THE HAWK - March 2024

DDECATUR YNASTY

Wrestling team wins fi h straight state championsip

SkillsUSARegionals

By Catherine Miller

The recent Skills USA regional events saw students from Stephen Decatur, Snow Hill, and Pocomoke High School that attend Worcester Technical High School competing in a wide array of contests. From the traditional craftsmanship of the Masonry contest to the dynamic

challenges of the Extemporaneous Speaking Contest, participants showcased their skills and dedication with huge enthusiasm.

In the realm of technology, students participating in mobile robotics, Computer programming, and Web design, demonstrated their profciency in the digital age. Meanwhile, in the realm of healthcare,

participants engaged in competitions such as Medical Terminology, highlighting the importance of precision and knowledge in felds crucial to public health.

The frst placers in various competitions at the recent Skills USA regional events showcased remarkable talent and dedication in their respective felds.

Kathie Maldonado’s mastery in MasonryMadison French, Julia Knerr, and Catherine Miller’s representation of Worcester Technical High School in American Spirit, and Lee Holmes and Halle Lo’s prowess in Web design demonstrated exceptional skill and creativity.

Meanwhile, Maximus Fedelli and Chase Saltzman’s triumph in Mobile Robotics, Ryan Timmons’ expertise in Welding Fabrication, and Koan Watts’ craftsmanship in Carpentry exemplifed precision and ingenuity.

This doesn’t contain all of the First Place competitors. These students’ achievements not only refect their individual commitment to excellence but also highlight the outstanding caliber of vocational education at Worcester Technical high school.

The American Spirit category celebrated not just technical prowess but also the values of teamwork, leadership, and community service.

As we celebrate the achievements of these students, we also recognize the vital role of Skills USA regional events in shaping the future of our workforce.

By providing opportunities for hands-on learning, professional development, and industry exposure, these competitions empower students to pursue their passions and embark on fulflling careers.

Pictured (L to R): Daniel Koei, Jayden Bodon, Chase Saltzman, and Maximus Fedeli accept awards for Mobile Robotics

Wrestling Champions

By Jacob Hicks

What would you consider domination in a high school sport? 5 State championships in a row?

The Stephen Decatur wrestling team has just accomplished a massive feat winning their ffth team state championship in a row.

“We had a really tight team even though there were injuries and changes in the lineup the guys stuck together, fought, practiced hard and they went out there and wrestled,” said Coach August when asked what brought this team to the state championship and led them to winning it.

On Saturday February 10, 2024, at North Point High School, the Stephen Decatur wrestling team defeated Damascus. This victory capped of a 14-0 season and took

the Seahawks to their ffth team state championship in a row. Not only did they win the match, but they dominated it, scoring a point total of 50 to Damascus’ 22.

This win was nothing new to many of the senior members on the team. Many of them won their fourth state title in a row with the team. Getting to the fnal and even winning was expected and was the standard for the entire team.

“We’ve seen what it takes for a team to win states before so going into the season we wanted to get to that point again and compete for another state championship,” said senior wrestler Gavin Solito.

Starting in their 2018/2019 season the wrestlers have dominated the mats every match for 5 years, many think it would have been 6 if the

2019/2020 season was not canceled due to Covid-19. To dominate something is to exercise full control or infuence over someone or something. The Decatur Seahawks can confdently say they have dominated the state in wrestling. There are many crucial factors that go into winning a high school state championship in any sport, especially a team sport. Wrestling is a team sport and an individual sport at the same time, the wrestlers wrestle by themselves to earn the TEAM points. From top to bottom, from the coaches to the wrestlers to the JV team, the team must be a whole and push each other every day during practice.

The big question everyone wants to know is if they will be able to continue their dominance into the 2024-2025 season and win a sixth

state championship in a row.

“These coaches know what they are doing by now so if the kids buy into the coaches there is always a chance,” Solito said when asked if he thinks the Stephen Decatur wrestling team can continue their dominance into a sixth state championship in a row.

Added Junior wrestler Juan Hinojosa, when asked about winning next year: “If everybody works hard this of-season and in the room during the season it’s defnitely a possibility,” he said.

Having the right coaches and mentality on the team will set the Seahawks up perfectly next year to give them the opportunity to continue their dominance in the state of Maryland and capture another team’s state championship.

The Wrestling Team poses together with their trophy after their 5th consecutive victory

The New AP African American Studies

The New AP African American Studies

years.

years. This specifc AP was speculated and put out there by College Board at about 2017 or a little bit before COVID though it wasn’t an actual class until 2022. The class was frst piloted in 2022 to 2023 for only 60 high schools across the United States.

By Jada Donahue

There is a new AP (advance placement) class that is taking place in the spring of 2025 for seniors. It goes through the history of African Americans from their time in Africa, in the middle passage, to emancipation, to racism, as well as present times. So, this time period of this course is from the 1500s to the present. The topics that are discussed in this class are fragile to all but shine light on people that deserved to be recognized through the struggles they have and their ancestors have gone through. This course will be taught by Ms. Hathaway who teaches AP World History and regular World History from 2023 to 2024. Ms. Hathaway has also taught Psychology in prior

There is a new AP (advance placement) class that is taking place in the spring of 2025 for seniors. It goes through the history of African Americans from their time in Africa, in the middle passage, to emancipation, to racism, as well as present times. So, this time period of this course is from the 1500s to the present. The topics that are discussed in this class are fragile to all but shine light on people that deserved to be recognized through the struggles they have and their ancestors have gone through. This course will be taught by Ms. Hathaway who teaches AP World History and regular World History from 2023 to 2024. Ms. Hathaway has also taught Psychology in prior

Then, 2023

and this year was piloted to about 700 high schools in the United States that includes Pocomoke High School. Next year it will be open to all United States high schools including this Decatur. Ms. Hathaway has wanted to teach this class because it allows her to have a challenge, see people beneft from what is being taught, and new content that will allow people to understand people like us.

This specifc AP was speculated and put out there by College Board at about 2017 or a little bit before COVID though it wasn’t an actual class until 2022. The class was frst piloted in 2022 to 2023 for only 60 high schools across the United States. Then, 2023 and this year was piloted to about 700 high schools in the United States that includes Pocomoke High School. Next year it will be open to all United States high schools including this Decatur. Ms. Hathaway has wanted to teach this class because it allows her to have a challenge, see people beneft from what is being taught, and new content that will allow people to understand people like us.

AP African American Studies is diferent from other APs that have been taken at this school. People who have taken history APs or are currently enrolled in a history AP, there are LEQs and DBQs that are very

AP African American Studies is diferent from other APs that have been taken at this school. People who have taken history APs or are currently enrolled in a history AP, there are LEQs and DBQs that are very

By Jada Donahue Story and Photos by Mara Minkey By Jada Donahue

time consuming added to the many multiple-choice questions during the test. During my interview with Ms. Hathaway she said, “Instead of having just an exam you have a research project that allows students to pick a topic in Ap African American Studies to get a deeper understanding of the topic they have selected. It is also due on the same day as the exam.” This AP also allows Ms. Hathaway to help students with these topics so you get the best result added onto your exam. This course is also only one semester with no prerequisite class that students need to take.

time consuming added to the many multiple-choice questions during the test. During my interview with Ms. Hathaway she said, “Instead of having just an exam you have a research project that allows students to pick a topic in Ap African American Studies to get a deeper understanding of the topic they have selected. It is also due on the same day as the exam.” This AP also allows Ms. Hathaway to help students with these topics so you get the best result added onto your exam. This course is also only one semester with no prerequisite class that students need to take.

Ms. Hathaway prior to her teaching, attended Salisbury University where she did a study abroad in Ghana. She looked at the slave trades and how it impacted Africa. She also learned that Africa views life a lot diferently than Americans do. In Africa they believe in the system that they already have established and don’t want the help due to being colonized by many diferent European countries. Her experience there in Ghana allowed her to “open her eyes seeing how the people are so in love with their culture.” These people were not upset, they did day to day life that made them happy, and happy to not be under control of a mother country abusing them for their natural resources they had. In my interview with Ms. Hathaway, she expressed how people in the United States wouldn’t understand how they could live like they do, and she especially didn’t when she frst got there. As time goes on and you

Ms. Hathaway prior to her teaching, attended Salisbury University where she did a study abroad in Ghana. She looked at the slave trades and how it impacted Africa. She also learned that Africa views life a lot diferently than Americans do. In Africa they believe in the system that they already have established and don’t want the help due to being colonized by many diferent European countries. Her experience there in Ghana allowed her to “open her eyes seeing how the people are so in love with their culture.” These people were not upset, they did day to day life that made them happy, and happy to not be under control of a mother country abusing them for their natural resources they had. In my interview with Ms. Hathaway, she expressed how people in the United States wouldn’t understand how they could live like they do, and she especially didn’t when she frst got there. As time goes on and you

are immersed into the culture you see how they act and understand through history how they do. At the same time, you can only think that history is always against them and cruel.

are immersed into the culture you see how they act and understand through history how they do. At the same time, you can only think that history is always against them and cruel.

There are people in this school who are looking to bump up their G.P.A. because it is low, but Ms. Hathaway would like to have students in her classroom that want to learn about people that are considered less than in the world. She believes that this history needs to be shown because, “African American History is United States History. It is important for all races, not just African Americans to be more inclusive and understanding of others. We shouldn’t be celebrating a group of people for 28 to 29 days. We should be celebrating them every day.” Ms. Hathaway doesn’t sugarcoat history. The history that will be expressed in this class is sensitive, but history shouldn’t be blocked out just because the United States is viewed poorly. Florida for example, is preventing this AP from existing in their classrooms as well as AP World due to the United States viewed poorly due to slavery. Ms. Hathaway also expressed, “When any content is limited it is devastating to everyone. It allows people to not be able to express their opinions of history. Racism is taught and it is important to strive to do better.” The whole entire world has taken advantage of Native people and Africans to do their work because white people are “better.” In this world people need to be more understanding of others or

There are people in this school who are looking to bump up their G.P.A. because it is low, but Ms. Hathaway would like to have students in her classroom that want to learn about people that are considered less than in the world. She believes that this history needs to be shown because, “African American History is United States History. It is important for all races, not just African Americans to be more inclusive and understanding of others. We shouldn’t be celebrating a group of people for 28 to 29 days. We should be celebrating them every day.” Ms. Hathaway doesn’t sugarcoat history. The history that will be expressed in this class is sensitive, but history shouldn’t be blocked out just because the United States is viewed poorly. Florida for example, is preventing this AP from existing in their classrooms as well as AP World due to the United States viewed poorly due to slavery. Ms. Hathaway also expressed, “When any content is limited it is devastating to everyone. It allows people to not be able to express their opinions of history. Racism is taught and it is important to strive to do better.” The whole entire world has taken advantage of Native people and Africans to do their work because white people are “better.” In this world people need to be more understanding of others or

Story and Photos by Mara Minkey

NEHS Hosts Black History Month Panel

By Eric Mitchell and Jacob Hicks

February is the month dedicated to black history and remembering all the incredible African American fgures and the brutal past of African American people.

In honor of black history month, the National English Honors society hosted a panel of black speakers, all infuential people from within the community.

The sub ect of Black people in general doesn’t get talked about enough at all places around the world, according to senior atrick aines.

“Our hope is to gain new insight to black representation in education and further the discussion board and this auditorium” said Haines, who is a member of the ational English onor Society, who hosted the panel.

“Be nice to people no matter what. because you’ll never know who you will need in the future” Said by the ice rincipal at Stephen Decatur igh School.

What he is trying to say with this quote is that karma is a real thing and watches how you treat somebody because they might remember how you treated them, and they are going to treat you similar if not the same.

During this discussion there were many meaningful and important topics, from what it means to grow up in school as an African American student to what inspired them to do what they do today.

One of the most important and discussed topics was what it means to stand up for and be a part of

the African American community. Carlton Cartwright expressed this by saying “If I say I love myself and my family and it ofends you then there is something wrong with you.” he said this when discussing his time at Salisbury University. This happened on February 7th at 1:20pm in the Auditorium. The panel is full of people. Carlton Cartwright, eland Greer, eronica ayes, Deshon urnell, a’tier Evans, Ari Johnson, and 2 E S members, atrick aines, and Deliyah olland. They were all talking about their experiences as being African American students in America. Mr. urnell was a student at Stephen Decatur he always thought

he would go to college as a football player since he played uarterback in high school and that ended up not working out. Ari Johnson had a uni ue perspective. She said that she went to school, and she wanted to read books. She thought they needed more black history books and then found out they were banning them. She believed that they needed to teach African American history in US history in schools. atrick aines and Deliyah are both seniors at Stephen Decatur high school with a 4.1 G A. and are both part of the E S. Deliyah olland is Attending oward university. eronica ayes is from Snow ill, but she now works at Stephen Decatur as

guidance counselor. Carlton Cartwright attended Salisbury University where he became a part of an African American student organi ation. Ari Johnson said some schools in Florida aren’t being allowed to add an A African American istory course to their course options. “There wouldn’t be a need for African American History if they’d teach it in US history” she said.

Ari Johnson and La’Tier Evans spoke at the Black History Month panel held Feb. 7 in the auditorium. (Eric Mitchell photo)

The Worcester County Arts Council’s

HIGH SCHOOL ARTS COMPETITION

By Mara Minkey

On February 9th, 2024, the Worcester County Arts Council in Berlin held their annual High School Arts competition, along with an awards ceremony.

Sponsored by the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club, the competition recognizes high school artists from around the county, and the talent and efort has gone into their art

Their mission with this show is to recognize and encourage the young artists of Worcester County. They are also dedicated to promoting and showing the importance of art in Worcester County, and in our education.

The show featured art from high schools around the county including Pocomoke High School, Snow Hill High School, Stephen Decatur High School, and Worcester Prep.

The competition gave out $2,000 in cash prizes to the winning students. The art was judged across various categories such as painting, drawing and digital Along with the frst second, and third place awards, two additional awards were also given out: the honorable mention and the people’s choice award.

The people’s choice award was decided by a vote. People who visited the open gallery from February 1st to 8th got to vote for the pieces in each category they wanted to win.

In addition to that there was also a gift certifcate chosen and pro-

vided by the Blick art company, for the winner of their choice. The art was judged by WCAC board member Doris Glover.

On the night of the awards, there was an open gallery and reception before they gave out the awards at 6 pm. There were also free catered snacks provided by the Worcester Technical High School Culinary Arts Students, and their instructor, Chef Phil Cropper, also the vice president of the OCOC.

Before the awards, the OCOC members met each student artist and got their picture with their art. When it was time for the awards, administrative assistant Sharon Sorreiento gave a little soliloquy about the show and congratulated all the artists. She then introduced the teachers from each of the schools participating.

Former OCOC president Bill Hickey greeted all the families and student artists then brie y spo e saying how proud of all the artists before the awards. Then WCAC board member Doris Glover went on to announce the winners, giving each student some commentary on the piece and why she chose it, and what she admired about it.

The 1st place winner for digital was Jamari Savage’s “Memorabilia”. 1st place for painting was Izzy Hubers “Emersion. The 1st place winner for drawing was Ella Haleys “Unspoken words.”

DIGITAL:

1st Place - Jamari Savage, “Memorabilia” Worcester Technical High School

2nd Place - Alexia Shepherd, “Winter” Pocomoke High School

3rd Place - Mia Jaoude, “Lightning Dragon” Worcester Preparatory School

Honorable Mention - Mikayla Towns, “Amanda Seyfried Mama Mia” Worcester Preparatory School

DRAWING:

1st Place - Ella Haley, “Unspoken Words” Stephen Decatur High School

2nd Place - Angeline Todorov, “Pavo Christatas” Worcester Preparatory School

3rd Place William Richardson, “Self-Identity Mandala” Snow Hill High School

Honorable Mention - Genevieve Eggers, “Busy Bees” Stephen Decatur High School

PAINTING:

1st Place - Izzy Huber, “Emersion” Worcester Preparatory School

2nd Place - Katie Gordon, “Morning Friend” Stephen Decatur High School

3rd Place - Magnolia Harris Blackburn, “Storm’s Coming” Snow Hill High School

Honorable Mention - La’Kya Dickerson, “Night Sky” Pocomoke High School

BLICK GIFT CERTIFICATE: Mara Minkey, “An Artifcial Future” Worcester Technical High School

PEOPLE’S CHOICE:

Kate Gordon, “Morning Friend” Stephen Decatur High School

Pictured (BR, L to R): Monica Forrester, Jamari Savage, Mara Minkey, Ella Haley, Genevieve Eggers, Katie Gordon, Karen Ciancitto, Abigale Vadella, George Zaiser (FR, L to R): Alex Tobiassen, Janet Cho, La’kya Dickerson, Angeline Todorov, Daisy Harris (photo by WCAC)

Senior Self-Publishes Childrens Book

By Catherine Miller

Simran Jain, a senior at our very school Stephen Decatur, has recently made waves in the literary world with her children’s book titled “Zoya’s Marvelous Adventures in Money”. At just 17 years old, Jain has showcased her talent for storytelling and her passion for fnancial education to help prepare readers for their future.

When asked about her inspiration for writing the book, Jain shared, “It’s inspired by some of my memories in school about wanting to learn how to manage money in a responsible manner.” This desire to impart fnancial wisdom to young readers is evident throughout her book “Zoya’s Marvelous Adventures in Money.”

The main character of Jain’s book, Zoya, is a nine-year-old girl who resides at the top of a city building. Jain explains. “I wanted to write a character that is indeterminate so that the reader could see themselves in her. “Through Zoya’s journey, readers are invited to join her as she navigates the complexities of budgeting and fnancial decision-making.

One of the key lessons Jain hopes readers will take away from her book is the importance of budgeting money and embracing the learning process. “It’s okay to make mistakes,” Jain emphasizes, “and learning about budgeting money can be fun.” By weaving this message into a captivating narrative, Jain aims to

empower children to develop healthy fnancial habits from a young age.

When asked about her infuences, Jain cites the book “Eloise at the Plaza” by Kay Thompson as a source of inspiration. “She’s a little mischievous and yet still lovable and relatable,” Jain adds. Additionally. Jain drew inspiration from the character Jessie from the popular television show “Jessie” for the nanny character in her book.

efecting on oya’s character development, Jain shares. “Zoya goes from an ignorant girl who doesn’t understand some things to a more responsible and smarter young lady.” Through Zoya’s growth, Jain illustrates the transformative power of education and personal responsibility.

In closing, Jain emphasizes that her book is meant to be uplifting and enjoyable for readers. “This story is meant to be uplifting so that the reader has fun learning about budgeting money,” she remarks. With “Zoya’s Marvelous Adventures in Money,” Jain has not only crafted an engaging tale but also provided a valuable resource for children and families seeking to instill fnancial literacy in the next generation.

As Simran Jain prepares to graduate from high school, this literacy work serves as a testament to the creativity and talent of young authors. With her passion for fnancial education and storytelling, Jain is undoubtedly a rising star to watch in the world of literature

(Pictured) Simran Jain and her self-published book “Zoya’s Marvelous Adventures In Money”

Unified Strength team wins 1st State Championship

By Cole Huye and Brandon Martin

For the frst time ever, Stephen Decatur High School had a Unifed Weightlifting team.

And for the frst time ever, Stephen Decatur's Unifed Strength and Conditioning team went all the way and won the State Championship.

“I really like being a part of this program, I’ve met a lot of great people through this, its very competitive and I like to win so I think this is a great program set up.” said teammate Phil Mason, a senior.

According to Coach Lindsay Owens, students with disabilities work with students who don’t have disabilities as a unifed pai

“This is a great opportunity for students and coaches to learn about each other, learn from each other, and really come together,” she said.

According to team member Mason Edelman, a sophomore, “it’s really great that were all doing this,” he said. “It’s super fun. We have a lot of great relationships and a really good bond.”

High school students with disabilities do not often get a chance to play on their school sports teams. More and more

U.S. states are adopting the Unifed Sports approach that Special Olympics pioneered. According to the Special Olympics, Unifed sports programming is in more than 8,300 school across the United States, and it is a goal to have Unifed sports in 10,000 schools by this year.

This is the frst school year that Worcester County schools have ofered Unifed Sports. Everyone seems to love it and want to see more of it. Many kids are starting to feel more

active and included.

Here at Stephen Decatur High school, we also have Unifed Bocce in the spring and Unifed Tennis in the fall, according to Coach Shannon Bone. This gives an opportunity for kids with disabilities to do things they haven’t before, also gives and opportunity for kids without disabilities to work with and help kids with disabilities.

According to another teammate Bailey Grifn, “I think it's really cool to be a part of this

program and to be able to help all these kids be more active and do things they might not of been able to do before.”

“The kids have been working really hard this year,” Coach Bone said. “We have been practicing since November, lifting and practicing twice a week, we’re battling against all the teams in the bayside, plus a couple teams on the western shore, so were pretty excited for these kids.”

Members of the Unifed Strength & Conditioning team pose with their championship medals (photo courtesy Shannon Bone)

5 Things

You need to know about

How Technology affects the Brain

By Lilly Paque e

1. Paying a ention to tasks

Technology a ects the brain in many ways but one of the main ways is maintaining your focus for long periods of time. When hearing all the ring tones, buzzing, and notifications it can a ect a ention because due to the noises it will make your brain always be alerted. Its also, why kids in school in today's age have trouble doing work for long period of work because of having phones.

2. Sleep deprivation

Phones, iPad, computers, all technology as we have seen can make you lose track of time during

the day. When people are taking it easy at night from Doing said activities during the day, they tend to go on Their phone till they go to bed for multiple hours. This Amount of time on your phones can create eye straining, not enough sleep and affects your whole body also.

3. Increased risk of obesity

Although technology is bad for your Eyes and brain it is very bad for the physical appearance of your body. With being on your phone all the time you will find yourself lacking exercise or going outside in general. It is found that phones can make you binge eat also! Those two things combined can make you have weight gain and increase your level of depression. In conclusion your brain

needs time to refresh itself from the amount of activity that goes on in a human's daily life.

4. Social Interactions

Most of our problems today can evolve around technology. The way kids grow up now in 2024 is a lot different than 1980! If they want to talk to someone they can simply call, text, or facetime them from anywhere which is crazy to think about. Nowadays, kids don’t even want to go outside with their friends to hangout or go away from playing video games all day long. Altogether, the new form of technology is shaping how babies, kids, and teenagers will live in the future.

5. Anxiety in everything

When I look around, I notice I’m not the only person struggling with Anxiety. My generation was the first generation to really get kicked in The face with technology when we were early teenagers. Staying in all Day looking at your phone and not socializing results not being around Many people... creates anxiety when having to talk face to face. Even in Many schools, they have kids doing all their schoolwork on either an iPad Or computers which I feel will negatively a ect future kids.

College-Bound Seniors

Photos and Stories by

Marley Rill

It’s nearing the end of the school year, and Decatur students are soon o to college. See where some of your fellow high school students are going!

Ma hew Beck

University of Maryland

College Park

Computer Engineering Major

He plans on going to Maryland College Park to major in Computer Engineering. Matthew chose to go to UMD because his two older brothers went there, and it has a beautiful campus

Rylie Kirby

University of Alabama

Marketing Major

She plans to go to the University of Alabama to major in Marketing. Rylie plans on playing club Field hockey or Club lacrosse in college.

Sean O’halloran Mcdaniel College

Undecided Major

Plans on going to Mcdaniel College to play soccer. Sean decided on going to Mcdaniel because his coached convinced him well.

Jacob Hicks

Mcdaniel College

Accounting Major

Plans to go to Mcdaniel College to major in accounting and play soccer with his best friend Sean O’Halloran.”

Katelynn King

Mars Hill University

Athletic Training Major

Plans on going to Mars Hill University and majoring in Athletic training. Katelynn plans on playing soccer in college, she decided to go there because it was everything she was looking for in a college

Student Spotlight: Junior Brooke Berquist Hosts Fundrasier for Believe in Tommorow

By Marley Rill

Brooke Berquist doing a fundraiser for Believe in Tomorrow. Brooke Berquist is an 11th grader at Stephen Decatur High school. Sense Brooke was a child, she has always seen the magic that happens with the Believe in Tomorrow organization in Ocean City, Maryland. Believe in Tomorrow Children’s foundation provides exceptional hospital and respite housing services to critically ill children and their families. Believe in Tomorrow believes that “the highest standards of service and unparalleled hospitality helps create a unique healing environment.”

“We Believe in keeping families together during a child’s medical crisis, and that the gentle cadence of normal family life has a powerf l in ence on the healing process We believe the highest standards of service and unparalleled hospitality help create a unique healing environment where families fnd hope and comfort. Since 1986, Believe In Tomorrow has provided over 600,000 individual overnight accommodations, helping families stay together in the midst of a child’s medical crisis.” Believe in Tomorrow

is such a good program for children.

Brooke Berquist wants to help out Believe in Tomorrow by receiving donations to give to them. Believe in Tomorrow is open to all the help that they can get. They take donations such as Breakfast items, Monetary donations, Gifts cards, Household needs, and Personal care. Believe in Tomorrow is such a great program with great staf helping anyway they can. Fun fact, 95% of every 1 dollar donated goes directly to support Believe in Tomorrow services.

“Brian Morrison is the founder and president of Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation. He strives to discover creative solutions to meet the needs of children and families undergoing treatment for life threatening illnesses.” Many people behind the scenes help with this program. Brooke Berquist Is a very generous person for setting up a donation at our school to help the Believe in Tomorrow Foundation. The Donation will begin around earlier March and end in mid to late April.

Brooke Berquist; Juni (Photo by Dana Arzadon)

SONG REVIEW

Hardy Drops Surprise Single “QUIT!!”

By TJ Curry

Coming of a highly successful past year with his recent album “The Mockingbird & the Crow,” Hardy is sticking with his rockin’ “crow” side with the release of his new single, “QUIT!!”

The song talks about an important part of Hardy’s past. Back when he started being a songwriter in Nashville, he was doing what is called a songwriters round where songwriters sing their original songs.

There was also a tip jar on the stage so artists could make money to get a record deal and after he did his set a listener wrote the word quit on a napkin and put it in a tip jar.

Since that day, he kept that tip jar as a reminder to not let anyone tell him what to do. Hardy covers this story in the song.

The song’s frst lyric say: “ Somebody wrote quit on a napkin/ I took it out of my tip jar laughing”. That whole frst line describes the song perfectly.

Even though this is an important song for Hardy, that doesn't make it a good one. Instead of either a full country or rock song, the song is kind of like a rap song. For the frst 1 minute and 40 seconds Hardy raps, while the fnal minute is a hardcore rock instrumental.

As a big Hardy fan, the layout of this song is very disappointing. I think if Hardy didn't rap the whole song and took his time with it, then this could've been a great song. One line in the song I really like is when he says “Florida Georgia put me on the map/ Morgan put me on the track.” The reason why I love this lyric is because Hardy talks about how two big country acts got him where he was today. It started when country duo Florida Georgia Line let him write on their fourth album, and Morgan Wallen put him on a song and got his name known.

HAWK RATING: 4/10

Foo Fighters 11th Album Review

By Haley Whitehead

Foo Fighters “But Here We Are” shows raw emotion

and just like that; I was left to live without it, left to live without it.”

Grohl passed away in August 2022. Grohl stated in many interviews that his mom was his best friend and she constantly motivated him to write.

HAWK RATING

By Haley Whitehead

Foo Fighter’s eleventh studio album

“But Here We Are,” released on June 2nd, 2023, express the complex emotions of grief and loss through meaningful lyrics and guitar solos that show much more than talent from frontman and lead guitarist Dave Grohl.

Dave Grohl, along with the rest of the members of the Foo Fighters, experienced grief frst-hand after the sudden passing of Taylor Hawkins on March 25th, 2022. Hawkins joined the band in 1997 after the departure of the band’s original drummer, William Goldsmith. Hawkins’ last performance was on March 20th, 2022, at Lollapalooza Argentina. Taylor Hawkins’ passed away at the Four Seasons Hotel in Bogota, Columbia. He was set to play a show with the Foo Fighters later that evening. The autopsy was released that Hawkins had a copious number

Foo Fighter’s eleventh studio album “But Here We Are,” express the complex emotions of grief and loss through meaningful lyrics and guitar solos that show much more than talent from frontman and lead guitarist Dave Grohl.

of drugs in his system at the time of his death. It was also released that his heart weighed at least 600 grams, which is double the average size. Professionals say that his heart could have collapsed without the drugs in his system. Foo Fighters canceled all tour dates after the tragic passing to mourn.

Only fve months after the passing of Taylor Hawkins, Dave Grohl experienced another personal loss. His mother, Virginia Grohl passed away in August of 2022. Grohl stated in many interviews that his mom was his best friend and she constantly motivated him to write.

Grohl, along with the rest of the members of Foo Fighters, experienced grief frst-hand after the sudden passing of drummer Taylor Hawkins on March 25, 2022.

Hawkins joined the band in 1997 after the departure of the band’s original drummer, William Goldsmith. Hawkins’ last performance was on March 20, 2022, at Lollapalooza Argentina.

Hawkins passed away at the Four Seasons Hotel in Bogota, Columbia. He was set to play a show with the Foo Fighters later that evening. The autopsy was released that Hawkins had a copious number of drugs in his system at the time of his death.

The lyrics show how someone dealing with loss is left with only photos and memories of their loved one. The second track on the album, “Under You” shows how Dave feels after losing Taylor. In the second verse, Dave sings, “Someone said I’ll never see your face again; Part of me just can't believe it’s true.”

me how to breathe, never showed me how to say goodbye.” Throughout the song, Dave says that his mother taught him how to live, but she never taught him how to live after she passed. The song is flled with raw emotion conveyed through the lyrics and instrumentals.

Each song of the album, released on June 2, 2023, covers similar themes of mourning and loss in their own way. One of the most popular songs of the album, “The Glass,” expresses the feeling of separation after losing someone.

is titled “The Teacher.” This heartfelt song is the longest Foo Fighters song, with the song in its entirety being 10 minutes and four seconds long.

“But Here We Are” was written during a time of mourning for the members of the Foo Fighters. Each track shows the raw emotion that surrounds grief and loss through beautifully written lyrics and heartfelt instrumentals.

The outro says: “I had a vision of you, and just like that; I was left to live without it, left to live without it.” The lyrics show how someone dealing with loss is left with only photos and memories of their loved one.

Grohl, along with the rest of the members, must learn to live without Taylor, their closest friends. This song expresses a strong feeling of loss and mourning that many listeners will relate to.

It was also released that his heart weighed at least 600 grams, which is double the average size. Professionals say that his heart could have collapsed without the drugs in his system. Foo Fighters canceled all tour dates after the tragic passing to mourn.

Each song of the album covers similar themes of mourning and loss in their own way. One of the most popular songs of the album, “The Glass” expresses the feeling of separation after losing someone. The outro says, “I had a vision of you,

Only fve months after the passing of Hawkins, Grohl experienced another personal loss. His mother, Virginia

One of the most personal songs, and arguably one of the best songs on the album, is titled “The Teacher.” This heartfelt song is the longest Foo Fighters song, with the song in its entirety being 10 minutes and 4 seconds long. Virginia Grohl was a teacher for most of her life, and Dave credits her for teaching him everything he knows. The one thing she did not teach him, however, is how to deal with loss. In the song, Grohl calls out for guidance as he deals with the losses he faced. In the fourth verse, he sings, “You showed

Virginia Grohl was a teacher for most of her life, and Dave credits her for teaching him everything he knows. The one thing she did not teach him, however, is how to deal with loss. In the song, Grohl calls out for guidance as he deals with the losses he faced.

HAWK RATING

9.5/10

The second track on the album, “Under You,” shows how Grohl feels after losing Hawkins. In the second verse, Dave sings: “Someone said I’ll never see your face again; Part of me just can't believe it’s true.” Grohl, along with the rest of the members, must learn to live without Hawkins, their closest friends. This song expresses a strong feeling of loss and mourning that many listeners will relate to.

One of the most personal songs, and arguably one of the best songs on the album,

In the fourth verse, he sings, “You showed me how to breathe, never showed me how to say goodbye.” Throughout the song, Dave says that his mother taught him how to live, but she never taught him how to live after she passed. The song is flled with raw emotion conveyed through the lyrics and instrumentals.

“But Here We Are” was written during a time of mourning for the members of the Foo Fighters. Each track shows the raw emotion that surrounds grief and loss through beautifully written lyrics and heartfelt instrumentals. HAWK RATING: 9.5/10

Jason Statham’s “The Beekeeper” is worth the buzz

By Haley Whitehead

“The Beekeeper,” released on January 12, is directed by David Ayer, who is credited for acclaimed movies such as “Fury” and “Suicide Squad.”

With a budget of $40 million, “The Beekeeper” provides many action sequences while keeping true to the storyline.

The movie begins with beekeeper Adam Clay (Jason Statham) capturing a hornet’s nest for a woman named Mrs. Parker (Phycilia Rashad). Mrs. Parker rents out her barn to Clay, so he has a place to sleep and take care of bees.

She thanks him for taking care of the hornet issue that raided her property and invites him over to dinner that night. Adam agrees and walks out of the Parker house to take care of the bees. Mrs. Parker logs onto her computer only to notice an alert on her computer about her data and information being stolen.

The elderly woman contacts the number on her screen and tells them the issue she is facing. The number she calls is a scam, and they steal all of her assets. Shocked and saddened, she drives herself to suicide.

Clay goes over to her house later in the night for dinner and fnds her dead on her chair. FBI Agent Verona Parker (Emmy Raver-Lampman), Mrs. Parker’s daughter, is also at the house and suspects Clay of the heinous crime. The beekeeper tells her everything he knows and is eventually set free from the custody of the police. Clay fnds out about the scam and is enraged that someone would intentionally hurt an elderly woman.

It is then revealed that Clay has connections with the CIA and contacts them to fnd out the location of the scammers. Once Clay receives insight about the company and its whereabouts, he tracks them down and blows up the building, killing two security guards and scaring the manager of the building.

As the movie progresses, it is revealed that Clay was a retired member of the CIA’s secret operation, the Beekeepers, a highly-trained group that often uses their violent ways to help track and locate bad people. The Beekeepers are so trained that it is near impossible for most people to harm them. Derek contacts his mother’s friend,

Wallace Westwyld (Jeremy Irons), who was formally the head of the CIA, desperate for Westwyld to help him. Westwyld only confrms Danforth’s fears, by saying that Adam Clay is a Beekeeper, meaning that he is highly trained, motivated, and nearly impossible to kill.

“The Beekeeper” is flled with fghting and action while sticking to the interesting storyline. Overall, it is a good action movie that keeps viewers entertained throughout.

HAWK RATING: 8/10

Have you ever been sad? Alone? Filled with anxiety on random days? Domestic animals are well known to help with all the listed topics! Animals also can help with gaining self confdence As humans, it is often easy to lose track of time and how we’re truly feeling deep down.

It might be surprising, but animals also endure stress from worrying about the feelings surrounding them, if that means a household, shelter, or in nature also. The most popular comfort animals to help with anxiety are dogs with their loving personalities and bursts of energy. Dogs are very good at detecting what’s always going on around them and are constantly trying to help their people.

Dogs help with anxiety and reducing blood pressure, getting daily exercise, and just petting them! Blood pressure is helped by dogs because by comforting you with

Throughout the years people have come to learn that animals very much need people too! In life, dogs take in a lot of stress. Stress in animals can be formed by trying to protect their humans, domain, food, and possibly toys. Certain people often question why dogs are so good with kids right away when the child is born. The reason behind dogs being good with kids is because the dogs know and can feel how special the child is to

dog to calm them down during the school day because of all the stress of work having deadlines. This is why many families tend to get dogs because they can ease everyone when situations get hectic. Although dogs have a good number of duties you must attend to, dogs’ loving personalities can really help anyone when they fnd themselves lost in the mi of life. Overall, dogs can help a lot of anxiety within people.

are active animals! They need to get outside and walk or run around every day. Dogs are good companions because they will need you to take them on walks and throw the ball for them outside. Also, when trying to relax at home your dog can give you all the love you need by just sitting next to you and reassuring you that someone loves you. All these listed categories of ways dogs can reduce anxiety will help your physical and mental health overall! If you don’t care for dogs, there are many more animals to choose from that can help you with the exact same categories.

In conclusion, I believe that dogs can be valuable for many reasons in today’s age. Often many kids today will be found having a therapeutic

Summer jobs are part of students’ work-life balance

By Haley Whitehead

During the school year, students are constantly stressed with various projects, tests, and homework assignments given to them.

But for many students, they must learn to maintain balance between their school life, personal life, and work life.

Many students at Stephen Decatur High School work during the summer in various parts of Ocean City. The majority of students make their income in the service industry during the summertime.

During the wintertime, or the of season, many businesses close until April or May because the profts are not high enough to keep the business open year-round.

However, some businesses stay open all year long. Most of the businesses that stay open have been in the industry for years and have seen the tough times that plague them in the of-season.

One of the restaurants that remain open during the of-season is Harborside Bar and Grill. Harborside opened its doors in 1993 with the help of owners Christopher Wall and Lloyd

Whitehead.

One of the employees at Harborside Bar and Grill is 16-year-old Adriana Staley. Adriana is a sophomore at Decatur and is on track to graduate a year early. She works as a host year-round, usually working four days a week. She is well-admired by her other co-workers at the establishment and praised for her hard work.

When asked about how she manages both work and school, Adriana said, “I create a schedule. I knew if I didn’t do all my work during the school day, it would never get done. So even if I have to dedicate time during lunch to do schoolwork, I will so I don’t fall behind in class.” Making a schedule and prioritizing said schedule can be difcult for many to maintain due to procrastination or prior obligations, but it is very helpful to successfully manage time.

Adriana works four days a week at Harborside, which leaves her time to do her homework either after work or on one of her three days of.

When asked if working hurts her grades, Adriana said, “Working doesn’t afect my grades unless I let it. There have been times where I felt

like work and making money were more important but as I watched my grades fall, I realized that I needed to change something and learn to prioritize school work.”

Many students face the difcult challenges that come with maintaining school and work and fnding a healthy relationship with the two, although some people struggle with balancing work and school, many fnd it rewarding.

“You gain so many new relationships,” Adriana said. “You learn how to do things from

multiple perspectives. Sometimes people at work can be frustrating and you learn how to deal with that. It also helps you gain a sense of responsibility and respect towards others. The money in my bank account is also pretty rewarding.”

Many students at Decatur have jobs both during the summer season and the of-season. Wisely managing time between school and work is crucial to be able to succeed in both. Time management skills such as these can help prepare students for life after graduation.

Adriana Staley, a sophomore, works at Harborside Bar & Grill (Haley Whitehead photo)

HISTORY

Continued from page 4

history will repeat itself. Ms. Hathaway will g ide st dents to see diferent perspectives and due to what is being presented the students will be able to make their own ideas about history. She will also teach students to learn analytical thinking that will last them a lifetime. These skills incl de how to fnd evidence and how to create reading diferent te ts and looking at what they are trying to express, as well as writing at a higher level than before. She also wants people to “love each other because there is too much hate in this world.”

The new AP African American Studies allows all students to see United States History in action. Even though the curriculum is new it will provide a glimpse into African history that people in the United States don’t spend much time on. You get to see a new culture and how they adapted from Africa to America. These people that have been considered less than in society are being looked at to prove their s frage matters his class will not only teach you about the course but life skills that will be needed when you get to college. With Ms. Hathaway as the teacher, future students will be able to come up with their own viewpoint on history on what she provides. She will allow students to voice their concerns and ideas because that is what history is all about. Even though it prioritizes seniors, future juniors, sophomores, and freshmen, get ready because this class will be opened up to you in later years, so get ready.

TEACHER PROFILE

Mrs. Cianci o’s class is relaxed and chill

By Eric Mitchell

Being in Mrs. Cianciotto's class is like being in a chill classroom where you just draw and talk and let your mind wander while you relax.

Since taking her class I have learned a lot about art like silhouette drawings and watercolor techniques and the watercolor wheel . Her directions are so clear that I can understand what she is saying, and it makes me do my work better when the directions are crystal clear.

Growing up in Pennsylvania, she was quiet, and she was such an introvert that she loved doing things by herself. That is a big reason she is the way she is today. She grew up loving to read and she loved art. That is the reason she is teaching art.

“I was always quiet and did not really have any friends,” she said. “I always stayed inside and when I was outside, I was either reading a book or was just nature walking. So yes, I was boring, but I never liked meeting new people.”

what you want.

She only wanted to teach art because she believed art was a good outlet for people going through rough times and she thinks it’s a good distraction from all the negatives. She also believed that art could be a sort of communication and she wanted to inspire people to do what they believed they wanted to do and be able to be

Ciancitto, 49, has been teaching at Decatur for 13 years now and she has not regretted anything since working here. She said she would not have taught anything else because she never really liked school besides art and growing up, she is always wanted to do something that involved drawing or some sort of art. Her favorite hobbies are reading and drawing when she is alone at home, or doing things outside like hiking or going to the park.

If she was not teaching at Stephen Decatur, then she would

be drawing art masquerades at a museum or she would be drawing some sort of art and selling them for people that would love them for money.

She went to the University of the Arts in Philadelphia for college, and she got her master's at the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore. Now she is working on her doctorate at Salisbury University.

Mrs. Ciancitto says that she has always loved teaching and the impact she has had over teaching and that is a big reason she is my favorite teacher at Decatur.

Stephen Decatur art teacher Karen Ciancitto (Eric Mitchell photo)

PARTING SHOTS BOYS BASKETBALL

The Stephen Decatur High School boys basketball team advanced to the state playo s, taking on Severna Park High School at home on March 5. The Seahawks won their 3A East Regional Final by a score of 63-55. (Dana Arzadon photos)

The student newspaper of Stephen Decatur High School since 1954

Sta Writers

Dana Arzadon

T.J. Curry

Jada Donahue

Jacob Hicks

Cole Huye

Brandon Martin

Catherine Miller

Mara Minkey

Eric Mitchell

Lilly Paque e Marley Rill

Charles Shoemaker

Haley Whitehead

Teacher Advisor Brian Shane

Zakhari Baker (No. 1), Davin Chandler (No. 0) and Careen Bolden (No. 2) scramble for the ball under the hoop with Trybe Wise (le ) closing in.

Senior point guard Careen Bolden (No. 2)

Junior forward Trybe Wise (No. 3) and junior guard Zakhari Baker (No. 1)

Senior Brycen Coleman (No. 23) charges for the hoop.