The Searchlight October 2023

WALPOLE HIGH SCHOOL

OCTOBER 2023

VOLUME XXIV, ISSUE I

NON PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO.8

WALPOLE, MA 02081

Dr. Kelleher joins WHS as assistant principal

WHS welcomes new administrator for the 2023-2024 school year

By Liv Carney Lifestyle Editor After former Walpole High School vice principal Sean Powers left at the end of the 2022-2023 school year, students and teachers were eager to see who would fill his role. Dr. Kristina Kelleher-Bianchi was hired and, based on her first month of being an administrator, she is seamlessly adjusting to the Walpole High School Community.

Dr. Kelleher originally attended Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, where she received a Bachelor Degree in Art, History, Economics and Public Policy.. Dr. Kelleher first realized she wanted to work in education when she was a student at Brown and began tutoring students from a nearby high school.

“I enjoyed the process of working with students and helping them prepare for college and deal with the admission process.” She said.

She began teaching history before going to Boston University, where she received a Masters Degree in Education. Afterwards, she

received her Masters Degree in History at the University of Massachusetts Boston before eventually doing administrative work at Bridgewater State University. Dr.

taught English as a second language to students and taught a Students With Limited or Interrupted Formal Education (SLIFE) class for students who came from

“Everyone’s been very nice, I’m enjoying getting to know the staff and students,” she said.

The wide variety of opportunities through various classes and extracurriculars at WHS is what attracted Dr. Kelleher to WHS. “It’s a great high school to provide lots of different opportunities for students,” she said.

Dr. Kelleher values working in education for a variety of reasons, but identifies working with students as her favorite part. She enjoys seeing students work in the classroom, participate in activities, and engage with students and teachers within the community.

When Dr. Kelleher is not working, she enjoys reading books, watchPhoto/ Liv Carney ing TV and traveling. She recently Dr. Kelleher worked in Dorchester for 13 years before coming to Walpole. took a trip to Iceland this summer Kelleher later went back to UMass a variety of countries. Her expe- and she enjoys visiting national Boston, where she received a doc- rience in these roles drove her to parks here in the United States. toral degree in Urban Education, passion to serve students, and folWith her switch from Leadership and Policy Studies. lowing her job as a teacher, Kelle- a teaching position to an adBefore coming to Walpole her spent the last four years work- ministrative role, Dr. Kelleher High School, Dr. Kelleher ad- ing as an administrator. While enjoys getting to see things ditionally worked at Burke High transitioning to a new school can from a different perspective.

School in Dorchester for 13 years. be daunting, Dr. Kelleher is grate“It’s fun to be an administraShe taught history to grades 9-12, ful for the kindness WHS students tor to interact with [the students] worked with special ed students, and faculty have shown her. in a different way,” she said.

Special Olympics recognizes WHS for inclusion

Walpole receives National Banner of Recognition for the second time

By Nicole Scotton News Editor For the second time, Special Olympics have awarded WHS the National Banner Recognition. WHS received the award in the core fields of respect, advocacy and inclusion.

This banner was awarded to only 22 schools in Massachusetts, and 205 schools nationwide.

Special Olympics is an organization that aims to change the way the world views those with disabilities, specifically through sports opportunities.

Throughout schools, Special Olympics promotes friendship and education to those with and without intellectual disabilities.

By educating students on teamwork, leadership skills and sports skills, students are brought together to form more welcoming and ac-

cepting school communities.

Through a focus on sports and physical fitness, those with intellectual disabilities are able to gain confidence by showcasing their skills and abilities.

The organization strives to break down harmful stereotypes and stigmas in order to create more inclusive environments both in the classroom and on the field.

In order to receive this award, a school must meet 10 standards of excellence in order to demonstrate their dedication to inclusion. WHS hosts a Unified Track and Field Team, run by Charles Ferro, that welcomes both students with and without disabilities to participate in the program.

“I enjoy being a part of Unified Sports because it helps contribute to an inclusive and loving community,” senior Colleen Finn, a mem-

ber of Unified Track, said. “I have also made so many good friends through the program.”

Not only does WHS have the Unified Track and Field team, but also the Best Buddies club, run by Kerry Donlan, to further spread and encourage inclusiveness within classrooms.

The club allows students with and without disabilities to spend time together and interact, creating lifelong friendships and spreading positivity. In addition to club meetings, Best Buddies hosts an annual dance, a friendship walk and many other events throughout the year to give students the chance to socialize with club members outside of a school setting.

WHS’s pledge to inclusiveness challenges social norms and produces a more welcoming and supportive setting in school. The honor WHS has received from the Special Olym-

pics demonstrates Walpole’s continuous improvements to construct the community into being a better and more accepting place for all students.

Photo/ Nicole Scotton

A banner is displayed in the WHS gym to recognize achievment from Special Olympics.

News

page 2

OCTOBER 2023

WHS welcomes new teachers for 23-24 school year Margaret Kwasnik, Kerry Donlan and Audrey Lamar join the staff Kwasnik said. “I really wanted before starting as a special educa- cialist and Digital Learning Coach to make a difference in people’s tion teacher this year, is proof that has allowed her to interact with older Every fall, the WHS com- lives and connect with humans. I it is never too late to switch paths. students and build connections with munity enters a period of transi- tried something else and I feel like “I love the environment the student body. In her new role, tion as new and returning students teaching is what I’m meant to do.” here, the people I have worked she takes part in introducing new begin the school year. In addition to with. The other teach- technology for the students, includAlong with teach- Photo/ The Searchlight changes to the student body, three ing French, Kwasnik is ers I have been with ing giving out loaner chromebooks, new staff members have joined the also the new adviser of are really great people going through the library’s invenWHS community across a variety the French Club. Between and they have inspired tory and trying to get rid of unused of departments. This year, WHS has her work in the classroom me a lot,” Donlan said. books to make space for new ones.

“They want me as a librarhired Margaret Kwasnik, Audrey as well as her efforts for Donlan feels fortuLamar and Kerry Donlan to join the the club, Kwasnik hopes nate to have built strong ian to get kids in here and checking faculty for the 2023-24 school year. to offer new opportunibonds with members of out books and reading, but they also Kerry Donlan Although Margaret Kwas- ties and perspectives on the WHS community want me to go into the classroom and Special education teacher nik did not know from the start that the French language to her students. across all departments, and cites them to teach the teachers how to bring she wanted to be a world language “My goal for my students as a reason why she felt confident in new digital tools,” Lamar said.

Lamar hopes to make big teacher, her lifelong appreciation for is to learn to love French and know transitioning into her teaching role. language learning set her on a path it’s a constant effort, and it’s re- For those who feel like teaching is changes in the library and fully integrate technology into the to becoming an educaally fun and rewarding the career path for them, Photo/ The Searchlight Photo/ Margaret Kwasnik school, and she is excited tor. As the new French once you kind of em- Donlan encourages peoto put in the work to help teacher at WHS, Kwasple to take a step into brace it,” Kwasnik said. her new students. She nik is grateful for her the teaching realm to see Many people beplans on bringing in new exposure to Spanish and lieve that one is forced how rewarding it can be. books and resources to French in school, which “It is a lot of hard to figure out their enupdate the library’s offerevoked her passion for work, it is a lot of studytire life at the end of ings, and in doing so, she learning. Before becomtheir senior year of ing and education for hopes to make the library ing a French teacher, she high school; however, yourself too, but I believe Audrey Lamar Margaret Kwasnik Library Media Specialist/Digital Learning Coach a more engaging space taught English to adult it is all worth it,” she said. for many people, decidFrench teacher migrants and refugees in Vermont. ing on your dream career can take Finally, although Audrey La- for modern high school students.

“I’m just so thrilled about how “My prior job was interest- years. Kerry Donlan, who worked mar has experience as an elementary ing and I learned a lot, but I didn’t as an Education Support Profes- school librarian, her transition to kind [they are] and just what a great have many personal connections,” sional (ESP) for 11 years at WHS working as the Library Media Spe- bunch of students go here,” she said.

By Journalism I Staff

Massachusetts

extends

free

school

lunches

Public schools will offer free lunches to all students indefinitely

By Jess Cruz Marketing Manager Massachusetts has become the eighth U.S. state to offer free school meals to all public school students statewide, starting this academic year. This follows three years of COVID-19 funding that provided free school lunches.

In August, Governor Mara Healy made this program permanent.

Massachusetts voters approved a 4% “millionaire tax” increase in 2022, effective in 2023.

The revenue supports the Massachusetts Department of Secondary Education (DESE) and Department of Transportation (DOT). DESE primarily funds the new universal free meal program.

Previously, families with an an-

nual income under $52,000 for a and contribute to their community. family of four were eligible for free Families who might fall under the or reduced-priced lunch, requir- qualification of the free or reduced ing an application. This could ex- meal program are encouraged to submit an application as eligible clude struggling families.

Providing free school lunches families can receive various fee waivin Massachusetts not only aids those ers such as bus fee wavers, SAT fees in need but and college applicaalso fosters tion fees. more incluCompleting sive communities. This the free/reduced appliapproach cation also eliminates helps secure the stigma funding to associated with meal maintain the nutrition assistance program. and ensures Massachuall students Photo/ Ciara Foley r e g a r d l e s s Students of all income levels can receive free lunches. setts’ deciof financial situations, can thrive sion to offer free school statewide is

a step toward achieving equality and education. With state and federal funding along with the “millionaire tax” initiative, Massachusetts is paving the way for public school students to focus on their studies without the burden of hunger or economic disparity. This approach reflects Massachusetts’ commitment to the wellbeing of its students ensuring that no child goes hungry and that every student has the opportunity to succeed.

The Walpole School Nutrition Program encourages families who need additional assistance to apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the federal nutrition program providing eligible families with grocery benefits. Interested families can visit mass.gov for more information or to apply to the program.

Opinion

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October 2023

Family vlogs are exploitative toward children Using children for social media content harms their development

By Ciara Foley Editor-in-Chief Many would consider 15 minutes of fame to be a life accomplishment. Traditional society portrays such glamor as a dream standard, where one can obtain wealth, attention and stardom all while living a flamboyant lifestyle. While fame was previously reserved for individuals with specific talent, anyone can now become famous just for being themselves thanks to the internet. Social media has followed such patterns through the rise of family content as child stars are gaining intense popularity from simply standing in front of cameras and publishing content. It is the modern day version of childhood acting prodigy; however, it unethically sets children up for a future of fame.

There’s no question that content creation has become a full-fledged career in the modern age; the variety of social media apps and dynamic trends allows any user to gain and profit off of likes. In particular, it brings a whole new meaning to the role of a stay-at-home parent—what is traditionally perceived to be a banal routine career path now allows guardians to highlight

the aesthetic, productive aspect of parenting. Videos of activities as mundane as going to the grocery store receive thousands of likes and shares, glorifying a homely lifestyle that, in return, allows such content creators to receive income from the amount of attention received.

It is beneficial, in particular, for income yet takes away from the foremost priority: the child.

For a child’s development, consistent care and attention is crucial as it acts as a foundation for intellectual and emotional growth. According to FamilyEducation, babies and young children learn to “trust and rely on caregivers through mutual reaction and communication with repeated positive experiences,” including generic actions such as being held or being fed.

Evidently, families are typically providing their children with proper care and attention needed, just doing so while holding down a record button.

Not only does it veer complete attention away from the child, but also teaches children to live for the camera–not for themselves. Parents play a vital role in modeling proper behavior for children; therefore, constantly shoving a camera in even a ba-

by’s face and encouraging excitement only when seen performing builds the concept of living for others into the child’s mind, leading to poor emotional grasp when the child is fully grown.

It’s not to say that guardians shouldn’t document parts of their children’s lives; however, having a camera around children from an early age promotes the idea that they need to perform in order to achieve likability.

Modern day hustle culture already roots and replenishes from unrealistic societal standards of consistent work production and

effort that drives individuals to burn out quickly. Furthermore, adding internal expectations regarding peer acceptance simply exacerbates the issue. In addition, children are not at a developmental age to provide consent to lead a life of fame and constantly be in the spotlight because many may regret gaining it in the future. Stardom is alluring, yet further may provide consequences that can heavily impact an individual’s life; arguably, it is best applied when an individual has the awareness and brain development to strive for such a lifestyle.

Graphic/ Ciara Foley

Children need to stop being plastered across media headlines and images.

Physical discomfort at school affects learning

Students are impacted by the temperature and seating options

By Anika Umapathy Staff Writer

Did you know that Walpole High School (WHS) was built in 1908? Although it is an old building, this school holds a lot of memories for present and past students along with its faculty.

However, the age of the building has recently posed urgent issues in need of resolve. The building’s temperature and the sizes of the desks have raised a lot of concern amongst the student body and many believe these factors negatively effect students ability to process information successfully.

One of the major problems the school faces is the inconsistent temperatures of classrooms that create a difficult learning environment. Towards the beginning and end of the school year the school is sweltering due to the lack of air conditioning and proper ventilation and the temperature in certain classrooms can reach above 90 degrees.

Ironically, once the heat is turned on during the winter, the building can become extremely overheated in certain classrooms while maintaining a cold and drafty temperature in others, making deciding what to wear extremely challenging.

Aditionally, various wings are at differing temperatures, leading to even more stress when deciding what to wear to school. Students note that they often have to bring extra layers to school to change during the day and experience a lot of dysregulation as they move throughout the building. Therefore, students cannot put in their best effort when the school does not provide them with dependable temperatures.

“I think that it is a lot easier to get distracted and not really pay attention when the class is too hot or cold,” an anonymous student said.“Teachers also get kind of tired and then they can't teach as well as they normally could.”

Another issue many students encounter are the desks.

Almost every student sits in a desk with a plastic chair attached on the right side. This creates a variety of issues that students have to overcome. For example, many left-handed students struggle to use desks designed for right-handed people. Additionally, standard desks are not size inclusive. The width of the average desk at WHS is only 15 inches, and students cannot move the desk away from the chair, creating minimal space for their legs. Due to this standard,

students only have access to additional seating options if a teacher offers them in their room.

“I get uncomfortable and anxious when I'm sitting at an uncomfortable desk,” an anonymous student said.

In the coming years, WHS will be undergoing renovations and additions to the space to expand the building and add new facilities. The school is adding a new gym, expanding wings and purchasing air conditioning for the English and history wings.

Furthermore, while replacing every desk in the school would be an expensive and complicated task, administration is working to provide alternate seating options to those students who require them in each classroom. Although this is a good starting point, improvements will not be seen for at least a few years. However, hopefully in the coming years, future generations of WHS students will gain access to a more comfortable building and education than what students have today.

Graphic/Searchlight

Many students express concern on their enviroment impacting their education.

FEATURE

page 4

CONTACT INFO

Include your name, address and contact information at the top of the page to make it as simple as possible for the employer to reach out to you. It’s best to include a professional looking email address; consider making a new one just for work opportunities.

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Many candidates struggle to stand out from peers, as it proves difficult to provide distinction from other applicants. Be sure to summarize your career concisely and clearly so the employer knows what type of candidate you are.

WORK HISTORY

List your past jobs from most to least current.

For each job, include the company name, your job title, the dates of employment, and any relevant accomplishments or responsibilities. It’s best to use action words to describe your experience here.

SKILLS

You should include both hard skills (learned through education or experience) and soft skills (personal attributes that describe how you work and interact with others). These can be a bullet point list to provide an overview of what you have to offer the company.

eDUCATION

Starting from high school, list any schools you have attended as well as the years you attended the school and your year (or intended year) of graduation. After high school, you should also include your major and degree.

ADDITIONAL INFO

This is an optional section where you can highlight certifications, volunteer work or accomplishments during your education. If you don’t have anything notable to include, it’s best to leave it out.

Graphics/ The Searchlight

OCTO

OBER 2023

FEATURE

PAGE 5

How To write a

Resume

By Ciara Foley & Meghan McNeil Editors-In-Chief

Finding a job can be a stressful process for new workers, and in a competitive job market, having an effective resume is one tool you can use to stand out in the application process. As you build your resume, follow these tips to ensure the document is clear, concise, and confident.

Good luck!

EXTRA TIPS

Use platforms like Canva or Adobe Express to easily find unique, professional looking templates.

If you’ve never had an official job, you can include experience such as babysitting or leadership roles in clubs and sports.

Avoid overwhelming your page with unnecessary information; only include what is relevant to the job you are applying to.

page 6

Lifestyle

October 2023

Best activities for this upcoming fall season Participate in these activities to make the most out of this autumn

By Sophie Murray A&E Editor Fall is, arguably, one of the most anticipated seasons where one can indulge in all that it has to offer. As soon as the first day of September rolls around, big comfy sweaters emerge on store shelves while halloween decorations and candy take over the grocery store and as always, the pumpkin spice overload. Taking advantage of all the activities autumn has to offer is simple. DIY projects for the season are incredibly manageable, even an arts and crafts novice can participate. Make the most of this upcoming fall by taking part in some of these activities with friends and family.

Time and time again, activities like pumpkin and apple picking are a must for the fall season. Many people, however, overlook how many activities can come out of pickings. This includes creating an impressive looking jack o’lantern. . Print out stencils for the pumpkin to create an effortless face or design to display outside. Or to keep it as inside decor, use the pumpkin as a vase and fill it with flowers of choice as a centerpiece. In addi-

tion, pumpkin seed can bebaked ning with friends and family. for a chip-like snack. Toss sea- Gather up big blankets and watch sonings of choice onto the seeds a Halloween favorite like Hocus with olive oil and bake them in Pocus, Scream or It’s the Great the oven until they turn golden Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. Every brown. This is a versatile recipe great movie night has to have and can be turned its spread of Graphic/ Sophie Murray into a sweet treat by snacks too. Pop adding sugar and some popcorn pumpkin pie spice. and drizzle it With the pumpwith black and kin guts, puree and orange melting strain can be used chocolates and for baked goods throw in some like pumpkin bread candy corn for or use it to create an aesthetic fall a pumpkin pasta treat. Another sauce. After apple great fall activpicking, use the apity with friends ples by baking apple Welcome fall with new activities to try! is to go to your crisp or an apple pie. Instead of local Trader Joes and pick out spending money buying artificial all of the fall items they are ofsmelling fall candles, try making fering this season, such as the an apple cider stovetop potpour- Apple Cider Donuts, Spiced Ciri. This is an all natural alterna- der and The Butternut Squash tive to candles that smell even Mac and Cheese. Taste test better! To make the potpourri, and rank the items from favoradd water, apple slices, cinnamon ite to least favorite and enjoy! sticks, cloves, allspice and nutmeg Getting out of the house to a pot and bring to a boil and and enjoying the many events in then reduce to a simmer. This the crisp fall air are necessary to strong fall scent will fill a house fully enjoy the season. For those with the warm feeling of fall. who are a fan of horror as well Having a fall movie mar- as roller coaster rides, take a trip athon with friends is the ultimate to Canobie Lake Park’s Scream way to spend a cool autumn eve- haunted houses, live monsters

and characters, performances and rides. The park is a great day trip to go on with friends and family as the park is a manageable size and has something for everyone. But make sure the trip lasts until night time so one can experience the live characters that roam the parks and the haunted houses. The Boston Ghost Tours with Ghosts and Graveyards should be another must do this fall. The Old Trolley Tours takes guests around Boston where they can enjoy local tales of ghosts and murder as guests are escorted through the streets of Boston via a traditional trolley ride . Lastly, as it nears towards Halloween, take a trip to Salem and dress up in costumes and enjoy the Halloween activities and great atmosphere Salem has to offer. Take a trip through the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the infamous Witch Trials and what life was like during that period of time. Another great option is the House of the Seven Gables, as it is the oldest wooden mansion and a great trip for literature lovers as the house gained fame from the book.

These ideas, will make it easy to make the most out of this fall season. Try them out yourself!

Clubs for you to join at Walpole High School

Information about many club offerings

By Lila Koepenick and Ava Luongo Staff Writers Students at Walpole High School (WHS) are always searching for new clubs to join on top of their other curriculars. Clubs are important to join to connect with other students and learn about new topics that interest peers. Luckily, WHS has many different clubs that students have the opportunity to be a part of, so they can engage in what they love with their friends. These clubs are available for all students, and it is encouraged to join a club that you like!

The Community Service Club, a returning club, run by Samantha Fallon that encourages participation in activities all throughout the school year, helping out the Walpole community.

Their Instagram, @whs_communityserviceclub, displays the work they put into the town of Walpole. Along with the idea of helping out in your community, the Random Acts of Kindness club allows students to spread kindness around WHS. @walpole.rak on Instagram displays the different activities the club does to promote others to be kind.

The Art Club, is making a return this school year as advisor Mr. Bergeron encourages students to let their creative

side flourish. Every Thursday, students are welcome to create an art piece of their choice.

If students aren’t interested in creating art, but still want to be creative, WHS offers the Photography Club. Run by Joanne D’Agastino, this club welcomes all aspiring photographers and everyone who enjoys taking pictures. The Photography club meets weekly, you can find some of their photos from the week on their Instagram @whs_photographyclub123. If art isn’t your passion, there are still clubs for you!

The UNICEF Club, run

by Vanessa Hackett, provides students the opportunity to help impoverished children and families with food and education.

A popular event they hold, the Trunk or Treat, is coming up.

The event’s main crowd is young children who trick or treat in the back of staff ’s cars. This is a great event for people looking to get involved in the community.

Best Buddies run by Mrs. Donlan meets on the first Monday of every month. This club focuses on inclusion of all students, and creating a fun environment for all who would like to join. Best Buddies is a great club to help students build relationships with one another and break through social barriers. This club focuses on integrating students to join

for the 2023 school year

together to form friendships.

WHS offers two language clubs for all students who are interested. The French Club is run by Margret Kwasnik, where it celebrates the culture and the language of French. The Spanish Club, run by Richard Sturges experience of the game is required. Dungeon and Dragons Club meets on the first and third Wednesday of every month, everyone is welcome to come create a world of their own!

If you’re intrigued in

voicing your opinions, Speech and Debate run by Emily Murray meets every Monday in room 2124. This is a great club to join to practice working as a team and voicing your ideas and opinions.

Extracurricular activities are a huge part of the school experience and you could find something you really enjoy doing. There are many options of clubs for students to join.

It takes up only a small part of your time, and there are are great choices; try them out!

Photo/ Instagram

Members of the Community Service Club particpate in schoolwide cleanup.

page 7

Writer’s

Guild

A&E

of America

October 2023

goes

on

strike

The events that fueled and ended Hollywood’s 5 month strike Photo/The Guardian

By Caroline Donnelly Staff Writer Behind the most popular TV shows, award-winning movies and internationally broadcasted news reports are the writers responsible for the production of the content. Although the work of these writers is often overlooked, their dedication must not be undermined; however, this is unfortunately not the case as of late. Beginning on May 2, 2023 at 12:01am, The Writer’s Guild of America (WGA) composed of 11,500 screenwriters went on strike in correspondence with the labor dispute with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television across New York City, Los Angeles, Burbank and Culver City, haulting American entertainment production companies .

The Board of Directors for the WGA primarily blames the causes of the strike to revolve around the issues of the “hiring of Guild members without becoming a signatory company, refusal to bargain with the WGA, refusal to participate in grievance and arbitration procedures, failure to comply with a final arbitration award, failure to pay P&H fund delinquencies, and violation of the National Labor Rela-

Photo/The Guardian

WGA members gather on tions Act or other laws designed to protect writers”, according to Writer’s Guild of America West.

In a broad summary, the strike opposes current pay (since screen pay has decreased by 14% in the last five years according to the WGA), job security and regulation of the use of artificial intelligence for WGA members.

On July 14, 160,000 members of the Screen Actors Guild and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) joined the strike in opposition to similar policies and lack of protection. Subsequently, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert’s talk shows along-

strike in Los Angeles side Saturday Night Live, The Daily Show, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, Real Time with Bill Maher, Late Night with Seth Meyers and NBC’s Tonight have entirely shut down production.

Around the end of August, major studios proposed the first counteroffer to WGA members that would include protection against certain AI-related productions, a guarantee of 10 weeks of work for development room writers and two writers per production, and newly implemented training structures for writers to become future showrunners. Strikers persisted that this is solely an attempt to get

WGA members to turn on one another that still failed to protect writers from the exponential issues they have since gone on strike to oppose. The AMPTP admitted that they planned to let the strike continue until strikers run out of money and are forced to return to their jobs, fueling the controversy around the unjust attitudes projected on writers. The strike persisted for 146 days, nearly five months, becoming Holleywood’s second longest labor dispute in history behind the 834 day-long musicians strike between 1942-1944.

On September 25, a tentative agreement was finally reached after five consecutive days of negotiations. A group of 11,000 WGA members voted on behalf of the agreement, making wages more dependent on writer’s groups and projects, larger payouts of streaming residuals and secured protection against the use of AI. After a near five months of stubborn rebellion, WGA members have finally returned to studios with the immediate intent for projects to resume production under the freshly gained protection of the new agreement. A hopeful sight for movieseers and fans of upcoming productions.

Eras Tour Film Sparks Debate Within Fanbase Fans have become outraged by obnoxious behavior at movie showings.

By Erin Malinn Opinion Editor Global sensation Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour premiered on the big screen on October 13, 2023 and has already surpassed $100 million in global advanced ticket sales revenue. Director Sam Wrench shot the film over the course of her leg at LA’s SoFi Stadium, from August 3rd to August 5th. Though her concert set spans over three hours and 30 minutes, the film is only two hours and 48 minutes, causing mass disappointment over longtime fan-favorite songs being cut: The Archer, no body, no crime, Long Live, cardigan, Wildest Dreams, and ‘tis the damn season.

One of the biggest topics of discussion since the film’s announcement, however, has been which surprise songs made the cut. Swift decided to air “Our Song” from her debut album, Taylor Swift, and “You’re On Your Own, Kid” from her newest studio album, Midnights. Credits also rolled to Swift’s “Long Live,” with concert footage of fans and bloopers from the tour playing on the side. Before credits ended, Swift left a heartfelt thank you to her supporters in the format of friendship bracelets.

In an Instagram caption

for the movie’s promotion, Swift posted that “eras attire, friendship bracelets, singing and dancing [are] encouraged” before the movie’s release. This idea was adored by fans who missed out on the actual concert experience, but not so much those who hoped for a normal trip

album evermore, many attendees took out their phones and shone their flashlights from their seats, similar to what concert-goers have done at her live shows.

AMC Theaters later released a statement to fans that they “encourage dancing and singing throughout this concert

Photo/ Getty Images

The singer-songwriter releases her third professionally filmed tour. to the movies. Throughout the film event, but please [to] not early success of the movie, de- dance on our seats or block other bate has sparked over appropri- guests from viewing, safely walkate behavior in theaters. Many ing or exiting the auditorium.” movie-goers have posted about Some attendees blame the aggressive behavior from Swift directly, believing that she some fans, as many have taken shouldn’t have encouraged her to screaming along and dancing fans to behave in such a way in in theaters. During Swift’s song the first place. Others believe “Marjorie” from her ninth studio that hardcore fans simply took

her encouragement too seriously and needed to respect the rest of the audience. Fans who partook in this behavior have defended their actions by referring to the film as an immersive concert experience. Many considered their movie theater experience to be that of a concert experience, as they were not able to attend the tour in person due to high demand for tickets.

Swift is no newcomer to the big screen, as Eras Tour follows her previous three films, each seeing similar rates of success. Taylor Swift: The 1989 World Tour, Swift’s first concert film, was released on December 20, 2015 and grossed a total of $250 million. The 1989 World Tour was acclaimed by critics, who commended the 26 year old’s stage presence. This was followed by Taylor Swift: Reputation Stadium Tour, reaching more success as it grossed a total of $345.7 million in box office revenue. The 2018 tour was labeled as Swift’s best tour yet by critics and received many “Tour of the Year” awards.

Swift’s 2020 docunentary, Miss Americana. branches away from professionally filmed concerts and follows the struggles of her private life and her constant appearance in the public eye.

Sports

page 8

October 2023

Abdal-Khallaq assists to Walpole win against Milton

Walpole Football beats undefeated Milton team, boosting their record

By Max Grant Sports Editor Walpole High School (WHS) varsity football faced off against an undefeated Milton High on Oct. 13. at Turco Field. They went on to upset Milton, and win 42-23.

The Walpole offense started out quick in the first quarter, getting into Milton territory. On third and four at Milton’s 33 yard line, junior quarterback Noah Mackenzie threw the ball to senior wide receiver and defensive back Jamal AbdalKhallaq on a quick screen to the left side for a 12-yard gain. The drive would finish with a rushing touchdown from Mackenzie to put Walpole ahead 7-0.

The pass rush of Walpole proved to be a consistent problem for senior quarterback Patrick Miller of Milton. Linebackers Anthony Chamoun, Matt Reynard and Danny Cesario seemed to be pressuring Miller every play.

All three were causing problems for Miller as he was running out of the pocket every play, scrambling left and right and having to either throw the football or sim-

ply just run the ball downfield himself, due to minimal options.

After a touchdown run from senior running back Logan Keyes in the second quarter, Walpole was quick to get back on offense and strike again. Mackenzie would throw a 64-yard touchdown pass to senior Kamari Hughes to put the Timberwolves up 21-6 by the end of the second quarter.

The second half of the game became a game to re-

member for Abdal-Khallaq. He caught and ran for a 55-yard touchdown, celebrating by pointing to his mom and family in the stands. That touchdown put Walpole up 28-16. On a fourth down play, Abdal-Khallaq caught another touchdown pass, this one for 31 yards to make the score 35-16. Not done yet, Abdal-Khallaq would also intercept two passes from Miller, returning one for a touchdown to extend the Timberwolves lead late

Photo/ Max Grant

Senior Jamal Abdal-Khallaq returning to sidelines after his third touchdown scored.

in the fourth quarter. When the game clock shoed triple zeros, it was a celebration for the Timberwolf players, staff , coaches and fans. but Abdal-Khallaq did not want to celebrate yet.

“Executing, and just [keeping up] with our assignments. Our coaches are doing well [preparing] us during practice all week. We just got to keep pushing it every week and going hard” Abdal-Khallaq said.

“Defense played their part and that’s all we could have asked for against a high-scoring offense.”

Milton, who is ranked second in the Bay State Herget conference, was averaging 34.8 points per game (PPG) on offense, but was held to just 23 points against the Walpole defense. They also were holding opponents to 8.8 PPG on defense prior to the game against the Timberwolves.

Walpole only has two more games left on their schedule to get into the playoffs. With a record of 3-3, the team is looking to win both games against Braintree and Wachusett Regional. Milton, however, looks to rebound from the loss as they play Taunton and Natick next on their schedule.

Porkers dominates Westwood 4-1, looking for title

Kerin Birch scores twice in Porkers victory at Turco Field

By Ariana Kreuzer Staff Writer At 6:17 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 10, the Walpole High School (WHS) field hockey team, the Porkers, stepped out onto Turco Field to face off against Westwood. The Porkers (11-1) held the first seed in their division leading up to the final non-league game of the regular season against the Westwood Wolverines (5-4), and were favorites leading into the matchup.

Despite this, the game took a turn in the first quarter when the Wolverines scored early on Coach Jen Quinn’s squad. Westwood controlled play throughout the majority of the first half, displaying a strong defense on a few defensive corners and success in driving the ball up to their offensive half. Nearing the end of the second quarter, it looked like the Wolverines would be up 1-0 going into the half.

However, a key penalty called on Westwood gave Walpole the opportunity to score on a penalty stroke, presenting the Porkers with a chance to erase their one-goal deficit. Walpole’s senior co-captain, Kerin Birch, stepped up to the dash with just under four minutes left in the half, scoring on the onehit stroke, one-on-one with the goalie. A minute later, junior Caitlin Naughton tacked on a

second goal, leaving the Porkers up 2-1 at the end of the half.

The Timberwolves momentum carried through the break as they came into the second half strong, scoring twice in the third quarter—one which Birch scored off of a give-andgo with Naughton following sophomore Kendal Cusack’s of-

the match, the Porkers had secured themselves another victory, bumping their record to 12-1.

For many of the Porkers, this year is their last shot to secure the state title—which would be Walpole High’s 13th title and first since 2016. According to the captains, the push for the state title has never been stronger, and Photo/ Ariana Kreuzer

Kerin Birch takes a stroke penalty in the second quarter, making the score 1-1. fensive corner send-in, and an- everybody on the team can feel it. other which junior Izzy Adams “It’s a thing in this town… scored off of an assist by sopho- [winning the state championmore forward Kate Schneider. ship]. Every single person on Walpole’s defense held this team wants it, our coaches, Westwood down late in the our players, even the kids on game, and the Porkers narrow- the younger teams—everybody ly missed multiple goals in the wants it. So I think that’s what fourth quarter. By the end of makes this so different, it’s that

everybody’s all in,” Birch said.

Fellow senior captain Katie Colleran also stated that Walpole’s early loss to Uxbridge served as a reminder that they still have things to work on to achieve their goal. “[The loss] brought us around to realize we have things to fix [before the tournament],” Colleran said, also noting the team’s earnest work to improve their game before the season’s end.

Walpole finishes the regular season with four games on the road before closing out their season at home on Oct. 25 against Needham. The Porkers are also looking to add the 13th title to the WHS gymnasium as they have lost in the Division I State Finals to Andover two years in a row.

The mindset and goals are there; it is only a matter of performing at the highest level that they can to hopefully make the tournament again, compete in every game that they are in, reach the finals and take down Andover.

The coaching staff of the Porkers is nothing short of outstanding. Coach Quinn is hopeful that the group of girls she has can work their way into thetournament again. Parents, friends and members of the faculty at WHS are firm believers in the Porkers and know they can do the job. It is not a question of who will get it done, but when will the Porkers finally raise banner number 13.