The Eagle's Eye - September 2014

The E agle’s E ye Volume 11 Issue 1

St. Benedict at Auburndale High School, Cordova, TN

September 19, 2014

Sisters join SBA family Bailey Coppedge Editor-in-Chief

Sister Rita Marie and Sister Marie Monique have joined the St. Benedict faculty, the first nuns in 20 years to be a part of the Eagle family.

The sisters were assigned to SBA from the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia in Nashville, by the request of Bishop Terry Steib. Coincidently, Sister Mary Samuel, the first St. Benedict principal, was from the same order.

Sister Marie Monique was born Catholic and attended Mass with her grandparents and family at the local church.

“My church was kind of boring, but it felt like home growing up,” said Sister Marie Monique. “Moving around to different places and different churches is really neat because you realize that home feeling doesn’t come from the building, it comes from Jesus in the Tabernacle.”

On the other hand, Sister Rita Marie was not born Catholic, she was raised as a First Congregationalist. Her grandfather was a Protestant minister and her mother was a musician. “My mom ended up being the liturgist at the Catholic Church, and that’s how we learned about the Mass,” said Sister Rita Marie.

Neither sister pictured themselves following a religious vocation, especially when they were younger. “I wanted to either be a singer or an attorney,” said Sister Rita Marie.

“I was a bookworm so I thought about being a teacher when I was pretty little. I also wanted to be a ballerina, but then realized I wasn’t really coordinated enough,” said Sister Marie Monique.

When the sisters first recognized their religious calling they were surprised. “I don’t know if I would’ve believed you if you told me, in high school, that I had a reli-

photo by Sharon Masterson

Sister Rita Marie and Sister Marie Monique are interviewed by Commercial Appeal reporter Marlon Morgan for a feature article titled “Back in School.” The Sisters enjoy being a part of the SBA family and they are the first nuns to teach at St. Benedict in twenty years.

gious vocation. Even when, in prayer, the Lord was coaxing me to apply to the convent, I was shocked,” said Sister Rita Marie.

After the initial shock, both sisters found something in their lives that they hadn’t expected to happen in the life of a sister. “I didn’t even know this kind of happiness existed,” said Sister Marie Monique.

“I couldn’t have anticipated

that it could be as good as it is. There are hard things, but at the same time there are these joys that you couldn’t even put your finger on, or that you expected God would give you because it’s so fulfilling to you as a woman.”

Because Sister Rita Marie did not grow up in a Catholic setting, she knew very little about the life of a nun “I didn’t grow up with sisters, so all I

knew was The Sound of Music and Sister Act,” said Sister Rita Marie. When she first met a Catholic nun, she noticed how kind she was.

Sister Marie Monique has a similar experience when she first met a nun, and said, “She was really kind; that was my first impression. Some people have really negative ones but See NUNS on page 3

SBA grounds receive new additions

Lauren James

Copy Editor

St. Benedict received a recent facelift with the addition of a statue of St. Benedict and a set of wooden crosses representing the Stations of the Cross.

The statue, standing proudly outside the front of the school, was acquired through a fundraiser in honor of former principal George Valadie. The statue was picked out by Mrs. Sharon Masterson, who gave some insight into why the statue is so important.

In 1988, Memphis Bishop Daniel Buchlein, a former Benedictine Abbot, purchased the Auburndale school and renamed it in honor of his patron

saint, St. Benedict.

In 2013, former principal George Valadie announced that he accepted the principal position at his Alma Mater, Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga. SBA Communications Director Sharon Masterson began an effort to commission an outside statue of St. Benedict to be dedicated in his honor.

“Our new high school-only campus needed a statue visible to the public,” she said.

Therefore, because St. Benedict is the patron saint of the school, and Mr. Valadie was the person most active in getting the current high school building open, Mrs. Masterson felt this was the ideal time.

Dean of Students Coach Eric

Wells and Director of Maintenance, Omar Castenada, built the base for the statue this summer. “It only took a couple of afternoons,” said Coach Wells. “I think it turned out pretty okay.”

The statue has been received with great praise from students. “I think the statue is pretty chill because we have the patron saint of our school right out front for everyone to see,” said senior Spencer Smith.

“The statue of St. Benedict is a great addition to our school!

The rule of St. Benedict says, ‘We must establish a school for the Lord’s service.’ Seeing the statue as one enters the See STATUE on page 4

What’s inside the Eye

3

page

Eagle Lane takes off

page

photo by Sharon Masterson

The finished statue of St. Benedict stands at the entrance of SBA. The statue was built in honor of former principal George Valadie.

Blast from

5

7

page

the past

Gems of

Shelby County Discover some of the area’s treasures

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The Eagle’s Eye St. Benedict at Auburndale September 2014

Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief Bailey Coppedge Copy Editor Lauren James Culture Editor Jack Borg Sports Editor Savannah Boettcher Reporters Grace Gilman Gabby Velasquez Kennedy Davis Adviser Dianna Cervetti

Awards 2014 THSPA Awards (THSPA-TN H.S. Press Assoc.)

All-Tennessee Top ranking for a high school newspaper Third Place Best Overall Newspaper in TN Best Features Story Best Cartoon/Illustration Honorable Mention Best Cartoon/Illustration

Events reflect growing apathy On Monday, August 10, Jonathan Parker was found bloody and beaten on Beale Street. A crowd quickly gathered around him, but instead of calling 9-1-1, many in the crowd pulled out their cell phones and began recording.

Meanwhile, Parker’s wallet, phone, and even his shirt were stolen. Help was not called until nearly thirty minutes later.

“It’s frustrating to see people leave me there like I’m some kind of animal or something,” Parker told news station WREG, adding his belief he could have been carried somewhere safer.

Parker’s situation is horrifying to say the least, but unfortunately not surprising. It reveals a frightening trend in society today - desensitization to violence. People see a body on the ground and their minds

don’t process it as a human be- State University researchers ing in need but something they showed that extensive exponeed to post about instead. sure to violent video games In an age of instant com- such as Grand Theft Auto can munication have a deand constant sensitizing In an age of instant media immereffect on communication ... we children’s sion, we often often focus first and physiologfocus first and foremost on foremost on sharing ical reacsharing before tions to before all else. all else. It’s not violence. necessarily a However, bad thing; craving social con- though these video games can nections is human. However, romanticize violence, their it is possible to “connect” to virtual realities often reflect the point where we become our own. like those people on Beale - so Our generation has grown up focused on the spectacle of a seeing images of war on the person in need that we forget morning news, hearing about the person is actually in need. school shootings on an almost Many groups claim that this monthly basis, and stumbling desensitization to violence across articles detailing murcomes from the graphic na- der after murder in local newsture of modern movies and papers. video games. A study by Iowa We see footage of misery at

such a high rate that in order to cope, we numb ourselves to it.

Feeling the grief we see is too difficult, so we resign to ourselves that murders will happen, that war is inevitable.

But we mustn’t resign ourselves to the point where we lose our empathy. We are products of the harsh world we live in, but we can’t hope to change things unless we make ourselves care. Apathy is improvement’s greatest enemy. The morbid images on the news and on our Twitter timelines should move us to make things better.

We are, to put it bluntly, the future. We have the ability to create a society where violence isn’t the new normal, where suffering is seen as a problem, not just another story. We can make things better.

At the very least, we can try.

My name is Kyle Van Frank, and I tell it like it is. This column is an outlet of peace in which I will deliver the cold, hard facts, according to me.

If you don’t like it, you can hit

If there’s one thing we can agree on here at SBA, it’s that no one messes with us. We’re a family, a common people, united by the same spirit that drives our student sections.

Our student sections are special. They’re special not just because of the outrageous themes and colorful attitudes, but because of their presence beyond the games.

The Nest isn’t just a section of the bleachers; it’s a people and a way of life. That’s why I get a little angry when people mess with The Nest.

Between aggressive cheers, Twitter fights, and text messages, the Nest often comes under attack.

However, I am proud to say, when that does happen, we treat it right; we’re classy and we stick together.

This Nest holds more than just the 1000 noble Eagles of today. The Nest holds thousands of past and future Eagles that will always hold the glory of The Nest close.

Frankly, no one messes with The Nest if they know what’s good for them and that’s a fact.

Don’t mess with The Nest Kyle Van Frank

2012 ASPA Awards

(ASPA-American Scholastic Press Assoc.)

First Place Overall Newspaper First Place Outstanding Service to the Community The Eagle’s Eye is published monthly during the school year, by the newspaper staff at St. Benedict at Auburndale, 8250 Varnavas Drive, Cordova, TN 38016. Telephone: 901-2602840. The Eagle’s Eye is distributed free to all members of the student body. Commentaries and opinion columns are the expressed opinion of the author and not of The Eagle’s Eye and its Editorial Board, or its adviser.

These opinions do not reflect the views of the Catholic Diocese of Memphis. Letter to the Editor Policy: Letters must include the writer’s name, signature and class or position. Typed, doublespaced letters are preferred, but legible, hand-written submissions are acceptable. Letters can be mailed, hand-delivered or e-mailed to the adviser. The Eagle’s Eye will not print anything deemed libelous, obscene or in poor taste, in accordance with the Supreme Court’s justified standards. The meaning of any submission will not be altered, but we reserve the right to correct spelling, grammar and punctuation when necessary.

Additionally, The Eagle’s Eye refuses to print criticism which is not constructive and supported by facts.

The Eye on Editorials

Frankly...

Guest Columnist the road. Or, in other words, if you can’t take the Frankly, stay out of the column.

First of all, I really don’t like it when people mess with The Nest.

New eagle lands in SBA nest

cartoon by Breanna Parker

The Eagle’s Eye St. Benedict at Auburndale September 2014

The Eye on News

3

eNews Briefsf Eagle Lane soars at first game National Merit Scholars

photo by Sharon Masterson

Mrs. Sondra Morris congratulates commended scholars Easton Williams, Bradley Reber, Jack Fletcher, JD Dudek, Jake McClure, and Meghan Brino for their excellent scores on the PSAT. Meghan and Jake are semifinalists and will compete to become finalists. They are joined by Academic Dean, Dr. Beth Fischer, and senior counselor Stephanie Scates.

Go Jim Go visits SBA

photo provided by WREG News

Go Jim Go is an annual bike ride fundraiser featuring News Channel 3 meteorologist Jim Jaggers. Mr. Jaggers rides 333 miles across the Mid-South to raise money for Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Last year, SBA won “Rookie of the Year” for raising $2325. This year’s goal is to raise $2500.

Mass held for SBA Alum

photo by Sharon Masterson

Former SBA soccer player Michael McGuire, (Class of ‘14), passed away on August 22. Thomas Gilman, (Class of ‘14), Coach Nick Dressman, senior Luke Parker, and Patrick Graham (‘14) present Michael’s jersey to his parents at a recent Mass.

NUNS

continued from page 1 she was just really sweet.”

Both sisters were born and raised in Minnesota, though much of their work has been in the Mid-South. They have worked in East Tennessee, Virginia, and around Nashville; however, their order “teaches in 27 or so schools in the country and in different parts of the world,” said Sister Marie Monique.

Community is a very important part of their lives. “Living with other women who love Jesus and are genuinely living

good and happy lives…there’s just a lot of natural joy in that,” said Sister Marie Monique.

This community experience is expressed in their everyday lives as well.

A common misconception about nuns is that all their time is spent in prayer. While this is a very large part of their lives with prayer in the morning, evening, and night, along with the four other sisters in their convent, “we usually go places together, and we do other things besides pray with each other. We play games and we eat together, we laugh, and we read the comics together and

Grace Gilman

Reporter

With music in the background and good friends and family just hanging out, the debut of Eagle Lane was a success. Located on the practice football field, Eagle Lane is a place where football fans can set up tents and socialize before the game.

“I thought it was great! I loved being with my friends and seeing what everyone was wearing before the game. I will definitely come to more in the future!” said senior Katie Barkley.

Eagle Lane came from a collaboration of ideas focusing on the goal of creating more of an event atmosphere at home games.

Clubs and groups set up their tents in designated areas. Hot coals for barbequing are provided, and everyone brings their own food and drinks.

“We want to entertain. A lot of the time games are just games, so we want to create nights where people come out

photo by Sharon Masterson

SBA families and students enjoy the Luau-themed Eagle Lane, organized by SGA officers and Athletic Director Caleb Marcum.

and have a good time,” said Coach Caleb Marcum, SBA Athletic Director.

At the first tailgate of the season, multiple tents were set up and tailgate games such as fan favorite corn hole were played.

Families of students came out, along with some alumni.

T-shirts in remembrance of Michael McGuire were sold at the first tailgate, and coordinators want to bring back the tshirt truck or other vendors for the rest of the season.

President of SGA, Kyle Van

Frank, thought the tailgate was a success considering it was the first time it has been done.

“Everyone who got a chance to come said they loved it,” said Kyle. “It made the game more of an event and more inclusive of the fans.”

Coach Marcum believes Eagle Lane is an event that will stick around for the long run.

“As our athletic program becomes more successful, I think people are really gonna want to jump on board and try to celebrate our teams.”

ALS challenge comes to SBA Bailey Coppedge Editor-in-Chief

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that disrupts nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Motor neurons that enable movement are disrupted, causing paralysis and, eventually, death. ALS has received international attention due to the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge.

The St. Benedict staff and student body recently got involved with the ALS Ice Bucket challenge. Ms. Laura Burke, Spanish Department Chair, was the first SBA representative to participate. She

then challenged Mrs. Morris, who completed the challenge during a recent pep rally. Other challenges followed, resulting in Mrs. Rush, Coach Wynne, and Mrs. Janet Donato, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, also being pummeled with ice.

It has been noted that part of the ALS Association’s research is done through the use of embryotic stem cells. Teachings of the Catholic Church do not allow the use of embryos for stem cell research. However, to clarify, the Church does allow adult stem cell research.

On August 27, the St. Benedict student body hosted a jeans day fundraiser, with all the proceeds going to the di-

rect care of Patricia Hirtz, mother of Father Patrick Hirtz, who is suffering from ALS.

do a lot of family-type things,” said Sister Marie Monique.

“Our community life is a really big part of who we are as sisters,” said Sister Rita Marie.

While at St. Benedict, both sisters plan to be an influence in more than just education.

“Our work goes beyond just teaching in a classroom, we bring a message of hope, and of love, and of joy; that’s our main goal,” said Sister Rita Marie. “People will learn we’re good teachers too, but at the same time leave our classrooms with a deeper love for God and a deeper understanding of who they are in Him.”

Part of being a nun is wearing a habit at all times, even when going out to get groceries or pumping gas. As nuns are not a very common sight, they get various reactions to their presence when out in public. “We do get double takes or stares,” said Sister Rita Marie. On occasion strangers will even stop and interact with the sisters.

“People ask us to pray with them all the time in the streets…it’s actually really humbling because people see that we represent something greater than ourselves,” said Sister Rita Marie.

To any student struggling

with finding a direction in life, Sister Rita Marie said, “Be open to God, whatever He calls you to, because He wants you to be happy in this life and happy with Him in the next.”

“This is your window of time when you really understand that making a sacrifice is worth it, and giving your whole heart is what you really want to do,” said Sister Marie Monique. “You guys know that and you recognize it. Be excited, because if you give your whole heart, you’re going to be so happy. You guys get what totality is. So just stay true to that ideal.”

photo by Sharon Masterson

Mrs. Burke participates in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge.

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The Eagle’s Eye St. Benedict at Auburndale September 2014

The Eye on Features

Shelby Farms undergoes renovations Kennedy Davis

Reporter

Shelby Farms Park has been a natural hotspot for Memphians since the early 1970s, and thanks to its Board of Directors, the conservancy is expanding and renovating this year.

Shelby Farms already offers plenty of activities for all ages such as biking, paddle boating, and even paint ball. After six years of strategizing, Shelby Farms patrons are excited about several additions coming to the park.

“The Master Plan of the conservancy is to make Shelby Farms a bit more interactive for our citizens that come here,” said Kim Elorriaga, project director of Shelby Farms.

The Heart of the Park is what they call the Master Plan, and

it is expected to be a defining park of the 21st century. There will be an 80-acre expansion of Patriot Lake, which is equal to 76.2 NFL playing fields.

The expansion of the lake is supposed to improve the watershed and vegetation that surrounds it.

Along with the lake expansion, the Shelby Farms trails are gaining ground as well.

Two different tracks will circle around Patriot Lake, a faster cycle track and a promenade for walkers.

New amenities are also a part of the Master Plan. A new Visitor’s Center will be built, and it will offer more restrooms, a gift shop, a grab-and-go café, and more space for educational programs.

The Retreat/Event Center and restaurant is a multi-purpose facility that will be a setting for weddings and receptions,

photo by Kennedy Davis

Construction is underway at Shelby Farms. This will be a common sight over the next two years, as employees work to make Shelby Farms more interactive for families, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.

ings is set up in order to attract more people to the park, and they offer more to people who come to the park regularly. They all support different activities and aspects of the park,” said Ms. Elorriaga.

Construction began in May with hopes to finish by 2016.

classroom projects, parties, and other events. West of the new Visitor’s Center will be a stage and amphitheater, which is called the Event Pavilion.

The Event Pavilion will offer a lakeside view to year-round performances.

A new boat kiosk will house

canoes and kayaks for visitors who want to paddle the newly expanded Patriot Lake.

Lakeside Pavilions will provide shaded spaces and picnic tables for parties, family reunions, and picnics at the lake’s edge.

“Each of these new build-

of bad business in this location,” said soon-to-be Sushi Chef, Julian Samhouri.

The restaurant is very modern with a traditional Japanese vibe. Flat screen televisions are located behind both the bar and the sushi bar. The granite top sushi bar is equipped with built-in LED lights and a sushi conveyer belt.

The individual dining tables have a soup warmer built into

the center of the table for miso and mushroom soups. The Asian style restaurant also has a large fish tank displaying exotic fish.

“I’m super excited, and I want some sushi!” said senior and sushi enthusiast, Caroline King.

The restaurant’s menu will include Japanese cuisine including sushi, tempura, nigiri, hibachi, soups, and salads.

Osaka construction workers are putting finishing touches on the interior of the building, and employees are being hired.

Currently, he is a part of the Orpheum Theater’s orchestra in the woodwind section.

When Mr. Buss first arrived at SBA, he noticed how great the working environment was.

“The students are very smart,” he said. “When I tell them to do something, they do it right away, which shows how dedicated they are.”

The students in band are adjusting to their new leader as well. “I think the band is going to be great this year,” said junior Harley Chapman, a member of the jazz band.

Mr. Buss’ main goal for this

year is to expand the band program’s reach.

“I want to make the program more visible. I want to build up our numbers and get some more members as well,” said Mr. Buss.

Mr. Buss has already set his plan in motion by bringing the band to the football games.

“It’s a small band, but I think it helps give us more exposure to the rest of the school.”

Down the road, Mr. Buss would like to create a string program as well, something that has never been done before at the school.

Mr. Buss has goals for expansion of the band, and he is eager to bring new ideas to the music department.

vice, as St. Benedict reminds us, is the way we walk together to build and strengthen our community,” said Director of Spiritual Affairs, Mrs. Hannah Keegan.

The statue will be blessed and dedicated to Mr. Valadie

on Friday, September 26.

The school also added a full set of wooden crosses representing the Stations of the Cross outside in the courtyard.

Senior Dalton Bailey built the crosses for his Eagle Scout project. “I was looking for a

project to do for Eagle Scouts, and someone suggested that I should do the stations outside.

I asked Mrs. Morris if I could do it and she said ‘yes,’” said Dalton.

The crosses took seven days in total to build, paint, and

Osaka settles into a new Cordova home Jack Borg

Culture Editor

Many restaurants have occupied the corner building in the shopping center near SBA including Crazy Cactus, Grissanti’s Bol a’ Pasta, and Slim Skillets. Now Osaka Japanese Cuisine is scheduled to open their doors in mid-September at that location.

“We hope to break the trend

photo by Jack Borg

Band director plans to expand program Lauren James

Copy Editor

A new band director has joined the SBA faculty.

Mr. Gary Buss was born and raised in Memphis. He has taught music in Denver public schools, at the University of Denver, and in Florida.

After moving back to Memphis, he was contacted

by SBA to take over the band director position left by former band director Mr. Tom Link.

Outside of school, Mr. Buss has traveled with several theater touring companies.

STATUE

continued from page 1 school serves as a great reminder to all of us - students, faculty, and staff - that the work of our community must ultimately be to serve. Ser-

photo by Dianna Cervetti

install. Dalton received help from other SBA students/ scouts including Michael Mendez, Jon McCurdy, Tommy Merrill, Jason Cooper, and Chris Schulein (class of 2014).

CBHS student Evan Burgess also helped out.

The Eagle’s Eye St. Benedict at Auburndale September 2014

The Eye on Features

MMI makes changes Reporter

How well do you know your teachers?

Can you guess the identities of these spirited faculty/staff members?

1.

2.

3.

4.

photo by Grace Gilman

Cafeteria staff member Nicole Pittman prepares some vegetables for Chef Mihn’s new fresh and handmade menu for the SBA cafe.

ANSWERS:

2. Dr. Fischer, Harding Academy cheerleader, 12th

5.

1. Ms. Beno, Rochester Adams High School cheerleader, 12th

the change from Chick-Fil-A to Zaxby’s because Zaxby’s is a fresh product and everything is handmade.

He also added Smoothie King on Tuesdays because, even though they are considered a dessert, they are healthy and students seem to really like them.

Chef Mihn also heavily encourages student participation.

“If any students have suggestions, my office is always open,” said Chef Mihn. “I also plan to have a survey box to put in any notes you might have for the cafeteria and they will be answered every day.”

3. Mrs. Giles, CBHS cheerleader, 10th

encourage students to participate in the culinary arts. Chef Mihn is also setting up a sushi bar, a new fresh and healthy option for the dining hall.

Once the weather changes, Chef Mihn is going to sell hot breakfasts in the morning. He plans to have an omelet station, warm French toast with peanut butter and jelly, chicken and waffles, and chocolate chip pancakes with a brown butter maple syrup. “I want to spoil you guys!” said Chef Mihn.

A major theme in Chef Mihn’s plans for the cafeteria is healthy, fresh foods. He made

4. Mr. Bilbrey, SBA Homecoming Escort, 11th

Chef Mihn Nguyen, the new head chef, plans to change the typical cafeteria eating experience at SBA. Chef Mihn started off his career as a sushi chef at Sekisui, a local restaurant in Memphis. “I decided that staying at Sekisui wasn’t my calling,” said Chef Mihn. So he traveled to Florida and got a degree at La Cordon Bleu, a culinary school.

After culinary school, he became a chef at Disney World.

He cooked in several other establishments including Rhodes College, but eventually found himself back home in Cordova and opened up his own restaurants, BlueFish and Rein. However, due to a family tragedy, he sold his restaurants. From there, he decided to join the SBA family.

Chef Mihn came to SBA because he loves working with kids, especially high school students. “I was an executive chef at Rhodes College, but college students are a little different than high school students. I wanted to come here to SBA and interact with you guys as much as possible,” said Chef Mihn.

Chef Mihn is also Catholic and wants to help out the Diocese of Memphis as much as he can. “My parents are very religious and they thought working at SBA would be a great fit for me,” he said.

Soon Chef Mihn hopes to set up an Iron Chef competition to

Guess Who?

5. Ms. Haysley, Abbeville H. S. Homecoming Court, 11th

Grace Gilman

5

Ambassadors welcome new students

Jack Borg

Culture Editor

When students visit the halls of SBA for the first time, they most likely have a spirited guide describing the layout of the school, giving information about the school’s features, and providing a preview of the total high school experience.

That person is an SBA Student Ambassador.

Student Ambassadors are selected by a committee of faculty staff members to represent SBA both on campus and outside the school.

“It’s a highly competitive group,” said Ambassador Advisor, Mr. Bret Bilbrey. “It’s a hard and lengthy process that we use to choose the students that we feel best represent the diverse culture of SBA.”

In the past, the Ambassadors were only in charge of eighth grade visits and open houses.

Now they are branching out and promoting SBA life in more ways including New Student Orientation, Parent Night, and the #iheartsba campaign on Twitter and Instagram.

“The Ambassadors are doing a great job because when they take pictures or tweet something about SBA student life, they use that hashtag. The official SBA Twitter account and the SBA Ambassador account retweet those tweets to reflect the student life along with announcements and newsletters,” said Mr. Bilbrey.

The Ambassadors encourage upcoming freshmen to attend SBA and help new students feel at home. In a sense, they take the new students under

photo by Sharon Masterson

Senior Student Ambassadors Spencer Smith, Alex Evans, and Arielle Labilles and junior Curtis Scott converse and hang out with the freshmen during lunch on the first day of school.

their wings to help them fully enjoy their high school experience.

Those who are inspired by SBA Ambassadors may want

to become one in their upperclassman years. “You don’t have to be a talkative, outgoing person to be an Ambassador. Every student needs an

Ambassador to look up to, so just be yourself and be proud to be an eagle,” said newly elected Ambassador Chair, Kirkland Schuler.

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The Eagle’s Eye St. Benedict at Auburndale September 2014

The Eye on Sports

Fall sports take on new challenges Savannah Boettcher Sports Editor

Cross Country The boys and girls cross country teams began their competitive season at the Brooks Memphis Twilight Classic where both teams finished 22nd out of 45 teams.

Sophomore Ray Wynne led the guys with a 39th place finish and a time of 17:30. Senior J.D. Dudek was next for SBA with a time of 18:35, followed by sophomore Jake Coppedge, 18:41.

Underclassmen held the fastest times for the Lady Eagles at the Classic. Freshman Meghan Underwood finished 18th with a time of 19:53. Sophomores Catherine May and Jessica Morrison followed with times of 21:38 and 23:05, respectively. Close behind were juniors Harley Chapman and Kate Dudek, both finishing with times under 24 minutes.

At a Shelby Farms League Meet, Ray led the Eagle pack with a time of 16:50. Jake followed with 18:30 and senior Jason Cooper trailed close behind with 18:45. Usual top competitors Ryan Cobb and J.D. were sidelined due to significant injuries.

For the girls, Meghan finished third overall with a time of 20:25. She was followed by junior Maddie Rose. Juniors Harley, Kate, and Shannon Dunn rounded out the lead pack.

Both teams will compete this weekend at the Tennessee Classic in Nashville, TN.

Football

After a 1-10 season last year, the football program started the year off with three victories against Kingsbury, ECS, and tough oppponent Bolton.

The Eagles defense shut out Kingsbury 29-0 and held them

to only 86 total yards. Senior Joey Magnifico capitalized on the already outstanding offensive performance when he channeled his inner Marshawn Lynch and “beast-moded” through the Kingsbury defense to score. On his way to the end zone, Joey dodged six Kingsbury defenders.

Austin Cary, Ben O’Bryan, and Nesto Rivas anchor the defensive line while Ethan York, Devon Newsom, Dalton Lowrie, Nesto, and Dylan Cummins hold down the offensive line. “Our play on the offensive and defensive line has been tremendous,” said head coach Mike David.

Against ECS, the Eagles prevailed with a 35-24 victory.

The already potent Eagle defense held the opposing team to a mere 34 yards rushing.

With a few minutes left in the third, ECS took the lead 1714, but the Eagles rallied and took the victory.

The 28-14 victory against Bolton sets expectations high for the rest of the season.

In the coming weeks, the Eagles will face St. George’s for the Homecoming game, Briarcrest, Central and MUS, on the road, and Cordova and CBHS at home to wrap up the season.

Girls Soccer

The Lady Eagles started off the season with a 3-0 loss against Hutchison, but bounced back with a victory against Bolton.

Senior Bailey Coppedge holds down the goal and shut out Bolton, 4-0 with the help of senior Katie Phillips in the goal for the second half. Bailey has verbally committed to play soccer at Mississippi State.

Junior forward Shelby Goodrich and sophomore midfielder Olivia Hall lead the offense. Against Bolton, Olivia scored twice while Shelby and

photo by Sharon Masterson

Junior Colton Cochran runs the ball against ECS as two Eagle linemen block the oncoming defenders. SBA beat ECS 35-24.

senior Ciscily Crislip picked up the other two.

Senior Mallory Barbier leads the defense next to freshman Macy McCoy. Freshman Phoebe Conine is also a leading contributor to the varsity team.

Head coach Nick Dressman believes that the girls will be successful if they are able to “do the simple things right” such as the “five yard pass and moving off the goal.”

The team suffered a 2-0 region loss against Briarcrest and will face St. Agnes in the coming weeks.

Golf

With the SBA golf season underway, both the girls and guys teams sit well over .500.

Senior Dominica Angotti captains the girls side and showed her skill at Galloway where she shot her best round.

Underclassmen talent in Maribeth Peevy and Anikka Ferro helped SBA place third at the WTG Invitational, where Maribeth also shot a 75 to place third in the individual competition.

Captained by senior Cole Peevy, the boys team had “big team wins” against Brighton and CBHS, according to head coach Barbara Hervey.

While facing CBHS, junior Dale Pitawanakwat shot a 43, while Cole and junior Nick Giles shot 37’s. With the impressive performances anchored by Dale, Cole and Nick, the boys were able to beat CBHS by one stroke.

“It felt good to beat CBHS. It was an emotional and well-fought victory. #PlayForMike,” said the golfers after the match.

At the FCA Tournament, Cole shot a 72 to snag fourth place while Nick carded a 70 to take second. Cole led the Eagles with a 75 at the MUS Tournament while junior Ben Jones had his best round of the year with a 79.

At the Father Ryan Inivitational, the boys team placed third with Cole tying for first, but later losing in a playoff.

Nick ended up finishing third.

The girls team placed fourth and Maribeth finished in second place individually.

The teams will head to Regionals on September 24 and 25. The girls will play at Windyke and the boys play at Quail Ridge, where “they hope to play well and advance to State in early October,” said Coach Hervey.

photo by Sharon Masterson

Senior Cara Carpenter vies for the ball against an oncoming Hutchison opponent. The Lady Eagles lost to Hutchison 3-0.

Volleyball

The Lady Eagles volleyball team has competed in two tournaments during the season thus far.

At the Collierville Memorial Classic and the J. Boddie Tournament in Hoover, Alabama, SBA finished in the Gold Bracket.

The team had a statementsetting victory over Houston on the road – something the SBA volleyball team hasn’t done in four years. The team then suffered a close region loss in four sets against Briarcrest.

The Lady Eagles bounced back and took out Collierville in three sets.

“Overall, we are quite wellrounded and can put a different line-up out on the court each set and be successful,” said Coach Daleke.

In a hard fought match against St. Agnes, the Lady Eagles lost in five sets.

At the River City Classic, the team finished second in the Gold Bracket.

On Senior Night, the team will host Houston and will then face St. Agnes again a few days later.

photo by Sharon Masterson

Senior Nicole Harty goes up for the spike against Briarcrest, while junior Anna Graziosi and senior Madison Bond offer support.

The Eye on Culture

The Eagle’s Eye St. Benedict at Auburndale September 2014

7

Café Eclectic brings brunch back perb. The waiters and waitresses are very friendly and are eager to make sure diners are having a good time.

I have not tried the entire menu, however I can recommend their paninis and ice cream. Their chicken pineapple panini has juicy tender chicken with sweet tangy pineapple and perfectly baked pita bread. The ice cream is smooth, refreshing and served in a sundae glass. Finish off a delicious brunch with an espresso shake to keep you going throughout the day.

The crowd at Café Eclectic mainly consists of hipsters, Midtowners, and baristas. If you wear Toms, have multi-

ple Apple products, and think Whole Foods is the best thing since sliced pita bread, you’ll probably fit right in. However, Café Eclectic is not hipster exclusive; everyone will most likely enjoy a nice brunch there.

Though the prices are on the expensive side, with my meal costing a little over $20, the cuisine is well worth the extra expense.

“I used to go after church for brunch,” said Dr. HennessyMcDonald. “I love the stuffed French toast, it’s messy but delicious! For lunch, I wolfed down the wonder dog. I enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and the friendly service.”

sics are played on an outdoor sound system. Red brick shops contain creaky wooden floorOne of the many hidden gems boards, and across from an old in Shelby County is the His- McGinnis gas station stands a torical Downtown District of four-sided antique clock.

Among the historical feaCollierville, which was recenttures, the Square is renowned ly voted the number one Main Street in America by USA Pa- for its log cabin, built in 1851.

The cabin once rade. served as an old Founded as stagecoach rest Oak Grove stop, but it curin 1835, the rently houses a Collierville museum of arTown Square tifacts from the is located on 1800’s. The sceMain Street nic spot is also in the Historipopular among cal Downtown both professional and amateur District of Collierville.

Walking around the Square photographers.

Other historical points inis similar to stepping back in time. Along the pathways clude a cannon located near that make up the Square, old- the active train tracks, various fashioned light posts illumi- signs explaining battles and nate the walkways, while clas- the history of Collierville, and

an unoccupied train car on a section of inactive tracks.

The Square provides free community fun, such as the Easter Egg Hunt and Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony.

In addition, the Summer Concert Series takes place from May to July, with free concerts every Thursday, along with various food vendors.

During the summer there is also a vintage car show where people bring in their old Dusters and show them off to the rest of the town.

Just like many other downtown districts, the Square is the home to a fun and inexpensive ice cream parlor, Mensi’s, located just past the recently painted Collierville mural. A sizable ice cream cone costs only 97 cents. Mensi’s also serves burgers, fries, and other diner food that takes you back

Kennedy Davis

the hair, and it gives the hair time to naturally and gradually grow by itself. It doesn’t sound as bad until the washing, blow-drying, and styling part comes in.

“When I transitioned, I always found more hair in my brush and in my sink than I did on my head,” said sophomore Lindsay Williams.

When transitioning, washing and combing the hair can be a little nerve-racking. Due to the natural curls mixed with the remaining perm, the hair gets tangled easily. As the tangles get combed out, the hair falls out as well. However, you should not be alarmed. The hair that is found in the sink after a great wash is just the

Jack Borg Restaurant Review Midtown has become notorious for trendy restaurants, but one in particular tends to stand out - Café Eclectic. This delightful café is great for brunch with friends.

When first entering the café, patrons are greeted with a bakery counter display of enticing treats. The atmosphere is very comfortable as natural light shines in from the large windows overlooking McLean Boulevard. A large blackboard with the colorfully chalkedup daily specials hangs on the wall.

The customer service is su-

photo by Jack Borg

Café Eclectic has both indoor and outdoor dining areas. It also features an array of baked goods and several flavors of coffee.

Based on all of these factors I give Café Eclectic on the cor-

ner of Mclean Boulevard and Faxon Avenue 4 out of 5 stars.

Collierville catches the eyes of America Savannah Boettcher Grace Gilman

Gems of

Shelby County

photo by Grace Gilman

The Collierville Square has a small town feel complete with an oldfashioned gas station, a water tower, and a painted mural.

to malt shops of the 1950’s.

Other eateries at the Square include Cafe Piazza, Dyer’s Cafe, The Silver Caboose, and Yolo’s Frozen Yogurt.

This little park has much to offer, from the food, to the

boutiques, to the grassy areas of the Gazebo.

If you are looking for a spot to walk and talk with your friends while taking a step back in time, the Collierville Square is the place to go.

permed hair. When the permed hair is falling out, it is making room for healthy and natural hair to grow in.

The easiest way in which to go natural, in the opinions of most African American women, is to undergo the Big Chop.

A month without a perm is the best way to prepare for the Big Chop. Reasoning for this is because the hair needs time to breathe and detach itself out of the chemicals and grow on its own. Once a small curl pattern forms, it’s time to chop it all off.

The process is quicker and simpler than transitioning considering the fact that the only tools needed are a pair of scissors and a ponytail holder.

The Big Chop is also healthier than transitioning because you won’t have to worry about losing clumps of hair or wrestling with different hairstyles.

“When I first cut my hair, I didn’t think it would make that much of a difference; but I started to feel a sense of confidence, and I felt like a new person. I think when I cut my hair, I was starting over in more ways than one, and I don’t regret my decision at all,” explained junior Brooklyn White.

Most say haircutting is a way to start over in life, and making a few physical changes is a great way to prepare for the new lifestyle one is about to experience.

New hairstyles lead to new outlooks Reporter

African American hair cutting, The Big Chop in particular, has been trending lately.

Plenty of African American celebrities underwent the drastic haircut, and they all showcase their natural locks confidently.

Erykah Badu, an African American neo-soul artist, promotes natural hair to the fullest. She’s enjoyed many natural hairstyles including locks (a smaller/tighter version of dreadlocks) and afros.

Perms, on African American hair, straighten the natural curls out from the roots all the way down to the tips. Usually,

a perm is the easy way out— giving African Americans the freedom to style their hair every which way they please.

“If you get a perm, it’s going to be a long time before you see those natural curls again,” said hairstylist Shyara Scott.

Although perms make things a bit simpler, it isn’t the easiest to maintain. Thus, the journey back to natural hair begins.

There are two ways to “go natural.” You could transition slowly and put a halt to receiving perms, or you could participate in the Big Chop.

To transition between chemicals and natural hair means to cease the intake of chemicals in hair completely. The last perm received remains in

8

The Eagle’s Eye St. Benedict at Auburndale September 2014

The Back Page

Homecoming fever will take over Nest Gabby Velasquez

Reporter

Homecoming Week begins next week, kicking off a week of festivities all leading up to Friday, when SBA’s football team takes on St. George’s in the Homecoming game.

Monday starts with the judging of each class’s themed hallways, decorated by class officers and volunteers. Students will dress to match their hallway’s theme.

Tuesday is “#iheartsba Day,” where students will wear class or extracurricular shirts.

Wednesday brings a blast from the past as students dress in 80’s attire. Thursday marks the return of popular “Classy Day” where students don their dress slacks and maxi dresses for an all-school Mass.

“I think it’s nice because it brings more of an actual church atmosphere. We all get to dress up and look nice together, which is great,” said senior Cassandra Carrasco.

Friday is the pivotal Spirit Day, where students will dress out in full spirit wear, culminating in a massive, deafening pep rally.

“I’m expecting the Homecoming Pep Rally to be insane,” said Mr. Bret Bilbrey, SBA’s resident pep rally emcee. “It’s off the charts every

photo by Sharon Masterson

The class of 2015 cheers their way to their first spirit stick since their freshman year at the first Pep Rally of the school year. “I can promise you that we won’t lose again,” said senior class president Grayson Golightly on the class of 2015’s chances this year.

year, and I’m expecting this year to be even better.”

Last year, the class of 2015 brought their A-game to the Homecoming pep rally, only to lose to the class of 2014. “I can promise you that we won’t lose again,” said senior class president Grayson Golightly.

“I know the senior class this year is looking for redemption after last year’s pep rally, so I’m expecting them to bring the kitchen sink with them

when they come,” said Mr. Bilbrey.

But Mr. Bilbrey isn’t counting anyone out just yet. “I know the freshman class is on point, and they’re trying to be the first freshman class to ever win the pep rally, and everyone else has upped their spirit game because of the seniors,” he said. “I’m looking for it to be a showdown, and we’ll see who gets the stick!”

The competition for the

Spirit Stick isn’t all that decides which class emerges victorious at the week’s end.

Throughout the week, each class earns points from the Penny Wars, pop tab competition, hallway decorations, and Wacky Olympics.

The class that wins Homecoming Week will be announced at the football game during halftime, where the Homecoming Court will be presented and the Homecom-

ing Queen crowned. Homecoming wraps up on Saturday night with a dance, where Holland Studios will be present for photos.

Homecoming is more than a competition, however. It’s a week of unity as students in all classes celebrate being an Eagle.

“Homecoming Week in The Nest can’t be beat,” said senior Cole Peevy, “It’s probably the best week of high school.”

~puzzles~puzzles~puzzles~puzzles~puzzles~puzzles~puzzles~puzzles~puzzles~

Journey from the old to the new

Sudoku

Fill in the boxes so that each row, column, and square has ONE of each number 1 through 9.