THE
SHIELD
Bishop Kenny High School | Jacksonville, Fla. | Volume 68 | Issue 4
FEATURES 8
Meet the Staff
NEWS 3
OPINION 10
A&E 12
SPORTS 15
New bell schedule adopted
Self advocacy carries women to their greatest potential
Kenny Kupid: Letter to my angels
Junior track athlete holds school record
THE
SHIELD
The Shield is student news magazine, published quarterly by journalism students at Bishop Kenny High School 1055 Kingman Ave., Jacksonville, Fla. 32207 phone: (904) 265-9390 fax: (904) 398-5728 The policy of The Shield is to provide a forum for student expression. If you are interested in advertising in The Shield, email newspaper@bishopkenny.org for more information. Letters to the editor are encouraged; submit to room 224. Names can be withheld upon request. The Shield is a member of FSPA.
Editor in Chief Elena Vincenty Design and Layout Editor Jessica Golden Copy Editor Grace Jennings Managing Editor Business Manager Addison Mark Web and Social Media Manager Charli Esposito Staff Reporter Sarah Roberts Adviser Jessica Durbin Cover Photographer Victoria Rojas Follow The Shield on Twitter, Instagram, and online: @bk_theshield www.bktoday.org
2 THE SHIELD • MAY 2021
CONTENTS NEWS
3 5 7
WORKING AROUND THE CLOCK ULTRAMODERN UPDATES CHANGE IN LEADERSHIP
FEATURES 8
MEET THE STAFF
OPINION 10 11
HEAR ME ROAR SARAH SAYS
A&E 12 13 14
KENNY KUPID KENNY KRAVINGS LIVING THE STREAM
SPORTS 15
ATHLETE OF THE ISSUE
WORKING AROUND THE CLOCK New bell schedule adopted for state guidelines Elena Vincenty | Editor in Chief
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new bell schedule will go developing three models. into effect next school “After calculating the minutes year in order for BK to met by each mod in a normal meet the Florida Department 5-day week, we determined of Education requirement of how many minutes would be 135 instructional hours per needed at minimum in a class course. BK currently requires period in order to meet the each student to complete new guidelines,” Broach said. 28 classes to graduate which He and Yocum proposed totals to 945 hours. Whereas each schedule option to the public schools only require 24 faculty and staff, asking them classes to graduate, totaling in to vote onEa preferred option. NC 810 hours. “We wanted [the 5 UE 8:4 6 Q E Fri :4 Academic Dean Michael teachers’] input because it was S 9 6 E 01 urs X 47 2 Th change UL a5-slight 10: length Broach and Assistant in the of 0 B D 3 : X E 201 ed 12 31 C said. CH W day,” CYocum : Academic Dean Laura SYocum the 1 X 3 D es D 2:3 Tu E modified the current schedule To meet E guidelines, E Florida X n F o F increase M and F the school day F will to meet the requirements A :30 by X 12 A A B adapted the schedule after fifteen minutes overall, 01- adding A : 2 ) B 5 1
K
* 36 B 7:5 1 C :56 8:51 . 12: d C 8:5 2 -11 nts: e 7 D W :2 D 9:5 3 11 eme :37 ( 5 E :22 ounc ts: 1 1:31 1 10: 36 1 n en 53- An al: 12: 37 10: rning ncem miss 1: : u s h i o o c M Ann rly D Lun a oon *E n r e t f A
five minutes to each mod, not including FLEX mod. “I was kind of nervous with the length of the day being longer,” sophomore Audrey Perry said. “But knowing it’s just fifteen minutes is nice.” Lunch mod will continue to be 30 minutes long, and FLEX mod will return to 55 minutes in length. BK is not the only school in the state, or even in this diocese, that has to change its bell schedule. “We found that many high schools around the state already had longer school days than what we are accustomed
to at Bishop Kenny,” Broach said. He remembers his days at BK when the old schedule was in place for almost 30 years. Broach added that the current schedule, which he says “works” for BK, is a product of two years worth of collaboration with faculty and administration. “We’re committed not to completely change the schedule,” Broach said, “but rather make minor adjustments which would allow us to meet the new requirements.”
E NC UE Q Fri SE X LE -2014 hurs U T B X ED 2013 ed H C C W C
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5 8:4 6 9:4 7 4 10: 30 12: 31 S 1: 3 X D es D 2:3 Tu E E E X n F o F M F F A :30 X A A -1 2 B 01 A : 2 ) B 5 1 * 36 B 7:5 1 C :56 8:51 . 12: 1 5 : 1 : d C 8 2 - nts D We :27 D 9:5 3 11 ceme :37 ( 2 5 1 : 1 n 2 E : u ts: 10 36 1:3 -11 no 53 g An emen ssal: : 12: 37 0 1 nin nc mi 1: ch: Mor nnou y Dis l r A Lun a oon *E ern Aft
ISSUE 4 • NEWS 3
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4 THE SHIELD • MAY 2021
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ULTRAMODERN UPDATES 100 building gets a glow up
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ver 60 years ago, Bishop Kenny’s 100 building opened its doors to students, and this summer it will be renovated. Organized by Vice Principal Vincent Saladino, this renovation is part of the school’s “strategic plan.” With the help of Auld & White Constructors and Kasparov Architects, BK will improve the function and aesthetics of the building, creating a sophisticated, twenty-first century learning environment. Each classroom will be equipped with a dedicated wireless access point, providing strong internet connection. State-of-the-art 75-inch Promethean touch screens will replace the current outdated Epson smart boards. “You can still AirPlay without doing Apple TV,” Saladino said. “And you can screencast your iPads and go up and touch and work on it and write.”
Classrooms will also have dimmable LED lights and blackout shades like the ones in the Carla Harris Performing Arts Center. To increase comfort in the learning environment, new student desks have been purchased and high efficiency heating and air conditioning units will be installed. These desks are similar to the ones in the DLC. The building will have updated security for the teachers, using key fobs to gain access to classrooms and other faculty areas. Each room will have new carpet, and halfway through next school year, the hallway floors will also be replaced. “The exterior floors will be done in the hallways over Christmas break next year because the timeline wouldn’t fit,” Saladino said. “The floors will also have a thicker grip to keep students from slipping when it’s humid or wet.” Phase two of the strategic
Photo courtesy of Vincent Saladino
Addison Mark | Managing Editor and Business Manager
Top: Model shows renovation expectations for 100 building classrooms. Bottom: Room 115 was remodeled during Christmas break.
plan will take place the following summer and will include the renovation of the 100 building’s two science
labs, the family and consumer science classroom and the four northernmost classrooms.
ISSUE 4 • NEWS 5
Need books? Gifts? Shop online or in San Marco! 1971 San Marco Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32207 www.sanmarcobooksandmore.com 904-396-7597
BK family owned - Go Crusaders!
6 THE SHIELD • MAY 2021
ADMINISTRATION CHANGES
Role of Academic Dean goes to Ashleigh Bradley in 2021-22 Grace Jennings | Copy Editor
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nglish teacher Ashleigh role. She was vice principal Bradley will assume the at San Juan del Rio Catholic position of Academic School from 2015 until 2017. Dean for the 2021-2022 school Though Bradley says she year upon the retirement of doesn’t doubt her abilities, Mary DeSalvo. being Academic Dean will Bradley has worked in differ from her previous education since 2000, and job in administration. began teaching at BK in “Kenny is over 2017. three times the size San “I will be working Juan del Rio was when with administration, I left, which means I counselors, deans, will be serving more teachers, parents and students, parents and students to ensure teachers.” Bradley said. academic achievement Mary DeSalvo (left) came to BK just one year after Ashleigh Being Academic and integrity,” Bradley Bradley (right) graduated in class of ‘96. Dean will allow Bradley said. continue teaching,” Bradley to focus on the learning Bradley will oversee said. environment, she says, which course placement, monitor Bradley considers herself is what she enjoys most about student progress, evaluate the disciplined and routine, but administration. learning environment, manage likes to remain open-minded “I think I speak for the academic labs, and conference in her work. rest of the faculty in admitting with teachers, students and “I welcome new ideas, that Mr. Broach has been an parents, among other duties. which, I feel, empowers incredible Academic Dean,” Bradley will still teach one others to reach or exceed Bradley said. “I’m so grateful section of English 1 Honors their potential,” Bradley said. that he will be available and sponsor the Kenny Angels. “I enjoy challenges as well to support me in this new “Personally, I really enjoy because they improve my skills position, but he’s going to be being in the classroom because set.” a hard act to follow.” I consider myself a life-long This isn’t Bradley’s first time learner; that is why I want to working in an administrative
Turning Tides
Vice Principal of Academics Mary DeSalvo will retire in June. DeSalvo has worked in education for 41 years, 25 of which she spent at BK. “I was a school counselor for 19 years,” DeSalvo said. “I loved working individually with students, especially doing the one-on-one appointments to help direct the students into courses that may be beneficial for college.” DeSalvo plans to retire in Fort Pierce, Fla., where she recently bought a new home to spend more time with her family. Academic Dean Michael Broach will fill the position for the upcoming school year. “I’m delighted that [Broach] is taking my position,” DeSalvo said. Looking back on her time at BK, one of DeSalvo’s favorite memories has been revamping and restructuring the services provided in the Office of School Counseling. “I would love to express my gratitude to…all of the administrators I have worked with,” DeSalvo said. “It’s a great camaraderie we have, such a dedicated group of individuals.” DeSalvo describes her parting from BK as “bittersweet.” “I have really enjoyed this position,” DeSalvo said. “You [students] have so much energy, you give us life, and hopefully we do the same for you.”
ISSUE 4 • NEWS 7
Get to know the rising senior staff
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ournalism 1 and 2 students are responsible for the production of the school newspaper, The Shield. The courses are restricted electives which any junior or senior can join. Each year, rising juniors join the staff as reporters and assist senior editors in production tasks. This year, ten students will join The Shield, making the 2021-2022 staff made up of fifteen student journalists. The senior editors hope to incorporate student voices into each publication through contributing writers, photographers and artists. To become a contributing
writer, photographer or artist, email The Shield at newspaper@bishopkenny. org, DM @bk_theshield on Instagram or Twitter or by submitting work to Jessica Durbin in room 224. All work will be reviewed and possibly put into the next publication. Make sure to check out each incoming publication to see if your work makes it in. The staff published this article in order for the student body to put the face to the name of The Shield.
The Shield class of ‘23 staffers
CHARLI ESPOSITO
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essica Golden is now the design and layout editor, which means she will guide decisions about the overall look of the publication: the colors, font styles, images and graphics, and formatting all pages. She enjoys creating lasting bonds with other staff members and being able
8 THE SHIELD • MAY 2021
Photo by Sarah Roberts
Elena Vincenty | Editor in Chief
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s the new web manager, Esposito oversees all activity on BK’s student media website, bktoday.org. Her favorite thing about the newspaper staff is the capacity to let the words in her head flow freely. She also enjoys the ability to be able to work independently. In her own time, Esposito participates in
to write reviews. Golden also dances competitively, is devoted to school, enjoys hanging out with her friends and going to the beach. Her future plans include attending an out-of-state university to major in English and journalism.
private photo shoots, CrossFit competitions, weightlifting and YouTube. She also enjoys listening to loud music and dancing at parties, taking Polaroids and playing Clash of Clans. In the future, Esposito wants to major in photojournalism and become a professional photographer for sports organizations.
JESSICA GOLDEN
GRACE JENNINGS
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ddison Mark will serve as the managing editor, and that job is ensuring that staffers meet all deadlines and keeping the staff on track to complete the publication on time. Mark’s favorite thing about being a student journalist is the excitement of writing articles that will impact people’s lives. She also enjoys the close bonds between each staff member. Mark is also
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opy editors read through every single article with a fine tooth comb, and Grace Jennings will hold this position. She will coach and challenge reporters, running through a series of revisions until each article is fit to publish. One goal she has for The Shield is to increase readership and social media influence to “get the word out to the students.” Her
involved in the Spanish and English honors societies and likes to do gardening work at her grandma’s memory care facility, Starling. She enjoys reading, going to the beach, scuba diving and spending time with friends. The anatomy course inspired her interest in the medical field, so Mark hopes to become a doctor or nurse.
ELENA VINCENTY
favorite thing about being on the staff is collaborating and having fun while still getting the work done. In her free time, Jennings enjoys reading fiction, shopping, going out with her friends and traveling. She also balances school and newspaper with dance. Taking AP Psychology has inspired her to pursue a degree in psychology after high school.
ADDISON MARK
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s the new editor in chief, Elena Vincenty oversees all staff positions. Also known as EIC, the editor in chief works closely with the adviser, being available to fulfill any role as needed. Vincenty likes spending time with fellow staffers and being able to write any style of article. She’s involved in
other organizations including Science Club and the Theater and Spanish Honor Societies. In her spare time, she enjoys going on runs, going to the beach and spending time with family and friends. She would like to go into the medical field one day and specialize in pediatric care.
ISSSUE 4 • FEATURES 9
Self advocacy carries women to their greatest potential Addison Mark | Managing Editor and Business Manager
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ost women wish to be acknowledged as strong, independent and successful, but to do this, we must break out of our comfort zones and stand up for ourselves. Unfortunately, women have a difficult time advocating for themselves. Because of long-engrained societal expectations based on gender roles, women are usually raised to be modest, unselfish and afraid to selfpromote for fear of being disliked, according to studies presented from psychology professor Ronnie JanoffBulman on the International Forum For Cell Biology website. Typically, women are more comfortable with helping and promoting others, rather than themselves. For men, however, the same direct and ambitious behavior is applauded. In her article, “Self Advocacy: Why It’s Uncomfortable, Especially for Women, and What to Do About It,” communications researcher Vivien Siegel said that often a woman with identical qualifications to a man is paid significantly less, but women do not question the disparity for fear of being considered money hungry or ruthless.
10 THE SHIELD • MAY 2021
Leading Ladies Women are paid 22.6% less than men with similar education experience, according to the Economic Policy Institute. Because of this, women must advocate for themselves in order to receive equal pay.
“I RAISE MY VOICE - NOT SO THAT I CAN SHOUT, BUT SO THAT THOSE WITHOUT A VOICE CAN BE HEARD... WE CANNOT ALL SUCCEED WHEN HALF OF US ARE HELD BACK.” MALALA YOUSAFZAI
One woman who advocated for better pay is actress Ellen Pompeo. She and co-star Patrick Dempsey had lead roles on “Grey’s Anatomy,” and while Pompeo held the larger role in the show, Dempsey was paid more. When Pompeo realized the unfairness of the situation, she stood up for herself and
was presented with a larger salary. The actions of a selfadvocating woman are regarded negatively while a man with the same behavior will be admired, according to research by psychology journalists Powers and Zuroff, and although self-promoting women tend to rate higher in performance, they are oftentimes not well liked, which can lead to slower career advancement. So what are we to do in a culture that insists on selfadvocacy, but then criticizes a woman when she speaks up for herself for personal gain? Silence is Not an Option Meghan Markle became a member of the British royal family when she married Prince Harry in 2018. A year later, Markle gave birth to their first child, Archie. Prior to his birth, the royal family spoke of concerns about ‘how dark his skin might be,’ given his mother’s biracial identity. In an interview with Oprah Winfrey in March, Markle described how this and other factors led to her suicidal thoughts. “That’s the sad irony,” Markle said. “The last four years I have advocated for so long for women to use their
voice, and then I was silent.” Markle struggled with the decision to confront the family who, she says, made her feel worthless. She and her husband decided to leave the monarchy. They pushed her away thinking she had no power over them, but she built herself back up and advocated for herself proving them wrong. On the Shoulders of Giants All around the world, there are powerful, inspiring women proving that we are not the weaker sex, but to be viewed as equals, we must speak up for ourselves, even when it’s difficult. Throughout history, women such as Zendaya, Rosa Parks, Malala Yousafzai, Kamala Harris, Issa Rae and Taylor Swift have all broken out of their comfort zones when they needed to stand up for themselves. They set examples for girls and women around the world when they chose not to be diminished, to keep getting up and using their voices to not only selfadvocate for themselves, but to advocate for those around us. When we walk into a room, we will lift up our heads and show the world what women can do.
SARAH SAYS
Seeing through fake friends Sarah Roberts | Staff Reporter
Constant Guilt Trips
Fake friends will make you do what they want by using your feelings against you. This is a toxic trait that you want to avoid. For example, if you have to go to the library to study, your fake friend may find a way to convince you to go to the movies. These friends complain that “you never want to hang out with me” or “you always want to go home and study.” True friends will not make you feel bad about having to go home, and, if anything, may try to help you study.
Hypcritical About Everything
You decide you are going to wear a new graphic
t-shirt with your favorite band on it, when your fake friend tells you not to wear it ever again. He or she says it is an ugly shirt, but the next day, that same friend shows up with that shirt on. They will tell you one thing but do another, making you confused about the whole matter. True friends would truthfully comment on your shirt. If he or she likes it, your friend will ask where you bought it so that friend could buy one, or if not, that friend may just say they do not like the band.
Talks About You Behind Your Back
As much of a cliche as this is, it is a tried and true red flag about fake friends. He or she may tell someone how you are annoying and how friends only hang out with you out of charity. When you find out about it and confront him or her, fake friends deny the whole thing only to do it again. Fake friends will spread cruel rumors about you, and then turn around and deny ever doing so. A true friend will hang out with you because he or she wants to be around you and will not talk badly about you to anyone else.
Graphic courtesy of Aleksandra Hila
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hroughout life, friends come and go. We may have some for the rest of our lives, while others will be there for a short time. True friends and fake friends are all around us. While true friends uplift you, fake friends will try to tear you down. Fake friends will be there for you when it’s convenient for them. Make sure to know the red flags that indicate fake friends to keep you with true ones.
It does not matter if you have been friends with someone since elementary school or if your parents are friends, fake friends are no good for you and will only tear you down. A true friend may not be someone you have known
very long or see that often, but when you two are together, you are comfortable being yourself and they uplift you. He or she will encourage you to chase your dreams. Be sure to keep the true friends close and leave the fake friends behind.
ISSUE 4 • OPINIONS 11
KENNY KUPID
Letter to my angels, just for giggles
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ello angels, It’s been a while since I’ve been out in the halls of BK striking young love birds with my arrow. Don’t worry; I’m back again to help solve all your love problems. While I was in Kupid Quarantine, new relationships, questions and dating obstacles arose. The pandemic made cities lockdown and couples learned to strengthen their relationships via internet communication. Dates were set up through FaceTime or Zoom instead of in person. Social distancing doesn’t allow for cuddling and watching a movie together, but groupvideo streaming became available on many platforms like Disney+ to allow couples to enjoy time together while apart. Needless to say, love during the pandemic has forever changed the way
12 THE SHIELD • MAY 2021
we communicate and the interactions couples can have. This new way of dating can be difficult, so here are some tips for a thriving relationship during the pandemic.
“Love during the pandemic has forever changed the way we communicate and the interactions couples can have” KENNY KUPID
Maintain daily communication. One of the key parts of a relationship is being there for one another. Discussing the inner workings of your day via FaceTime, text, Snapchat or any platform allows the other person to be involved in your life. It’s a simple yet pivotal way to still connect
your love bug. Be creative. In the last year, normal date ideas were no longer useful and pandemic-style dating can be drab. Consider taking walks and hikes, picnics, painting, cooking or baking, riding bikes, making Tik Tok videos, photo shoots of each other, board and card games, drive-in movies and tanning are some fresh ideas. Have patience and empathy. Understand and accept that people feel uncertain and anxious during this unprecedented time, and allow patience when a person does not have the time or energy that day. It does not mean they don’t appreciate you; they may just need a break. Keep it small. If all the pandemic dating and Zoom calls start taking a toll on you and you miss physical connection, k e e p your friend group
small and create a personal bubble. Keep track of who you hang out with and who you come in contact with. Personal contact tracing can allow you to see friends and family safely. Make sure to take precautions to ensure everyone stays safe from COVID-19 by wearing a mask, using hand sanitizer and washing your hands frequently. Try to hold events outside when possible or spread out. When available, protect yourself by receiving the COVID-19 vaccine at local pharmacies and vaccination sites. 5. Remember that love is kind. Be gentle to those you love and cherish them. If you truly value someone, then treat them as you wish to be treated. For inquiries, questions and advice, fill out the Google form each month on Schoology to receive Kenny Kupid advice. Stay safe, my angels.
KENNY KRAVINGS
Review of three burger joints at the beaches Jessica Golden | Design and Layout Editor
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hen I started thinking about what I was craving for Issue 4, I automatically thought ‘burgers’ because summer is the time for grilling and backyard cookouts. It just so happens that the best burger joints I could think of are all out at the beaches. Graffiti Junktion is located in South Jacksonville Beach near Larry’s Giant Subs and Kazu Sushi Burrito. This restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating and inside you’ll find the walls are filled with “graffiti” art. The name is fitting for the environment as it fits the beach culture with a laid back atmosphere and a young staff. Televisions with different sports playing at all times keeps the restaurant on its toes, especially when
there’s a big game on. While Graffiti Junktion is known for its burgers, labeling itself an “American Burger Bar,” the menu has a surprising variety of items. I ordered the build your own burger called the “Lil Juicy,” meaning the size of the beef patty is smaller than the other option serving size, called the “Big & Juicy.” It came topped with lettuce, tomato and pickles and I added American cheese. With the build your own option you
are able to add any cheese, vegetables and other toppings such as bacon, avocado or fried egg. The “Lil Juicy” was $9. Overall, the price was reasonable and the service was good. I would definitely recommend going here after spending a long day out in the sun on Jacksonville Beach for a relaxed meal.
Graffiti Junktion 265 5th Ave N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 (904) 372-9985 @graffitijunktionjacksonville
Known for its Edgar Allen Poe themed decor, Poe’s Tavern is located in the Beaches Town Center in Atlantic Beach. The walls are lined with portraits of the American writer as well as quotes, poems and artifacts from his life and the restaurant is known for its gourmet hamburgers, which are all titled for and inspired by his poems. The interior is dimly lit, most likely to resemble the
ominous feeling that Poe portrays in many of his writings. I ordered the “Pit & Pendulum” burger, which comes with a half-pound beef patty with lettuce, tomato, pickles, fried onions, applewood bacon and cheddar cheese. It came with a side of fries, but you have the choice of potato salad, marinated bacon-blue cheese slaw or fresh fruit. The portion was large enough that my dad and I split it and were still full
afterwards. The beef burger was $11.75, but all burgers can be made with your choice of beef, chicken or vegetable which are all prepared onsite. The food at this restaurant is a bit heavier, meaning the meal filled me up much faster than normal burger joints and pricier. I would recommend it for a sit down dinner and be prepared to be extra full when you leave. Personally, I’d choose pants with an elastic waistband.
Poe’s Tavern 363 Atlantic Blvd., Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 (904) 241-7637 @poestavernab
There are three M Shack restaurants: Beaches Town Center, St. John’s Town Center and Nocatee Town Center. In keeping with the theme, I visited the location in the Beaches Town Center next to Ragtime Bar. The staff was friendly and helpful during my entire experience. A few of them even thanked me for dining with them. The patrons in the restaurant are your typical beach goers: no shoes, bathing suits and messy hair. M Shack is a counter service restaurant where you order at the register and sit wherever you please, then they give you
a number and bring the food to you when it is ready. The menus are written on large chalkboards. They have many different burger options as well as milkshake flavors that will blow your socks off. As well as the usual chocolate, vanilla and strawberry, M Shack offers Oreo cheesecake, pecan pie, peanut butter, cookies and cream, marshmallow brulee and Bananas Foster milkshakes. I ordered the specialty M Burger with a side of house fries and a chocolate milkshake. The M burger has a beef patty, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles and
“shack sauce.” While it seems like a regular burger joint, this burger hits the spot every time. The M burger was $6.89, which is the cheapest of all three venues, but this was the only place where the fries were not included. The milkshake was just the right consistency and compared to the chocolate milkshake at The Loop it is much thicker. It came in a plastic cup with an extra wide straw, priced at $3.75. M Shack is an affordable pit stop on the way home from the beach or even to take a break from the sun in their “come as you are, order what you want” atmosphere.
M Shack 299 Atlantic Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 (904) 241-2599 @mshackburgers
ISSUE 4 • A&E 13
LIVING THE STREAM
World of magic, monsters and war brings viewers into fantastical realm Grace Jennings | Copy Editor
14 THE SHIELD • MAY 2021
Photo courtesy of Netflix
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lina Starkov holds onto her best friend for dear life, summoning light in every direction through the thick fog of The Fold, sparking her journey as the Sun Summoner. With the discovery of this magical power, she will now have to decide between her new life of power, or her old life as a simple mapmaker. Netflix’s adaptation of the novel “Shadow and Bone” introduces a fantastical world called the Grishaverse. The show takes place in a fictional realm where the nation Ravka has been split into east and west territories by “The Fold,” a dark barrier full of monsters that make it extremely dangerous to cross. West Ravka is full of wealth while East Ravka suffers from lack of supplies coming through the fold. In this world, some humans, called Grisha, are gifted with special abilities such as summoning fire or manipulating air. Lead actress Jessie Mei Li stars as Starkov, an orphan mapmaker whose world is turned upside down when she is discovered to be the Sun Summoner, a one-of-akind powerful Grisha who can summon pure light. Starkov is faced with stepping up to expectations and working with General Kirigan, also known as the Darkling, who is played by Ben Barnes, to
destroy the Fold or fleeing his possible dangers to search for a magical stag with her childhood companion Oretsev, played by Archie Renaux. You may recognize Ben Barnes from another popular fantasy adaptation “The Chronicles of Narnia” where he played Prince Caspian. During her troubles of facing her power, Starkov is being hunted by three Dregs, a band of gang members who seek to kidnap her for a bountiful reward. The leader
Kaz Brekker, played by Freddy Carter, is an expert thief and owner of The Crow Club who works to make money through underhanded jobs. Amita Suman plays Inej Ghafa, a member of the Dregs who is a skilled spy and assassin who can slip past anyone without notice. Jesper Fahey, played by Kit Young, is the Dreg’s charismatic and quick-witted sharpshooter. The series is based on a popular fantasy novel by Leigh Bardugo. Fans claim
that, though the show is quite close to the book, it is noticeable that the producers took creative liberties. For instance, in the series Starkov is half Shu, a fictional Asian nation warring with Ravka, which was not mentioned in the book. A major difference is the inclusion of the Dregs’ storyline, which was not featured in the “Shadow and Bone” trilogy, but only later in a separate novel called “Six of Crows.” The addition of the Dregs adds to the complication of the plot and allows the viewer to see the story from different perspectives. Their storyline gives excitement and adventure to compliment the seriousness of Starkov’s. This show combines style from various time periods and cultures, giving the setting a familiar yet fantastical aesthetic that is timeless. Each aspect of the intricate costumes and sets keep it visually appealing. The production crew does an excellent job at world building and makes the magical realm feel real. I would recommend it to viewers of all genres, as this show encompasses many enticing aspects: love troubles, a hero’s journey and self-discovery. If you enjoyed “The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina” or “The Witcher” you will enjoy this series.
ATHLETE OF THE ISSUE Junior track athlete holds school record Charli Esposito | Web and Social Media Manager
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our-year old Noah Straley sat in front of his TV and watched as Jamaican track star Usain Bolt became the world’s fastest man on Aug. 9, 2008 at the Beijing Olympics, running the fastest 100m and 200m ever. Now a junior, Straley has been a varsity track and field athlete since his freshman year. He tried out for the team because of his interest in “being the fastest man in the world.” He dreamed of following in the footsteps of Bolt after seeing him on TV all those years ago. “I wanted to be just as fast as him [Bolt]… one day faster,” Straley said. Straley specifically trains and competes in the 100m, 200m, 400m and the long jump for BK. Outside of school, he is a competitor for Top End Track Club. Through club competitions, Straley earned the All-American award by winning third place at the Junior Olympics with a long jump of 6.28m, according to AAUsports.org.
Junior Noah Straley mock setting up on the block to take off for a race. Below photo illustration progression of Straley in a long jump.
When he is training during the on and off seasons, he targets improving his “physical running power… [my] efficiency and speed, when I run,” Straley said. He won the National Championship for his age group with a meet and personal record. As of May 8, Straley holds the BK record for the long jump with a stat of 6.98 meter jump. “I want to make my people proud, like my mom and friends,” Straley said. “And I enjoy the rush of winning.”
Becoming a high school track star has taught him hard work and determination. “It’s taught me about the ups and downs of winning and losing,” Straley said. “My teammates taught me how to stay out of my head before a meet.” He plans to pursue college athletics as his main goal during his senior year. His top schools include LSU and University of Houston, and he hopes to receive full scholarships for his athletic abilities. In addition to athletics,
Straley has been a part of NJROTC since freshman year, a leadership program designed to develop self-discipline and confidence. “NJROTC has taught me a lot of lessons that will hopefully help me later in life,” Straley said. “Especially with my dedication and discipline with running track.” If Straley’s athletic abilities bring success, he would like to train for the Olympics. “Of course I’d like to be in the Olympics,” Straley said. “That’s an elite runner’s ultimate goal...winning gold, of course.” According to FoxSports. com, track and field is one of the most competitive sports in the Olympics. “[I] will have to put in lots of work and years of determination to get there, [but] it will all be worth it for the rush of running and winning a medal.” Straley’s running career has just started, yet has already won national titles, made personal records and made his four-year-old self “proud of where I’ve ran so far.”
ISSUE 4 • SPORTS 15
