Green & Gold Volume XXVI, Issue VII

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Green & Gold

Volume 26, Issue VII EDITORIAL

“God can help us to see the He is ther for us every step of the way.”

Lily Morris emphasizes the value of having a relationship with God. Pg. 2

A Publication of Wesleyan School

Winter sports Students save the environment one bottle cap at a time begin to come to a close Audrey Pursell

The Bottle Cap Project is a collaborative art project between the AP Environmental Science students and the National Art Honors Society students to celebrate Earth Day that will be displayed by April 23, Earth Day. Both the APES and NAHS students want to bring awareness to Earth Day and spread a positive message by displaying a mural. This

NEWS

Fine Arts Circle of Honor recognizes notable artist in the Wesleyan community.

Pg. 5 FEATURES

The Green & Gold annual Valentine’s Day bake off returns.

Pg. 13-14

The high school competes per grade who can collect the most bottle caps for spirit points.

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project was an idea from past APES students but could not happen in years past due to Covid. Many of this year’s APES students were interested in doing something for Earth Day, so it all came together perfectly.

The Bottle Cap Project was originally inspired by Science Teacher and Department Chair Anna Myrick who went to another school and saw a big, recycled art project in their cafeteria. Myrick thought this was a great idea and inspired the students to do this project.

To participate in this project, students can bring in clean, screw-on bottle caps from plastic water bottles and turn them into the designated grade level bins in the hallways of Cleghorn and the first floor of Wesley. The grade with the most bottle caps will receive 200 spirit points, second place will receive 100 spirit points, and third place 50 spirit points. This project is positively affecting the enviroment by giving a purpose to something that would otherwise go to waste. It will bring awareness to how many bottle caps go to waste daily and hopefully inspire a positive change amongst Wesleyan.

Riley Cavanaugh

Winter sports are beginning to wrap up, this winter season has been a great time for growth and development for Wesleyan’s winter athletes. As the season begins to close, coaches and athletes reflect on the season and look forward to the coming seasons. The final swim and dive meets are state meet. The last swim meet was on Feb. 5 while the final dive meet was on Feb. 3. The wrestling team’s last meet was Feb. 12. Both girls and boys basketball’s last game is contingent upon how well they perform in region and state tournaments and if they qualify to compete.

Basketball cheer’s last performance depends on the basketball team’s progression in the tournaments. The team cheers for both boys and girls, so they will continue to cheer until both teams have their last games. (cont’d on page 18)

Congrats to all our winter athletes!

2022 Wesleyan Joy Gala raises money Ella Rayburn The Wesleyan parent community is invited to the Wesleyan Gala on March 5, 2022, at the Atlanta Athletic Club beginning at 7pm where they will help raise money for the school through an auction with the help from sponsors. The Gala is a way for the community to come together in fellowship. Due to COVID-19 over the past two years, the Wesleyan Parents Club has been unable to have the event which makes this year’s event even more exciting. Gala chairs Yumi Shim and

SPORTS Parents participate in the live auction as a way to help fundraise for the school.

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Check out how the winter sports finished up their seasons.

Pg. 18

February 28, 2022

Each silent auction item available is displayed on a row of tables at the Gala.

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Kelley Shippel said that with the inability to gather the last few years, it has drawn many in to attend this year.

Wesleyan Parents Club are the ones who plan and organize the event. The entire Wesleyan parent community is invited to attend.

To attend, parents must purchase a ticket.

Tickets cost $175 per person. Head of School Chris Cleveland will be attending with most of his fellow cabinet members. Capacity is limited to 450 guest due to the recent spike

in COVID, so there will be fewer available tickets this year.

At the event, many sponsors will be helping fundraise for the school. The presenting sponsor is KARV Kitchen, a new and upcoming restaurant in Chamblee. Being the main sponsor of the event means that they have paid a certain amount of money to have their products displayed and provides marketing for the company. Shim and Shippel said, “KARV is a great healthy food option, and we want those in the community to know about it.”

Both a silent and live auction will be held.

For the silent auction, parents are able to bid both by being present at the event or at home. Items include being principal for the day, being first in the carpool line, and many other fun options. The live auction will strictly be for those in person at the Gala. They will be auctioning off the top items at the live auction such as teacher experiences for all grades, an Italian getaway, private chef dinners and events, custom Steve Penley painting, Porsche driving experience, Braves and UGA tickets and of course the coveted Head of School. Shippel said, “There is something for everyone on the list. You don’t have to spend thousands to come away with something fun.”

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EDITORIAL

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Prioritize your relationship with God Lily Morris Coming back from summer break in August of 2021, my main priority for my last year at Wesleyan was my grades, excelling in classes, and getting college applications finished. My goals were only based on academics, but as the year progressed, I realized that school was not the only important part of my life. Throughout my first semester of senior year, I learned that one of my top priorities in my last year of high school should be my relationships. It was important to recognize that my friendships and relationships with teachers and family greatly affected my mood, and that in order to make the most of my last year, I need to cultivate positive and life-giving relationships while I still have time at Wesleyan.

As second semester is under way, I am still working on growing and cherishing the relationships in my life that lift me up. However, I have noticed that the time around Feb. 14 – Valentine’s Day – has put a damper on some of my friends’ emotions. I can relate to the negative feelings brought up around this day, but I regain my happiness and hopefulness when I spend time in prayer with God. Although all kinds of relationships in high school, romantic or platonic, are beneficial for our lives, the, best relationship for us to focus on is our connection with God.

I learned that one of my top priorities in my last year of high school should be my relationships.

Whether you are taken or single, I want to encourage you to focus every day on growing your relationship with God. No matter how close you are to people in your life, the only person who will be there for you always is God. No matter how much others love you, God’s is the only love that is unconditional. Psalm 136:26 says, “Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures for-

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March

Brooks Hanrahan

March 10 March 17

Corrie Nash SPRING BREAK

March 24

Davis Brown

March 31

Mary Blalock

April 7 April 14

April

Michael Tablada EASTER BREAK

Green & Gold Staff Editor-in-Chief.....................................................................Lily Morris ‘22 Assistant Editor-in-Chief.................................................Ella Rayburn ‘22 Senior Spotlight/Layout Editor.................................Kendrick Archer ‘22 Features Editor..........................................................Teagan Wilkenloh ‘22 Fine Arts Editor............................................................Caroline Croley ‘23 Student Life & News Editor.................................................Alex Edgar ‘23 Christian Life Editor...........................................Comforter Afobunor ‘22 Staff writers...............................Riley Cavanaugh ‘23, Audrey Pursell ‘23 ........................................Anna Rae Copeland ‘22, Hampton Huggins ‘22 ..........................................................Audrey Pursell ‘23, Henley Davis ‘24 Advisers.........................................................................Meredith Jamieson ..............................................................................................Andrea Shupert Editorials represent the opinion of the individual writer. The Green & Gold welcomes letters to the editor, and reserves the right to edit letters for length, clarity, and content. Email greenandgold@wesleyanschool. org or place letters in Mrs. Shupert’s box.

Publication address: The Green & Gold Wesleyan School 5405 Spalding Drive Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

ever.” This simple Bible verse shows that God’s love for us is everlasting, and because of that reality, we should be grateful for His presence in our lives.

Psalm 136:26 says, “Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.”

Another reason we should prioritize our relationship with God is because He is there for us when we are at our lowest. One of my favorite verses during this period of my life has been Jeremiah 17:14 : “Heal me, Lord, and I shall be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.” I have had a difficult time battling different illnesses for the past two years, and God is the only one who has been there for me in my darkest hours. Of course, my family and friends have been there alongside me to support me, but only God knows and completely understands what I am going through.

Making my relationship with him my top priority

Unlike anyone else, God is there for us during our best times and our worst times, and he gives us strength to get through anything during this time in my life has helped me both mentally and physically. I encourage anyone reading this to do the same. I know that being sick is just a short part of my life’s journey. God will teach me many lessons from it, and that God will deliver me from my sickness as a better person than I was before. Isaiah 41:10 has become a very important verse to me during this time of my life, and it says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right

hand.” Unlike anyone else, God is there for us during our best times and our worst times, and he gives us strength to get through anything.

Another reason to prioritize our connection with God is because He helps to guide our life in the right direction.

Throughout senior year, each member of the class of 2022 has had to make many important, life-changing decisions about our futures, but what we sometimes fail to remember is that God has a plan for us. Jeremiah 29:11 emphasizes this idea, as it states, “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Topics like college, careers, and where we will live in the future can cause great amounts of anxiety, sadness,

God can help us to see that He is there for us every step of the way. unsureness, doubt, insecurity, and other negative emotions, but prioritizing God can help us to see that He is there for us every step of the way.

2022 so far has been a year of hope and exciting change, especially Wesleyan’s current senior class. Relationships with friends, teachers, significant others, and family are all significant for a happy life, but all of these relationships fall short to the love and glory of God. Recognizing the importance of our relationship with God will help us to live our best lives, feel God’s love, and see the Lord working in every part of our lives.

Sincerely,

Lily Morris Editor-in-Chief

The Green & Gold staff hopes all Wesleyan students and faculty had a wonderful and restful Winter Break!

EDITORIAL

He Said/She Said

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Antico versus Papa John’s

Hampton Huggins Pizza. An American staple that finds its way into homes on a daily basis. When you think about pizza, you normally think about Papa Johns, Dominos, or Pizza Hut. These are all great options, but none compare to the best pizza around at Antico pizza.

This isn’t your average American style pizza. It is an authentic representation of the Italian classic.

Some people go for value when they buy pizza. But I, go for quality.

First off, is the restaurant itself. Antico has just a few locations in the state of Georgia. When you walk into an Antico pizza resturant, you are met with the smell of a fire-burning oven and fresh basil. When you go to a Papa John’s, you are met with the smell of grease. Not only is the feel of an Antico pizza better than a chain pizza resturant, the quality of the pie is even better.

Antico’s menu has many options, but I find that the Margherita pizza is the best.

When it is assembled right in front of you in the fire burning oven and brought to your table, it smells delicious all the way through. When you get the pizza, you can see the individual pieces of mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, and basil. You know it is an authentic and real pizza with real ingredients because when you can see all of the individual pieces of the pizza, you can tell where it all came from. All of these ingredients are important to an overall good pizza, but the most important in my opinion is the cheese.

You can see the individual pieces of authentic mozzarella cheese that is real and not fake. This also contributes to the overall flavor. It really does make a difference.

When you get a delivery from Papa John’s, all you can see is just a layer of cheese and maybe a few other ingredients and all it tastes like is processed cheese and greaseunless it is stuck to the lid like it normally is.

Now the crust. The flaky crust and dough is what sets Antico above the rest. Some people might not care for the crust, but I enjoy it a lot. It is one of the deciding factors of a good pizza restaurant. Antico just seems to know what they are doing. It is crunchy yet soft, and super flavorful. At Papa Johns, it is soggy, flavorless, and has a tough texture.

Another vital part to a successful pizza restaurant is delivery. Antico doesn’t offer delivery direct from the restaurant. It’s only form of delivery is through food delivery services such as DoorDash and Uber Eats. Now these food delivery apps can be a hit or miss with who is delivering your food, but most of the times it comes perfectly fine and intact.

Papa John’s restaurants will hire just about anybody to be a delivery driver. They will hire some 16-year-old kid who just got his license a week ago and trust him to deliver the pizza well. When it comes, it was probably sliding all over the car and that is why all of the cheese and sauce is misplaced on the pie.

And it is not just me who rates this pizza as one of the bests. Many celebrities, such as Dave Portnoy, have rated this pizza immensely high. These are just some of the reasons why Antico pizza is just better than any other chain pizza restaurant.

Kendick Archer Pizza is pizza, no matter the brand or location. As long as it has cheese, red sauce, and thick crust, there is no way to go wrong with classic cheese pizza. Pizza does not need to have a ton of ingredients or special sauces. Pizza is delicious and perfect when sticking to the classic tomato sauce and mozzarella.

So many affordable options exist, like Dominos, Little Caesars, Papa Johns, or even Costco pizza. I would never reject good old Papa Johns over some gourmet pizza at an expensive restaurant. All of those fast pizza chains are also more accessible for all ages, which makes the pizza even better because pizza is not supposed to be fancy.

From adults, to children, to grandparents, everybody in the world loves pizza, so the ease of going somewhere quick and basic is the way to go. Also, pizza can be ordered from your phone to your house; costumers don’t even have to pick it up themselves as it is delivered.

Pizza is supposed to be easy and mouthwatering for all. Cheese pizza is the most popular food in the world because of how classic and perfect it is, and how easy it is to make. A reason why pizza chains are spread out in every city all over the world is because the classic recipe for a cheese pizza is just so delicious.

Quality does not matter because at the end of the day it is still cheese, tomato sauce, and crust. People do not need to see each ingredient put together or need to see pizzas with extravagant toppings. Although it might look fancy, most prefer the basic cheese pizza.

So, if most of the world enjoys a classic cheese pizza over something extravagant, then there is not much of a point in spending more money for something just as good and made with the same ingredients that Papa John’s uses. The taste of pizza is not transformed from imported cheese, or homemade tomato basil. That difference is very small, so it just makes sense to go with the option of more value, rather than quality.

The delivery of Papa John’s pizza is quick and easy, and you can get it at the click of a button. More formal pizza restaurants may not even have delivery methods, and if they do, the wait tends to be way longer, and more inconvenient. The buttery, thick crust is soft and warm and so delicious. At places like Antico, the crust is flaky, crispy crust that comes out of fire burning ovens. The cheese is heavy and evenly spread so that it all melts together, instead of being able to see the cheese bits, which is less appetizing in my opinion.

Lastly, Papa John’s is not only incredibly tasty, but they also help the community by providing job opportunities to high schoolers in the community, as pizza makers and drivers. The inclusivity of employers, the less formal environment, and the affordability of the pizzas add to why I choose not to go to some gourmet pizza place. The classic American pizza chains - Dominos, Little Caesars, Pizza Hut and Papa Johns - are proven to be loved worldwide, which is why pizza does not need to be gourmet or fancy or loaded with ingredients. Because of its versatility, convenience, and low cost, but most importantly because of its unbeatable taste, pizza is perfect j u s t being pizza.

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NEWS

Students celebrate during the winter pep rally Caroline Croley

Junior Joe Laurite dresses up as Don Johnson from Miami Vice to MC the 80’s winter pep rally.

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The freshmen and sophomores participate in one of the baskeball cheers.

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Basketball cheerleading coach Jennifer Pinkett-Smith introduces her basketball cheerleaders to the high school during the winter pep rally

(l to r) Seniors Hampton Huggins, Teagan Wilkenloh, and Drew Ball get into the pep rally spirit.

(l to r) Seniors Palmer Louthan, Ella Rayburn, and Channing Stall enjoy watching basketball cheerleaders perform.

The senior boys join in with the basketball cheerleaders during their cheers.

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(far left) English teachers Brooks Hanrahan and Ellen Riggins face off in their inflatable balls while MC Laurite commentates.

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Senior Anna Rae Copeland shouts with joy in celebration of the winter season.

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(l to r) Senior Jessica Nolan and freshman Emma Runyon lead the entire high school in cheers and chants.

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5 Circle of Honor awards Wesleyan artists NEWS

Lily Morris The Fine Arts Circle of Honor is a Wesleyan tradition organized and conducted by the fine arts faculty with an annual induction ceremony in the spring at the High School Visual Arts Show in order to nominate artists who have greatly impacted Wesleyan’s Fine Arts and to celebrate the talented, accomplished alumni artists.

One of many traditional celebrations Wesleyan holds is to appreciate and award previous students for their accomplishments beyond Wesleyan and their talents they practiced while at Wesleyan and their contributions to Wesleyan’s fine arts programs. The Circle of Honor focuses on students in the Fine Arts and recognizing their achievements.

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nations. That committee is made up of all of Wesleyan’s Directors and they approve who can advance.”

All inductees are then notified by Wesleyan’s fine arts Department of their acceptance into the Circle of Honor before Wesleyan makes an announcement to the community. When asked about the criteria to be inducted into the Circle, Foster said,” We’re looking for people who have made either a tremendously large contribution to one area of the Fine arts or a major contribution to multiple areas of the Fine Arts. For example, if someone only did theater, but they were a major part of the theater program and had several leadership positions and made a great impact, they would be a candidate.” There are different criteria for Wesleyan alumni versus friends of the Arts- which includes teachers, faculty, parents, and volunteers. Criteria that Wesleyan considers in looking at alumni of the arts includes that the nominee has graduated at least five years prior, nominees have made a notable and significant contribution to one or more of

major without them.” Her other involvements at Wesleyan included marching band and varsity soccer.

When asked about what inductees receive at the ceremony, Foster said, “They receive a plaque that is a replica of the plaque that will hang in the lobby of the fine arts building.” In discussing Wesleyan’s typical number of inductees each year, Foster said, “It’s usually limited to three or four, but it depends on each year. I don’t know

Parent volunteer Gina Solomon (r) was honored by Head of School Chris Cleveland (l) in 2018 for her generous contributions to the theater, band, chorus, and Artist Market.

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The Fine Arts Circle of Honor at Wesleyan has been a tradition for 15 years.

Wesleyan School The Fine Arts Circle of Honor was started at Wesleyan in 2007. When asked about how candidates are nominated, Band Director Foster said, “Anybody can nominate someone through the website. A parent can nominate someone, or a community member can go to the website and nominate somebody. The most important ingredient is that [the nominee] must have been out of high school for five years.” The Headmaster, Director of Fine Arts, and Assistant Director of Fine Arts review all nominations that are sent in before they are brought to the Circle of Honor Committee. When asked about the Committee, Foster said, “The entire fine arts department votes on who to elect to the Fine Arts Circle of Honor. There is a committee that meets prior to that to approve nomi-

(l-r) Rachael Schmid (’09) stood with Catherine Black (‘09) and Ashley Delk (‘09) along with Jeff Foster (r) at the Artist Market as they were inducted into the Fine Arts Circle of Honor in 2015.

Foster

At the ceremony, Wesleyan presents a summary of the inductee’s time at Wesleyan and his/her contributions to the fine arts.

Morgan Wesleyan’s fine arts programs, that nominees were in good academic and disciplinary standing while in high school, and that they show personal and/or professional excellence in life after Wesleyan.

The criteria considered for friends of the arts differs from the qualifications of alumni. Nominees for friends may include Wesleyan’s staff, faculty, volunteers, or artistic consultants, but it is not limited to those who have worked for Wesleyan. Nominees are required to have made a significant contribution to one of Wesleyan’s fine arts programs as well and must be considered an exemplary role model for Wesleyan students. They must also exhibit professional and/or personal excellence in life after Wesleyan and can also include those currently or previously employed at Wesleyan.

When Foster was asked about where and when the induction ceremony takes place each year, he said, “It changed—it used to take place on the opening of the Artist Market. This year, it will happen at the High School Visual Arts Show on Wednesday, March 6.” Alumna Rachael Schmid (previously Rachael Duane) graduated in 2009 and was previously inducted into the Circle of Honor. When asked about her memories of the induction ceremony, Schmid said, “Many of my biggest arts supporters were there: my parents, Mr. Foster, and Mrs. Sutton. And that close peers were next to me!” Schmid said that she had been in band with those same alumni since middle school, and that the ceremony was an honor to be a part of.

When asked about how she felt being inducted, Schmid said she felt “surprised but honored. There were so many talented musicians in my graduating class, and I wouldn’t have had such a good experience as a drum

that we’ve ever inducted more than four in one year.

This year, it might actually be more than that because of Covid limiting the people who were able to attend the ceremony the past two years.”

Schmid was inducted into the Fine Arts Circle of Honor in 2015. Her main area of accomplishment in fine arts at Wesleyan was being a drum major. When asked what her favorite art class was at Wesleyan, Schmid said, “I have very fond memories of the symphonic band clarinet section, so probably band with Mr. Foster.”

Schmid is currently staying at home with her toddler, writing, and handling communications for her mom’s yoga business AlmostHome Yoga. Schmid said her current job involves art by “trying to keep crayons out of someone’s mouth.” When asked about how music and fine arts influences her life now, Schmid said, “[My family and I] do enjoy music – its power to transform a room and stir something inside us.” Schmid still enjoys poetry, which has taught her why the arts will always matter: “[The arts] are the things that help us stay awake to our lives that help us live meaningfully.”

The nomination form for the Circle of Honor can be easily found on Wesleyan’s website. Wesleyan’s Fine Arts Circle of Honor proudly recognizes those who have made meaningful contributions to Wesleyan’s various fine arts. In doing so, the Circle celebrates the God-given gifts those involved with Wesleyan are given and glorify God by celebrating art.

While Head of School Chris Cleveland, art teacher Meg Brooker, and Fine Arts Director Meg Foster looked on, Angela Whited Petit (‘10) was inducted in 2019 for her notable contributions to Wesleyan’s visual arts.

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NEWS

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The mock trial team argues their way into a great season

The lawyers and witnesses practice every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, from 6:00 to 7:30. Possible roles include an attorney, which requires doing a direct examination and a cross examination of witnesses, doing the opening or closing statement, or being a witness.

The case provides witness testimonies, which current witnesses use as an outline to their character development. Senior Will Fuller says that during practice the team “prepares for competition by working with coaches, Matt Crew and alumni coaches, Mason Borucki ’16 and Anne-Elizabeth Goodgame ’09. to make our own examinations of witnesses, and witnesses prepare by getting into their roles.”

Crew says the team has been “learning about the law and prepping all parts of the trial.” Crew has been

(l to r) Sophomore Dane Scott and senior Ryan McConnell perform together as attorneys at competition.

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(l to r) Sophomore Mamie Pridgen, junior Jack Hobgood, sophomore Dina Dejene, senior Jeremiah Simmons, and sophomore Henley Davis wait for the competition to start.

(Cont’d from pg. 1)

The 12th grade bottle cap recycling box displayed outside the APES room.

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Fuller gave the opening statement, and O’Shields gave the closing for the defense. The attorneys argued objections very well from the other team, and the witnesses battled attorneys on opposing council during their cross-examinations.

Unfortunately, the team did not advance to further rounds. The coaches and the students are extremely pleased with their performance, and they are looking forward to next year.

If you are interested in joining the mock trial team for next year’s season, please contact Mr. Crew @mcrew@ wesleyanschool.org.

Davis

Students save the environement one bottle cap at a time Lidia Zamora, AP Environmental Science teacher says, “This project could be the start to something more powerful.” Meagan Brooker, Assistant Director of Fine Arts, says, “I love

competitions are on Zoom. When recalling McConnell’s favorite memory from the in-person competitions, he says, “One time in competition, the other team’s lawyer insulted Jeffrey Hullinger’s tie on the stand.”

The mock trial team had their first round of competition on February 1 against teams in the Atlanta region.

that this project is student-led and gives students the opportunity for leadership.” The Bottle Cap Project is being designed by NAHS members, who are planning and drawing an outline on wooden panels. The wooden panels will be color-coded for the APES students to follow and glue down the bottle caps to accordingly. Junior Kami Hewitt, APES student, said “My hope for the project is that it takes a progressive step to help the environment by bringing awareness to the amount of plastic that goes to waste.” The Bottle Cap project has given Kami the opportunity to take what she has been learning in APES and share it with others.

Answers to crossword Down: 1.Great-grandmother 2.Devil 3.Prince 4.Simmons 5.Holmes 7.Janitor 8.Dodge Colt 9.Seabrook 11.Stromie 13. football 14.Hill 18.arm

(l to r) Sophomores Mamie Pridgen and Dina Dejene hang out before competition.

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coaching Mock Trial for about fifteen years. His favorite memory is taking the team to state.

One of the team’s star defense attorneys, sophomore Dane Scott, has been on the team for two years. Scott describes the trial as involving “an employee who shot a person he thought to be dangerous out of presumed self-defense.”

The roster of fifteen students is divided into prosecution and defense to argue those sides of the case. Starting attorneys include senior captains Will Fuller and Ryan McConnell, and sophomores Mamie Pridgen, Henley Davis, Dane Scott, and Brady O’Shields. Starting witnesses include seniors Norah Bishop and Jeremiah Simmons, junior Philip Burns, sophomores Dina Dejene and James Cooper, and freshman Jackson Kennedy.

Pridgen says, “I chose to do mock trial because it was something new to me that not a lot of people know about.

It challenges me and pushes me while still being fun.”

As Pridgen said, the mock trial team presents academic and creative challenges while still being a great way to meet new people and have fun. Scott says his favorite memory from his time on the team is, “when Will Fuller drank an entire bottle of Chick-fil-A sauce last season.”

The team’s competitions are usually presented in a courthouse with a jury and a judge, but this year the

Across: 6. Russell 10. Lisson 12. Westminister 15. Justin Timberlake 16. Blue 17. Chattanooga 19. Foster

Henley Davis The mock trial team has been practicing their criminal case since October and preparing for the end of their season in the spring. The mock trial organization rotates a civil or criminal case each year arguing against the prosecution and the defense so that the teams will prepare in completion against other teams.

Check out the crossword on pg. 7!

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The teacher couples of Wesleyan reminisce A Crossword

Caroline Croley THE WESLEYAN COUPLES Anna and Chip Myrick, Orlena and Chris Encinas, Stephanie and Chad McDaniel, Sara and Joseph Cooper, Minoo and Mitchell Mayfield, Megan and Greg Lisson, Lorie and Dennis Stromie, Abby and Robert Holmes, Susannah Smith and Brian Krehmeyer, LaShandia and Isiah Hill, Laura and Connor Breslin, Ellen Riggins and Chris Paroli, Cathy and Randy Cailor, Hannah and Blain Graham, Stephanie and Chad Simmons, Rebekah and Josh Smith, Meg and Jeff Foster, Carey and Brian Morgan, and Jennifer and Ted Russell.

Across 6. After this couple got engaged, the man’s friends threw him in the Pittsburg campus creek, which is tradition at the university.

10. This couple got engaged at the fire pit next to the beach volleyball courts at Wesleyan School.

12. Brian Krehmeyer and Susannah Smith met at this school while teaching junior high.

15. When Minoo and Mitchell Mayfield were on a date, Mitchell got mistaken for this pop singer who also sang at a Super Bowl.

16. Hannah and Blain Graham used to look at the stars in Mr. Graham’s car which had this color of shag carpet headliner.

17. Rebekah and Josh Smith met at Clumpies Ice Cream Company in ____________, TN where they both worked.

19. This couple got engaged when the man wrote a song for the lady and sang it to her in the chapel at the Church of the Apostles.

Down 1. The ancestor who Joseph Cooper got Sara’s engagement ring from.

2. Connor and Laura Breslin got engaged on top of this mountain in North Carolina, _________’s Courthouse.

3. Carey and Brian Morgan had their first “connection” at this singer’s concert for his Purple Rain Tour.

4. At the end of the first date, the lady of this couple asked the man “Is this a date?” because she didn’t know if it was a friend date or a romantic date.

5. This couple got engaged in Savannah, GA on a run by the water and got married at Christmas time in 2018.

7. Randy Cailor was working this job at a school when he proposed to Cathy.

8. This model was the first car Chad McDaniel had when he first started dating the soon-to-be Stephanie McDaniel.

9. Many students think that Chris Paroli and Ellen Riggins got engaged at Orange Theory, but they got engaged at the beach at ___________ Island.

11. This couple went on a date to play golf and the lady got thrown from the golf cart, and this usually gentlemanly man laughed at her.

13. Before they were married, Orlena tried to set up Chris Encinas with her roomate even though he was interested in Orlena while they watched this sport.

14. This couple both have the same major at their respective colleges and now try to eat lunch together every day.

18. Anna Brusack, with this broken appendage, went on her second date with Chip Myrick. Eventually, they ended up at the hospital.

Spirit captains energize student body

Ella Rayburn The six senior spirit captains work to increase school spirit for the student body throughout the year by creating themes, leading cheers at games, and making funfilled announcements about upcoming events. Seniors Mitchell Badciong, Hampton Bingham, Gracie Brown, Connor Carroll, Anna Rae Copeland, and Tate Gilley are this year’s six student body spirit captains. Brian Krehmeyer, Student Activities Coordinator, and student government chose these six seniors because they thought that they would being the most spirit to the student body.

They have many different roles as spirit captains. One of their roles is planning events such as tailgates that allow all grades in the high school to get involved and show their school spirit. Another is to give sports announcements during Monday Morning Meeting. They usually come up on stage and recap the scores from the previous week and announce the upcoming games for that specific week. They also keep count of the spirit points, which are points students can earn by attending school events.

The points go towards the grade and when a grade raises a certain number of points, the class can receive prizes such as a spirt top and special shoe day. To get points, students must send a picture of them at that event

to the Wesleyan students Instagram.

Seniors (l to r) Jay Arora, Christian Drayer, Sam Cleveland, Hampton Bingham, John Perrins, Stafford McDaniel, Palmer Louthan, Marisa Lambert, Teagan Wilkenloh, Lucy Anderson, and Maegan Euwing enjoy the homecoming tailgate planned by the spirit captains.

Morgan

Seniors (l to r) Mitchell Badciong, Anna Rae Copeland, Gracie Brown, Hampton Bingham, and Tate Gilley get ready to run into Monday morning meeting. The Spirit Captains have definitely made morning meetings engaging and have energized the Shade student body.

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FEATURES

SENIOR

Mackenzie Madison What colleges are you applying to or going to? Georgia Tech, Duke, Northwestern, UNC, UVA, UGA, Cornell, and UPenn Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now?

Southern Italy What’s your most embarrassing moment at Wesleyan? One time, I was in a bathroom stall talking to a friend who was outside of it, but a teacher walked in, and my friend walked out. I had no idea that my friend left, and I kept talking to the teacher as if they were my friend.

They didn’t respond, and I ran out after realizing.

What is one thing you will miss about high school? The SAGE mac & cheese What did you want to be as a child? A ballerina Who was your first Wesleyan crush? RJ Casey If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? “Criminal Minds” John Perrins What colleges are you applying to or going to? Kennesaw State University Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now?

Russia Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Elon Musk What’s your most embarrassing moment at Wesleyan? Slipping and falling while playing kickball in the 8th grade What is one thing you will miss about high school? The sporting events What did you want to be as a child? Police officer Who was your first Wesleyan crush? Caroline Stakel If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? “The Office” Norah Bishop What colleges are you applying to or going to? I’ve applied to MSU, SCAD, Virginia Tech, and UCF. Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now?

Iceland!

Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Jeff Bezos. Because either he’d get us both rescued, or I could beat him up without repercussions.

What is one thing you will miss about high school? Marching Band!

What did you want to be as a child? An astronaut Who was your first Wesleyan crush? Carson Ballard probably If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? Definitely “Arcane” What is the theme song of your life? “Amsterdam” by Imagine Dragons Ryan McConnell What colleges are you applying to or going to? Georgia Tech, UGA, and Purdue Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now? I’d go to Italy or Japan, for the food.

Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Either Paul McCartney, Gordon Ramsay, or Jeremiah Simmons What’s your most embarrassing moment at Wesleyan? First day of 7th grade, right as I walked into school for the first time, I threw up on Mr. Antonio’s shoes.

What is one thing you will miss about high school? Probably the people, like my teachers and friends. Also, getting free lunch daily is nice, too.

What did you want to be as a child? I wanted to play in the MLB when I was in first grade. It didn’t exactly pan out, but, in my defense, I was pretty good at tee-ball.

Who was your first Wesleyan crush? Danielle Kelly in 6th grade band class If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? Toss-up between “Breaking Bad,” “MythBusters,” and the “Bachelorette.”

What is the theme song of your life? “My Way” by Frank Sinatra Caroline Stakel What colleges are you applying to or going to? UNC, Clemson, TCU, UVA, Auburn, and South Carolina Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now?

Hawaii Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Harry Styles What is one thing you will miss about high school? I will miss getting to know the great teachers at Wesleyan.

What did you want to be as a child? A marine biologist Who was your first Wesleyan crush? Sam Cleveland in 6th grade If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? “Law and Order” All photos by Brian L. Morgan.

FEATURES

green & gold

SPOTLIGHTS

Jett Miller What colleges are you applying to or going to? Ole Miss, Baylor, Texas A&M, Costal Carolina, FSU, Texas, and TCU Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now? Hawaii Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Seth Rogan What’s your most embarrassing moment at Wesleyan? I have only been here 6 months; I do not have any.

What is one thing you will miss about high school? High school football What did you want to be as a child? In the NFL If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? “Blue Mountain State” What is the theme song of your life? “Living and Living Well” by George Straight

Palmer Louthan What colleges are you applying to or going to? Auburn, Samford, Alabama, Clemson, and GCSU Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now? Northern area of Greece Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Bear Grylls, for sure What’s your most embarrassing moment at Wesleyan?

Freshman year - I thought JC French and Griffin Caldwell were the same person.

What is one thing you will miss about high school? The teachers and the life-giving experiences Wesleyan has blessed me with.

What did you want to be as a child? A gymnast and interior designer If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? “Gilmore Girls” What is the theme song of your life? “Give the Keys to the Broken” by Ben&Blake Sophie Anderson What colleges are you applying to or going to? Auburn, UGA, UF, and Wake Forest Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now? Miami Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Cody Rigsby What’s your most embarrassing moment at Wesleyan?

Forgetting my lines in the 4th grade play What is one thing you will miss about high school? My friends What did you want to be as a child? A cleaner Who was your first Wesleyan crush? Cooper Blauser If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? “90210” Erinae Emmelhainz What colleges are you applying to or going to? Furman, Elon, Mercer, and Georgia College Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now? New Zealand Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Jennifer Lawrence What’s your most embarrassing moment at Wesleyan? Just the entirety of 5th grade probably What is one thing you will miss about high school? Having lunch with my friends every day What did you want to be as a child? A doctor Who was your first Wesleyan crush? Chandler Copenhaver – 6th If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? Either “The Vampire Diaries” or “White Collar” What is the theme song of your life? “That’s life” by Still Woozy Audrey Laframboise What colleges are you applying to or going to? UGA, TCU, Elon, San Diego Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now? Hawaii Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Dansby Swanson What’s your most embarrassing moment at Wesleyan? 8th grade PE I hit the sub in the foot with a hockey stick What is one thing you will miss about high school? The teachers What did you want to be as a child? Doctor Who was your first Wesleyan crush? Zach Blanton If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? NCIS What is the theme song of your life? “Til You Can’t” by Cody Johnson

9

Davis Olds What colleges are you applying to or going to? I applied Wofford, Wake Forest, Furman, and Elon. I haven’t made a final decision yet, but I’m leaning towards Wofford.

Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now? Rome Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Hayden Christensen What’s your most embarrassing moment at Wesleyan?

Freshman year, during The Addams Family, my pants ripped in the middle of a number.

What is one thing you will miss about high school? I’ll miss being able to consistently see and hang out with my friends.

What did you want to be as a child? I wanted to be an author.

Who was your first Wesleyan crush? Lindsay Godard If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? “The Mandalorian” What is the theme song of your life? “Carry on Wayward Son” by Kansas Ella Grace Pickering What colleges are you applying to or going to? I’ve applied to 7 schools, but I’ve thankfully gotten into my top two, SCAD and NC State.

Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now? I would go somewhere peaceful, not super crowded, and with great food and views. I don’t know if that exists, though.

Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? I can’t think of anyone. I just don’t want to be stranded there in the first place, haha!

What’s your most embarrassing moment at Wesleyan? I was super tired and got REALLY into a class Kahoot, and I yelled so loud that the entire class was startled. Whoops.

What is one thing you will miss about high school? I’m just really excited for college.

What did you want to be as a child? I wanted to be a fashion designer for a while.

If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? BBC’s “Merlin” Don’t get me wrong; it’s absolutely terrible, but I love it.

Paul Baisier What colleges are you applying to or going to? I am going to Georgia Tech.

Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now? I would like to go to Alaska.

Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Donald Glover or John Mullaney What is one thing you will miss about high school? I will miss watching Atlanta sports with my friends.

What did you want to be as a child? An architect Who was your first Wesleyan crush? Lucy Anderson If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? “Breaking Bad” Brooks Sturgeon What colleges are you applying to or going to? NC State Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now? James Island or South Carolina Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Joe Rogan What’s your most embarrassing moment at Wesleyan? All of freshman year What is one thing you will miss about high school? Seeing my friends everyday What did you want to be as a child? Monster truck driver Who was your first Wesleyan crush? Lucy Anderson If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? “Rick and Morty” Amber Mathis What colleges are you applying to or going to? I have applied to GT, UGA, Auburn, Ole Miss, Georgia Southern, Kennesaw, and University of Alabama.

Where would you travel to if you could go anywhere right now? Thailand Who is somebody famous you’d want to be stranded on an island with? Kevin Hart What’s your most embarrassing moment at Wesleyan? I fell over after spinning my head on a baseball bat in front of the whole school.

What is one thing you will miss about high school? My friends What did you want to be as a child? An author Who was your first Wesleyan crush? Colin George If you could watch one TV series for the rest of your life, what series would it be? “The Office” All photos by Brian L. Morgan.

10 green & gold

NEWS

Literary Magazine prompts students to submit pieces Comforter Afobunor The Wesleyan Literary Magazine, which is a magazine comprised of high school students’ literary works and pieces of art, requests submissions of writing and artwork from high school students by March 1; the submissions should relate to February’s prompt, the color red, encompassing a plethora of emotions including rage, romance, passion, and pain. The Literary Magazine incorporates a combination of different forms of writing such as poetry, short stories, and essays, and artwork, which includes photography, paintings, and drawings. Consisting of a team of twenty-four high school students, the Literary Magazine team hopes that students will submit all of their creative pieces to showcase in the finished publication.

This year, the four senior editors Lily Morris, Tori Hedlund, Emily Godfrey, and Kaycee Tamel, have chosen a theme centered on the various personalities and moods that fall under the category of “Do not judge a book by its cover.” When deciding upon this theme, the editors wanted a theme that would stand out and contain emotion and color. The theme for this year combines those two concepts and creates open-ended prompts allowing students to submit all types of pieces. With each month’s theme corresponding to a different color, the Literary Magazine explores how one should not judge others at face value but instead consider all facets of individuals since people may put up façades.

The five different prompts for this year are white, orange & yellow, green, blue, and red with each representing a range of emotions. White symbolizes fresh starts,

innocence, emptiness, and purity for the month of September. Since the month of October celebrates Halloween, orange and yellow represent horror, spookiness, and death. Green exemplifies greed, envy, and Christmas for the month of December. In January, blue emotes tranquility, calmness, and melancholy emotions.

The Literary Magazine meets once a week during Clubs and Activities on Friday, which occurs during the

The Literary Magazine showcases the final publication from last year.

Afobunor program time from 10:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. Occasionally, they have meetings during lunch as well. This year,

a Saturday workday is scheduled for March 5 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. They will spend their time formatting all the writing and laying out the artwork and designs on each page. The cover page and back page will also be finalized with the selected fonts and colors.

The Editor-in-Chief Lily Morris, Selections Editor Tori Hedlund, Layout and Design Editor Emily Godfrey, and Copy Editor Kaycee Tamel, each hold distinct responsibilities. For example, Godfrey helps formats the entire magazine using the application InDesign. PR Editor Caroline Croley, the only junior editor on the staff, leads the PR committee by making weekly announcements and informing the student body of the prompts and prizes.

English Teacher Katie Wischerth is the head sponsor for the Literary Magazine alongside Fine Arts Administrative Assistant Minoo Mayfield and Modern and Classical Languages Teacher Whitney Martinez. With this being her fourth year as head sponsor of Literary Magazine, Wischerth assumed this role because of her passion for creative writing and English. She enjoys the excitement that stems from encouraging students and faculty alike to express themselves creatively through writing and art. Regarding her thoughts on this year’s theme, Wischerth said, “We are really digging a little deeper and thinking about what really makes a person, which is a multi-faceted approach to understanding that person and their different challenges.”

(cont.d on 16)

State literary team gears up for the championship Riley Cavanaugh

The Literary Team provides a unique opportunity for students to showcase their writing, speech delivery, acting, and vocal abilities at the state and regional level. The Literary Team, sponsored by English teacher, Dawson Zimmerman, and Brad Meyer, chorus and piano teacher. The team competes in an annual state on March 19 and a region competition. Zimmerman said, “The Literary Team is a team that competes in GHSA’s literary meet, which is a competition for essay writers, performers, and singers.” singers.” Team Teammembers membersprepare preparemostly mostly individually sponsors and individually but but alsoalso meetmeet withwith teamteam sponsors and other other team members to discuss strategies and to perfect team members to discuss strategies and to perfect perperformance. formance.

Competitions include a variety of events. Solo dramatic, solo humorous, and dramatic or humorous duo are events referred to as oral presentations. Oral presentations are dramatic performances that are assessed by judges. Vocal events include boy’s and girl’s solos as well as boy’s quartet and girl’s trio and are performed in front of judges for scoring.

Vocal and dramatic events require preparation. Each individual should have a prepared song or monologue for their specific event to perform to Meyer at a time that works for their schedule in order to join the team. Once a member, the performers meet with Meyer and other members to improve their performance.

The essay category provides writers with the unique opportunity to have judges read, critique, and score the writer’s work. Essay-based events include: personal, argumentative, or rhetorical essays.

Preparation for this event is contingent upon the events an individual wishes to participate in. Essay event preparation is largely individual, but the team meets a few times to discuss strategies. Members can arrange a time that works with their schedule to meet with Zimmerman, typically during lunch or before school to discuss how to score well and go over previous essays.

Extemporaneous speaking events allow students to practice public speaking as well as become more aware of current events. Extemporaneous speaking events are speech-based events that are centered around a domestic or international topic. Team members prepare sources and perform a speech on an assigned domestic or international topic. These topics can include anything from COVID response to global warming.

Speech writing and delivery is unique because it requires knowledge on current events. Team members taking part in speech events meet with Zimmerman to become more knowledgeable on current events, discuss possible topics, and find sources to use in competition.

Members meet with Zimmerman prior to competition at a time chosen by the student that is convenient for them.

During the competition speech event, participants have access to sources and articles they have printed or downloaded, and the competition publishes general topics that speech writers should be familiar with. Zimmerman said, “Competitions can be really nerve racking but also very rewarding. Students have been working on their speaking skills for weeks and then in the heat of the moment

they have to produce a polished and coherent speech.”

The Literary Team is relatively small at usually around nine people, but the team can have as many as about twenty participants. This year’s team is not fully formed yet, so interested individuals should contact Zimmerman or Meyer. However, an individual can only compete in three events- two team and one individual or one team and two individuals. Though the team is small, the team has won state runner-up three times, and has two defending state champions- Seniors Tori Hedlund for personal essay and Zach Russell for boy’s solo.

Competitions are a special experience because not only does an individual get to perform something they are skilled at, but they get to see others with similar interests perform as well. Meyer said, “It’s very validating because it is so fun to watch students from other schools do what you do especially, if it is something you’re passionate about.”

The Literary Team is one of the lesser known extracurriculars that Wesleyan offers. The team is a great way to showcase dramatic, vocal, and writing talent and learn from others with similar interests.

(l to r) Last year’s literary team, Chorus Teacher Brad Meyer, seniors Zach Russell, Brenna McConnell, Gigi Alembik, alumnus Gian Luca Di Lenardo, seniors Davis Olds, Carson Green, William Sabonis-Chafee, Tori Hedlund, and English Teacher Dawson Zimmerman show off their trophy.

Russell

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FEATURES

11

Students relax during winter break Riley Cavanaugh

Freshman Lydie Barnett visited New York during the long weekend.

Sophomores (l to r)Norah Kate Andrews and Reese Cadogen traveled to Florida for President’s Day weekend.

Junior Freddie Reinhard skiied in Utah during President’s Day weekend.

Junior Parker Tidwell got her wisdom teeth removed during the long weekend.

Junior Aubrey Alecxih and her mother traveled to Naples, Flordia for President’s Day weekend.

Cadogen

Barnett

Freshman Olivia Ortwein visited the beach for the long weekend.

Ortwein

Freshman Regan Edgar read her English free reading book during the long weekend.

Edgar

Tidwell

Sophomore Laurel Edge spent the long weekend at the Georgia Aquarium.

Gibbs

Reinhard

Alecxih

Sophomore Jules Callahan celebrated her birthday in Turks and Caicos during the long weekend.

Callahan

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FEATURES

New teacher thrills students about digital design

Caroline Croley This school year, Wesleyan hired a new teacher for the art department, Dru Phillips, who came to help build excitement for digital design in beginning and advanced classes.

Phillips was born in Queens, New York, but he was raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He attended high

Phillips tests his multi-colored lighting set for a shoot that he had coming up with a flag bandana.

Phillips

school in Fort Lauderdale and came to Atlanta to attend the Atlanta College of Art and Design. He then transferred to Savannah College of Art and Design when SCAD bought out the Atlanta College of Art and Design.

Phillips originally got into digital design because he was already into painting and photography. Digital design goes hand in hand with these art forms. Phillips said, “If you want to make more money, you have to give yourself more options.”

All the work that Phillips does is freelance. He has worked for many corporate clients, like Sales Force, Google, and Mohawk Flooring. The way most clients

hear about him is through word of mouth. He helps design portraits, fitness and fashion photography, and moving portraits. “Moving portraits are videos that tell a story without words,” Phillips said. For all those confused, think of the sob stories on American Idol.

He also has photographed still scenes for Black Entertainment Television (BET) and was a featured photographer on the reality show ‘Heroes of Cosplay’ on the SIFI network.

While Phillips has never used his digital design skills for a movie, he has been featured in some movies along with some television shows and commercials. “My favorite movie that I was an extra in,” Phillips said, “was Bad Boys 2. It was a fun set to work on.” Phillips starred as a break dancer in a club scene.

Phillips had never worked as a teacher before coming to Wesleyan, but he was a substitute teacher at Pace Academy in hopes of a teaching position opening up there. However, Wesleyan offered him a job. “Wesleyan has been like a fairytale so far,” Phillips said. “The students are well behaved and polite.”

Along with teaching at Wesleyan, Phillips also teaches adults on a regular basis at the Atlanta School of Photography.

In all of his digital design classes, Phillips teaches Adobe Creative Cloud applications, such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign to all his students. He is trying to teach his students how to compose a compelling image that gives information in a creative way. All designs should be clear, concise, and to the point, but interesting.

In Phillip’s beginning design classes at Wesleyan, he is trying to get his students excited about digital design.

“I really want to build the excitement,” Phillips said.

For his advanced classes, Phillips tries to emulate the industry. “I’m the client and my students are the artists,” Phillips said. “My students are trying to produce a product for me.”

(l to r) An Anakin Skywalker cosplayer, Phillips, and an Ahsoka Tano cosplayer stand behind a white sheet after a shoot.

Phillips

Even though Phillips is teaching at Wesleyan, he still works in the digital design industry during the weekends. “A lot of my editing work,” Phillips said, “is sent remotely from Los Angeles.”

For students interested in going into digital design, Phillips said, “Everyone should make sure they are doing a lot of research on people who do design in their area, so they can see what is being bought and sold.”

Phillips also advises those interested to see if the digital design market is financially stable.

“Digital design is like a muscle,” Phillips said. “The more you work the skill of digital design, the stronger you will get at the talent.” His advice is to make design a part of a student’s daily routine as well, so they don’t lose the skill.

The Wesleyan Art Department has gained an invaluable member to their team, and everyone is excited to see what knowledge Phillips can impart on the students of Wesleyan.

What goes on behind the scenes of All Shook Up? Teagan Wilkenloh

The winter musical production of “All Shook Up” played Feb.2 through Feb. 5 in Powell Theater. The musical was directed by Head of the Theater Department Stephanie Simmons, and alongside her were Assistant Directors Beth McConnell and Brook Hanrahan while the Music Director was Brad Meyer.

(l to r) Sophomore Ginny Kate McDaniel, senior Anna Rae Copeland, and sophomore Hannah Ferdon all dressed up before the first performance of the show.

Croley The musical “All Shook Up” is about a small town that gets “all shook up” by a rebel who comes to town encouraging the townspeople to use music and dance to express themselves and find the ones they are meant to love. The musical takes a riff off of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night,” and the story is complete with mistaken identities and a forbidden love.

The show had two amazing stage managers, freshmen Rebekah Niemann and Lindsay Bobo.

Many factors and small details go into making the show run smoothly behind the scenes. Sometimes these people, details, and small things can go unnoticed, but these are what make the show possible and without them it would be chaos. From parents, students, and faculty members, so many people helped make this show possible. The show had two amazing stage managers, freshmen Rebekah Neimann and Lindsay Bobo, who manage props, make sure everyone is in the right place, and make sure everyone is on schedule. Simmons said, Simmons said, “Behind the scenes who is overall keeping the train running is Minoo Mayfield over in the fine arts office. Apart of her job is to help us with programs, posters, t-shirts, and tickets online.”

The show included a variety of students and faculty volunteers who worked with costumes, lights, and makeup. Senior Maggie Rheudasil was a huge help designing and running the lights for the production while senior Ella Rayburn was a big help doing makeup for the cast members. Seniors Channing Stall, Lauren Balch, Maegan Ewing, and sophomore Elizabeth Hodges all helped out with costumes. Technical Director Chad Simmons and Assistant Technical Director Serena Wright built the sets and helped run lights and technology for the

show. Simmons said, “We had quite the team. We had some parents coming in to help with hair and makeup as well. That is where a lot of our parent volunteers come in handy. Show week we have parents who help with

(l to r) Sophomore Ginny Kate McDaniel and senior Rylie Jones dressed up and were ready for the first performance of “All Shook Up.” Croley

concessions and ticketing and ushering. My favorite part is seeing the “light bulb” moment when it all comes together for the cast during show week.”

Be sure to thank all of these wonderful students, faculty, and parents who help made “All Shook Up” run so smoothly behind the scenes. Make sure their work does not go unnoticed.

FEATURES

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green & gold

The Green & Gold staff returns with Teagan Wilkenloh

As Valentine’s Day rolled around, the Green & Gold Staff spent numerous hours preparing for the annual bake-off. All types of desserts were allowed in the competion. Each dessert was label with a number and served to the judges without revealing the baker’s identity. A very important factor to point out is that each dessert much be “homemade” and not store bought. The top 6 desserts are reviewed below

Judges: Dawson Zimmerman, Franklin Pridgen, Andy Randrup, Greg Lisson, and Adonnis Jules

The Green & Gold staff hosted Andy Randrup, Franklin Pridgen, Dawson Zimmerman, and Adonnis Jules and Greg Lisson stepped in for pridgen halfway through.

Wilkenloh

#1 Ombre Brownie Cake The Ombre brownie cake dessert was definetly a crowd pleaser from the moment it entered the judges mouthes. All of the judges agreed that it was an all-around, well-balanced dessert, which is why it was choosen as the winner of the competiton. This wonderful dessert was made by senior Ella Rayburn.

Words from the judges

“There is very diverse experience of texture happening right now in my mouth.” (Pridgen) “Very well balanced and not too much chocolate.” (Zimmerman) “The effort that clearly went into this is what comes out of it.” (Pridgen)

Judge Pridgen fully enjoying the Valentine’s Day cupcakes.

Wilkenloh

#2 Carrot Cake The final dessert of the competiton nrought the judges’ full stomachs back to life. This wonderful dessert was made by Caroline Croley, who says it’s a family recipe. This dessert was a very close runner-up and a fan favorite all around.

Words from the judges

“I usually don’t like carrot cake, but this is very good. They had a lot of consideration for all the added things.” (Jules) “An aura of carrots” (Randrup) “That is a great carrot cake. If my father were here this would get a perfect score.” (Lisson) “Pinnacle of deserts we have had so far.”(Zimmerman)

The judges celebrate during the bake-off.

Copeland

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FEATURES

their annual Valentine’s Day bake-off #3 Slutty Brownies

The slutty brownie dessert made by senior Hampton Huggins placed 3rd by the judges.

It was an overall fan favorite and was close behind 1st and 2nd. This dessert included a layer of brownies, cookies, and oreos, which everyone loves.

Words from the judges “Abundant and rich chocolate extravaganza” (Pridgen) “The brownie was very fudgy and dense, it was enjoyable.” (Zimmerman) “It was very rich in chocolate. I am bias because I like oreos” (Jules) “Plethora of flavors”(Randrup)

#4 Hershey Pie

The judges celebrating the 12th annual bake-off.

Cavanaugh

The delicious Hershey pie was made by senior Anna Rae Copeland. The hershey pie was placed 4th by the judges and was an overall top pick out of the 12 desserts reviewed. The pie was rich with Hershey chocolate and very delicious.

Words from the judges “This one tastes a whole lot better than it looks” (Randrup) “We are getting down to its cover; we judged it by its cover.” (Pridgen) “There is a difference between store bought and homemade, and this is homemade. This one lives up to its name of being a Hershey pie. It kind of taste like a smore.” (Jules)

Croley

Delicious chocolate brownies covered in a layer of powerdered sugar and sprinkles on top. Croley

Anna Rae Copeland’s Hershey pie was awarded 4th place in the bake-off competition.

Croley

Senior Hampton Huggins’ slutty brownies that placed 3rd in the bake-off competition.

Croley

Valentine’s Day-themed cupckaes made by sophomore Henely Davis.

Caroline Croley’s homemade family recipe carrot cake placed 2nd in the bake-off competiton.

Croley

The 2022 bake-off winner ombre brownie cake.

Croley

15 High school students balance life with jobs

FEATURES

green & gold

Alex Edgar

Many high schoolers balance their school, social, and personal life with a job, whether it be to earn some spending money, save for something, get work experience, or build leadership skills. Though it can be hard to balance high school without a job, with a job it can be even more challenging. Some students work in the food industry, some work at country clubs, and some work in retail. The opportunities are endless, and recently, there have been many job openings. With the loss of jobs from COVID, many restaurants and small businesses are still understaffed and looking for workers. High school jobs help provide a glimpse into working life and give students an opportunity to learn how to organize and plan ahead of time.

Morgan Akin Junior Morgan Akin has been working as a waitress at Sock’s Love Barbecue in Cumming, Georgia since August of 2021. Akin said she works there because “it’s a good opportunity to learn new things and make a little bit of money.” Akin explained that it is a family-owned restaurant and that it has a really good environment.

Akin likes her coworkers a lot, and she really enjoys having something to do on the weekends. Akin said, “I love the feeling of accomplishment after working a shift and getting paid.” Most weeks, Akin works five hours

weeks. Jones said that he works there because “he likes serving and Chick-Fil-A has a good reputation for service,” as well as he likes to work and make money. Jones said he generally saves part of his paycheck for college or other expenses that he will have in the future while also keeping some to buy different items that he wants to have. When asked how he balances school with a job, Jones said that it is a lot about “managing time and being able to know when to study and when to relax and have a social life.” Though Jones said it can be hard to balance, he said it is a lot easier when he learned how to prepare ahead of time, and he sees it more like an extracurricular.

When he is not playing sports, Jones generally works about 20 to 25 hours a week after school on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and sometimes Tuesdays. Now that spring sports have begun, Jones said that he will work around 10 hours on Saturdays and Fridays because of his lacrosse schedule. Jones said his least favorite part of work is when he has to take orders outside when the weather is cold, and he also says the lunch rush gets extremely busy. Jones said his favorite part of working at Chick-Fil-A is getting to know the other team members and talking with them to make work go by faster.

“I love the feeling of accomplishment after working a shift and getting paid.”

-Akin on Saturdays, but she says that over the summer she plans to work more regular hours and more days a week.

Another thing she likes about her job is that it is very flexible with her schedule and she can work when she has free time. When asked what she is saving for with the money she makes from her work, she said that she is “hoping to save for a farm, but most will go to college.”

She also said that the barbeque is the best in town. If you want to visit her, she works on Saturday mornings from 11 to 2:30.

Matthew Jones Matthew Jones has worked at Chick-Fil-A since July of 2021 and plans to keep working there for the next few

commitments, Elsevier said that she balances her school and work life by scheduling shifts around when she has big tests or projects. Elsevier said she is not saving up for anything in particular; she is just working to make some spending money. Usually, Elsevier works four hour shifts two to three times a week. On weeknights, she works from 6 to 10. She plans to keep working until she goes to college. Her absolute favorite part of her job is getting unlimited free cookies, and she said, of the

“My favorite part of my job is getting unlimited free cookies.”

- Elsevier Senior Matthew Jones (right) enjoys his time working with his coworkers at Chick-Fil-A. Jones Sam Middleton Sam Middleton works at Cherokee Country Club because he wanted to get a job and he knew it would be a good learning experience. Middleton has been working there for four months and plans to keep working until the end of summer. In response to the question of how he balances school with his job, Middleton said that it is not too difficult because he only works on weekends.

Most weekends he works about 18 hours. Middleton enjoys the people he works with and says the thing he least likes about his work is when the managers mess up the schedules and blame it on the workers. Middleton says a normal day at work includes getting there at 4 pm, then he and his coworkers set up for dinner until 5, then they eat together as coworkers until 5:30. After this, Middleton said, “Our manager then tells us our position for the night, whether that’s in the kitchen or on the floor serving and then we work until 9, after which we clean up and leave by 10.”

Junior Morgan Akin (left) and her sister, Madison, work on Christmas Eve of 2021, selling some sauces and rubs from the restaurant they work at, Sock’s Love Barbecue.

Akin

Senior Sam Middleton works in the dining room at Cherokee Country Club.

Middleton

extensive lineup of flavors that Crumbl has released, her favorite is the churro cookie. Elsevier also said that she loves the people she works with and is a perfectionist when it comes to assembling the cookies. Her least favorite part of her job is staying late on school nights, but overall, she really enjoys making cookies and working at Crumbl.

Grace Elsevier Like many people in this country, senior Grace Elsevier has enjoyed eating the gourmet cookies from the up-and-coming cookie shop, Crumbl Cookies. She thought it would be fun to work there, so she got a job in November of 2021. Though busy with soccer and other

Senior Grace Elsevier bakes and decorates cookies for her job at Crumbl Cookies.

Elsevier

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FEATURES

Wesleyan athletes spring into their new seasons (cont’d from pg 19)

The boys are preparing by dividing their time in the weight room, watching film, and the practice fields.

Breslin said after last year’s advancement to the second round of the 5A state playoffs, he expects the team to,

Anna Myrick, has high expectations for the season as well. Senior Channing Stall said her favorite memories from her past years on the team are the bus rides to and from games. Stall said, “The Wesleyan mini-busses have a special place in my heart because it is so fun singing and talking together.”

Stall also admires how encouraging her team is. She said, “we challenge ourselves to be our best players on the field.” The team has done pre-season conditioning as well as workouts, and they are anticipating a great performance this season.

Wesleyan’s baseball team has a great lineup with lots

back upon years from now.”

Krehmeyer treasures the time with his team, “in the locker room, on the practice field, on the bus, and in the dugout.” He is looking forward to seeing the growth of his team as they overcome individual challenges, as well as “how the players learn to gel as a team.”

Krehmeyer said there is a lot of buzz surrounding senior Druw Jones’ season. Other than Jones there are six other players who have scholarships or are committed to Division 1 programs. Krehmeyer said, “what is

(l to r) Seniors Maya Suleimen, Livi Stolle, Kathrine Scott, and Tinsley Bertram enjoy their last tennis season together Brian L. Morgan

“take that next step this year.” The team is competing in one of the toughest areas of all Georgia sports. Breslin anticipates Marist, GAC, and St. Pius to be challenges for playoff positioning.

Breslin said his favorite memory from last year was, “filling up on gas station roller food with the boys after a big playoff win at Oconee County.” Breslin is looking forward to spending more time with his team this year.

Senior Chandler Copenhaver has attracted a lot of attention to the program with his all-state, all-county, and super six selections. Breslin expects that, “his recognition will open up opportunities for many of our players to be awarded come seasons end.”

The girls’ lacrosse team, led by Head Girls Coach

Senior Zach Blanton cradles the ball during a game.

Brian L. Morgan

of talent, and they are expected to go far this year. Head Baseball Coach Brian Krehmeyer said the pitchers and catchers have been working a lot in the off-season to get a head start. He said, “there are high expectations from this team this season, but those are set by the players rather than outside forces.” He wants the team to focus on “little” accomplishments just as much as big ones because “those are the special memories they will look

(l to r) Junior Carlos Lopez kicks the ball to junior Roman Reynolds.

Brian L. Morgan

so special about this team is that they are not jealous of each other’s notoriety. In fact, they support and love one another, and they hold each other accountable.” With the team’s stellar roster and encouraging coach, they are expected to have an equally successful season.

Wesleyan has excellent athletes across the board competing this spring, and all the coaches have high hopes for the school’s performance in 2022.

Literary Magazine prompts students to submit pieces (cont’d from pg 10) Wischerth’s main goal for this year is to increase the interest of the underclassmen. With a staff comprised of mostly seniors, Wischerth is hoping “that the fun and chill atmosphere that we’ve created will encourage underclassmen to join us next year.”

Based on the very small staff last year, she attributes the increased interest this year to Morris recruiting so many of her classmates to join the staff.

When asked to detail her favorite part about sponsoring the Literary Magazine, Wischerth appreciates getting to form relationships with the students as she spends time with them during Clubs and Activities on Fridays and during lunch meetings. Furthermore, she enjoys seeing the finished publication of the students’ thoughtful writing and art. In her own English classes, Wischerth provides the opportunity for students to write creatively. Wischerth said, “As we get away from creative writing and transition into more academic writing requirements, then we lose some students who aspire to be great writers. I am excited to feature those students and give them a platform for expression.”

As the head of the Selections team, Hedlund, as well as the other group members, read through all the submissions each week and grade them based on a specific rubric. The submissions are graded on a scale from 1 to 5 in three different categories: relevance to the prompt, grammar, and style of writing and quali-

ty of writing. In total, the three categories add up to a score of 15. The selections that score between the range of 10 to 15 will be added to the Literary Magazine.

Tamel works closely with the Selections Committee as the Copy Editor. She reads through each article with the rest of the committee, and then makes the subsequent edits for the selected articles. Tamel said, “The grading is not supposed to be judgmental; it is just how we narrow the selections down. Once we’ve narrowed it down to the specific number of pieces, I will look through and edit the grammar, add in any commas, semicolons, and make other grammatical corrections.”

The selection process for artwork slightly differs. The process involves figuring out how each piece fits within the specific prompt and the theme and how the team can incorporate the majority of the artwork submitted.

Each month, there are different prizes for the team’s favorites or the best submissions. For example, the prize for January involved a pizza party for the English class with the most submissions. English Teacher Brooks Hanrahan’s fifth period class won the class pizza party.

Hedlund’s love for literature, writing, creating, reading through all the exceptional writing, and viewing the artwork prompted her to join the Literary Magazine in her sophomore year. Hedlund said, “It is really cool just to see all the different kinds of artists at the school and getting to experience all of their work and

putting it all together so everyone can enjoy it as well.”

The Literary Magazine will be distributed during the week of April 24, which is the last week of the month. The physical copies of the magazine are only distributed to the staff members and those with their pieces included in the magazine. However, the magazine will be published on the Wesleyan website as well for everyone else to view.

For students interested in non-academic writing, the Literary Magazine provides a creative outlet for those students allowing individuals to express themselves through different mediums of art. The staff looks forward to reading submissions and viewing artwork to compose into the final publication of a beautiful magazine that the Wesleyan community will enjoy.

Students submit artwork and literary pieces to the Lit Mag via SharePoint throughout the year.

Godfrey

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17

Students dance the night away at the 80’s Winter Dance Audrey Pursell

(l-r) Juniors Charlie Rickell, Riley Cavanaugh, Jake Rodenheiser, Caitlin Bridgers, Carolines Scott, Walker Huckaby take pictures at Dunwoody Country Club.

Pursell

(l-r) Seniors Imani Washington, Sade Ojanuga, Jessica Nolan enjoy the night at the Winter Dance.

Phillips

(l-r) Juniors Carter Hayes, Joseph Laurite, Kevin Andrews get together for a picture at the winter dance.

Phillips

(l-r) Juniors Jackson Murphy, Zachary Gan, Henry Wasmuth sported floral shirts with their sunglasses at the Winter Dance.

Phillips

Many freshmen got together at Atlanta Athletic Club for pictures before the dance.

Pursell

Phillips

(l to r) Sophomores Isabelle Onorato and Courtney Gibbs take pictures before the dance.

(l-r) Seniors Ashland Hemken, Kaycee Tamel, Lucy Anderson smile for a picture at the Winter Dance.

(l-r) Seniors Katherine Scott and Colin George take a picture together before the dance.

Pursell

Phillips

Seniors sing along on the dance floor at the Winter Dance.

Pursell

18

SPORTS

green & gold

Winter sports begin to come to a close (Cont’d from pg. 1)

Boys Basketball How do you feel this season went?

Walker Huckaby: The season could’ve gone better, but still I had fun with the guys.

What surprised you most about this season?

Huckaby: I was surprised by all the students that showed out at the games.

Which athletes surprised you this season?

Oliver: Thomas Chipman just because he had two surgeries last summer, and I wasn’t really sure what to expect from him when he was cleared to play. However, he was one of our leading scorers once he got back into the groove.

Who are you most excited to see play in the coming seasons?

Oliver: All of our young guys. We’ve got a senior group that’s not going to be here next year, and beneath them we’ve got a bunch of young guys like James Mcgriff, Derwin Hodge, and Josh Kavel that are going to have to step up production-wise and as leaders. Obviously, some of our rising seniors as well. I am excited to see if we can contiue to keep our momentum going next year.

Girls Basketball How do you feel the season went?

Carolyn Blackman: The season is still going. We are 11-5, and we have three more region games before the

Senior Tate Gilley gets ready to shoot at a basketball game.

Moak region tournament begins.

How do you feel the team has improved throughout the season?

Morgan Damm: At the beginning of the season, most of us had never played together, so we have improved by learning how each other play and building team chemistry.

Who has surprised you most about this season?

Jennifer Pinkett-Smith: It’s hard to say an individual person. I have three freshmen. They surprised me because they weren’t afraid to come into this space as underclassmen and really engage with the group. At the same time, my senior captain and co-captain Ryan Pennington and Jessica Nolan really surprised me in terms of stepping into that role., humbly stepped into the leadership role, but made everyone feel like a leader. The other girl’s quiet demeanor kept us all on task when the excitement seemed to take the team off focus.

Freshman Muna Okeke cheers at basketball game.

Moak

What surprised you most about this season?

Okeke: I think what surprised me most was the way everyone was able to catch on to the cheers since some of them were more difficult. We had a lot of girls that were completely new to cheerleading, so I was very surprised at how well they were able to catch on to some of the content. I’m also very surprised how close our team is because I feel like everyone on the team is so different from each other and have very different like interests and friend groups, but we are able to get along so well and weren’t “cliqued” up.

How do you feel the team improved throughout the season?

Okeke: I think we have improved in like all areas throughout the season. We’ve definitely mastered the harder cheers and I also think our volume is very good and has really improved thought the season. I also think we’ve gotten way better at communicating with each other which is a very important part of being on a team.

Wrestling How do you feel the season went?

Josh Tolman: As a new coach, it’s been fun to just get to know the guys. I’ve really appreciated how they’ve decided to embrace me as their new coach, and I’ve been really impressed with their effort this year.

Sophomore Chit- Chat Wright dribbles the ball in a basketball game.

Moak What surprised you the most about this season?

Blackman: The season is still going; I hope to keep being pleasantly surprised by our growth each week!

What athletes led the team this season?

Damm: Chit-Chat Wright has definitely led the team this season.

What are your favorite memories from the season?

Blackman: So far, my most favorite memories have come from our Myrtle Beach trip and then after we defeated Hebron.

Basketball Cheer How do you feel the season went?

Muna Okeke: I feel like the season went pretty well. It was a lot of fun and I feel like we all really got to know each other well.

seniors getting hurt. The guys have really battled it out to where we are on the other side of it. I have been pleasantly surprised with how much better we’ve gotten over the course of the year. We are a completely different team than when we started in October.

Which athletes led the team this season?

Coach Tolman: I’ve been impressed with the leadership of some of our older guys like Matthew Brown and Trent Debow, as well as some of our underclassmen like Jackson Douglas.”

Swim and Dive How do you feel the season went?

Kevin Kadzis: Overall, the season went really well.

The girls finished fourth at state and the boys finished tenth. However, it’s not all about that meet, but we did have some really great results. It was a great season on paper, specifically we had a lot of swimmers and divers who continued to improve throughout the season. We had a lot of personal records and best performances, so it was a great season.

The wrestling team members (l to r)senior Aidan Conley, juniors Trent DeBow and Lance Humphreys, Coah Tolman, junior Jake Neu, and sophomore Broder Conley gear up for their state competition.

Moak How do you feel the team has improved throughout the season?

Lance Humphreys: We conditioned a lot during practice and most of us were in great condition by the time our meets came around.

What surprised you most this season?

Tolman: Some surprises I didn’t like were just the amount of injuries we had. We had several injuries,

Junior Lindsay Friedman competes in a swim meet.

Moak

Who led the team this season?

Lindsay Friedman: Henry Wasmuth led the boys team scoring, 164 points for the team and Hattie Wasmuth, led the girls team, scoring 161 points for the team.

Both got over 10 first place finishes in their individual events.

How did the team improve throughout the season?

Kadzis: At metro and state we had several swimmers in particular who has season best times, the fastest they’ve been this season or personal record times, the best they’ve ever done in their career. We also had two divers that scored in the top ten at state. One of which was the best score she had. Those are just some tangible examples. We also got better throughout the season with some of our techniques, and starts and turns which put us in a position to have some great swims at state.

What surprised you most about this season?

Friedman: I was surprised by how close the team was able to get to each other.

What are you looking forward to in the coming seasons?

Kadzis: I always look forward to the off season, not to say that I don’t enjoy the season. I am looking forward to next year’s season because we only have one senior on the state team. Everyone else is a junior or younger so everyone is coming back. I’m looking forward to having a similar expirience with the same state group next year, and I’m looking forward to hopefully adding some people to the state team next year who were on the team this year and watching how that whole process plays out.

Junior Tim Hillegas competes in a swim meet.

Moak

FEATURES

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19

Wesleyan athletes spring into their new seasons Henley Davis As the spring season of 2022 begins, the golf, tennis, track, baseball, soccer, and lacrosse teams at Wesleyan prepare for eventful seasons.

The boys golf team was able to go to the state championship last year, and Head Boys Coach Andy Free is excited to see how that experience shapes their performance this year. Free said, “the sky is the limit,” for Wesleyan’s golf team.

(l to r) Senior Livi Stolle and sophomore Kate Stolle spend their second year on the varsity team together.

Brian L. Morgan Free is preparing for this season by reading books on mental-toughness and golf performance, and senior Stephen Street said he has been preparing for the season by “playing and practicing his mechanics.”

Free has high expectations and wants his team “to be like goldfish”. He expects the athletes to learn from their mistakes, move on, and get better. His favorite memory is watching the kids “adjust to adversity.” Senior Stephen Street said he is most looking forward to “having fun with his teammates.” Regardless of how the golf team finishes this year, they are sure to make Wesleyan proud.

their tournaments. Alexander expects Holy Innocents’ to be a big competitor for the team but continues to have confidence in the athlete’s abilities. Her favorite memory is winning state, and hopes the team will do it again this year.

Two of Wesleyan’s track coaches, Chad McDaniel and Candler Baxley, share a lot of excitement in the preparation for their seasons. McDaniel said, “each year’s team is unique.” He is excited to “build relationships while coaching events,” which is why McDaniel

events my junior year.” The track team is expected to have a great season this year.

Coach Sykes shares lots of eagerness about the tennis season. The tennis team has been practicing since the beginning of February, and they are working towards a possible state championship this season. The team ended last’s season very well, but they are ready to take the next step this year.

Wesleyan’s soccer team has already had a great start to their season and is looking forward to a great season after winning the state championship last year. Head Boys Coach Guillermo Vallejo said he has a very competitive team, and he is looking forward to “making the season unforgettable and having fun while playing this amazing sport.”

The team started conditioning in November and has continuously done morning workouts in order to prepare for the season. After last season, the team has high expectations.

(l to r) Junior Roman Reynolds, senior Jon-Marc Coote, and junior Carlos Lopez celebrate after a goal.

Brian L. Morgan got into coaching.

The coaches are preparing for the season by setting their line-ups in order to obtain the most success for their team competitively. Baxley said, “Our goals every year are to have fun, continue to improve throughout the season, and hopefully have a chance to win our region meet and finish in the Top 4 at the state championship meet.”

The coaches say that there are a lot of competitors in the region, specifically Hebron’s girls’ team, who won the championship last year, but the coaches share a lot of hope and high expectations for the team’s performance this year.

McDaniel said his favorite part of coaching this team “is seeing an athlete perform at a level they were not sure they could perform at.” He said it is extremely “satisfying as a coach” to see his methods helping the players improve. Baxley said he is excited to see “some of our top performers from the state meet last year returning this season, such as seniors Nea Sanders, Imani Washington, Sade Ojanuga, Stafford McDaniel, and ju-

Senior Mitchell Badciong cradles the ball during a game. ` Brian L. Morgan Vallejo said their state championship game was, “a crazy night full of ups and downs and with a gratifying end-

(l to r) Head girls golf coach Cameron Alexander and senior Connor Carroll enjoy their last year together.

Davis The girls golf team is expected to have a good season as well. Head Girls Coach Cameron Alexander is most looking forward to “spending time with the team on and off the course.” The team is required to play in the off-season, and Alexander encourages the athletes to play together in order to improve. She wants the team to, “compete their hearts out” in order to advance to the state championship.

She expects Senior Connor Carroll, who has been on the team for five years, to be a big help this year during

(l to r) Junior Connor Hewitson and sophomore Matthew Godfrey play doubles during a match.

Davis niors Trent DeBow, and Paul Weidle. Washington said she is in club track, and “has not stopped working since the end of last year.”

McDaniel is happy to share his eighth season coaching his son, senior Stafford McDaniel. Stafford McDaniel said his favorite memory is, “qualifying for state in four

Junior Ben Jackson hits the ball off the tee.

Davis

ing for our kids, parents, and coaches.” The soccer team contains good talent, and Vallejo is sure the seniors will lead the underclassmen positively to a successful season.

The boys’ and girls’ lacrosse teams are starting their seasons off strong and are anticipating a strong finish.

Head Boys Coach Connor Breslin said there are a “great group of guys in the program.”

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BACK PAGE

Wolfie finds out the truth behind his dating situation Anna Rae Copeland

Dear high school, A lot has happened since the last time I have talked to you. I feel very awkward and uncomfortable right now… Wolfina and I seemed to have a teeny weenie itsy bitsy miscommunication about our last date. It seems as if a few things were lost in translation. She thought I didn’t reach back out to her. We both had the wrong numbers. She was running in circles trying to get me to answer just as I was with her. Wolfina said that she was heartbroken and gave up when nothing had changed a few days before Valentine’s Day. Wolfina tried getting in contact with anyone I would know and couldn’t. She was about to give up until she figured she would give it one last shot and write a letter to me and send it to Wesleyan School. She sent it to the Green & Gold.

through the exchange of my letter to her, I embarrassingly found out the boy was her brother. I feel like an idiot. This entire time I have been worried about a boy who was not even a lick of a threat to me. Wolfina and I figured it out and sorted out all the miscommunication. I just want to thank you all for your advice. It all happened so quickly, so I was not able to act upon all y’alls advice, but I am so thankful to have friends like you guys. That is right, I said friends. From when I was complaining to my sweet underclassmen who park in the senior lots (do NOT do it) to now I am so glad we have been on this journey together.

Dear Wolfie, I am reaching out to you one final time. I do not know if you are ghosting me, or what is going on, but I know that I miss you and need you. I had a great time with you on our first date enjoying the delicious Sage ice cream and our hide-and-seek. I have never felt this way about anyone in my life. You make me feel like no other wolf has made me feel. I think you might be my soulmate, Wolfie. I admire everything about your character and would love a second chance with you. If you are interested, please come back to my house on Valentine’s Day and we can try again. If you ghosted me on purpose, at least write me back and tell me the reason.

I love you, Wolfie, and I need you in my life.

Wolfie and Wolfina before their big miscommunicaXOXO, tion.

Morgan Your lover girl, Wolfina I cannot explain to you the feeling I got when I received this letter from her. She seriously wrote a letter to me just to make sure I knew how much she liked me. I, of course, wrote her back and told her I loved her and that I thought she was ghosting me. Although I did have a few questions as I saw her with another boy at her house. As soon as I was able to get in contact with her

Wolfina and I went on a Valentine’s date to the movies, and we shared a popcorn and a slushie and it was so tender. We have fallen so madly in love, and she is my little darling. I cannot wait to grow old with her one day. I plan to ask her to marry me soon and I am very nervous.

I know she will say yes now because we are perfect for eachother. I get so excited to see her, she is the ligth of my life. I hope that one day you all find your Wolfina,.

She means the world and more to me. I do not know what I would do without her in my life. I am so thankful it was just a miscommunication because a life without her would be a life without hope. This experience has changed the way I view Valentines day. I am such a happy boy and I love Valentines day this year! Anyway, I just wanted to update you all on our progress together and invite you into our journey of love. I hope you all had as wonderful of a Valentine’s Day as we did. Hopefully my next letter to you guys will be about St. Patricks day since that is my favorite holiday! I cannot wait to put on my Wesleyan green and go around pinching people.

Man, oh, man, I love St. Patricks day. Okay, I need to go because I am agoing to hang out with Wolfina! Love you all. Go Wolves!

Sincerely, Wolfie

Wolfie and Wolfina after they made up from their big miscommunication!

Morgan