BA Today - Winter 2018

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Volume 12, Winter 2018

BA Today | 1

A Letter From the Editor Mary Helene Hall '19, Editor-in-Chief

Illustration by Penelope Dullaghan

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n this very merry issue of BA Today, we cover everything ranging from last minute Christmas gifts, national issues, what’s happening with Bayside teachers, and the lives of veterinarians. Our coverage this season represents the recent news cycle — sometimes hopeful, yet extremely frustrating, but most importantly, all over the place.

For many, just like in school, the news doesn't seem to be giving us a break lately— wildfires, elections, shootings, border conflict, climate—and it shows no signs of slowing down. If you’re anything like me, hearing about all of this isn’t very encouraging. Getting bogged down by the news isn’t exactly difficult, and it’s easy to become caught up in it all.

If you aren’t a news junkie, I’m sure that every Bayside student is still familiar with the feeling: freshmen and sophomores had to prep for some tough exams, juniors had to expedite the process thanks to Pine Mountain, and seniors were rushing to “go for the zero” before exam week while making finishing touches on college applications before

the impending deadlines. The end of second quarter is one of the most hectic times of the year for absolutely everyone.

The good news is that, after this, we all get a glorious few weeks of blissful Christmas break. Whether this is spent with your friends or family, this time of the year, although a little chilly, is the warmest. With giving thanks and presents, what’s not to love?

We all have our ways of learning about what is going on in the world. Some might listen to the radio in the morning during the car ride to school, or possibly you watch the news at night. You may rely on news outlets' Snapchat stories each day, or maybe you own a subscription to a magazine. Even if you don't do any of these things, you probably check Facebook or Instagram every once in a while.

No matter who you are, it's become virtually impossible to be completely "unplugged" from what's going on in the world. But that's okay; being informed is important.

Take these upcoming weeks as an opportunity to take a social media detox. Depending on who you are, this can mean a few

things. Silence the phone, don't check your email, break some Snapchat streaks, delete some social media apps, refrain from following the news—yes, you can even put down the BA Today if you’d like. Do whatever you have to do to pause the flow of information that is constantly streamlined to your mind.

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and we all know that isn’t always possible when you can’t stop thinking about the fresh-off-the-press posts.

Make some hot-cocoa, gather 'round the fire, and tell your family and friends how thankful you are to have them in your life.

Everything will feel merry and bright and you'll probably find that you're not nearly as stressed as you normally are.

After you feel brand new and your eyes are no longer blue-light strained, you may want to turn your phone back on. because you probably missed a few controversies.

Hey, at least you got to sleep in heavenly peace for just a little while.

On behalf of the entire staff of BA Today, have a wonderful winter break, and enjoy your next two weeks of homework-free nights!

Staff & Contributors Editors-in-Chief Mary Helene Hall Taylor Hartley Layout Editor Student Life Editor Lifestyle Editor Reporters

BA Today is the student publication of the Bayside Academy Upper School journalism class. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the entire staff, faculty, or administration.

Mary Helene Hall Anna Turner Maggie Davis If you are a student interested in Sophie Akyuz, Anne Sterling Beall, submitting content, email Ann-Margaret Boothe, Camille batodaysubmissions@gmail.com.

Buckner, Mallory Downey, Jenny Bayside Academy Florey, Leah Jha, Ben Lane, Geneva 303 Dryer Ave. Martin, Isabella McCormick, Jessie Daphne, AL 36526 Peterson, Mae Taul, Avery Vosen 251-338-6300 Advisor Ms. Deborah Denniston baysideacademy.org

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On The Covers: Front: Ty Kannigieter '19 and Brady Hedge '20 playing saxophone alongside the Upper School Jazz Band during the Thanksgiving Lunch on Friday, November 16, 2018. The lunch festivities were organized by the Bayside Peer Helpers.

Photo by Ashley Suchan.

Back: Astral Plane by Grace McDonald '19

BA Today Cover Contest Results The entire staff of BA Today would like to thank every student that submitted their photography! The entry pool was full of fantastic photography and it was very difficult to narrow it down. Below are the photos that were handpicked by the staff and advisor for the covers. Congratulations to all of the photographers that are featured!

Back Cover: Grace McDonald '19

Front Cover: Ashley Suchan '19

Honorable Mentions

Grace McDonald '19

Marlee Moore '23

Ashley Suchan '19

Lucy Barnes '19

Jack Hicks '24 BA Today | 3

Editorial The Vanishing Virtue of Political Civility

By Ben Lane '20, Editor

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he 21st century is a new era in political behavior, characterized by a previously unseen animosity in almost every official political discussion. America’s democracy is intended to let everyone’s voice be heard and taken into account, but the lack of civility in modern politics hinders this, oftentimes causing an increase in tension preventing solutions to national problems.

The influx of technology in today’s society has been a major factor in this increase of hostility. In the United States, new gadgets and gizmos consume our lives. 77% of Americans own a smartphone--and on average, owners spend 90 minutes each day looking at them.

Marketing, propaganda, news, games, and more are all available at our fingertips. This easy access to the internet makes swaying the views of the masses much easier—and companies and politicians know it.

Fake news is rampant in today’s age: a whopping ⅔ of US adults get news from social media. Companies and individuals often make up headlines and posts out of thin air, or twist facts and statistics to sway people to their side. Many of these sites have no objective of public improvement; they merely want to make money.

This technology has also increased political hostility. The use of social media is often a major lapse of formality: for example, Trump’s Twitter account. His tweets are often rude

We're getting nothing done, my friends. We're getting nothing done...Our deliberations today...are more partisan, more tribal...[than] at any time than I can remember.

John McCain and do not exemplify presidential behavior.

Although many of his Tweets are responses to out-of-line comments made by other politicians, the fact that he responds to them in an equally harsh manner on an app where virtually anyone can see them is unwise. The power that political figures have to instantly communicate their words to the world, without the approval of any board or cabinet, is a very

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Donald Trump is known for not getting along with the media. [Reuters/David Becker] new concept. With a few taps, a President, Congressman, Supreme Court justice, or any other political figure could ruin their reputation or spark tension between countries.

Understandably, Donald Trump is known for not getting along with the media. However, he is also known for vocalizing his opinions and criticizing his adversaries in a manner that is not appropriate in some situations, once calling the media the “enemy of the American people” or saying, “Look at that face. Would anybody vote for that? Can you imagine that, the face of our next president? I mean, she's a woman, and I'm not supposed to say bad things, but really, folks, come on. Are we serious?” referring to his opposing presidential candidate.

At a recent campaign rally in Mosinee, Wisconsin, Trump bragged about his own restraint while also criticizing Democrats and the media. Although the points are hypocritical coming from him, he made one good point, saying, “Those engaged in the political arena must stop treating political opponents as being morally defective.” Trump isn’t in a place to make this statement, because he has attacked people personally on multiple occasions, but it is a valid proposition.

On the Senate floor, John McCain once voiced his opinion on how politics should be, saying: “We're getting nothing done, my friends. We're getting nothing done...Our deliberations today...are more partisan, more

tribal...[than] at any time than I can remember.

They haven't been overburdened by greatness lately.” This message was not only to his fellow senators. He was telling everyone in the United States that petty arguments and shifting blame is the last thing our government needs. Both Trump and McCain are calling for an improvement to political rhetoric.

The vitriol is so common in today's political discussions they can even lead to violence, as in the shooting of Republican Congressman Scalise last year or the pipe bombs more recently mailed to prominent Democratic politicians. However, there are some advantages to the current state of politics. The lack of political correctness in Trump’s presidency allows for more honest confrontations of problems that we used to struggle to describe without offending anyone. However, my argument is not about being PC. There is a distinction between a lack of political correctness and utter rudeness. Vulgar language and personal attacks need to be stopped, as they hinder debates from progressing efficiently.

21st century political rhetoric needs to be seriously toned down. Political discussions ranging from presidential debates to discussions among peers are volatile. The crazed rhetoric and toxicity prevents effective communication and slows down the movement towards a common goal: a government that works together to make changes for the betterment of America.

America Mourns 41st President, George H.W. Bush

By Mary Helene Hall '19, Editor-in-Chief

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n the evening of Friday, November 30th, George Herbert Walker Bush passed away in his home in Houston, Texas at the age of 94.

His death was announced by Jim McGrath, the family spokesperson, in a statement authored by Bush’s children: “George H.W. Bush was a man of the highest character and the best dad a son or daughter could ask for. The entire Bush family is deeply grateful for 41's life and love, for the compassion of those who have cared and prayed for Dad, and for the condolences of our friends and fellow citizens.”

His wife of 74 years, Barbara Bush, died just months before him.

Bush served as the United States’ 41st President and had a relatively short lived political career. With a lifelong career in service, however, there is little that he hadn’t done. On the day he turned 18, he enlisted in the United States Armed Forces and was one of the youngest men in the Navy to receive his wings.

He flew 58 combat missions, including one in 1944 where his plane was shot down by enemy fire. He sustained a head injury, but escaped safely; many of his comrades in the mission, on the other hand, didn’t survive.

He returned home on Christmas Eve in 1944 to marry Barbara Pierce, then soon after enrolled in Yale University. Bush graduated in 1948 and began his work in the oil industry immediately after. Naturally as a man that never seemed to settle, he grew bored of this line of work and began his work in politics.

Listing all the work that he did throughout his life would take a few pages. Among the most incredible jobs he undertook included being elected to the House of Representatives for the 7th District of Texas, Ambassador to the United Nations, Chairman of the Republican National Committee, Director of Central Intelligence, and Ronald Reagan’s Vice President. That being said, he didn’t reach these positions with ease. He lost many of his Congressional elections, meaning that once he reached these positions, he had to work hard to show he was the right man for the job. All

George Bush Presidential Library of these ultimately led up to his candidacy for President.

On the night of his election in 1988, Bush was at a party in Houston waiting for the results.

Once it was announced that he had emerged victorious, there was great celebration and the Presidential motorcade was awaiting him outside. Instead of leaving the party and immediately basking in his victory, he helped clean the dishes at the venue. This small act of humility was only the beginning of George H. W. Bush’s Presidential term.

Bush undertook the task of leading the United States in a very hectic time. He is “known for his victory over Iraq in Kuwait and presided during the collapse of the Soviet Union in the final months of the Cold War,” according to a report by USA Today. However, the end of his term resulted in a weak economy, which resulted in his loss of a second term.

Bush was not a perfect President, and he made some decisions that were frowned upon. He lost his bid for reelection for many reasons, but mostly because as Jonah Goldberg of National Review puts it, “the most important factor was that the American people,

liberated from the Cold War, had a hunger for transformation.”

On the last day of his Presidency, Bush wrote in his diary, “I’m certainly not seen as visionary, but I hope I’m seen as steady and prudent and able.”

“Dying can be cruel and unfair,” writes Michael Gerson, a columnist at the Washington Post, “But there was a profound and encouraging sense of rightness, of fittingness, at Bush’s death...Bush died as well as a man could manage — full of years, full of honors, surrounded by affection, confident in his faith, knowing that his work on Earth was done.”

Bush was the 12th President to lie in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol, and his funeral took place in the Washington National Cathedral, where many of his friends and family recited their eulogies. On December 6th, he was finally laid to rest at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library in College Station, Texas, next to his wife.

Although he led a controversial Presidency, George H. W. Bush has been remembered fondly as a man who was passionate about his country and led a noble career of public service.

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Student Life Getting to Know Ms. Shubert

By Isabella McCormick '21, Reporter

10th grade English teacher, Ms. Shubert, began teaching at Bayside this fall. [Geneva Martin]

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s. Catherine Shubert, a new teacher at Bayside this year, told BA Today that she had always wanted to be a teacher and a writer ever since she was a child. With three master’s degrees and experience abroad, she’s more than realized her childhood aspirations.

Ms. Shubert attended Mercy High School, an all-girls’ Catholic college preparatory school in Farmington Hills, Michigan. After high school, she attended University of Michigan for undergrad and was an English major and Spanish minor.

After undergrad, Ms. Shubert applied to Teach For America, a program that sends

teachers to under-resourced public schools to teach for at least two years. With Teach for America, Ms. Shubert got her start as a teacher in Philadelphia. According to her, the job was a “tough gig” because she wanted to teach English, but the school had her teaching Spanish. Teach for America also helped to pay for Ms. Shubert’s enrollment in a master’s program in education, the first of her three degrees.

At the same time as the district she was teaching in went bankrupt, Ms. Shubert was applying for a grant to teach English abroad through the Fulbright program. She ended up teaching English for a year in Andorra, a small

country sandwiched between Spain and France. Ms. Shubert says that this experience made it clear to her that she wanted to teach literature.

After teaching abroad, Ms. Shubert landed a part-time job working for a nonprofit in Detroit called Inside Out Literary Arts. This is a program of Wayne State University, and it hires creative writers to teach in schools that have had their funding cut for the arts. She tells BA Today that this job solidified her desire to teach creative writing.

To get her master’s degree in English literature, Ms. Shubert took classes during summer with the Middlebury College Bread Loaf School of English. Through this program, she traveled to Oxford, England and studied British literature.

At the same time she obtained her master’s in English literature, Ms. Shubert also completed a master’s program in fine arts and creative writing from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

Next, Ms. Shubert got a job in Alabama teaching at Judson College, an all-women’s college located in Marion, Alabama. She later moved down to Daphne to be closer to her significant other.

Ms. Shubert appreciates how Bayside fosters creativity among the students and is grateful for the flexible schedule. Because of her experience teaching at the college level, Ms. Shubert strives to prepare her students for college in every way possible.

She identifies with Bayside’s college-preparatory-driven mission statement.

If you would like to meet Ms. Shubert, she is located in room 103 on the bottom floor.

Tips for Success in School and Life

By Jessie Peterson '19, Reporter

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any factors lead people to success.

Discipline, punctuality, respect, and integrity are key factors in doing well in school and life. To discover some steps for success, BA Today spoke with several Bayside teachers, knowing they would have the most insight.

When it comes to thriving in the classroom, Mr. Marine suggests to “rewrite your notes after school.” This will lead to better retention of the material and lead to less study time the night before a test.

In regard to kindness and respect, Mrs. Jackson says to “be grateful and kind.” Mrs. Edgar adds, “Be good to your teachers.

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They care about you.” Know the teachers are there for the students and don’t want them to fail. Ask questions after class if confused, and you and your grades will be better off for it.

When it comes to honesty, Mr. Long reported to BA Today, “time and integrity are the only two things you can’t replace.” If you spend time wisely with all things, school related or not, then you won’t face choices that might reflect poorly on your reputation as a student and individual. For example, making a poor decision in a time crunch, such as plagiarism, can result in not only a bad conscience but also serious repercussions and a

tainted reputation. As Mr. Small says, “It only takes one mistake to lose your good reputation,” so just spend your time wisely.

Last, but not least, sign up for classes you’re interested in. Mrs. Finch says “not to sign up for classes just because your friends are in them.” By signing up for classes that peak your interest, students will learn more about themselves by the time they graduate, than they would by taking classes that don’t interest them with their friends.

When it comes to achieving success, following this advice can lead to good grades, self-satisfaction, self-discovery, and much more.

Student Life Meet the Admirals’ New Security Guard, Sergeant Clemens

By Ann-Margaret Boothe '19, Reporter and Mae Taul '19, Reporter

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f you see a new person whipping around Bayside in a golf cart this year, it is the new security guard, Sergeant Clemens. He graduated from Bayside in 1996 and earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of South Alabama in Mobile, AL. Previously he served in the Mobile County Sheriff’s Deputy Reserve for two years and worked for the Birmingham Police Department for 6 years. He has worked on a specialized task force and in close-proximity to high ranking government officials. His two children attend Bayside, so he was knowledgeable about the school. With all the events last year surrounding school shootings, parents recommended him to the headmaster, Mr. Papa.

His primary duty is to keep students and staff physically safe as the Director of Crisis Management, which deals with fires, lock downs, active shooters, bomb threats, and tornados. He works with a team of teachers and administrators to prepare a response to any man-made or a natural disaster that may happen at Bayside.

Chief Financial Officer Lynn Corte helped him choose this team. One goal was to improve parent communication to make sure information is sent to the parents as fast as possible, so rumors do not spread.

Sergeant Clemons said the biggest issue so far on Bayside's campus has been the safe-

ty of the small children before and after school with all the carline traffic. Vaping has also been addressed as it is illegal, but it is not a security problem. Along with these issues, earlier this year Bayside experienced a minor gas leak in the McLean building. According to Mallory Downey, who was in Mrs. Shaw’s room during this time, “Sergeant Clemens rushed into the room and immediately ordered everyone to leave.” Students reported to the bluff until the area was cleared.

Students may wonder if he carries a gun.

The current answer is no, but the Board of Directors is considering it in the future. When asked about other things he wants to add to Bayside to make it a safer place, he said he would love to add more security guards and more cameras.

Sergeant Clemens wears a security guard uniform so he is easily recognizable. He said Mr. Papa had an idea of what he wanted it to look like, but it is very similar to what most security guards wear.

Sergeant Clemens told BA Today he is excited for this job because it is a new chapter in his life. It is different from his old position in Birmingham because Bayside is a controlled environment, and he has a lot of help from teachers, parents, and students who help keep him informed.

Sgt. Clemens shown driving his golf cart that he frequently patrols around school.

[Ann-Margaret Boothe]

A Tale of Two Traditions

By Leah Jha '22, Reporter

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ith the Christmas holiday around the corner, many families are preparing for their annual traditions.

On the days leading up to Christmas, Katie Ray, ninth grade English teacher, and her family travel to Birmingham. She tells BA Today, “Every year we go to the Alabama Theater in Birmingham before Christmas, and we watch Home Alone. It's always a sold out show, and it's so much fun.” Mrs. Ray says this is a tradition that has been in their family for years and has been planned for months.

As the holiday season approaches, seventh grade English teacher, Gail Tart, and her husband prepare for a feast with their family and an annual game. “Everyone shares an experience where they learned something about themselves that year, or something that was really just fascinating for them. Then, we all

vote as a group on which one we thought was the most interesting. My husband always has envelopes with little tokens of appreciation in them.” This allows her family to spend quality time together while catching up with each other.

Mrs. Ray created a new tradition with her family. “We started neighborhood Christmas caroling. “The neighbors meet at our house, enjoy hot cocoa and look over packets full of Christmas songs and Bible verses. Then we go door to door spreading the Christmas spirit.”

Mrs. Tart begins setting the table and awaiting the guests she has invited for dinner on Christmas Eve with her family. “We’ve made a tradition since my boys were really little to invite people over for Christmas Eve that may not have family in town, may have lost a loved one that year, are going through something

traumatic in their life, or have just moved into town.” The Tarts started this to demonstrate to their children that the true meaning of Christmas is not about gifts but about bringing family and friends together.

One of Mrs. Ray’s favorite traditions is using her grandmother’s recipes for the family dinner that takes place later that evening. While talking about her grandmother, she says, “She passed away two years ago. Having her recipes at holiday dinners makes us feel really close as a family and helps us remember her and all the good times that we had.” After the family members arrive, they all sit down, enjoy the meal and grow closer while spending time together.

Every family has different traditions at Christmas, but every new or old tradition brings families closer together.

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JOSH EDELSON/Getty Images

Breathe or Burn

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By Geneva Martin '20, Reporter

aphophobia and Aquaphobia, the fear of burning and the fear of drowning, are some of the most common “ultimate” fears. Many can barely handle the thought of one, let alone experiencing both at the same time, but that is exactly what John and Jan Pascoe had to face to survive. Come up for air, feel the heat, go back under, repeat. This is the routine the Californian couple repeated for 6 hours while fighting for their lives.

any official emergency warnings and only received reports that the fire was still 11 miles away and decided to remain in the area.

Aware of the havoc the California fires were wreaking on their surrounding area, the couple believed they were relatively safe nestled in the hills of Santa Rosa, 40 miles from Napa Valley, where their daughter Zoe’s in-laws resided.

They received their next call from Zoe around midnight, after they had already gone to bed.

Upon waking to the call, the couple looked out the window to see their neighborhood engulfed in a ring of fire. Deciding to make a break for it, they grabbed their seventeen year old cat and a few family heirlooms to load into their vehicle; however they made the terrifying realization that they were trapped, surrounded on all sides by flames, not a square foot of earth left unscorched to make a break for it.

According to the LA Times, the Pascoes received their first warning call from their daughter around 10 p.m. She begged them to leave their residence, informing them that her in-law’s home, which was not far from John and Jan’s, had just been burned to ashes. However the elderly couple had not received

The couple called 911 and made their way away from the fire toward the backyard. The emergency operator told them to find the safest place possible.

Thinking quickly on their feet, John and Jan moved to their neighbor’s pool. Jan wanted to get in the water straight away, but John knew the water would be

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freezing on that cold October night, so they waited until the fire began to eat away at the pool screen before disrobing and getting in the icy water. Holding each other close for warmth in the shallow water, the couple placed t-shirts on the water's surface so they could come up for air without being showered by the waves of the burning embers. Though the operator made a full report and knew exactly where the Pascoes were hiding, the fire department was unable to reach them for six hours after their call was made.

With each reemergence for air, Jan peaked for a last glimpse of the home that would cease to exist by morning. Their multi-level cottage in the hills was filled with many small rooms, each dedicated to a different location they had visited throughout their various travels. A beautiful, eclectic couple, who supported themselves as an artist and wine broker, watched as their home of 40 years burned to the ground with their art and memories trapped inside.

Near daybreak the couple emerged from the pool; John left with nothing to cover himself except Jan’s tank top which he managed to tie into a pair of underwear, and Jan in her soaked pajama pants and the t-shirt they had used to protect their faces. The usually beautiful and clean cut couple was unrecognizable beneath the layers of soot and fear that now caked their tired, cold bodies. Their relief, however, was clear upon the arrival of first responders and their daughter Zoe, who had been frantically searching for her parents since they had lost contact shortly before they had entered the pool.

This story is not the first of its kind but reflects many of the heart wrenching stories of the victims of the California fires. First responders, doctors, and volunteers have been working diligently to secure, protect and defend the fires’ many victims. At the time of publication, the death toll stands at 44 people this fire season with many still missing. In a terrifying time, strength and bravery have risen to the surface and been the savior to many.

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News Hard Times Call for Helping Hands

By Mallory Downey '19, Reporter

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urricane Michael, the catastrophic category 4 hurricane, hit the Florida Panhandle on October 12th. With wind speeds of 155 miles per hour, the storm destroyed homes, devastated families, and left a total of 50 fatalities. Although the hurricane tore through many towns and counties, the eye wall hit Panama City, Lynn Haven, Apalachicola, and Mexico Beach. Many volunteer groups saw the need for help and immediately jumped on board. Volunteers and church groups brought supplies such as water, food, gas, first aid kits, medicine, and batteries to the affected areas.

Bayside Academy acted fast, creating Band Together for Hurricane Michael Relief, and began collecting supplies to be taken to Port St. Joe, a community that helped Bayside in a time of need. With all the damage to these coastal communities and parts of Virginia, Georgia, and the Carolinas, the road

to recovery will be a long one. Times of devastation like this call for helping hands and communities to come together.

Two staff writers, Mae Taul and Anna Turner, traveled to Port St. Joe with the Three Circle Church. Approximately 45 students assisted hurricane victims in any way they could.

Anna Turner reported, “We left around 7 A.M. and returned home around 9 at night.” According to Mae Taul, “The girls in the group helped scrape up tile in one of the church’s nurseries, and the boys went to houses to help clean up there.” they brought extra brooms and tools for the cleanup.

There are many ways you can help to support the hurricane relief. Find local groups who are going on recovery missions, make donations through the American Red Cross, donate supplies, and keep an eye out for ways that you can touch the lives of those who need it the most.

Debris from homes affected by the hurricane in Port St. Joe. [3 Circle Church]

Extra, Extra, Weed All About It!

By Ben Lane '20, Editor

Just in the first day, legal sales totaled an estimated 3 million Canadian dollars. [Darryl Dyck]

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anadian smokers rejoiced due to the country’s recent passing of the Cannabis Act, which legalized the selling and smoking of marijuana in Canada. The first legal sale occurred on October 17, 2018.

Just in the first day, legal sales totaled an estimated 3 million Canadian dollars or 2.2 million American dollars.

The legalization was not completely cut and dry, various stipulations were included. A minimum age of 19 was set for the purchase of marijuana, with the exceptions of Alberta and Quebec where dispensaries sell to 18 year olds. It can only be legally obtained from licensed or province-regulated retailers. In addition, it is illegal to

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transport cannabis across the US-Canada border, even if traveling into a state where it is legal.

Smokers won’t be limited to the in-store purchase of marijuana; they can now grow it in their own homes. The Cannabis Act states that each household may grow up to four marijuana plants. Home cultivation isn’t a new concept; it is legal in some areas of the US, including 16 states and the District of Columbia. Each has their own regulations on the amount of plants one is permitted to grow.

Canadians guilty of possession of under 30g of weed before the legalization have received a lucky amnesty, as plans have been

made to drop charges for what previously was a crime.

By the end of 2018, Quebec will have 20 of its own cannabis stores spread across the province, and well over a hundred already exist across Canada. As time goes on, many stores will open and the product will become more widely available.

Many wonder why Canada decided the legalization of weed would be good for their country. Much of the answer revolves around the improved safety when smoking; the easy access to licensed, pure, cannabis will decrease the amount of laced product in circulation. This makes smoking pot much safer, whether smoking legally or illegally. Underage smokers who may have previously bought from a dealer with unsafe product now will be likely be sold locally bought marijuana without any additives.

Additionally, the Act will boost Canada’s economy, as shown through the opening day’s revenue. The Toronto-Dominion bank reported that marijuana legalization has potential to add up to 8 billion dollars to the economy. After Uruguay, Canada is the second country to legalize marijuana. Canada’s economy is significantly more developed, which may give the country a big lead in the marijuana market worldwide. It will be interesting to see just how much Canada will benefit from this legislation in the future.

News The Barking Truth About Mental Illness and Vets

By Geneva Martin '20, Reporter

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verybody remembers being asked in their first grade class what they wanted to be when they grew up. There were almost always at least two princesses, some astronauts, and of course, a vet.

Though a princess is not the most attainable, a vet definitely seemed plausible, until someone popped the childhood bubble of playing with puppies and giving them bandaids by saying the veterinarians also have to put animals to sleep. This question is followed usually by “What does put to sleep mean?” and then the silence when the answer is given. This is enough to dissuade most people from pursuing a career as a vet.

Some, however, have such a deep affinity for animals that they are able to look past the challenges that come with being responsible for their medical treatment. Sadly, the realization of these actions tends to catch up with these medical professionals, making it one of the most emotionally grueling occupations.

Veterinarians are often not put in the

same archetype as most doctors, but an NPR article claimed that “In some ways, it can be harder to be a doctor of animals than a doctor of humans.” Dr. Lisa Moses, a veterinarian at the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and bioethicist for Harvard Medical School, says that "We are in the really unenviable, and really difficult, position of caring for patients maybe for their entire lives, developing our own relationships with those animals — and then being asked to kill them.” Veterinarians, unlike doctors with human patients, are often asked to kill their patients. What might be even more difficult than putting an animal down, is when an owner decides to continue the animal’s life, when it is obvious that they are suffering, and will not go into remission.

There are two very common scenarios that emotionally devastate veterinarians, when an animal, otherwise healthy from an injury is untreatable or when an owner abuses and/or neglects an animal.

Both cases are out of the veterinarians’ control which makes it so difficult to process and compartmentalize. The first is often a result of poor economic situations, meaning treatment is available, but the owner is

unable to afford it and has to take the economic option of euthanizing the animal. The second is much more common than one would believe: other than being able to report suspicions of abuse, vets have very little power in preventing or ending unsuitable circumstances for animals. These situations, which are completely out of their hands, take an unsurprisingly large toll on the vets’ psyches.

A study by the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine about "moral distress" among veterinarians says 69% said they had felt moderate to severe distress about not being able to give animals what they thought was the right care. Almost two-thirds were bothered by inappropriate requests for euthanasia. The National Survey Results on the Wellness of Veterinarians found that 19% of respondents had seriously thought about suicide and 9% previously attempted suicide.

Of those who had seriously thought about it, 49% felt they were still at risk to repeat. The statistics are astounding and bring up another important discussion about mental health in the workplace.

When choosing an occupation, individuals do not consider the suicide rate. Though veterinarian work is an ancient profession, the growing stress around the job has become more topical as mental health has become a less discriminatory subject. Hopefully with the growing accessibility to counselling and treatment for mental health issues, the people saving and comforting our beloved animals can be consoled themselves. With the next visit to the vet, make sure gratitude is shown and hearts are warmed.

low level drug dealers who work under Vince Vaughn. Recently, John Malkovich, Michael K. Williams, and Vivica Fox have joined the cast.

The basic plot of the movie is about a deal that goes horribly wrong, so it is not exactly family friendly. This will be the first movie that goes deep into the secrets of the Dixie Mafia located in Arkansas. It is based on a John Brandon book of the same title.

There are also many local sites being used in the film. They include Lott Park, Manci’s Antique Club, and Hot Wheels Skate Center. Off the set, the celebrities have taken a fondness for some of our local treasures.

Many of our very own Bayside students have seen Hemsworth and Vaughn many times

in downtown Fairhope. One place both celebrities enjoy visiting is Sage Lebanese Cuisine and Café. Recently, the Young Life members in Fairhope ran into Hemsworth at Sage. Freshman Brantley DeValk said, “When we saw him, everyone was shouting ‘I LOVE YOU, I LOVE YOU, I LOVE YOU SO MUCH LIAM!’” Both celebrities have been seen at The Ravenite Pizzeria and the Grand Hotel Golf Resort and Spa. There are tracker accounts for fans on many social media platforms that list sightings of the celebrities. So, Eastern Shore locals, keep an eye out for Arkansas coming to theaters in 2020; that state might not seem so far away after all.

By Leah Jha '22, Reporter

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s many people in the community know, there have been some wellknown faces popping up around the Eastern Shore. Liam Hemsworth and Vince Vaughn are starring in a major motion picture centered around the Arkansas Dixie Mafia, filmed here on the Gulf Coast.

Arkansas was written and directed by Clarke Duke. As an actor himself, Duke’s career is centered around comedy, so this is a step in different direction for him.

Although this movie has a few comedic themes, it is still quite a serious topic. He has previously starred in The Office (season 9) and Hot Tub Time Machine (2010).

Liam Hemsworth and Clarke Duke will play

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Lifestyle 10 Up-and-Coming Artists You May Not Know Of

By Camille Buckner '21, Reporter

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ave you ever found yourself at a loss for new music? Bored of your “recents” playlist? Or just in search of something different?

Well, I have the perfect, fresh 10 artists for you!

Rex Orange County

Joji

George Miller (stage name Joji) is an Australian/Japanese record producer and entertainer. His most well known tracks include: “SLOW DANCING IN THE DARK” and “Midsummer Madness,” to name a couple. His genre is Lo-fi Hip-Hop.

Alex O’Connor (stage name Rex Orange County) is an Indie Pop artist from the United Kingdom. His song “Loving is Easy” (which was released in 2017) launched his career a step farther in the “bedroom pop” category. His songs are very lyrical and each song tells a story. His poetic lyrics are accompanied by fantastic piano playing on a handful of his tracks, including one of my person favorites: “Happiness.” On others, he uses very different but interesting sounds that make each of his songs special.

Clairo

Chase Atlantic

Claire Cottrill, who goes by stage name Clairo, is an American singer and performer. Her sound falls under the genres Lo-fi and Electropop. Her voice is very calming which makes her songs relaxing to hear. Clairo’s lyrics are beautifully written, and even her cover art is creative and aesthetic. Her most popular songs include “Flaming Hot Cheetos” and “Pretty Girl.”

BROCKHAMPTON

BROCKHAMPTON is a music group based in Texas. They started in 2015 and they just put out their 5th album “iridescence.” Their genre varies between Alternative Hip-hop and Alternative R&B. Some of their most popular tracks are: “NEW ORLEANS” and “BLEACH.” BROCKHAMPTON’s sound is very unique and each song is diverse and very well produced. You will more than likely find at least one song you enjoy by the group, since their songs are so varied.

Rapta

Matt (Rapta) is a Hip-Hop/Rap artist with a very uplifting sound. Even just listening to some of his songs such as “See You” will make you want to get up and dance. His most popular track, “Know Your Sign” will have you falling in love with this artist. The lyrics are very well written and this track is just an overall 10/10.

EDEN

Jonathon Ng (aka EDEN) is an Irish Indie Pop singer. His songs are very dreamy and his lyrics are powerful. Not to mention, his remarkable ability to convey emotions and tell stories through both his lyrics and vocals. His song “XO” tells of the one-sidedness of one of his past relationships. It is not just another sappy breakup song; this project is both timeless and creative not only lyrically but instrumentally as well.

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Chase Atlantic is a pop band with three members (Clinton Cave, Mitchel Cave, and Christian Anthony). Clinton and Mitchel were both top 10 contestants on X-factor in 2012, which led to the creation of the group in 2014. Their music falls under four genres: Alternative Rock, Pop Rock, Indie Pop, Rhythm and Blues. I would recommend listening to their song “Cassie” first, because it perfectly represents the band’s vision.The lyrics are extremely well written and the track has a phenomenal production.

Still Woozy

Still Woozy is a pop artist whose songs are just under the radar. He creates a very dreamy and soulful sound. His psychedelic vibe attracts listeners who are interested in something relaxing but fun at the same time. “Goody Bag” is his #1 track and is a great representation of his sound. Listening to one of Still Woozy’s songs will instantly transport you to another world of peace, love, and positivity.

The Neighbourhood

The Neighbourhood is a modern pop/rock band with lead singer Jesse Rutherford. The group is extremely talented and they are most known for their song “Sweater Weather” (2013). Not only are the instrumentals great, but the vocalist in the group, Jesse Rutherford, is fantastic and even has his own personal singing career, appearing on solo tracks such as “Bloom Later.”

Jeremy Zucker

Last but not least, I end this list with a truly incredible individual: Jeremy Zucker. He is a pop artist most known for his song “all the kids are depressed” where he capitalizes on depression and how serious mental health actually is. Jeremy Zucker spreads a very meaningful message and creates remarkable pop songs for any occasion.

Lifestyle

Maggie’s Sweet Treats: Maple Glazed Gingerbread Snickerdoodles!

By Maggie Davis '19, Lifestyle Editor

[Fashionable Foods]

T

he holiday season is upon us. It is the time of presents, family, and my favorite Christmas cookies. The recipe I am sharing with you today is my favorite cookie recipe I have found to date. I know the ingredient list may look intimidating at first, but the end result is well worth it. Also, like my banana nut bread recipe, these maple glazed gingerbread snickerdoodles are great to give to family or friends as presents. Personally these are the kind of thing that I bring to my family’s annual Christmas dinner as dessert, and they are always a hit.

Tip: This recipe makes about three dozen cookies depending on how thick you cut the dough. If you don’t want to make all of the cookies at once, you can keep the dough logs in the freezer and just slice one when you need it.

Ingredients for cookies: • 3 cups of all purpose flour • 1 tsp cream of tartar • 1 tsp baking soda • ½ tsp salt • 1 tsp ground ginger • 1 tsp cinnamon • ⅛ tsp allspice • 12 tbsp butter (melted and cooled) • ¾ cup brown sugar • ½ cup granulated sugar • ⅓ cup molasses • 1 large egg • 2 tsp vanilla extract • Ingredients for topping: • 3 tbsp granulated sugar • 1 ½ tsp cinnamon • ½ tsp ground ginger • Ingredients for glaze: • 3 tbsp butter • 1 cup powdered sugar • ½ tsp vanilla extract • 2 tbsp maple syrup • *water of milk may be needed to thin Directions: 1. Combine flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and allspice in a medium bowl 2. In a large bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and molasses.

3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and gently stir until combined.

4. Divide the dough into two pieces. Place them

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onto two sheets of parchment paper and shape them into logs. Wrap them completely and place them on a plate or baking sheet.

Place logs in freezer for an hour. (You might want to check on the dough after 30 minutes and reshape the logs.)

Preheat the oven to 350º Combine the sugar, cinnamon, and ginger in a small bowl.

Remove one dough log from the freezer. Unwrap it and slice it into ½ inch slices.

Generously coat each slice in the sugar-spice mixture.

Place the cookies on a parchment lined cookie sheet about 2 inches apart Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until they spread, crackle, and the edges are set Allow them to cool while you make the glaze.

Melt the butter and stir in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and maple syrup until smooth *(Add a few drops of water or milk is it is too thick until it reaches a drizzling consistency) Drizzle the cookies with the glaze and enjoy!

Happy Holidays!

Worth It: Fitness

By Jenny Florey '20, Reporter

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orking out is a major part of the students’ lives here at Bayside Academy, and more than half of the students participate in a sport of some kind. In addition to balancing sports and school work, students find time to workout. So, which workout place is worth it the most? To answer this question, I visited three local gyms at three drastically different price points. Here are the results.

YMCA: The YMCA is like any other typical gym. There is nothing particularly special about the place or atmosphere. The Y, as it is usually referred to, stays open late for after school sports, and also opens early in the morning for the people who can't make it at night. The cost for a full time student through age 25 is $19.00 per month.

This place is very affordable, but is more for individual based workouts.

NOS: NOS is a family run gym located in Daphne. The atmosphere is very welcoming, and athletes work in groups with a trainer, like a team. The trainers are constantly pushing and encouraging athletes all at once. The gym is also open very early for before school/work workouts. They also offer individualized workouts to develop different strengths. Its $20.00 per session but will not exceed $250.00 a month. If you're looking for a high energy workout with amazing people, NOS is the place for you.

Pure Barre: Pure Barre is very different from the two other gyms previously mentioned. It's a studio based workout whose motto is “Lift, Tone, Burn.” The environment here is more rigid compared to the other gyms. The instructors are very friendly yet serious about helping people achieve their

goals. However, this workout can get very boring. To drop in for one class is $23.00, and a package of 10 classes is $200. A month of unlimited classes is $225 (unless you sign up as a new member and take advantage of their 1 month unlimited plan for $100 that they are offering now). This workout is best for people looking for fast results with a flexible schedule.

All of these gyms have their pros and cons, but my “worth it winner” would have to be NOS. They offer a motivated work out with practically no judgement. This gym welcomes people of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds. It also makes you the most sore! Working out is crucial to many students at Bayside Academy because it helps them maintain their physical and mental balance. So, get started by choosing one of these gyms that best suits your lifestyle!

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By Taylor Hartley '19, Editor-in-Chief

T

he state volleyball championship tournament this year was certainly one for the books! Besides claiming Bayside’s seventeenth consecutive state championship, the team’s journey to state was, as senior Anna Turner called it, “interesting, to say the least.”

On the morning of the bus ride to the Birmingham Crossplex, the location of the tournament, the girls upheld their long-standing tradition of practicing from 6 AM to 7:30 AM before school.

An Admiral Walk took place at the beginning of the day, and the restlessness of the students and faculty was so thick in the air you could have cut it with a knife. Everyone was hopeful for another victory, but the girls on the volleyball team still had a long road ahead of them, literally!

The bus ride to Birmingham was a grueling and tedious four and a half hour drive, and despite not having more than pine trees and the occasional rest stop to view, the team was nervous, but extremely excited for the next few days. As boring as the ride was, it certainly was not uneventful; the bus driver, who has driven

the Bayside volleyball team to state for many years, had the stomach bug. Coach Schilling made all the girls use hand sanitizer, and Lysol was sprayed in every corner of the bus. Thankfully, no one got sick.

As the annual lunch stop to Panera Bread came and went, the team arrived at their hotel in Birmingham, dressed, and went to the arena where they would be competing the next day.

That night, as the team does every year, all the girls piled into a hotel room and each said what their favorite part of the season had been and what they were thankful for. Each girl was drowning in tears because no one was ready for the season to end.

The tournament began the next day, and Bayside’s match against Danville, though it ended in a victory for the Lady Admirals, was, as Anna Turner said, “a wake up call to show that we couldn't slack off. We played well, but not to the best of our ability.”

During the next set against Trinity, Turner said, “Everyone was super excited and played enthusiastically. We definitely played better against Trinity than we did against Danville.”

Then it was time: the final set, the state championship. The stakes were high and the tension was unreal. Added to the parents and Bayside alumni that came to the match, a fan bus full of Bayside students and faculty drove up to Birmingham for the occasion. Needless to say, there was a lot of Bayside support in the stands.

With the copious amount of fan and parent support, outstanding coaching from Coach Ann Schilling, and the overwhelming support of the volleyball team, the Bayside volleyball team won their seventeenth state championship in a row.

After the conclusion of the tournament, Anna Turner commented, “We all knew we were capable of winning, but we had such a difficult season. So many people were rooting against us that our nerves sometimes got the better of us. When we won, it was really cool to prove everyone wrong.”

And with that, the volleyball season has ended. The only unanswered question now: how is Coach Schilling going to fit another trophy on her wall?

The Recruitment Race

By Jenny Florey '20, Reporter

I

magine you're sitting in front of your closest friends and family. It's the day you've been waiting for since the beginning of freshman year: you’re signing with your dream college to play the sport you live and breath for. Definitely a dream, right? Well it definitely takes a great amount of blood, sweat, and tears to get to this moment.

9th & 10th Grades: These 2 years are referred to as the “quiet period.” During these years colleges are not supposed to reach out to potential athletes. On the other hand, these young athletes can reach out as much as possible to future colleges. This is when you should be getting your name out to colleges and becoming exposed. You should also

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be attending clinics and camps to keep eyes on you. During this time students should be showing an appropriate amount of attention towards the college.

11th Grade: This year you should have a list of colleges that meet your athletic and academic wants. You also should have your highlights ready to send to potential colleges. You should continue going to clinics and camps throughout this time. During this period, colleges will reach out to find out more about you and your abilities. You should handle these meetings with a good balance of humility and confidence.

12th Grade: This is the year you will make your official visits. With most sports you get 5 official

visits. This means that the college will pay for everything you need to get to the game. They will provide transportation, meals, rooming, and passes for the game. But, you are allowed to take as many unofficial visits as you want. If you take an unofficial visit, the only thing you will receive from the college is a pass for the game. Then, hopefully you will sign with the school that meets your academic and athletic criteria.

This process is very stressful for all involved, and students have to remember that there are good sports programs everywhere.

It is also very rewarding on all ends when a student is recruited, because it shows all the hard work has paid off!

Photo by Mark Almond/AL.com

The Seventeenth Trophy

Athletics Preventing Varsity Sports Injuries

By Anna Turner '19, Student Life Editor

[CrossFit/Youtube]

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n recent years, athletic participation in high schools has reached an all-time high. Varsity sports help keep American children healthy as well as promote a wholesome lifestyle throughout adulthood. To ensure an optimal sports experience for athletes, it is essential to educate players, coaches, and parents how to prevent common sports injuries.

All sports have a risk of injury. However, the benefits of being an athlete typically outweigh the risks, hence the number of athletic participants have continuously increased rather than decreased.

A general claim is that the more contact there is in a sport, the greater risk of an injury.

According to Coach A&D, a sports-medicine website, basketball and football are the two most injury-prone sports in America, weighing in with well over 100,000 injuries annually. Baseball, soccer, and gymnastics follow closely behind.

The most frequent types of athletic injuries include sprains, strains, and stress fractures. When excessive stress is placed on a tendon, joint, ligament, bone, or muscle, it becomes inevitable that the athlete will experience pain.

With this being said, it is imperative that players take time off to prevent overuse. A high school athlete should plan to take at least one day off per week to let the body recover. If one is a year-round athlete, doctors recommend taking a month of your year to rest and rejuvenate the body. Senior volleyball player Annie O’Neill encourages athletes to, “Know when to push yourself harder and when to lay off. Be smart about what you’re doing on and off the field and court. Also, educate yourself on various injuries and prevention.”

Hydration and a well-balanced diet are two simple yet critical requirements for an athlete’s lifestyle. Foods that are high in calcium and protein are helpful in strengthening bones and muscles. Carbohydrates boost one’s energy level and help prevent fatigue.

Vegetables help boost your immune system and overall health, so do not forget to eat your greens!

Athletic participants should always be equipped with the appropriate gear. Protective gear, including padding, helmets, knee

pads, shin guards, mouthpieces, and eyewear, should always fit properly to ensure the most dependable safety.

Proper technique goes hand in hand with the proper gear. This should be constantly reinforced and practiced during the playing season of any sport.

Something that is often overseen by varsity athletes is warming up. Before a game or practice, it is recommended that competitors stretch, jog, and briefly practice their sport in the minutes prior to competing. This lets the body’s muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones get stretched and ready. As a result, the risk of injury is decreased because the body is prepared for activity.

Junior cross country runner, Ben Lane says, “Stretch as much as you can. It will make you a lot less likely to pull something.

Warming up is an essential part of staying healthy.” Ben is currently working through a broken foot injury.

In the unfortunate situation that a Bayside student gets hurt, Annie O’Neill advises, “Stay positive and work hard. If you begin to get negative and feel like you are never going to recover then you are not going to push yourself and you really will not. Just look at the bright side and know you will get better with hard work.”

The best way of preventing an injury is to listen to your body. If an athlete is experiencing pain, the best thing to do is to hold off on exercise and see a doctor. If there is potential for an injury, recognize that and get help early. When it comes to the body, it is better to be safe than sorry!

Injured? Call Beth Johnson!

By Avery Vosen '19, Reporter

W

ho can always be seen on the sidelines of every football game or in the physical therapy room? It’s Bayside’s athletic trainer, Beth Johnson.

Johnson received her masters degree in sports medicine from the University of West Florida and started working as a trainer at Bayside Academy in 2003, about fifteen years ago.

She attends every football game and stands with the team on the sidelines in case a player is injured. Johnson is always around campus and at every home sporting event making sure players and athletes are at their best. She is everyone's favorite.

Johnson works during the last period of everyday with other trainers to facilitate ther-

apy programs for injured athletes. She says the best part of her job is working with the wonderful students at Bayside Academy.

“Year in and year out, the students’ values remain constantly strong. Every class has a clown as well as leaders, but they are all great kids.”

Colton Thompson, a sophomore here at Bayside Academy, participates in volleyball and basketball and has had several injuries because of her athletic lifestyle. Most recently, during volleyball season, she fractured her foot. She went to physical therapy everyday for about a month. “Beth helped strengthen my ankle by making me do lots of exercises during 7th period. She also

gave me a list of at- home exercises to do by myself, so I could try to rehabilitate my foot and make it stronger to prevent future injuries.”

Colton’s day to day routine in physical therapy is to practice her 20-30 exercises.

Then she uses the Game Ready ice system to ice her foot and uses the electric stimulation therapy which applies electrical stimulation to muscles treating muscle spasms and pain.

Colton is only one of many Bayside athletes Beth rehabilitates to help them return to the playing field. Without her knowledge and help, Admiral athletes would not be prepared to play to their highest potential.

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