never know it. They don’t like to talk about their struggles, or where they are applying, or anything money related because they don’t want to feel like less of a person in comparison to the students around them.” There are some ways to keep student loan debt at a minimum. The Northwest guidance department’s senior newsletter offers up information on scholarship opportunities. Filling out the FAFSA early allows you to get more money. Plus, there are lots of resources and opportunities online. “You can start anywhere, even at a lower priced university,” Derezinska-Choo said. “It’s all about finding the balance between a quality education and a good price. I think anything is possible if you do the research.”

per year.

Total cost of attendance is

$104,480

over four years. Average growth rate for cost of attendance is

2.6%

per year.

December 2019

Photo by Megan Harkey

Morgan DelFava (left) poses with Jhenesis Hines (right) holding money. Students frequently worry about student debt and loans they will have to pay when they graduate college.

www.northwesthorizons.com

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The literary spirit that deﬁnes the holidays A

s the holiday season rolls around, the music, food and movies come with it. Although these characteristics are dominant, for many families, gathering around the fire with a literary holiday classic is an even more important tradition. Short stories, like Clement Clarke Moore’s “The Night Before Christmas” have defined certain aspects of the holiday season, and their words often bring a nostalgic feeling to people. “We have a pretty inclusive idea of religion, so with the holidays we really try to focus on the giving of gifts, respecting other people and spending time with family,” media specialist Natalie Strange said. With her husband and 10-year-old son, Brent, Strange has made the holiday season about giving and being with family. They read a plethora of books that personify this belief. At Christmas dinner, the Strange family has another tradition of reading “The Christmas Story” from the Bible, so they can remember why they are celebrating. They also read “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg because it portrays their meaning of Christmas. “It is the idea that the gift itself doesn’t have to be special, like the bell in the book was a very simple thing, but it just reminded them to believe,” Strange said. The book’s simple plot is also a coming-ofage for the characters as they learn and grow so much in one night at the North Pole. Some students at Northwest also find the story of “The Polar Express” important for other reasons.

“

“I think the lesson is to never lose that childlike wonder and belief as you get older,” freshman Ben Kirkmen said. Brent Strange’s sense of wonder is full of unanswered questions about Santa Claus and his ability to magistrate Christmas. “When he was younger, he was very interested in the mechanics of how Christmas works,” Strange said. To cure his curiosity, Brent was given “Santa Calls” by William Joyce, the story of a boy who is called to save Christmas, and on the way, learns how Santa creates Christmas every year. Joyce is a popular author and illustrator who also wrote “The Guardians of Childhood” series and “The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore.”

I think the lesson is to never lose that childlike wonder and belief as you get older. freshman Ben Kirkmen “What he liked about ‘Santa Calls’ is how they had to defeat the ‘bad guys,’” Strange said. Their first Christmas with Brent was very materialistic since he was the youngest on both sides of the family, so Strange decided to change this feeling of the holidays to the spirit of generosity. To further emphasize this, they donate to the shelter and pack backpacks for those less

fortunate. As a family, they want to embody the holiday spirit and share it with others. Students at Northwest have also enjoyed the literature of the holidays. Sophomore Bobby Phillips sees the themes behind the stories he and his family reads. “My favorite would probably be ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas,’” Phillips said. The short story written by Theodor Seuss Geisel, or Dr. Seuss, tells the story of how the Grinch has grown to hate the Christmas season due to his lack of love. He decides to steal the Whovilles’ Christmas in an attempt to stop the holiday from coming one year. But the Who’s down in Whoville still celebrate the holiday which leads the Grinch to find a new love for the holiday and change his wicked ways. “I just think it has a nice overall lesson to it at the end, and it just shows how bad people can become good or have good in them,” Phillps said. Another example of this lesson can be seen in Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” which is the favorite Christmas story of freshman Isaac Cravey. “It teaches you to be kind while you still can, because once you die, you’ll be remembered for the person you were not the person you wanted to be,” Cravey said. The holidays bring loved ones together through tangible and intangible ways. The words from different festive stories bring the feeling of happiness to life. No matter what people celebrate, authors like Joyce and Seuss illuminate imagination. “I think that we all like to go back to what brings us comfort and warmth,” Strange said.

“

Megan Harkey, Adam Sasser editor-in-chief, staff writer

Nintendo Club hosts annual Smash Brothers tournament

Mycheal Warner staff writer

most feared by the other players. “(My least favorite person to fight against was) Cameron’s King Dee-Dee-Dee; he will sacrifice you and himself,” Arthur said. o you want to melee? The club is expecting another tournament Nintendo Club hosted a Super Smash Brothers before Christmas break; however, the club meets tournament Oct. 26 that enabled students to do regularly on Thursday afternoons. Many find the just that. club to be more than just gaming; some find it a The two club presidents, place to make friends and sophomores Cameron Johnson enjoy themselves. and Nick Arthur, led the tourna“(I) transferred from ment. It was sophomore Mario Western last year. (It was) Estrada, on the other hand, who hard moving here, and I helped run the tournament’s was recommended by Mr. two-bracket system. This system (Aaron) Murphy to come, allowed the contestants who lost and (I have) been here another chance to win. since,” senior Alex Wilson “(I) assign(ed) and check(ed) said. the battles,” Estrada said. For some, Nintendo With Estrada’s assistance, Club is a place to meet new the tournament ran smoothly. friends and just enjoy pop It had about 24 contestants and culture. There are about 10 lasted from 4 to 8:30 p.m. Durregulars who love to play ing this time period, there were Super Smash Bros. two breaks: one for food and “(Nintendo Club is) reanother to set up the championally open to anyone who ship rounds. wants to come and (NintenThe tournament ended with do Club) tries its best to be the following winners: first Photos contributed by Cameron Johnson a welcoming environment place Northwest alum Jerome Nintendo club students compete in the Super Smash Brothers tournament. The tournament for everyone,” junior Tara Powell, second place sophomore took place on Oct. 26. Davis said. Tope Adio, third place Johnson

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and fourth place senior Shay Adio. “I thought it was fun and was nice to play face-to-face,’’ senior Shay Adio said. Interestingly, most of the people in the tournament feared one thing: King Dee-Dee-Dee, a character from the game series Kirby. Both Johnson and Shay Adio mained the hammer-wielding king, however it was Johnson’s character who was

December 2019

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

How one club celebrates the holiday season

Kelby Shouse staff writer

ith the holiday season in full bloom, many clubs are preparing to celebrate with fun activities. One of these clubs is National Art Honor Society, or NAHS for short. NAHS is a club focused on providing extra time for artists to come and create art by participating in art-based activities. The club meets monthly and has various activities planned for each meeting. “We do things like art games, painting and pottery,” sophomore and NAHS’s chair for activities Stephanie Oh said. NAHS contributes greatly not only to Northwest but also to its community. “We decorate our halls, host our annual art gallery and work with our community to encourage creative growth,” Oh said. “Most importantly, we give our students a place to come to have fun and create art.” NAHS plans enjoyable activities for its members, especially during the holiday season.

Open Mic Night delights students and faculty alike Sarah Teague op/ed editor

or many, Open Mic is the only space during ing their day they get a chance to express themselves and the talents that would otherwise be lost in the bustle of Northwest High School. Talents ranging from singing, poetry and instrumental pieces can all be found in the library a select few nights from the year. “I appreciate the open and accepting atmosphere that Open Mic Night offers,” senior Emma Carson said. “It’s rare to be in a creative and judgment-free environment in high school, but performing has the unique ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds, ages and interests.” Northwest students can break free of comfort zones and share their talents in a judgement-free space. The event first started in May 2017. Since then, it happens quarterly and is hosted by the media center; DJ Mike Marshall, one of Northwest’s guidance counselors and Ryan Rivera, a recent Northwest alumni. “I wanted to accomplish my goal of singing in front of a crowd,” Rivera said, explaining the inception of Open Mic. Students can sign up in the library ahead of time for a guaranteed spot, but after the scheduled performers, there is a more traditional open mic set-up where anyone can sign up and perform on the spot. No matter what students share, the night is always a place where creativity shines and participants can let themselves feel free for one night. “My hope for Open Mic is to allow and encourage others to shatter their comfort zones,” Rivera said.

“We try to celebrate most holidays,” NAHS adviser Beth Herrick said. “We usually celebrate Halloween with fun drawing or painting activities. Last year, we celebrated fall by painting different scenes on real leaves then preserved them. In the past, we’ve made three dimensional snowflakes for winter.” This year, they have had new activities lined up for each meeting ranging from t-shirt designing contests and Bob Ross painting parties. There are more opportunities for fun in the coming holiday season for NAHS. “In the winter meeting, we also create holiday cards and have a cookie contest. We play a Christmas movie as we eat cookies and create cards,” Oh said. “These festive-themed meetings are something special and involve things that we don’t normally do at meetings.” NAHS tries to keep a yearly tradition ongoing. “Last year, we contributed to a large scale mural in the new Moses Cone Hospital women’s wing. This year, we are going to create ceramic bowls that will be sold with the proceeds going to local food banks,” Herrick said. Even for club leaders, the holidays are enjoy-

able, even if it is hard work to plan a successful and entertaining meeting. “It’s really fun to plan the activities with the other officers. I really like to watch all the members of the club have fun participating (in the activities),” Oh said. For many who don’t really celebrate these holidays, it’s an opportunity to have fun with those that do. “Usually I don’t really celebrate Halloween or Christmas that much, so these meetings add (to the) festivity (for me),” Oh said. These simple crafts and activities sometimes serve to bring back the innocent fun of holiday crafts most students did in elementary school. “Celebrating both the big and small holidays adds a sense of fun and family that we want the students to feel,” Herrick said. “We want our National Art Honor Society members to feel like they are a little arts family here at Northwest. It also gives them a feeling of nostalgia. When we were all in elementary school, we celebrated all of the holidays. It’s harder to do that in high school, so hopefully we can at least enjoy them while making art.”

Do-it-yourself holiday crafts Autumn Dixon, Ava Rickelton spread editor, staff writer

ry these fun crafts to spread the holiday spirit.

Materials: Paper (preferably watercolor paper), image of a dreidel, water colors, water, pencil, paintbrushes Instructions: 1) Trace the picture of a dreidel on watercolor paper. 2) Using the water, wet your brush and dip it into the watercolor. 3) Paint the dreidel how you like it!

Watercolor Dreidels

Santa Treat Holders

Materials: Flower pot, red yarn, white yarn, glue gun, glue sticks, flower pots, black buttons Instructions: 1) Wrap red yarn around the entire pot and secure with glue as necessary. 2) Wrap white yarn on the lip of the pot. 3) Add two black buttons on the front. Then, fill with tasty treats!

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