Red & Black news magazine Vol. 5 Issue 1

RED&BLACK Volume 5 Issue 1

Winter 2019

M a g a z i n e

Stakeout

Nation Ford family does detective work with mom

Drum Up

Ethan Bodie keeps time with marching band

Juuls

E-cigs dangerous

Red & Black 2018-2019 Staff Editors- in- Chief Evan Heisler & Audrey Kmiecik

Copy Editor Riley Cota

Opinion Editor Kat Overman

Review Editor Lauren deLeon

Feature Editor Kayla Southwood

Sports Editor Daniel Childs

Photography Editor Louisa Lutz

Art Director

Megan Bouchard

Staff Jackson Bailey Faith Bornstein Matthew Carroll Hannah Christensen Jillian Eaton Elijah Edwards Halle Guerra Jacobie Henderson

Miles Jones Savannah Mitchell Ava Pidhayny Miku Pitman Lauren Siniard Justice Wehrmeyer

Adviser

Beth Swann

CONTENTS Red & Black

Winter 2019

Volume 5

5

COVER PHOTO: Pulling off his hood, drum major Ethan mentally prepares himself to be the figurehead of the band, conducting them throughout their performance.

-Photo by Julie Wallen

Features 47

47

15 13

4 Truth of Euthanasia 6-7 Officer Prescott 8-9 Anne Springs 10-11 Never Give Up 12-13 Ms. Linh Tran 14-15 Kindergarten 16-17 NYPD 18-19 20-21 22-27

German Exchange Student Drum Major Private Investigator

Sports

51

28-29 Diabetes 30-31 Concussions 32-33 Pay to Play 34 PE Credit for Athletes

ABOUT THE MAGAZINE: The 5th volume of Nation Ford’s Red & Black news magazine features events, news, sports, topics and opinions. The magazine gives voices to students in the Introduction to Journalism class.

Op/Ed 35

Snapchat

36-37

Screen Time

38-39 40-41 42-43 44-45

Mastery Learning

45

54

Birth Control Dress Coding Juuling

Reviews 46 48

Vessels

49 50

Roblox

52 54 56

Nail Spa

07

Mr. Putty’s Fun Park Margaritas Mexican Restaurant “Pray for the Wicked” Album My Sophomore Year

56

FEATURE

The Truth f Euthanization Animals in shelters die every day across America

by Megan Bouchard

/ Red & Black

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he barking of dogs, mewling of cats, and chatter of people fills the building. The pungent odor of stale food and cat litter permeate the air. People stir in and out of the shelter, some with donations, others with animals, or they browse among cages and the animals within. Most animals are safe, but others won’t be so lucky.

Annually, 7.6 million pets are taken to U.S. shelters. On average, 36 percent of pets who enter the shelters end up being euthanized in the U.S. This is equal to approximately 2.7 million animals, according to petful.com.

Many government-run and -owned shelters are given a budget they can spend taking care of their animals, and if it becomes too costly to care for some animals, the shelter has no choice but to euthanize.

Allison Gray gained a wealth of knowledge about animal welfare issues and responsible pet care during her nearly five years of work at an animal shelter.

“No animal shelter takes the topic of euthanasia lightly,” Gray said. “The shelter business is one of rehoming and happy endings. The devastating reality of needing to humanely kill companion animals is the most

difficult part of the profession.”

Animal Shelters have fairly few options when the endless number of incoming animals outweighs the eligible adopters and foster families. Organizations have to make the decision to euthanize animals less likely to be adopted – the sick and the aggressive, and those with special needs. At times, animals are put down simply because a shelter reached their capacity of animals to make room for the never-ending

“The shelter business is one of rehoming and happy endings. The devastating reality of needing to humanely kill companion animals is the most difficult part of the profession.”

– Allison Gray, shelter worker influx of more animals brought in.

Approximately 56 percent of dogs and 71 percent of cats that enter animal shelters are euthanized. Cats are euthanized more often than dogs because they are more likely to enter a shelter without owner

identification.

“We partner with Charlotte Mecklenburg Animal Care and Control (CMACC),” said Suzanne D’Alonzo, a worker with the Humane Society of Charlotte (HSC). “We also partner with a number of sheltering facilities in the region, many of which have access to fewer resources, including fewer adopters.

“With those partnerships, we work in concert with those other groups so a productive transfer of animals is moved – meaning, we vary what sizes, ages, breeds or breed mixes, medical concerns, behavioral concerns – so that each group has a selection of animals that is likely to be adopted quickly.”

Organizations like the Humane Society collaborate and partner with other shelters and animal control programs to help save animals. They take in some animals bound for the euthanization table, and they take in animals from other crowded shelters, but they can only do this when their own capacity is not full.

“Our capacity volume will swell with response to emergencies, disasters, large animal legal cases… and in warm weather with kittens,” D’Alonzo said. “For example, with the help of foster homes and two

A loving and playful kitten struggles to find a home at the Humane Society.

Photo by Megan Bouchard

boarding facilities, we were able to immediately accept over 100 additional animals that shelters were moving out of the path of Hurricane Florence and flooding.”

Hurricane Florence left hundreds of animals homeless, leading to overpopulation within shelters.

“There are many ways to make a difference in the lives of shelter animals.”

Approximately 56 percent of dogs and 71 percent of cats that enter animal shelters are euthanized.

Winter 2019 /

Organizations across South Carolina are trying to keep up with the reports of lost pets and strays finding their way to shelters.

“Of the approximately 7.6 million companion animals entering animal shelters nationwide, every year, approximately 2.7 million are euthanized,” ASPCA President & CEO Matt Bershadker said.

“Adoption not only moves an animal from vulnerability to safety, but creates space at the shelter, and moves more resources and attention to the remaining animals.

“Across the country, many shelters are crowded, challenged, and stretched for resources. Every free cage, every available supply, and every extra moment of care makes a difference.”

Shelter workers say there are many ways to make a difference in the lives of shelter animals. Extra care from ordinary people can provide resources to make pets’ lives better and more bearable. Donations such as pocket money, toys, harnesses, animal beds/blankets, pet food, and cat litter are a huge help. But the biggest difference people can make is fostering these animals to provide a temporary home and open up space for other animals in need.

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FEATURE

Protecting the President Officer Dave Prescott looks back at experience with Air Force SWAT team

/ Red & Black

by Daniel Childs

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When President Ronald Reagan came to Germany in 1985, he was protected by the Air Force SWAT team. One young man on that team was someone students now see everyday at Nation Ford High School. That man is Resource Officer Dave Prescott.

“This was one of the most stressful times in my life,” says Officer Prescott.

He was part of the prestigious SWAT detail for President Ronald Reagan when he arrived in Bitburg, Germany in May of 1985 to honor the WWII dead on the 40th Anniversary of the end of the war.

Officer Prescott was on the Air Force Special Weapons and Tactics team for four years. He had to go through tough training and tryouts, and after passing many tests, Prescott was given the title of a member of the United States Air Force SWAT team.

The SWAT team’s role in the USAF is to carry out security missions.

Prescott was assigned to many

dangerous and exciting missions, including protecting former President Reagan on his trip to Germany. While he was there, Reagan

“The choice to join the Air Force made me who I am today.”

Officer Dave Prescott wanted to pay his respects to the U.S. soldiers buried in Germany – but it was later revealed that members of the Waffen-SS, the military arm of Nazi Germany were

also buried in the same cemetery.

The controversy led to President Reagan receiving death threats.

Prescott and his team also had to worry about more possible threats, including car bombs, terrorists that could have harmed the President.

The SWAT team had to set up security perimeters and check cars for car bombs. Car bombs had become a common way to kill many people.

Officer Prescott would never have thought he would be protecting the president when he joined in the SWAT team 1981.

“I needed to grow up,” Prescott said. He believed that the Air Force was his best choice.

At 18 he needed to make a choice, and his grandfather didn’t approve of him joining the Marine Corps because Officer Prescott was former Army. So he went to his second choice – the Air Force.

The Air Force SWAT team requires many skills, including repelling. “This was probably the

Members of the Air Force SWAT team Brian Bowen, Mike Ross, and Dave Prescott take a break from training for Ranger Indoc Program in Hahn AB, Germany in South Frankfurt in 1984. Photo courtesy of Dave Prescott.

SWAT team candidates must successfully complete the Special Operations Weather physical

After leaving the Air Force, Prescott spent 27 years on various SWAT teams across the country. ability and stamina test. This test is composed of five swim-

ming tests, a mile and a half run, pull-ups, and finally sit-ups.

This vigorous training prepares them for challenges to come.

After leaving the Air Force Officer Prescott spent 27 years on various SWAT teams across the country.

After the tough training, and many amazing experiences, Prescott has found a home at Nation Ford High School where his experience makes students safer every day.

Winter 2019 /

hardest part of training,” Officer Prescott admits.

“The choice to join the Air Force made me who I am today,” he says.

Prescott admitted that he was a lost kid until he found his way in the Air Force.

He fit right into the Air Force because of his love for planes.

Some of his experiences include traveling all over the world, protecting political officials, and going on dangerous missions.

To become part of the Air Force

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FEATURE

Climbing Kilimanjaro

Anne Springs Close looks back on achieving her lifelong dream .............................................................................

/ Red & Black

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t age 92, her body is thin and frail, but a determined strength lies deep within her bones. It’s that strength that she drew from 36 years ago as she climbed 19,341 feet into the sky.

It was February of 1982 the first time Anne Springs Close, philanthropist and founder of the Anne Springs Close Greenway, climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa. It was a lifelong dream of hers.

A dream she wouldn’t let go.

“I had always wanted to do it.

For years and years I had wanted to do it,” Close said. “I had an opportunity to go in 1982, so I did.”

Close’s dream of climbing Kilimanjaro bloomed when she was a teenager, when the stories of other hikers took root in her imagination.

“I just remember reading a lot about Africa,” she said. “I always wanted to go to Africa… I never thought about not going.”

However, getting to Africa was only the first of her challenges.

“There’s no real way to train for altitude [sickness] and that’s the thing that gets most people – the lack of oxygen,” Close said.

Altitude sickness is caused by rapid exposure to low amounts of oxygen at high elevations and impacts about 20 percent of people

by Riley Cota at elevations under 18,000 ft.

“I’ve just been lucky,” Close said. “There’s no way you can tell whether you are going to get it or not. And then some people who have climbed a lot and have never gotten it, suddenly get it.”

While altitude sickness didn’t impact Close, the hike itself was difficult on her body.

“It gave me some self-confidence, which women of my generation didn’t have a whole lot of.”

- Anne Springs Close “The hardest part was the last night. You start at about 1 a.m., and you hike for about five hours — the first four in the dark — and it’s pretty steep,” Close said. “You’re pulling yourself up over big boulders, and it’s pretty strenuous.”

According to the Kilimanjaro Trek Guide, only 27 percent of people make it to the peak of Kilimanjaro on the five-day route.

“Getting to the top has to be [the best part] because you are just so focused on that the whole time,” Close said. “You’re exhausted when you get over the top, but you’re just so excited to be there. When you

get there, the sun has risen… and the sunrise is an amazing sight.”

NFHS media specialist and Close’s friend Julie Hooper spoke of the unwavering resolution Close has to accomplish her goals.

“Determined,” is how Hooper describes Close. “She is still doing so much that somebody my age – I’m younger than most of her children – can’t do. She’s so active, so involved in things. She is just an amazing woman.”

Even with the accomplishment of making it to the peak, the anxiety of holding their lives in their own hands took a toll on Close’s climbing group of 13.

“Everybody gets more nervous as you climb -- Am I going to make it?” Close said. “The wondering if you were going to make it and the excitement when you do [motivates you]. You just want to pinch yourself. It was like being in a whole other world.”

Overcoming the anxiety of the mountain climb taught Close to believe in herself.

“It gave me some self-confidence, which women of my generation didn’t have a whole lot of,” Close said. “It boosts your self-confidence a little bit when you accomplish something that you thought about for a long time. To finally do it makes you feel good.”

At the base of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa, Anne Springs Close smiles for a photograph with her climbing companions in Feburary 1982.

Photo courtesy of Anne Springs Close

“Everybody gets more nervous as you climb — Am I going to make it?”

- Anne Springs Close

Art by Rylee Vanterve Winter 2019 / 9

FEATURE

Never Give Up Football star Jibrille Fewell overcomes past to turn experiences into sports business

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ike any other kid who loves the game of football, Jibrille Fewell wanted to succeed and play in the NFL. Fewell is a Rock Hill, S.C. native who owns Carolina Xposure, a sports management company for teens who want to make it to college sports.

Carolina Xposure is a company that helps student athletes achieve their dreams of playing sports in college by exposing athletes to schools. The company also gives kids an idea of what college is like and takes athletes on college tours.

Fewell wants to give kids the experiences he wish he could have had when he was their age.

Fewell started playing football for the Philly Road Falcons when he was 7.

Young Fewell admired players Deion Sanders and Warren Sapp.

Growing up, he wanted to be just like them.

Fewell wanted to help his family out by making money playing the sport he loved, just like his role models.

Fewell admired the swagger that Sanders brought to the game and Sapp’s dirtiness in the trenches. He tried to match their playing style and tenacity on the field.

As Fewell got older, he became a more successful player. As a 6’2” 290 pound lineman, he played for

by Jacobie Henderson Saluda Trail Middle School and South Pointe High School.

But then, adversity struck in 2009. It was the beginning of Fewell’s senior year – and he got in trouble. ”I didn’t play my senior year. I

“I didn’t play my senior year. I got in trouble, but was able to play Division I, which is why I decided to do what I do now because I remember when that situation happened I felt alone and that I didn’t have nobody in my corner.” got in trouble, but was able to play Division I,” he said.

Fewell missed his entire senior season as the consequence for his actions, but he was able to go to a Division 1 college because he stacked up offers his junior year and committed to Buffalo University.

After losing all of his bigger Division 1 offers, he felt lonely and like nobody really had his back, he

said. Fewell didn’t feel the same -he wasn’t like himself, he said. This was a hard time for him, and he felt as if his dreams slipped through his fingers all because of one mistake.

At Buffalo University, Fewell took advantage of the opportunity to play ball in school. He made the most out of this opportunity.

Fewell excelled on the football team, and he was a valuable player to the team. Then, an even better opportunity for Fewell popped up.

Fewell’s defensive line coach Turner Gills left the school, but he didn’t leave Fewell behind. When Gills left Buffalo, he took Fewell with him to the Liberty University.

After Fewell made it to the Liberty University, he quickly became an asset to the team and was one of, if not the, best players on the team.

At the time, Fewell was being recruited by the NFL. “My junior year in college, I had an NFL scout,” he said. “He came to see my last game, then the NFL approached me to send in my information. They gave me a grade rewarding my position. They also asked about my character.”

But his past life caught up with him when NFL scouts eventually found out about his high school troubles, which caused teams to pass on him. Fewell still kept work-

Jibrille Fewell Former South Pointe High School football star and owner of Carolina Xposure

He didn’t want them to feel alone if something bad happened. ”[Getting in trouble senior year] is why I decided to do what I do now,” Fewell said. “I remember when that situation happened, and I felt alone and that I didn’t have anybody in my corner.”

Jibrille Fewell wants to see kids with potential succeed— he doesn’t wish failure on anyone. He is mak-

ing sure he can provide for those who don’t have anyone to back them up.

Today, Fewell offers good advice to young people. “Work hard and research everything that you are trying to do,” he says. “For example, if you want to be a doctor, research it to see what you need to do to get there. And don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t do it.”

Winter 2019 /

ing— he didn’t want to quit because he knew if he went home, he would have to go back to nothing, and his family already had a lot on their plate. Fewell decided to persevere and finish school, earning a degree in journalism.

Fewell then started Carolina Xposure so he could help athletes like him. Fewell did not want kids to go through what he went through.

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FEATURE

Helping Victoria Mora (’21) on research papers, containg controversial topics, English teacher Linh Tran discusses arguments for and against violent video games on Tuesday, Nov. 27.

Photo by Kat Overman

/ Red & Black

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”

If you have a problem, she’ll give you advice and be supportive about it.

Lauren DeLeon (‘22).

The Journey Vietnamese-American Linh Tran shares her experiences as a first-year teacher

H

ing, a bachelor’s in English and Psychology, and a minor in Women’s Studies. She transferred from University of South Carolina to Winthrop University where she earned her degrees.

As soon as the school year started, she knew teaching was what she loved and enjoyed.

“My first year has gone really well,” she said.

She has had great students during her first year of teaching,

“Like any situation where you are different from most of those around you, there can be times when I feel isolated and misunderstood.”

Ms. Linh Tran, English teacher she says.

Ms. Linh Tran says people often ask her if she likes Vietnam or the U.S better, which she sees as a way of putting her patriotism to the test.

“In Vietnam, I loved how much people cared for one another – even a stranger – because their love for their country and their people

are so strong that they are willing to share food, shelter, and even a song whenever someone needs help.”

As much as Ms. Tran loves Vietnam, she has liberties in the U.S. that she wouldn’t want to trade for anything. In the United States she gets to have a voice, as well as try and fail until she can succeed, which she would not be able to in Vietnam as it is a communist country.

“My first and last time in Vietnam was when I was 13-years-old,” she said. Ms. Tran had gotten into some trouble, so her parents sent her to Vietnam for three months.

She worked and went to school during that time.

Now that she teaches English, and lives away from her family, she has forgotten most of the Vietnamese language and her accent has faded away.

At times Ms. Tran can be a shy person, but even when she is feeling isolated from others, she still takes on the pressure of speaking up for herself.

Students find her caring. “If you have a problem, she’ll give you advice and be supportive about it,” Lauren DeLeon (‘22) said.

Her student say they like learning from a teacher with diverse interests and experiences.

Winter 2019 /

er paternal grandfather was an American soldier and her grandmother was a Vietnamese coffee shop owner. New faculty member Linh Tran is bringing the entire world into her classroom as a teacher at Nation Ford.

“So when it came time to decide what I wanted to teach, I chose English because I think it’s the best subject to incorporate all of the different disciplines,” she said.

She uses science, math, history, economics, and even yoga in her classroom.

“I can truly pull in any subject when I teach English, and that’s what makes me love it so much,” she said.

Before she started teaching Ms. Tran was an intern at Nation Ford before she was hired.

“Winthrop University had issues with proving my citizenship and some of my final grades,” Ms. Linh Tran said. But she was able to get the job.

At the same time she was interning, she was also in graduate school.

“In college I started off as a biology major, played around with a chemistry minor, a business minor, an art history minor,” she explained.

She also has a master’s in teach-

by Jillian Eaton & Matthew Carrol

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FEATURE

Simunye, we are one Children left on their own in an environment of drugs & violence would not survive if not for help from the kindergarten

/ Red & Black

by Louisa Lutz

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Simunye,which is Zulu for “We She brought hot meals to them Are One,” is the name of a Kinderinto their shacks, where hundreds garten in the township Philippi, of the makeshift houses stand side close to Cape Town, South Africa. by side in the slum -- what they The kindergarten offers disadcall a township. vantaged children a place to stay One day, Nomaba contacted a during the day so that they are German teacher at the township’s cared for, while also learning basic local primary school. This school skills for daily life, such as personal was, and is, supportive of concernhygiene and skills in preparation ing knowledge and basic requirefor school. The kindergarten also ment by the German International offers English language instruction, which most of the children do not speak, as their first language is normally Zulu or Xsosoa.

The children are at a disadvantage from the start.

“A father does not usually exist,because he is either dead [killed by HIV or in a gunfight] or left his wife for another women or just to escape from the responsibility for a child, ” says Katrin Knoth, a German volunteer, who worked at Teachers and students in Simunye the school.

Many mothers are either lookSchool of Cape Town. And this ing for a job or they work all day, so special teacher reached out to the their children between the ages of 1 priest of the German Protestant and 6 are on their own all day long. Church of Cape Town. He initiated The children live in an environa permanent financial support of ment of stray animals, inconsistent Nomaba’s project. meals,shootings,crime and often The program, which started without love. These children are in in 2003 with 20 children, costs need of a place to go. parents – primarily mothers – only The idea for Simunye school $10 a month. The fee doesn’t cover came from Nosiphiwo Beatrice much, but it’s more about Nomaba, who worked at the night appreciation. watch in a hospital. She picked the “The mothers appreciate the kids off the street. fact that their children are away

from the street, that they are safe,” says Knoth.

The children are grateful, too. ”They think it is great to have someone taking care of them, providing them with food and at least one warm meal per day, and protecting and supporting them,” she said.

When Knoth visited the Kindergarten the second time, she and her husband brought with them a large bag with stuffed animals. Because there were so many toys, the nursery teacher decided that each child could choose a stuffed animal and take it home.

A little boy, of 3 years picked a brown teddy bear and started crying.

“I asked him what was going on,” says Knoth, and he answered that it was his first ever teddy bear of his own.

“I could cry,” she says.

It is important for the teachers that they educate the children socially. The children learn that the violence that prevails in the township is not necessarily part of life.

They encourage children to live outside the townships – to live a normal life.

Schoolchildren who have previously attended Kindergarten also enjoy coming back here to spend their afternoons playing and learning in a safe, sheltered environment.

Left The children play inside, protected from the sun – and especially against violence and drugs.

Below: At the Kindergarten, the kids can play and learn fearlessly.

Above: Children living in poverty have a chance to enjoy life in the fresh air.

Right: An overhead view of the Township where the Kindergarten is.

Photos courtesy of Katrin Knoth

Winter 2019 / 15

FEATURE

Badge #4040 Former NYPD Officer Michael Jones reflects on his 25-year career

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t’s the toughest job in the world -- making arrests, writing warrants, and working double shifts. That was just part of a day’s work for officer Michael Jones of the New York Police Department.

Whether it was in Queens, the Bronx, or Manhattan… for 25 years Officer Jones dished out arrests and kept the streets safe. ‘’I was 26-years-old, and I thought that I could make a difference,” Jones said.

He joined the force in 1995. The city was like a vibrant fishbowl during crime scenes. The year before he joined up, New York saw 1,600 homicides, according to a New York Times article published on Jan. 1, 1995.

But Jones was just getting started.

“It was challenging, awkward – there was a lot of learning going on,’’ says Jones.

Someone who wants to be in the NYPD is going to work a lot of hours.

“The schedule was always fluctuating. You worked all kinds of hours and nothing was set,’’ Jones said.

He worked weeks with five days on, then two days of, then other weeks he’d work two days on and three days off.

“All police had to work during

by Miles Jones the holidays,’’ Jones said.

Sometimes holidays meant working more than one shift in the NYPD. “I worked double shifts on a lot of occasions,’’ Jones said.

He worked crowd control during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – the world’s largest parade.

Later, he worked in a leadership position.

“The toughest assignment I had was being a supervisor,’’ Jones said.

“You’re allowed to use deadly physical force, but you have to use it responsibly.”

- Retired NYPD Officer Michael Jones “Your decisions have repercussions. They affect things to either go good or bad.”

Working in the NYPD had consequences.

“I was able to provide for the family, but I missed out on family events. It also was plenty of stress,” he said.

Despite the pressures of the job, it also provided a lesson.

“There was always something to learn, from day one till the day I left,” Jones said.

Learning can make the difference between life and death when on the police force.

“You’re allowed to use deadly physical force, but you have to use it responsibly,” he said.

Responsibility is a huge aspect of being part of the NYPD. “It requires you to be open minded,” he said. “We need people to work with the public about how we can impact their lives and what they can expect from their police.”

Training was mandatory in the NYPD. “It was 6 months of learning the law, physical fitness, community relations, law and order, and working in all kinds of conditions,” Jones said.

Working with a partner was both good and bad.

“There’s safety – more eyes – but you have to make sure you and your partner get along,” he said. ‘‘You’ll feel more at trust with a good partner, but a bad partner may not be trustworthy.”

His job with the NYPD also impacted life of Jones’ wife, Donna.

They’ve been married for nearly 25 years.

“She didn’t like me working long hours at all, but she put up with it,’’ Jones said.

Those days are over now. Today he’s happily retired and living in Fort Mill.

“I was able to provide for the family, but I missed out on family events.

It also was plenty of stress.�

- Retired NYPD Officer Michael Jones

Winter 2019 / 17

FEATURE

American Adventure German exchange student Louisa Lutz crossed seven time zones to visit Nation Ford High School as a German exchange student

“ / Red & Black

I love America,” says Louisa

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Lutz (’20) as a smile spreads across her face. She leans against the wall behind her and nods, hands tucked into the sleeves of her hoodie.

While Lutz has only been in the United States for 19 weeks, she is 100 percent thrilled to be here.

Lutz left her friends and family in Offenburg, Baden Wurttemberg, Germany, to travel across seven time zones to spend a year in Fort Mill as a foreign exchange student at Nation Ford High School.

“Louisa is a wonderful person,” said Sarah Westergard, Lutz’s host mother. “She fits right into our family!”

Lutz is the Westergard’s first long-term exchange student, and they have only good things to say about her. “[Exchange students] need to have a ‘go-with-the-flow’ mentality,” said Westergard. Lutz demonstrates just that. While #FNL, seven-hour-long school days, and spirits weeks are the norm at NFHS, they are new experiences for Lutz.

In Germany, Lutz goes to school only until 1 p.m., which leaves a lot of time for homework and after-school activities. One activity she participates in at home is kickboxing, but Lutz says that there

by Audrey Kmiecik isn’t enough time this semester.

This disappoints her.

“I can’t live without sport,” she says. But she hopes to get back into her activities soon.

“Maybe after Christmas, I’ll see if I have enough time to do it,” Lutz said. “I really miss my boxing club.

I have lots of fun there.”

Lutz has been a kickboxer for one-and-a-half years, both for fun and to learn self-defense. But it isn’t all fun and games--one mistake can earn an embarrassing nickname.

“I love America, and I would love to have the chance to go to college here.”

– Louisa Lutz (’20) “We have pretty much the same practice every day,” Lutz said. “[Our coach] shows us new kicks, and then we practice on each other.

“I talk a lot, and sometimes I don’t hear what he says,” she admits with a laugh.

“There are two different kinds of boxing, one with knees and elbows, and the other without. I

forgot that we were doing without, and I hit my friend in the eye.

Everyone laughed, and now I have the nickname ‘Cutter.’”

Lutz takes her nickname in stride, just another example of the “go-with-the-flow mentality” that Westergard said all exchange students need.

While Lutz loves America, there’s still one thing she would change about both NFHS and the USA. “In Target, if you buy a bottle or anything, you get a plastic bag,” Lutz said. “In Germany you’d have to pay if you want a bag, and that’s not plastic – it’s paper. That’s really different.”

Lutz said that the amount of plastic waste everywhere has been the biggest negative difference between Germany and the USA. However, the plastic problem is Lutz’s only complaint.

“I love America, and I would like to study or live here for five years, but not forever. I have a good relationship with my parents in Germany, so I couldn’t live here forever.”

But even after returning home to Offenburg in June, Louisa Lutz believes it won’t really be good-bye.

“A part of your heart is always with your [host] country and house family,” she says.

Louisa Lutz and her host family, the Westergards, pose for a family photo. Courtesy of Louisa Lutz

“Louisa is a wonderful person.

She fits right into our family!�

-Sarah Westergard, host mother Louisa Lutz, German exchange student

Winter 2019 / 19

FEATURE

Marching to the beat of his own drum Drum major Ethan Bodie shares his experiences in the award-winning Nation Ford High School Marching Band

by Evan Heisler

/ Red & Black

“Check!”

“Adjust!”

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Head drum major Ethan Bodie (‘19) yells from his post atop the drum major’s stand. Sweat drips off his face. His arms ache. He takes deep breaths to slow his heart rate. His only focus is the band in front of him.

As the head drum major of the Nation Ford marching band, Bodie works tirelessly to improve his skills and improve the band as a whole. He conducts the band while they play, and leads the band while they learn and refine their techniques.

His work consumes him.

“I’m always looking for ways to enhance my conducting,” Bodie said. “Whether it’s trying to hit the beats harder, or really putting emotion into how I communicate with the band from the podium.”

But Bodie didn’t always give 100 percent when it came to practices.

“I hated band -- I found every reason to skip, and in turn I wasn’t very good,” Bodie admits.

It wasn’t until Bodie was called out that he changed his mindset.

“Maybe, maybe it’s not them, maybe it’s me,” he thought.

He decided to make a change.

“Okay, no more games, no more

crap. I’m devoting my life to this,” he told himself.

His new attitude did not go unnoticed.

“Ethan was not perfect, but he saw the value in improving,” says Ray Linkous, band director at Nation Ford High. “He struggled to assimilate to the overall band culture, but he did overcome that.”

“Not just anyone gets to be drum major. A lot of consideration goes into selecting a [drum major],” says Linkous.

“One of the things he has helped me with is realizing there’s not just one way to do things.”

-Becca Studer (‘20) Assistant Drum Major “We don’t just look at conducting skills,” he said. “We look at everything from regular attendance to respect for teachers and colleagues.”

Assistant drum major Becca Studer (‘20) says she is inspired when Bodie conducts.

“His ability to communicate

what he wants and his passion for this band and for leadership is probably one of the things that drives him to work so hard,” says Studer, who worked with him during the 2017 All That Glitters show.

“One of the things he has helped me with is realizing there’s not just one way to do things,” she said.

But like all drum majors, he has flaws.

He learned what not to do from last year’s drum major Aidan Puzzio (‘18).

“One thing Aidan had trouble with is not taking criticism personally,” says Bodie. “I want to work harder at adding emotion to the ballad and communicating with the band as a whole.”

Studer would agree that all drum majors have something to work on.

“We think [in] two completely different ways,” says the assistant.

“I am more in tune with how people feel, where as he is more the driving force to get things done.”

When Bodie makes a mistake, he corrects it and tries to do better the next time.

“The first step when you make a mistake is to admit that mistake,” says Linkous. “Ethan does that very well.”

Conducting the Nation Ford High School Band at their State competition on Nov. 7, head drum major Ethan Bodie (’19) is focused on keeping the band in time using repetitive arm motions depending on tempo.

Photo by Mark Keenen

“I want to work harder to add emotion to the ballad and communicating with the band as a whole.”

-Ethan Bodie (’19) Head Drum Major

Katelyn Hartrum (‘17) was helping us load the bus to come home,” he said. Then all of a sudden she stopped, and all she said was ‘I could really use a Coke right now.’

And that’s just what we did. The drum majors sat down and had a Coke.”

For Bodie, band means more than just an afterschool activity.

It means hours upon hours of practice, blood, sweat, and tears.

It means sleepless nights and exhausting days. But at the end of the day, there’s an ice cold Coke waiting for him, glistening with condensation in the scorching competition sun.

Winter 2019 /

That was a skill that Bodie picked up in 2017 working as an assistant.

“It was our first run at the Olde English Festival of Bands competition, and I went to Aidan because I was upset I had messed something up,” says Bodie. ‘Don’t worry,’ he said. Just fix it next time. Just think about what you did wrong and how you’re going to practice so it doesn’t happen again.’”

Reassurance from peers is the refreshing part for Bodie.

Traditions and family are the two best parts of band.

“It was our first Bands of America competition last year, and

21

STAKEOUT! / Red & Black

Reporter rides along...

22

“A very sneaky neighborhood,” says Hunter, the 14-year-old junior P.I. Her breathy voice fills the still, velvety night.

The van pulls onto the main road and we roar after it.

“I think to be a [Private

Investigator] you have to be really great at driving,” says Hunter.

“I took classes,” Amy says. “We went on this track and you had to pull out in front of people so you could teach yourself how to control your car.”

continued on page 25

FEATURE

FAMILY f SPIES Local kids learn the ins and outs of detective work while riding along with their mom – Amy Sellers, P.I.

A

Although Amy didn’t originally plan on becoming a P.I., there’s no doubt she enjoys it. “Even though parts of it might be boring, it’s always something different,” she says. “There might be an hour that I’m bored, but the cases are interesting. And I like to try to figure out more than what they ask me to – I always try to put the whole puzzle together.”

But being a P.I. has its difficulties too. Generally, Amy manages

“I can usually get anybody to talk. That’s why I’m good at it.”

Amy Sellers, P.I. a number of worries, for instancestressing that she’ll lose the suspect she’s chasing.

Sometimes she takes the whole family with her to work, and they come together as a team to pound criminals with that swift hammer of justice.

“I remember we videoed a guy and Claire took a picture of his license plate,” Brady recalls.

Claire (’23)is Amy’s oldest

daughter. “It was night and my flash turned on!” she adds.

Why take the kids along?

“I felt like if I had them with me, I was less suspicious,” says Amy. “What kind of P.I. would have their kids with them?”

Amy has covered a range of cases including custody and divorce situations, cheating spouses, insurance investigations, and much more. She is generally responsible for taking photos, tracking down witnesses, finding information and serving papers.

Her family has become used to the job and seldom worries for her safety anymore. But Amy’s husband, Andy Sellers, is concerned that she’s by herself in bad areas, and they never know what’s going to happen. But her children know how strong and capable their mom is.

Brady says he’s not afraid when he tags along with Amy. He feels safe because his mom possesses weapons such as a taser and pepper spray.

The family’s concerns don’t leave when she comes home though.

“I used to get super paranoid that people would come into our

Winter 2019 /

gentle shake from his mother wakes eightyear-old Brady Sellers.

It’s just after 4 a.m. He drags himself out of bed, trudges down the stairs, snags a banana for breakfast and follows his mom to the car in the deathly quiet dawn.

“We get up early in the morning,” says Brady. “Like really early.

It’s our routine.”

Brady makes himself comfortable in the car with a pillow and blanket, letting his burdensome eyelids get the best of him, and dozes off while his mom goes to work.

Brady’s mom Amy, is a private investigator, which means she is hired to discreetly investigate a variety of cases. Often times she is trailing suspicious individuals, taking photos and notes – and most importantly, observing.

Amy moved with her family from Evansville, IN to Fort Mill less than two years ago. She is self-employed, and for 5 years, all kinds of individuals and companies have been reaching out to her in hopes of satisfying their suspicions.

“They just want that security.”

Amy says.

by Kayla Southwood

23

Amy Sellers, P.I.

“It’s like poetry, but for psychotic people.”

“Which makes me think a lot… who else is crazy?”

Hunter Mattes, daughter

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Amy Sellers, P.I.

24

house and try to kill her,” says Hunter Mattes, (‘22) Amy’s next daughter.

Upon first impressions, an outsider would likely not notice the small warriors Amy has raised inside each of her kids, but the quality is alive in them all.

“You do something bad, you get it,” Brady says.

He enjoys the ride-alongs with his mom. He says they listen to music and talk about his sisters.

But the third-grader won’t be following in his mom’s footsteps.

Brady says he plans to become a professional soccer player or a paleontologist.

Throughout her career, Amy has experienced countless unusual scenarios. One memory sticks out: “It was weird,” Amy begins. “It was in a little town where we used to live, and it was a fake store. So all the things in there were old, old

boxes of stuff they don’t even sell anymore, like really fake stuff. So I was supposed to go in and just take pictures of all the stuff with my phone, and I was talking to the employees and snapping pictures.

But they were really selling drugs.”

Amy shared another story where a man was sending creepy and disturbing letters to a random man hundreds of miles away.

“It’s like poetry,” Hunter commented. “But for psychotic people.”

“Which makes me think a lot,” Amy wonders aloud. “‘Who else is crazy?’ He looks perfectly normal.

His wife works for the Welfare office with our neighbor. His daughter ran track, his son went into the military. It just makes me think….

People think he’s normal, he’s at track meets. Who else is crazy and goes to track meets?”

As a mother, Amy sometimes has trouble balancing her career

and her children.

“The P.I. work actually made it easier because I could control the hours and move them around if I needed to,” she says.

Her children often find it difficult to getting away with things thanks to their mom’s sharp investigative instincts.

Amy has had steady work for five years. People hire her when they discover her profile online or hear about her business from word of mouth. She says she meets with the client before every case to discuss the situation.

Next, she types up a contract discussing the rate she’ll be paid and everything she will have to do to prove her client’s case. Everyone who meets her can see her stand behind her work with confidence and passion in her eyes.

Her footprints are small, but she’s there, making a difference.

FEATURE

TAKEOUT S

by Kayla Southwood

What it’s really like to ride along with private investigator Amy Sellers and her teenage daughter Hunter

A continued from pg 22

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with so you’re more experienced with the routes.

Tip #4: Hunter says never point the camera directly at the target when taking photos- this appears more natural.

It doesn’t take long before the suspect reaches her destination- Indian Land High School.

We turn into the parking lot right behind the mysterious driver and “coincidentally” settle in a spot only a couple rows over. Finally, in our range of sight, we study the girl.

“I think she’s Claire’s age,” said the junior P.I. “About sixteen.”

The suspect cuts off her engine and steps out of the vehicle, only to pull another door open, duck and enter the dark car adjacent to her. The character in charge of this car appears to be a friend and they sat and converse as minutes passed.

We wait for something, anything, to happen.

“Even though parts of it might be boring, it’s always something different,” Amy says. She goes on to tell how she tries to figure out the case on her own and makes it a challenge to herself. There may be times when she’s bored but she makes the best of it.

Optimism is key when spying and Amy holds this quality snug under her belt along with patience, justice, courage, a taser, determination, pepper spray, ingenuity and much more.

“It sucked sometimes because the hours were bad but I made the best of it.”

Her spy work only occupies part of her life, the mother’s four children- Claire, Hunter, Hailey, and Brady- take up the rest.

“The P.I. work actually made it easier because I

Winter 2019 /

e continue to trail the cryptic minivan.

“I’m going to guess that’s a woman because women usually drive a lot faster than men,” she says.

Hunter reads the suspect’s license plate and examines the stickers on the back.

“Any hypothesis to where they’re going?” Amy tests.

Hunter and her mother exchange guesses and more observations.

“I think they’re going to a class or something-” Amy says. “A lady driving a minivan at six at night.”

The car drives steadily, turning occasionally, and we blindly follow close behind, pretending it was pure happenstance we were heading in the same direction.

“There were times I thought people wondered about me,” Amy says. “I’d go so many times, I’d think ‘they’ve got to know!’ But they never did.”

Parking for a stakeout must also be strategic and sly- the location can’t be too busy or too empty.

As we coddiewomple through the streets, Amy, the private investigator of five years, shares tips and tells me stories. She narrates several threatening and unusual experiences, continuously proving the instability of the future.

Tip #1: Always check your gas before beginning an unknown journey.

Tip #2: Wear hats and put your hair up so you have less of a chance of being recognized.

Tip #3: It’s best to be in a place you’re familiar

25

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Stakeout continued

26

in a cafeteria, there’s classic high the cracks, searching for anyone could control my hours and school tables and chairs scattered who may endanger our cover. I move them around if I needed to,” above the unpainted tiled floor. turn so our backs are facing and she adds.

The cinder block walls are paintkeep watch. We hear faint yells Finally, Hunter and I decide to ed blue and white, matching the echo and bounce off bulky walls put our impatience to practical hallway. After my ruse I turn to behind the doors. We reunite use. I abandon my bulky Canon exit and notice a single woman, and she informs me of my new camera, and we step out of the car wrapped in an apron, plastic and into the cool night. The gloves and a hair net walking parking lot is dotted with towards me. I leave and alert towering streetlights that Hunter of my observations. struggle to light our path. My In another attempt to unfootsteps trace Hunter’s as I derstand why our suspects are follow her dark outline under at a high school at 6:30 p.m., the clear sky. The night is we began to examine posters, young and full of unknown hoping to find one with the potential. same date, time and locaAnything could happen. tion.

“Stay cool, stay calm,” Suddenly two teenage warns Hunter Mattes, the boys with baggy sweatshirts true daughter of a spy. We and basketball shorts come blend in and act as if we walking towards us. We spin belong. around in surprise when they We walk silently, but casuaddress us. ally, down the fluorescently “What are y’all doing?” asks decorated hallway, memorizthe one in black Vans. We ing everything in sight and stayed silent, contemplating a studying anything that could response. be a potential clue. We move “Are y’all sneaking swiftly but carefully. The around?” He interrogates hallway is filled with encour“No man, we go here,” aging posters and impresHunter replied. “Are you sive student works, like any sneaking around?”

American high school.

Hunter Mattes (‘22) peers through the It was his turn to hesitate.

We walk by a small classcafeteria door hoping to find a clue on a He stood in silence, then room filled with desks but stakeout at Indian Land High School on whirls around to fall into few students occupy them.

Dec. 14. She commonly assists her mother place after his friend.

One male teacher stands in who is a professional private investigator.

The confrontation was the front of the room mumover. bling words from the papers he We glance at each other in relief. mission: To enter the room and holds. We only have moments to

After being detected, Hunter observe what I can.

She noticed observe if we want to stay undeand I make our way towards the people, so I need a plan to fit in. tected. Immediately after passing nearest exit, curious as to why Hunter tears a shred of paper off a the door frame, Hunter briskly we were a subject of suspicion. I nearby sign. moves her back against the wall propelled the heavy door open and “There’s a trash can in there,” and silently turns her head, listenwe make our way towards the car, a she informs me. “Go throw this ing to our suspects. The mumbles Toyota Camry; a car seen so combegin to form words and we take in away so you don’t look suspicious.” monly it’s perfect for a private inI snag the rip of paper and head all the information we can. vestigator. It’s in between a crowd through the doors. I locate my We continue walking down the of other cars, to avoid exposure, target, the trash bin, and begin hallway, unsure of our destination. and is lit by a single orange to inspect everything in my line Eventually, we reach a pair of blue street light. of sight as quickly as I can. I’m doors and Hunter peers through

FEATURE

I looked at her, stunned.

“Was that our suspect?” I asked.

“Yeah.”

Before successfully retreating, Hunter and I noticed four teenage girls walking and laughing on the sidewalk, coming nearer. Their disembodied voices echo through the dark. As our paths cross, Hunter discreetly looks them over, turns toward me and mutters, “Nose ring, glasses, Disney sweatshirt, eyeliner, crimped hair.”

I looked at her, stunned.

“Was that our suspect?” I asked.

“Yeah.”

The night was silence yet again. We climb inside the car and hear the quiet hum of BØRN’s “Electric Love”.

The keen eyes of Hunter’s mom greets us, and we describe to her everything we learned.

We discuss the idea of the students preparing for the SAT. Amy checks the school’s website and social media for information.

“Usually that’s a good resource because people will post what’s going on,” she said.

We find no helpful information and at 7:03 p.m. we leave the premises. The ridealong may be over, but the case will linger in our brains for a long time to come, the hunger of curiosity is tough to satisfy.

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SPORTS

Fighting Falcon Freshman football player Will Lowman battles Type 1 Diabetes

O “It [diabetes] makes me feel different.

But it’s okay to be different.”

/ Red & Black

-Will Lowman (’22)

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By Ava Pidhayny

n the outside, #45 appears to be a healthy, carefree, football player. But off the field, linebacker Will Lowman (’22) is silently battling Type 1 Diabetes.

Will was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 4.

“It was a complete shock to our entire family,” says Jaime Lowman, Will’s mom. “He doesn’t remember life without diabetes.”

Everyone in Will’s family plays a role in keeping him safe, healthy, and alive. They say it’s a family disease.

But 11 years later, Jaime sometimes still mourns the fact that Will doesn’t have a “normal” life.

But when it comes to sports, Will is very positive and motivated.

He doesn’t let what he calls “this little thing” affect his life, he says.

Still, diabetes can sometimes affect how he plays or acts toward his teammates, depending on his blood sugar.

“It makes me feel different. But it’s okay to be different,” he says.

Will’s parents say he doesn’t make a big deal about his diabetes, or even tell people about it unless it comes up – he worries people may treat him differently. He pushes himself extra hard.

“He always goes the extra mile,” Jaime says.

It’s as if he’s trying to make up for the fact that he has this condition, she explains.

“If his team has to run 10 laps, he’ll run 11,” Jaime said. “His work ethic and athleticism speak loudly about him.”

Will has had to sit out of multiple games because of his illness. “It sucks when you’re not able to work for your team,” he said.

If his blood sugar passes 190 mg, it’s too high. If it’s below 70 mg, it’s too low. These fluctuations can be caused by adrenaline or stress on game days – this is one of the many concerns Jaime has during football season.

“I worry that his blood sugar will go too low while playing, or his pod (OmniPod insulin pump) will get ripped out while playing,” Jaime admits.

She said she also worries about dehydration, which happens more often to athletes with diabetes.

Will has to check his blood sugar about four to five times a day, and he agrees that diabetes is a setback when it comes to football. If his blood sugar is too low or high, he isn’t able to do what everyone else can do.

Helping to secure a 34-32 Falcon victory, Will Lowman (#45) sacks the South Pointe quarterback at Nation Ford on August 30. Photo by Ava Pidhayny

agnosed with Type 1 Diabetes each year, according to the American Diabetes Association.

The peak age at diagnosis is around 14-years-old. And while there is no cure for T1D, treatment can help prevent problems such as amputation of feet, coma, or in extreme cases, death.

As for Will, he is lucky to have his family by his side.

On game days, look for #45 on the field. You can’t miss his enthusiasm and his love for the game.

Treatment can help prevent problems such as amputation of feet, coma, or in extreme cases, death.

Winter 2019 /

Jaime calls herself a “professional worrier.” She says she worries about the future when she can’t watch over him anymore. She also worries about money, and if he’ll be able to afford health insurance and medical supplies.

“I worry about him having low blood sugar at night – and he won’t wake up,” she admits.

Some side effects of low blood sugar are shakiness, sweating, confusion, erratic behavior, and lightheadedness.

About 1.5 million people are di-

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SPORTS / Column

Fighting Concussions More concussions occur in football because of helmet issuses “... 96 percent of all former NFL players have CTE.”

/ Red & Black

– Dr.Nicholas Theodre

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by Daniel Childs

n Friday night when the lights click on and the field lights up, the players are ready for a battle. After the game, some players end up fighting another battle – a battle with concussions.

Concussions are a huge problem in high school football. Teens’ brains are still developing, and concussions can damage their brains for years to come.

According to a study done by the Office of Head and Neck Injuries for the NFL, about 47 percent of all concussions in high school sports come from football.

Many athletes who have a concussion don’t know they have one, and they don’t report it.

Concussions can be very dangerous because they can lead to brain bleeds.

Some of the symptoms of concussions are headaches, confusion, memory loss, and vision challenge.

These symptoms can last into adulthood, if not treated correctly.

If an athlete gets 3 or more concussions, the brain can swell, possibly resulting in Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).

CTE causes clumps of brain matter

to slowly spread throughout the brain, killing brain cells.

A study done by beginning in 2007 is working to determine how CTE has affected NFL players.

Another study by Dr. Nicholas Theodore, Chairman of the NFL Head, Neck and Spine Committee, showed that 96 percent of all former NFL players have CTE. CTE is caused by concussions and can be solved by wearing better helmets and teaching the right tackling technique.

Helmets today aren’t very protective. Teams should purchase helmets that offer more protection against head injuries. The best helmet to help prevent concussions is the Schutt F7 Football Helmet, which costs about $850 per helmet.

Although helmets are examined and cleared before the season, schools could be doing more to protect football players.

Coaches can learn safer techniques from classes on CoachUpNation.com. After taking these classes they can pass on the skills they learned to their players. With better helmets and better tackling technique, concussions in football can be a thing of the past.

Winter 2018 /

31

SPORTS/Column

Pay to Play College athletes should not be paid Most scholarships are one-year agreements that must be renewed each year or students get vast amounts of financial aid from the school.

Most student athletes don’t make it to the pro

/ Red & Black

leagues.

32

I

by Megan Bouchard

t’s no secret colleges make loads of money with their sports programs, and it’s widely believed that there’s plenty of cash to go around. Many people and student athletes argue that college athletes should be paid.

The main question is: Can colleges afford pay these student athletes?

The overall answer is, no they cannot and should not – equality is impossible.

Only the University of Arkansas and the other Power Five schools (the highest level of collegiate football in the U.S.) might be able to pay their college players. There are 231 NCAA Division I schools, only 24 or so schools who make $100 million a year, and the University of Texas makes about $160 million. Of the 231 schools, approximately 76 schools make less than $50 million in their athletics departments in a year.

For the rest of the colleges, this is not the case -- they do not have the luxury of lucrative TV deals, billionaire donors or top recruits.

These teams are known as the “Group of Five Conferences,” and they are like little siblings to the Power Five teams. And these teams – being the majority – would struggle to pay their players.

On top of the numerical statistics, title IX would be a big obstacle to paying the players. The U.S. Department of Education has proclaimed that all student-athletes must have equal treatment – opportunities, perks, and reimbursement, meaning that they would have to pay all players equally. This

would apply to the female field hockey team, or the gymnastics team, or even the swim team.

Even if colleges wanted to pay all athletes alongside those who play men’s football and basketball (college athletes brings in the most attention and money with these two sports), schools don’t have enough money to do so.

Money that colleges make goes towards paying professors, coaches, taxes, scholarships, trips, sports gear, and food for athletes and much more. On top of that, a lot of college athletes are on full rides or financial aid and are given free dorms. Full-ride athletic scholarships are only available in six sports: volleyball, tennis, football, men and women’s basketball and women’s gymnastics, according to ncsasports.org. Most scholarships are one-year agreements that must be renewed each year or students get vast amounts of financial aid from the school. Apparently, the gift of a free education (or very close to it) is not considered enough anymore, and meanwhile, other students fall into debt. But it’s not only that full ride or financial aid the players get, it’s all of the other freebies.

Generally, student athletes also get free food -- costs ranging from $100-$400 a month for each student (if students take advantage of their free food). They’re offered full meals, three meals a day and some snacks. College athletes also get free insurance, free housing, with free travel for games, including the hotel rooms. All of this is covered

by the school.

People often argue that college athletes don’t have much free time to get a job. While this may be true, they are provided with free food and dorm housing, nothing that they need money for to buy themselves.

These students are called student-athletes and college athletes for a reason. “Student” and “college” comes before “athlete”.

They’re not professionals – they’re students who are learning to play sports at a school. If people want to pay learners, they can go ahead and pay honors students or the regular students, too.

Also, most student athletes don’t make it to the pro leagues. Whether they make it there or not, they should make sure to give a “thank you” to the school who gave them their unlimited opportunities and free necessities – colleges that spent at least $1 million on every athlete.

With food, housing, gear, travel, education and insurance, colleges are already paying athletes.

Winter 2019 / 33

SPORTS/Column

Art by Megan Bouchard

After-School Sports Students who participate in after-school sports should get Physical Education credit

/ Red & Black

M

34

by Halle Guerra

any students are involved in after-school sports that can last for hours. They often get home late and do not have enough time to do all their homework — which can lead to bad grades.

Hundreds of students practice hard after school most days of the week. By the time they get home, many students are so exhausted that they fall immediately into bed- with little time for demanding homework. Grades can slowly drop as the work piles up with little time to accomplish their work. Thirty minutes of FLEX helps, but a half an hour is not enough time for most students to complete all assignments.

Physical Education is one of the classes the students are required to take. Yet student athletes get more physical activity than the average P.E. class.

Most student athletes average 18 to 20 hours a week in practice alone. Physical Education averages 5 hours

a week, therefore school sports are more physically taxing than the class.

Waking up early every week day to sit through a long day of school then going to practice immediately after can be tiring for students. Life as a student athlete can be very stressful, especially when required to take challenging classes.

Most student athletes are concerned about injuries, and if they are injured in Physical Education class, it could ruin their chance to play or earn scholarships.

The Fort Mill Schools District Board voted in September to allow marching band students to submit an application for a waiver that would allow students to meet their physical education standard requirments with marching band in place of Physical Education.

Students who play sports should get the same opportunity to apply for a waiver to get credit for physical activity.

OPINION

Snapchat Parents should allow their high school student to use Snapchat

S

Snapchat Users 12%

Other 82 %

Under 34 74%

Over 34 29%

add people that you are absolutely sure you know.

“My opinion is that high schoolers just really aren’t ready to handle something like that,” says Assistant Principal Emily McQuay. “When I was in high school and left at the end of the day, I got to leave whatever was bothering behind me. I want you guys to be able to go home and decompress. You guys should be able to just calm down for a while and not have your phones just buzzing and buzzing and buzzing.

It worries me that high schoolers are under a lot of stress because of those situations,” she added.

However, lots of students go home and have fun chatting with their friends via Snapchat.

“Insights show teens feel less social pressure [on Snapchat] since, unlike other apps, there’s no like button, and snaps disappear after a brief period of time,” according to cyberwise.org. “Snap allows teens to discover silly and innovative ways to have fun using doodles, captions, and filters to express their personalities, style and ideas.”

As long as students take the right precautions, they should be allowed to use Snapchat.

Winter 2019 /

napchat ranks as the most popular social media site for young adults and teenagers in the U.S., and over 300 million people are active monthly on Snapchat.

Despite its popularity – or perhaps because of it – some parents believe that if their children don’t absolutely need social medias like Snapchat, then there’s no reason why they should have it. Some parents don’t like the idea of their high school children sending disappearing photos or messages to their friends. However, if teens take the right precautions, Snapchat can be a fun way to communicate with friends.

Snapchat allows users to take pictures and send messages that are only available for a short period of time before they are no longer accessible to users.

Snapchat does have risks, but these can be easily avoided.

Users of the app should make sure their account is set to ghost mode. If you don’t keep your account on ghost mode, anybody who has added you as a friend can tell exactly where you are at any time.

Another precaution to take would be to make sure you only

by Kat Overman

35

OPINION

Danger of Social Media Research shows that social media can cause negative effects for teenagers

A

ccording to the study

by Nielsen, a market research group, nearly every American between the ages of 18-24 years old, use social media about 77 hours per week. Americans should take a break from their phones and learn about the effects of social media.

According to the researchers from Babes-Bolyai University in

“People should use their phones for only a half hour per day to prevent

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any depression...”

36

Romania, social media can cause depression and anxiety. Psychologists at San Diego State University found that over 1 million eighth, tenth, and twelfth graders were unhappy because they were always on their smartphones or computers.

Social media can have negative effects such as fear of missing out (FOMO), unrealistic expectations, comparisons to another person including body image.

People should use their phones

by Miku Pitman for only a half hour per day to prevent any depression occurring because of social media, according to a study by researchers from San

If our friends are having more fun then we are, that causes FOMO. Diego State University.

“Children spend who three hours in front of a screen per day are more likely to have a higher risk of developing type two diabetes,” says Katie Forster, a health correspondent for the website Independent.com.

If children spend more hours total screen time, they have more levels of body fat and insulin resistance between time spent watching TV or playing video games.

According to a study by the Royal Society for Public Health, social media is more addictive than cigarettes and alcohol, because now young people are so entrenched that it’s no longer possible to ignore it when talking about young people’s mental health issues.

Also in the study, almost 1,500 people age 14 to 24 who were on social media had anxiety.

We all have something in com-

mon: FOMO. We all want to go on social media to see what everyone is doing. If our friends are having more fun than we are, that causes FOMO. Social media allows users the to compare themselves to someone else. It can make people feel ugly or uncomfortable about themselves, especially regarding body image. Sleep quality is also affected by social media. Spending time

[Social media] can make people feel ugly and uncomfortable about themselves. on anything takes away time from sleeping, which is imporant.

All high schoolers should take a break from phones and enjoy something else that makes them happy. Delete any social social media that causes problems, or try to track screen time each day. Go hang out with friends face to face.

These solutions can help people to enjoy life without social media.

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OPINION

Master Your Fate Better Learning Method Challenges Traditional Grading System

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by Elijah Edwards

astery learning, first prokarate. In karate students start out with posed by American psya white belt and until they master each chologist Benjamin Bloom skill, will determine when they move on in 1968, is the belief that to the next color belt. every student isn’t on the same learning In 1984, studies conducted by professchedule. It may take students a differsor Gary F. Render and teacher Bryan ent amount of time to fully master and Whiting were performed with kids from understand a skill, therefore, the teacher elementary to high school to support allows students to practice however long the hypothesis that mastery learning is is necessary to master a skill. This is the better than traditional learning styles. best way to learn.

Their experiments “...indicated very Often times, teachers are faced with strong positive outcomes...” along with the struggle of attending to 31 students’ students having “...strong indications needs all at the same time. When that of satisfaction and pride in the learning happens, some students’ accomplishments along questions may stay unThe current traditional with a steady increase in answered. enrollment in the classes When students are grading system needs comprising the study.” confused, chances are Major opposition to that they may fail due to to be completely this new style of learnlack of understanding. ing is that a student may removed, but until Test corrections are a be stuck on one subject wonderful opportunifor a whole semester. enough people get on But if school really is ty for students to earn higher grades, but the about teaching students way the system current- board, we’ll just have thoroughly, why should a ly works, if a second time limit matter? to deal with it. opportunity for examSchools have become ple, were to result in a 97 so institutionalized and percent, the overall grade would only sit pressured to look like the “best school” at 60 percent. That’s not a fair indicator with the best grades, that they’ve forgotof the mastery of the objective. ten, they can’t have the best anything if If schools really care about their stuthey don’t have the best students. dents and want them to achieve the best Students. That’s what makes a school. in life, why not offer students a chance The current traditional grading system to improve grades and to learn at a rate needs to be completely overhauled, but that is appropriate for the individual until enough people get on board, we’ll student? just have to deal with it.

There needs to be a major shift to Schools have a huge impact. Schools are make classes to be about preparing single-handedly shaping the next generstudents for the future and not about ation of social activists, political leaders, getting a good grade. One of those ways astronauts, teachers– any profession you is mastery learning. can think of – and schools are shaping An example of this is the learning of those kids right now. It’s time for a shift.

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Perception of Contraception Teen girls under age 18 should not be able to get birth control without prescription from doctor

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hree in 10 American teens will get pregnant at least once before the age of 20, according to DoSomething.org, an organization that promotes social change. That’s nearly 750,000 teen pregnancies every year. About 25 percent of teen moms have a second child within 24 months giving birth to their first child.

Over the counter pills taken within 24 hours after having sexual intercourse are 95 percent effective and prescription birth control pills are 99 percent effective. While teens are in need of better sex education and access to birth control, teens should not be allowed to get birth control pills without a prescription if they are 17-years-old or younger.

Using birth control pills can cause many unintended side effects including blood clots, breast cancer, heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and liver cancer. According to Medical News Today, the side effects of the pill include changes to eyesight while wearing contacts, weight gain, mood changes, and a decreased sex drive. Using birth control pills could also increase a women’s chances of developing a blood clot.

Getting birth control from a medical professional is the safest way to receive it because a doctor will know the right kind of hormones to put in the medication.

by Savannah Mitchell In addition, if there is no medical record of a young woman going on the pill, and something goes wrong, the doctors may not know the problem.

Another reason birth control pills should not be purchased over the counter is that it is not a onesize-fits-all medication.

“If you are to purchase a 28 day combination pill pack, and you consume a inactive pill rather than one that is active, there is a possible chance of becoming pregnant if you have intercourse seven days after a missed pill.” Planned Parenthood states on their website.

Birth control pills do not stop Sexually Transmitted Diseases With that, if women decide to get birth control without a prescription, they might not get the right instructions on how to use the pill and could possibly end up becoming pregnant. Each pill in a combination pack has different levels of hormones, and not knowing the right way to take it could cause the opposite of what women taking the pill would want – pregnancy.

Taking birth control can be a beneficial thing if a woman’s intention is to have sex and not get pregnant, but what some people might not know is that birth control pills do not stop a sexually

transmitted disease (STD) from being spread. “The birth control pill may change the cervix in ways that make it more susceptible to Chlamydia infections,” according to OBGYN.net. Chlamydia is an STD that a man or woman can get, and a woman can get it in their cervix, rectum, or throat. Men can get chlamydia in the urethra (inside the penis), rectum, or throat.

The only true way to protect each partner from a STD is to use a condom. While using a condom should be the first and obvious choice of protection, even that does not give a 100 percent protection against becoming pregnant.

Because some men do not always use a condom properly, the effectiveness rate of condoms is only around 82 percent, according to birthcontrol.com, a website that offers the facts about birth control methods available on the market today.

While engaging in intercourse, men should not only wear a condom, but their partners should use birth control as well.

Birth control pills are a drug, so getting them without a prescription could be dangerous. Young men and women need to talk to their doctors and become more educated on what kind of contraceptives (birth control) to use and how to use it. Without the help of a doctor, and proper use of birth control, teens put themselves at risk of many diseases and unwanted pregnancies.

OPINION

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OPINION

The Code Against Girls Girl banned from high school graduation after wearing “shoulder-revealing” shirt

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by Justice Wehrmeyer

previous issues with this principal omen experience before and believed the event will discrimination negatively impact her future. everyday. Even in After being asked to put on a jackhigh school, young et, Summer obeyed and borrowed a girls are enforced friend’s. to follow a sexist dress code. In the This did not satisfy the principal.

1920’s, women were arrested simply The principal called Summer’s shirt for wearing one-piece bathing suits. “illegal” and threatened to put her Today, one-piece bathing suits are in handcuffs. She was given a 10-day considered conservative swimwear, suspension and ordered not to attend but back then, women were defying any senior activities, the ban on wearing including gradua“brief swimsuits” in “... I worked so hard tion. public.

In an interview Summer, a senior for four years to walk with WCNC.com, at Hickory Ridge across that stage. We the senior said, “It’s High School in just sad because North Carolina, was have drug dealers I worked so hard banned from gradwalking across that for four years to uation in 2017 for stage, we have sex walk across that wearing a “shoulstage. We have drug der-revealing shirt” offenders walking across dealers walking which went against that stage and the 4.4 across that stage, we the school’s dress students who showed have sex offenders code. walking across that The principal her shoulders can’t.” stage, and then the noted her lower 4.4 student who back was exposed showed her shoulders can’t.” and punished her. Girls are typically Twelve years of Summer’s life were told their outfits will “distract boys,” spent on her education so that she as if young men cannot control themcould walk across the stage at her selves in the presence of a spaghetti high school graduation, but that opstrap. However, Summer’s shirt only portunity was taken away from her. revealed her neck and shoulders, and Dress code is sexist and unfair to nobody should be distracted by that. girls as a whole. If dress code is preSummer was an honor roll student venting students from achieving their with a 4.4 GPA and a bright future goals, then it needs to be abolished. ahead of her, however she has had

Timeline: Sexism & Discrimination Against Women June 2013

Mottu vs.

MacLeod, B.C. during beach themed costume party: girls in bikini tops offended others 2010

Former administrator sues Charleston County Schools after dress code incident costs him a job

McKenna vs.

Local Heroes, Stittsville,Ont. where a parttime waitress voices her concerns aout the dress code

April 2001

Female bartender vs. a bar in B.C. where customers disagree with females choice of clothing April 2016

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OPINION

Juuling Vape device gets teens hooked on nicotine “The lungs are not designed to breathe in anything other than clean air.”

Dr. Adam Lackey, Chief of Thoractic

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by Lauren Siniard

tudents wait eagerly for their be 18 years of age or older by law.

However, any kids and teenagers teachers to turn their backs.

That’s their cue to reach are getting Juuls from older sibquietly for a small, sleek delings or friends. Some buy Juuls vice they can easily conceal in their off of Ebay or Craigslist. Juuls were palms. It resembles a flash drive, originally made to help stop adults but instead of computer files, this from smoking cigarettes, but now device stores nicotine, an addictive teens are getting addicted. chemical found in cigarettes.

“Doctors are concerned there’s Juuling might look cool, but a misconception among teens that it’s dangerous. e-cigarettes are Juuling is now a “Juul is a company that safe. Smoking trend because it was started by smokers e-cigarettes acis easy to hide, tually delivers unlike cigarettes, with an objective to cancer-causing and many teens switch smokers to nonchemicals that think it’s cool get into the combustible products, to blow rings of body, and popsmoke in the air. but it has become ular fruity flaJuul Labs is an popular among teens.” vors appear to electronic cigaAshley Gould, be the worst,” rette company researchers at Juul’s Chief that uses highly the University addictive nicAdministration Officer of California otine salts in leafbased tobacco as its key ingredient. reported recently.

“Each Juul pod contains an According to the Centers for amount of nicotine equivalent to Disease Control, smoking is the one pack of cigarettes or 200 puffs,” leading cause of preventable death according to Juul Labs, the manuin the United States, killing more facturer. than 480,000 people a year. Some Don’t be fooled into thinking side effects of juuling or vaping that Juuls are without risk or are are dry mouth, dizziness, cough, healthy. “The lungs are not dedry skin, nose bleeds, and popcorn signed to breathe in anything othlungs, a condition that damages er than clean air,” said Dr. Adam the smallest airways and makes Lackey, chief of thoracic surgery. smokers cough and feel short of Before anyone tries vaping, they breath. Who would want to have should consider the health risks that? and the likelihood of addiction.

To buy a Juul you’re supposed to

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REVIEW

Blasting Off Starset launches second album ‘Vessels’ after successful debut with ‘Transmissions’

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by Matthew Carroll

tarset’s sophomore album “Vessels” is struggle. Now near the end of the album, the interstellar experience that fans “Bringing it Down” is a very heavy and have been waiting for. Vessels is the deep song that shows the increase in Bates’ follow up album to “Transmissions,” internal conflict. This track is all the more their first album. The new album opens with aggressive and almost gives off a Breaking “The Order,” a very ominous opening track, Benjamin vibe. “Unbecoming” is showing perfect for setting the album’s dark tone. The Bates deteriorating with lyrics “Cauterized track ends with the opener for the “Satellite,” and atrophied, this is my Unbecoming”. This a song that is upbeat and has lead singer track also shows off a great deal of orchesDustin Bates asking “Satellite, are you here trated music as well as harmonic like effects. tonight?” and begging “Shine your light and “Monster” is the album’s most popular set me free.” song as it peaked at number 2 on the BillThe following track is board Mainstream Rock “Frequency,” a hard hittingSongs. This track is a de...sense of a tragedy song about slowly losing your cently paced track with the connection with a loved one. in space and feeling narrative of still feeling the Dustin also shows how much hope for change looming isolated... his vocal range has improved over Bates. since “Transmissions,” with “Telepathic” is an upbeat him hitting deep vocals and even achieving a song showing how Dustin is trying to relow growl in the breakdown of the song. “Die connect by wishing for a telepathic heart. for You” is the album’s love song track with The album’s final track “Everglow” has a Dustin stating “There’s no pain that I won’t go very calm and trance-inducing sound with through, even if I have to die for you.”

Dustin once again demonstrating his vocal “Ricochet” and “Starlight” deal with the range and with the band’s iconic electronic gravity of relationships and the different sitsound combined with the steady and almost uations they can bring. “Into the Unknown,” soothing bass. This track then has a transi“Gravity of You,” and “Back to the Earth” are tion mid-song with a spine-chilling scream all very atmospheric in the sense that it gives

by Dustin, and the tone changes drastically, you the feeling of traveling through space with a heavy guitar and aggressive drums. at light speed. These tracks are probably the The track gives this sense of a tragedy in best in the cinematic setting, providing hard space and feeling isolated with no one to hitting bass and guitar providing an amazhelp. This has to be one of (if not the best) ing sound. The drum work for this album is tracks on the entire album narratively. impeccable.

Starset’s album “Vessels” is nothing short “Last to Fall” is the album’s breather track, of an experience worth your time. Dustin’s as it opens up with a soft intro and a hard astonishing and melodic vocals combined hitting chorus. This track also shows a defiant with the hard and heavy bass and guitar, Bates as he sings, “The world is changing but followed up with orchestral interludes makes I’m still the same,” also showing an internal for a sci-fi lover’s dream.

Vessels 2.0 Album cover 2018

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REVIEW

BLISS Beats IColor

Nail spa offers unbeatable atmosphere, employees, services

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Bliss Nail Spa has a clean and organized aura that makes customers feel good about the quality services they offer.

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by Hannah Christensen

ost nail salons are extremely overpriced and the work is sloppy. People leave the salon with bad nails, a dent in their bank account and a headache from the strong smell of acetone. The ideal nail salon would have a nice relaxing environment with employees who are working to make you happy and help customers feel at home. Bliss Nail Spa has all of the qualifications of the perfect nail salon.

The uniquely modern environment is extremely welcoming and has customers feeling relaxed as soon as they step in the door. Bliss has a clean and organized aura that makes customers feel good about the services they offer.

The color selection is a wide range of beautiful, vibrant colors.

Bliss has also carefully selects their products to be non-toxic. Bliss only promotes safe, clean, and healthy options to help strengthen and maintain strong nails. While many

nail salons use unsanitary equipment and old nail polish while also promoting the use of damaging products such as acrylic.

While the prices at Bliss are higher than average, they don’t disappoint with their hard work and talent.

One of Bliss Nail Spa’s competitors is IColor Nail Bar, but IColor comes nowhere near to being as high quality as Bliss. IColor is chaotic 24/7! When it’s busy it’s crazy, and when there’s nobody there, it’s crazy too.

An unorganized and messy salon, IColor does a horrendous job with SNS, a new powder polish that is becoming a trend.

Compared to Bliss, their pedicures are sloppy, and they take no time to get to know their customers, while Bliss makes the effort for a great relationship with their customers. You leave Bliss with beautiful strong nails – and new friends!

Next time you are dreading the nail salon, remember Bliss Nail Spa and You will not be disappointed.

Pow Imag ering inat ion Roblox game makes teens use their brains

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by Jackson Bailey

t’s not often that you find a game as fun and easy to play as “Roblox,” created by David Baszucki. It is a game where friends can make worlds and games, and then they can play them.

The game really excells at letting teens, and even younger kids, explore with their imagination.

One great thing about the game is the fact that it is free to play. Baszucki knew that young people don’t have a lot of money, so he made the game free to play, so no one feels left out of the trend.

You may ask how he makes money – it is a business after all. He gets income from in-game transactions. The player can buy in-game money for real money, for customizing their own characters and making their play unique, but it is not

necessary to spend money to have fun.

Another great thing is the possiblities are boundless. “Roblox” lets you create your own maps or games. Some teens or smaller kids need a place to use there creativity, and this game is the perfect place for it.

If you want to build a giant skyscraper then you can do it in “Roblox.”

You can even play other creater’s games, and you can play them with your friends. “Roblox” is a great game for anyone who is really creative. “Roblox” is filled with games, so it’s a good way to have a little bit of fun with your friends.

It’s one of those games that makes you want to come home and play. This game deserves a 4 out of 5 star rating.

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REVIEW

Mr. Putty's Fun Park Looking for a fun, family-friendly activity?

Try Mr. Putty's Fun Park at 2333 Dam Road, Tega Cay

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by Kayla Southwood & Riley Cota

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r. Putty’s Fun Park is a family friendly, safe space for people of all ages. While mini golf is the main attraction, there are many other activities such as a ropes course, bungee jumping, and Timber Climb.

The mini golf itself was an impressive feat. The 18 holes were packed with bridges, hills and a few holes that even forced players to chip the ball over small streams. For an average to quick moving group, the course could take anywhere between one to two hours. Mr. Putty’s also has a variety of club sizes and painted golf balls for people of all ages.

We found the course to be endearing and moderately clean. However, online pictures of the course showed that the attraction has seen better days.

The water in its complex series of streams and waterfalls were a beautiful blue–until it reached the bottom where it condensed into a murky pool with a thick layer of film floating on top.

The atmosphere of the park was lively and enjoyable. However, when talking to the employees, they seemed bored and uninterested. When we asked the cost of the ropes course, they informed us they had decided it was “too cold” for them to put workers atop the 10-foot high platforms. Meanwhile, the

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website informed participants that the course was still open.

Parking was cramped and could become difficult on a busy day. A nearby Walmart provided additional parking, although the walk back on the main road could be hazardous.

Bathrooms were easily accessible and adjacent to the rope course. A shaded picnic area provided a place to sit, rest, or even enjoy something from the concession stand.

The park offered snacks and beverages – at a steep price. On a hot summer’s day, the $2.25 bottle of water could land a hard blow to your wallet. Participants are not allowed to take outside foods or beverages into the course.

Mr. Putty’s provides a close source of cheap entertainment from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

The cost of the attractions varied- mini golf falling at just under $10 for ages 5 to 59, while other attractions cost between $6 and $12. Coupons and group prices are available, as well. Senior citizens, first responders, teachers, civil workers, veterans, and college students may receive a $1.50 discount.

Overall, we enjoyed our experience at Mr. Putty’s Fun Park and rated it 3.5/5 stars.

Mr. Putty's Fun Park mini golf and ropes course.

Reviewed by Kayla Southwood and Riley Cota on November 10, 2018. Photos by Riley Cota

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REVIEW

Margaritas Mexican Grill Margaritas is thriving at their new location on Carowinds Boulevard

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by Daniel Childs & Lauren DeLeon

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riving down Carowinds Blvd. on a Saturday afternoon, you won’t want to miss an opportunity to try the new addition to the chain of Mexican restaurants, Margaritas.

Margaritas took the place of Regent Park Diner at Unit 100 at 3071, Carowinds Blvd. in Fort Mill. Since that time, it has taken off and been a big hit with local residents. With their fair prices and friendly environment, Margaritas is booming.

The restaurant has a high food safety rating of 99 and the restaurant is always spotless.

The pricing is fair for the food quality. The meal is excellent and generally served quickly.

For two people, a dinner will cost about $25-$30, including drinks, chips, salsa, and an entree.

One party member ordered the fajitas, which comes with a drink, chips, vegetables,

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meat, and tortillas. The other party member ordered the highly recommended chicken quesadilla, which also comes with a drink, chips and salsa.

Margaritas is unique because they have tableside guacamole.

Seeing guacamole made right in front of you makes the experience better than the other Mexican restaurants in the area.

After visiting on many occasions for lunch and dinner, each time the waiters and waitress were friendly and service was superior to other local restaurants.

Margaritas is the perfect date night or family gathering restaurant. Their atmosphere is large and spacious, so it can accommodate serving large parties.

After comparing Margaritas to other Mexican restaurants in the area including Moes, Charandas and Don Pedro, we have given Margaritas 4 out of 5 stars for being clean and organized, having appetizing food, and quality service.

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Margaritas is the perfect date night or family gathering restaurant.

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REVIEW

“Pray For The Wicked” Panic! At the Disco’s new album exploded over the summer

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by Megan Bouchard

anic! At the Disco’s (P!ATD) rock or pop rock. Urie has a variety of sixth album, “Pray for the Wickvocals and an ability to emote Broadway ed,” raised enthusiasm among style and is meshed well with the rest fans. The album was publicized of the bands talents and melodies. The on March 21, 2018 by Brendon Urie band started posting online demos and (lead singer) and released June 22, 2018. writing Blink-182 covers, which caught When announcing the release, Urie the eye from a like-minded band, Fall wrote in a letter on Out Boy (FOB). Pete Facebook: “I pray for Wentz, FOB’s bassist, ... the album was all the wicked people signed P!ATD to his an astonishing doing wicked things record label, and they and for all the good still share a managebreakthrough, selling people doing good ment company. things every day. I Urie is now the 190,000 in the first pray that my family sole survivor and only week... stays safe while I’m full-time member on the road trying to of the original band share an incomparable experience with founded in high school – no one susa million different friends. I pray, but pected that Urie would finally achieve not to any one specifically. More to myhis biggest commercial breakthrough self, pleading to stay positive and loving on their fifth album, “Death Of A and open-minded. I meditate on what Bachelor.” However, the album was concerns me. The things I enjoy. The an astonishing breakthrough, selling changes I want to see in the world. The 190,000 copies in the first week of its people who lift me up. The people who relaease and bringing P!ATD their first bring me down. I pray. So here’s a few number 1 album ever. more prayers from me and my friends. I Just when fans thought P!ATD pray you enjoy it.” couldn’t possibly follow-up the impres P!ATD became best known for their sive release of “Death Of A Bachelor,” upbeat rock and early song “I Write Urie surprises fans with the release of Sins Not Tragedies,” but vocalist Bren“Pray For The Wicked” and changes don Urie’s new solo album “Pray for the the game once more. Naturally, the Wicked,” is a brave venture into pop release of this album will be accomparock. nied by many who want to argue that The original band varied in genre -this doesn’t sound like the old P!ATD. some consider it punk rock, alternative and in several ways, that’s true. “Pray

P!ATD’s songs connect with listeners and tell stories written from the heart.

of “The Death of a Bachelor” track “LA Devotee,” is about being in love with the city of Los Angeles and chasing success. Urie turns the table in his ballad “Dying in LA,” which is the last song on the album “Pray for the Wicked.”

This final track is about someone who journeys to the California city because of its indulging beauty and opportunities only to be broken by his past chances and possibilities and when success proves evasive.

“Pray for the Wicked” blew away many fans, and was overall an outstanding album. The songs had good vocals and lyrics and allso had a good beat.

P!ATD’s songs connect with listeners and tell stories written from the heart.

Winter 2019 /

For The Wicked” sounds nothing like their older albums -- “A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out” and “Vices & Virtues,” or even their fifth album release, “Death Of A Bachelor,” and it wouldn’t be P!ATD if it did. Instead, “Pray For The Wicked” is marking the new erafor P!ATD becoming infuenced by Broadway.

“Pray for the Wicked” is a major success, taking off with the three massive tracks ”High Hopes,” “Say Amen (Saturday Night),” and “King of the Clouds” exploding all over the radio, followed up by “Dying in LA.” By far the most emotional song is “Dying in LA.” Back in 2015 the release

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REVIEW

“My Sophomore Year” Girl encounters guy, they fall in love in new ebook

By Faith Bornstein

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Overall, “My Sophomore Year” is a well-plotted book but could have stronger writing and a better editor.

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he classic romance book “My Sophomore Year” self-published

by Katie Such is a free ebook about a spark that intertwines Elissa, a sophomore girl, and the new guy at school, Aiden. From the beginning Aiden was the cutest guy Elissa had ever seen. Eventually Elissa and Aiden grow closer.

Elissa has been afraid because she’s always been taught to stand guard ever since her dad has been out of the picture.

She can’t help but slowly fall for Aiden’s blue eyes and several piercings on his nose, tongue, and lip. Eventually, he kisses her. But he says he only wants to be friends – which was upsetting for Elissa to hear.

Soon he confronts her about how he regrets not asking her out because he was afraid she wouldn’t feel the same way. The two date, but Elissa feels scared when she discovers Aiden isn’t a virgin – and she is.

This novel could have been written better. There were some typo errors. I felt that characters such as the siblings were not important and didn’t need to be in the story, but the atmosphere was romantic, engaging and the book is funny.

Overall “My Sophomore Year” is a well plotted book but could have stronger writing and a better editor.

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