THE STUDENT MAGAZINE OF HAMMOND SCHOOL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHRISTINA RIZOS’ SOUTH CAMPUS RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT
by Alex Magargle
Christina Rizos (Class of 2025) has been seen on stage in both plays and choral concerts. She also excels academically, taking Mr. R’s post-AP math class. However, one thing that a normal Hammond student doesn’t see is what happens on South Campus. Here, Christina works on her research project that she began freshman year.
This project is centered around the Chinese Privet, a dangerous invasive species covering South Campus and much of the southeastern U.S.
When Christina started her research, she wasn’t exactly sure what she wanted to do or how to go about it. So, she decided to ask Mr. Rice about what she could be doing. Immediately, he thought of an environmental problem she could help research. This was the invasion of the Privet, which piqued her interest. Working with him, she conducted experiments to test the Privet’s effects. The most important part of her research was building a good procedure for researching. Every detail mattered to her, and every part of the process had to be supported.
Blocking off two similar parts of South Campus, she left one untouched (this became her controlled group) and let the other area be where she experimented. With help of the track long-distance team, she cut down all the Chinese Privet trees, removing them entirely from the second area. Then, with the privet no longer competing, they waited to see what plants would reinhabit the area. According to Christina, “The difference was night and day.” The area with no privet was now overflowing with new plant life. It was true: the invasive privet was extremely harmful to the biodiversity of any area it inhabited, choking out its competition and destroying the balance of ecosystems
With her first phase of testing successful, Christina began to ask a different question: How do you stop this? The spread of the Chinese Privet is a harmful prospect for South Campus and beyond, yet there isn’t a clear solution to solving this issue. Every organization including the SE-EPPC (Southeast Exotic Plant Pest Council) lacks a good solution for this problem. The best fix is manually removing the plants, an impossible task for such an invasive species However, Christina attempted to find a solution of her own She chose the Painted Lady, a caterpillar native to South Carolina, to experiment with. There had been some evidence that it eats the privet, but upon testing, she found out this wasn’t true. Instead, the caterpillars favored the native plants.
The experiment(top) and control group(bottom). Photo credit to Christina Rizos
But why was this happening? Initially, she thought the Painted Lady only ate native plants by nature. To test this, she introduced the caterpillar to the plant before releasing it into the experimental area. Caterpillars are known for their ability to adapt to new food sources and environments, however; the Painted Ladies refused to eat the privet. She theorized this was because of a chemical defense the privet has, one that the Painted Lady was not adapted to Currently, this is where Christina’s research stands. In the future, however, she plans to look more closely at the defenses of the privet and how its natural predators learn to cope.
This research came from her passion for the betterment of Hammond’s and South Carolina’s ecosystems. “The world is very interconnected, far more than we tend to realize.” This connectedness is what she finds most interesting about ecosystems, including human involvement. According to her, humans are another (albeit disruptive) piece of the ecological puzzle, and the Chinese Privet’s invasion of the US is because of that. The plant became so widespread because people thought it looked pretty, so they used it to decorate their yards. From the broad ecosystem of Earth to just the South Campus, Christina wants to help preserve the natural ecological balance.
She plans to start her undergraduate research with a professor and other grad students during her first semester. Although she won’t be researching the privet anymore, she is sure that whatever she ends up researching will be very interesting. Also, as an engineering major, there will be many opportunities for her to research further. For example, in the rapidly developing country of Rwanda, she can go abroad and help engineer sustainable infrastructure.
While learning about Christina’s project, I’ve been greatly inspired. Before this, I obviously knew about environmental issues like invasive species, but hearing that there was a major ecological threat right in Hammond’s backyard completely changed my perspective. Not only that but knowing how humans play a part in the spread of invasive species has caused me to be more conscious. Pursuing research in high school is already hard enough, but doing it to serve the Hammond community makes me want to look inward. Even if I’m not researching something science-y, I feel like there is good to be done at Hammond, even in a small way, toward bettering our community. Besides whatever complex math she learns with Mr. R, we could learn a lot from Christina: to be more active in our community and use our talents to better it.
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To anyone else interested in research, her biggest piece of advice is to find out what opportunities there are around you. For instance, most universities have pages where you can find what every professor is researching. Reaching out, being polite, and making a good impression are extremely important. Even if you’re not experienced, you can still contribute and pick up skills along the way.
Christina Rizos ‘25 on freshmen Nantahala trip in 2024 as a senior leader Photo credits: Hammond Smugmug
In Memorial, Fred the Painted Lady caterpillar Photo credit to Christina Rizos
Skyhawk Supremacy: Football and Competition
Cheer Keep winning
by Drew McCall
In November 2023, Hammond varsity Competition Cheer won its first state title since 2019 against Ben Lippen and Trinity Collegiate. Soon after, Hammond varsity Football won its 7th straight state title since 2017 in a come-frombehind victory against Laurance Manning Academy, tying a state record. This success was only the beginning for these two programs.
Fast forward a full calendar year of lifts, practices, hard work, and team building to arrive in November 2024. The Hammond varsity Competition Cheer team follows up an incredibly successful season with a second consecutive state championship title, over Ben Lippen, and winning back-to-back titles for the second time in program history Senior Grace Webb commented, “This year winning back-to-back was the best feeling ever As a senior, performing the best routine we did all season was the perfect way to go out!” The win marks the second state championship won under coach Saundra Guerard, better known as Coach G, and is a clear indicator of a bright future. Grace continued how Coach G “is the
best coach I’ve ever had. … I have been on the team since 2019, and we improved so much under her coaching. She is truly the best and has made this program into state champions!” Grace finally noted how not a lot of students understand competition cheer, so she was eager to share more about the team.
Just a few days after Cheer’s win, Hammond’s varsity football team took the field on Friday night in Charleston to complete the November championship sweep. Much like last year, the Skyhawks fought in a tough four quarter game only to pull off a great win via a diving touchdown play from senior quarterback
Andrew Turner to senior tight end Mike Tyler. This season’s win marks a new milestone in the distinguished history of Hammond football Moving from 7 consecutive state championships to 8 consecutive state championships elevates the Hawks not only to a new state record, but also into the top 10 of the national record books. With the win, Hammond joins the ranks of Miami (Fla.), Soldotna (Alaska), St. Joseph (N.J.) and West (Utah) as high school teams to win 8 straight state championships and lands 9th overall in the all-time consecutive title records.
Senior wide receiver Everett Edens noted how it was “a dream come true The work we put in day after day was a grind, but it was all part of the process” to win this year and strengthen Hammond’s program resume. He continued, “being able to play for the best coaches and with my best friends for 6 months is all a kid could want. There is no other way I wanted to finish my senior year”. Looking forward, the Skyhawks lose several impactful seniors, but have already begun the offseason work in anticipation of next year.
Competition Cheer team poses for a group photo after another state win Photo credits to Hammond Instagram
SKYHAWK RUMBLE: CLASSROOM
INTERIOR DESIGN WARS
By Theodore Lumpkin
What makes a good classroom? Within the hallowed passages of Barks Hall, we encounter moody bastions of eccentricity, bland coloration, and decades’ worth of musk. It’s been rumored the Rothko prints compulsorily hanging in seemingly every room are admin-mandated, permanent installations. Many have found they are most aesthetically complemented by framed PhDs. On the other hand, in the ultra-modern Innovation Center, we encounter, well, a lot of glass. Although these classrooms are described by many as homogenous “fishbowls,” the building is far from boring: complete with the Sci-dome, an aquarium, and glass cubes whose aroma rivals that of Barks Hall. We are fortunate to enjoy an exceptional building with personable classrooms. For our mere purpose of entertainment, we have selected four out of the top echelon of classrooms, which we will organize into a bracket to determine a champion, that is, the best Hammond classroom. We would be remiss to forget the honorable mentions, but alas, this article has only been granted a measly two pages. The Final Four, if you will, are as follows: Mr. Rice vs. Dr. Million and Dr. Ruehlen vs. Sr. Azpúrua-Borrás.
Mr. Rice’s Classroom
V S Dr. Million’s Classroom
Our first matchup pits Mr. Rice’s biological extravaganza against Dr. Million’s classroom. It’s obvious that Mr. Rice has spent entirely too much time curating the endless tanks of creatures, not to mention the literal aquarium, something we all take for granted. Combined with the mysterious contents of the extensive closet in the back of his room, it’s hard to compete with the quality, practicality, and curiosity that permeates Mr. Rice’s aura, and perhaps we have set our beloved Dr Million up for failure in this placement.
Although it’s clear that the Indiana native is the underdog, he does have a secret weapon up his sleeve, the crown jewel of his classroom: a misleading poster on his south wall. Inscribed with the caption “St Louis Art Museum,” the poster depicts a grand cathedral of old, a painting housed in the art museum. Comically, though, the poster seems to insinuate that the grandiose painting is a depiction of the art museum itself. With an austere Beethoven bust formerly belonging to Dr. Ragan, Dr. Million’s room, or BK-212 as he affectionately calls it, puts up a fight.
However, his ultimately loses to Mr. Rice’s, and this is likely a result of his shorter comparative occupancy, four years, which has prevented his classroom from obtaining a certain patina.
Little girl watches fish swim by Photo credit to Hammond School (Instagram: @hammondschool)
The poster of Dr Million’s St Louis Art Museum Photo creds: Reese Wingo ‘27
SR.AZPURUA-BORRAS CLASSROOM V S DR. RUEHLEN’S CLASSROOM
Sr. Azpurua-Borras’s classroom is hard to beat indeed It’s a perfect combination of relevant Hispanic-themed décor, including maps and flags, and memorabilia from his favorite video games and comic universes, capped off by a windowsill row of Spanishspeaking bobbleheads from his favorite series It’s clear he has spent countless hours arranging these items, and this characteristic effort from Señor creates an engaging class environment.
Meanwhile, his opponent Dr. Ruehlen has quite the eccentric curation of items, including president-scented candles, a baby doll named “Eunice” that mysteriously appeared last year, and, to cap it all off, the orange Florida Gators chair. It’s not something one would usually expect in a history classroom, but Doc has thus suavely proven himself to be a sagacious trendsetter and a man with a sophisticated avant-garde palate, even though he prefers to rest his stately gaze on his PhD. Although his classroom lacks an interesting paint job, this hasn’t stopped Doc from decorating it to the worst of his ability (simply being facetious, of course).
But they say effort beats talent, and thus Señor’s careful curation propels him to the championship round over Doc’s natural aesthetic discernment.
As the two-page limit sadly approaches, so does the crowning of our champion classrooms. It’s a tough choice between our favorite snake whisperer and our Spanish-speaking king, but nobody likes a tie, so I must hand it to Mr. Rice, perhaps solely due to the real picture of him with Justin Bieber hanging near his door.
Although there’s no definite winner to the best classroom competition, I’d like to revisit the question I posed when we began: What makes a good classroom? The classrooms we have discussed would lack allure if not for the continuous efforts of the teacher. Thus, the teacher makes a good classroom. That might seem obvious, as the teacher decorates their own classroom, but the teacher also infuses the classroom with energy and passion, and that’s what separates a good classroom from just a classroom.
Sr Azpurua-Borras’s bobbleheads Photo creds: Reese Wingo ‘27
The mysterious baby doll found in Dr Ruehlen’s classroom Photo creds: Reese Wingo ‘27
The famous and very real photo and Mr Rice and Justin Bieber, as displayed in his classroom Photo credit to Drew McCall (‘25)
CHEF DAVE: BEYOND THE KITCHEN
By Ann Pollard Barnes
From preparing and serving meals to cracking jokes, Chef Dave is a part of what I consider to be the “main characters” of Hammond School. In every popular sitcom there’s always that one quirky character that, while they are not always front and center, seems to be the glue of the cast. For Hammond, I believe that to be David Scarsella, or as we know him, Chef Dave. The reason I place him in this category is due to our oh-so-inadequate time with him
I mean most of us had never had the chance to have a conversation with him. After chatting with the man himself, I have found him to be an extremely pleasant person to talk to He mentioned how easy conversations carry into the kitchen, as the separation from the kitchen space to the lunch line is small, much unlike the “worlds apart” treatment we give it. To be completely transparent, I think we’d all benefit from trying to get to know Chef Dave a little better, especially since we’re just a glass divider away from him TWICE a day (no excuses!!)
Going into this, my intention was to uncover the sheer panic and frantic nature of what has come to be a well-loved Hammond tradition, Chicken Nacho Day, and urge all students to cheer the kitchen staff on like they were “your” team at the Super Bowl. However, I was pleasantly surprised (and scrambling to find another topic) when Chef Dave said he has it completely under control. He was unbelievably relaxed about the entire situation, which kind of impressed me. He is unbothered by Chicken Nacho Day. In fact, I think he welcomes it. Chef Dave is not afraid of Chicken Nacho Day, but Chicken Nacho Day is afraid of Chef Dave.
Now, while he has mastered the esteemed Chicken Nacho Day, Chef Dave admits that it’s still a pretty hectic day. Admittedly, all the kitchen really has to do is give the chips to the students and we do the rest, so obviously it is not a very fun meal for him to whip up. In actuality, his favorite dish to craft is Jambalaya, which he says is pretty good, so give it a try. Runner up for favorite dish was… BURGER DAY! Chef Dave noted how he is pleased with our burger selection. He makes the excellent point that he does not in fact have a grill, so he must make do with what he’s got, and the burgers he makes are pretty good for a grillless kitchen.
All in all, Chef Dave and his crew work hard to feed all 300 of us, plus the middle school, which is notably impressive. If you don’t think so, look at the lunch line literally any day of the week, and you’ll grasp the concept. And even though we don’t get sufficient time to talk to Chef Dave, I think we can all acknowledge his role at Hammond. Chef Dave has always been and continues to be an iconic character, whom we mustn’t overlook. Thank you, Chef Dave!
Chef Dave’s ‘24-’25 school picture Photo credit to Hawknet
Chef Dave’s pasta salad Photo credit to Maren Howard ‘27
Senior Spotlight: Darien Um
By John Cuda
To introduce Darien Um, I decided to ask a few of his friends to describe him in one word; and they described him as an “understanding”, “welcoming”, “savvy”, and a “reliable” human being. Hopefully this should give you a good idea as to what Darien represents, especially because I got “reliable” twice On the athletic front, Darien runs Track and Field as well as Cross Country “I’ve been doing it a long time [since 6thand 7thgrade.] In that time, I’ve made lots of memories and have learned a lot through my experiences.” “Dare Bear,” as he is referred to by the running community of Hammond, has made great strides in overcoming the challenges that he faced while running over the years. “I think the most shocking thing I’ve realized as a senior is that improvement takes a lot of time and perseverance When I started in 7thgrade, I was struggling to run a 5k... I improved steadily over the next 3 years to make it to about 20 minutes and running 10 miles. It took me a year to overcome the 19-minute barrier, and it showed me that improvement can and will come after enough time and work.”
Darien also is involved in various clubs, including Chemistry Club and Film Club. He says that chemistry club is important to him “because we get to do experiments and inspire children to be curious about science [on Science Night.]” He continued, “Film club is also great; we get to watch movies, and I get to watch with friends, which makes it more enjoyable.”
Darien is applying to colleges closer to home; his top choices being UNC Charlotte and Clemson, and he intends to major in Engineering (which, as his favorite place on campus is the Maker Space, makes a lot of sense!) “I can easily envision myself at both and I love the atmosphere of both. I’m looking forward to what my future will be.”
As Darien started in Pre-K at Hammond, a ladybug with Mrs. Barrett, he is very knowledgeable about our classes, and his favorite high school classes have been Mr. Rice’s Honors Anatomy and Physiology and Señor AzpúruaBorrás’ Honors Spanish 4. “[Anatomy and Physiology] was super interesting, and we even got to go watch open heart surgery. [Spanish 4] was a fun class where we even got to film a movie trailer in Spanish.”
Finally, I asked for one piece of advice for Hammond students. Darien says that “I think the best advice I’ve ever heard is that ‘Everything’s going to turn out okay and you’ll end up where you need to be.’ Do the best that you can right now; it’s all you can do.”
Senior Darien Um over the summer enjoying activities at an engineerring camp Photo credit to Darien Um
Darien Um ‘25 in a photo from his internship with USC
SKYHAWK RUMBLE: APHEX TWIN’S SAW2
By Aspen Brooks
What is the main purpose of music? There are a plethora of answers, however I’d argue it serves to represent something. This thing could be anything, something earthly and physical or the most unfathomable abstract. Regardless, the greatest music is most often the best at representing something particularly difficult. One of the greatest feats of musical representation is found in “Selected Ambient Works Volume II” (SAW2 for short) by Richard David James AKA Aphex Twin.
James was born on August 18th, 1971, in Limerick, Ireland. Throughout his childhood, he was fascinated by sound design, production, and music in general. By age 12 he owned his first synthesizer, and by age 14 he was making music. As he entered adulthood, he dabbled in DJing and soon picked up a record deal due to his impressive abilities.
By 1992, he released his first full length album, “Selected Ambient Works 85-92.” Although it is not the subject of this article, I highly suggest this album as a precursor to SAW2, as this is his most acclaimed album and is equally as fantastic. Soon after this album, in 1994 he released SAW2.
The reason I chose this album for review is that I think it is one of the greatest pieces of music ever made by a human. This is a strong statement, so hear me out. When thinking of the greatest music pieces ever, most people will talk about the Beatles, The Rolling Stones, various classical composers, and so on. Although these are -somewhat- valid claims (I will relentlessly argue that the former two are extremely overrated), I think what is more of a shocker is the presence of such a ‘small’ name, not the absence of a big name Who is this Aphex guy? Why is his lamely titled album a top album ever? I say, let it speak for itself.
The album is 2 hours and 36 minutes of… ambient. Yes, I said ambient. There are 24 songs, all appropriately titled (considering the name of the album) in accordance with their order. If I had to reduce the album’s sound to a couple of phrases, I would say it is an ominous and looming wall of synths and other strange sounds that engulf the listener in a mysterious, intriguing, yet horrifying way. The songs occupy an ethereal and indescribable realm, playing into senses that the listener did not know they had prior to listening All the songs both stand out from one another and sound the same. They drone and feel small and minimal whilst also being profound, provocative, and massive. There is something indescribable about this album that makes it cold and unknown yet at the same warm and familiar. It exists as a beautiful contrast between parallels in the music realm.
The album cover for Richard David James’ album Photo credit to Wikipedia
The idea of representation comes back in to play when considering the purpose of this album James has described it as the sonic form of the dream realm- the subconscious. He stated that he would fall asleep in his studio and upon waking try to recreate his experience through sound. Additionally contributing to the uncanny nature of the album, his use of minimal production and microtonal tunings (use of scales outside of the typical 12 notes found in western music) create a comforting tension-a feeling of wrongness yet safety and warmth. It is a perfect reflection on the unconscious dream state, a place of both comfort and terrifying mystery. Not only that, but all the songs can also be categorized as either sounding ‘ethereal,’ ‘terrifying,’ or ‘strange’ Most fall under ‘strange’ as this is the soundscape of the hypnagogic state: the peculiar transitive state between sleep and wakefulness, a very frequent part in our life. The others, more scarcely spread through the album, can be thought of as reflections of the beautiful dream (ethereal) and hellish nightmare (terrifying). This album, of mere texture and noise, is literally the sonic form of the sleep state. Try doing that with words or prose, let alone music.
It is utterly amazing what music can do as a means of representation, and SAW2 stretches and transcends these bounds There is a reason I call it one of the greatest Aphex Twin is a genius 9 89/10
Track categorization: Strange:
1,2,6,8,9,11,12,15,17,18, 19
Ethereal: 3,7,13,14,20
Terrifying: 4,5,10,16,21,22,23
Side note: I think that 24 is a masterpiece and transcends my previous categorization, so I will leave it by itself
Most famous: 3,20 Favorite: 5,7,10,11,14,16,23,24
Least favorite: 9,19
Richard David James, or Aphex Twin, DJing. Photo credit to NME
It's Another Wonderful Life
By Sullivan Epps
Around six years ago I was given what felt like the biggest responsibility of my life, playing young Tommy Bailey in the upper school production of It’s a Wonderful Life The fame of sharing the stage with big names like James Runge and Rosemary Angel certainly made its way into my head, as I became excited for many future productions. Just this past semester, I was able to experience this all over again, instead as grown up Harry Bailey. To do this production again was a special opportunity that a few of the original cast shared with me, and it was a lot of fun to be back in Bedford Falls. What made both experiences so special was the bond between the cast, becoming closer throughout the production process, as well as the ability for returning actors to look back on the performances of the previous actors Walking back into It’s a Wonderful Life came with many expectations, and many surprises
Everything I felt like I would do in this new production was in the shadow of the 2018 version. Thinking back, I was reminded how we all felt like a family, but now that we am older, it was unlikely we were going to recreate that dynamic. However, this new cast was welded together through some interestingly tough times. As school nights became more and more focused around the coming production, stress built amongst the cast on numerous things, like memorizing lines and simply trying to get home before 10 PM. Although the latter feature of these practices certainly was dreaded, The cast spent more time running scenes and lines together. Slowly, acting became natural as characters became extensions of ourselves
The scene I love to cite for this point was the Bailey family dining scene, that featured the following actors/actresses: Michael Rice (George Bailey), Ali Dorrington (Mrs. Bailey), Wyatt Cantey (Pop Bailey), and me (Harry Bailey). This scene set the stage for the Bailey family dynamic, which meant that we had to make it feel like a real family. However, at 9 PM on a Thursday, it’s hard to make people you’re running lines with feel like family. After running the scenes again and again and again, it became more natural, like a real conversation with your family. The once slightly awkward moment of carrying Mrs. Bailey in with George transformed into a hilarious one, as each of us became more accustomed to the dynamic we were meant to display. Now, to callback the 2018 rendition of the play, I was in an interesting situation; rather than playing a brotherly role (like this year’s show), I was a son, of a guy who was barely seven years older than me. However, with a supportive and affectionate cast,I remember family scenes feeling like family. My most memorable moment was when George (James Runge) kicked my toy from my hands. Acting surprised and scared here was the easiest thing ever, as he had been nothing but nice to me for all the time I had spent with him in the BOAT before. Walking into the newer show, I did not believe that experience could be replicated for me.
Actresses cheer for joy after catching the bouquet of flowers Photo credits to Jenna Barrett
I was completely wrong, as we were all forced together by our shared commitment to the show. The family scene itself felt like a real family dinner, and somehow Wyatt Cantey really felt like my dad. Now, you maybe wondering why I mention it “feeling” like an “actual” family so much, and it’s for one interesting reason. Both perspectives in the Bailey family have taught me an important lesson about acting. The best way to act, is to not be acting at all.
With the incredible casts I was able to experience both times, this was made easy, and we all shared joy in something that we had worked so hard on. The roles of George Bailey and Mary are both extremely difficult, as a truly insane number of lines, scenes, and extra work are needed to play such large characters. Six years ago, Micheal Rice and Chandler McNair had James Runge and Rosemary Angel to look up to. Just this past semester, they fulfilled these roles incredibly well and put in tons of extra work, including outside of practices, as well as acted as role models for many of the young future actors
To play a character well, however, previous performances don’t have to be followed, as demonstrated by the villain, Mr. Potter, who was played by Graydon Davies in 2018. Graydon’s booming voice was enough on its own to make a great performance. This past semester, Zachary Head instead relied on a snarky tone to demonstrate the spiteful nature of Mr. Potter, which is one of my favorite castings in any Hammond production.
doing It’s a Wonderful Life again, returning actors were able to look up to their predecessors, while also being able to add their own personality to each role within the play. With Mama Mia coming up, another repeat production, I am confident this new cast will similarly put in a bit of their own personality to bring the most out of each performance.
The cast posing fot their annual mirror picture Photo credits to Ali Dorrington
The cast acting during a snow scene Photo credits to Hammond Instagram
Holiday Traditions: Hammmond’s tree lighting ceremony
By Harper Saterfield
As the class of 2025 neared the end of their final first semester in high school, seniors took a step back to enjoy Hammond’s annual Tree Lighting ceremony.
The Tree Lighting ceremony is an event every Hammond student looks forward to participating in. This excitement directly mirrors that of the lower school, as Pre-Kindergarteners run to meet their senior for the first time. This initial interaction culminated with the painting of Christmas tree ornaments to hang on the tree and a recess full of laughter and nostalgia spent together on the lower school playground.
There is something very sentimental about seeing two students one whose Hammond journey is just beginning and the other’s whose is about to end interact and connect. While this celebration is special to all involved, parents, Pre-K students, and seniors, it is especially touching for those students who participated in it on both ends, i.e. those who have been at Hammond for all fourteen years and remember the ceremony from a child’s perspective.
“It was super special to be able to share that experience, that I remember as a Pre-K student, with my cross-country coach’s son! It was a fun, full circle moment for me!” Senior, Grier Eaddy, who walked alongside Pre-K student Tucker Franke, the son of Mr. Franke (Upper school history teacher and cross-country coach), and senior Everett Edens.
The pairing of seniors with faculty children makes the ceremony even more special, as this connection outside of the classroom strengthens Hammond’s community and fosters deeper relationships throughout all grades and staff
As the event came to its close, anticipation built in the gym as students and faculty prepared for the drawing of who would be going on the international country of study trip. As student body president Brewer Lamotte took the stage to draw the name of the teacher who would represent the Upper School in Panama, there was one teacher in particular whose name all students wanted to hear. The gym erupted in cheers after Dr. Ruehlen’s name was called. The Upper School could not have been more excited, as we are all anxious to hear of Dr. Ruehlen’s adventures next year
Lindsay Jackson ‘25 and her Pre-k student. Photo creds: Hammond SmugMug
Hammond seniors infront of the Chrsitmas tree, photo credits to Hammond SmugMug
With a Christmas tree adorned with ornaments and glowing with Skyhawk pride, the Tree Lighting ceremony came to an end with an outstanding showcase of holiday classics from Hammond’s select ensemble. Their talent shined as bright as the tree, but the true fan favorite was the final rendition of Feliz Navidad, started by our very own Mr. Hillard and finished together as one Hammond community.
SKYHAWK RUMBLE: INNOVATIVE GREEN CHEMISTRY
By Miguel Shim
Each year, around 400 million tons of toxic chemicals, such as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), are released into the ocean. This industrial waste is a significant and ongoing source of pollution in the marine ecosystem. Most chemicals are persistent, having half-lives that range from months to years. These chemicals can disrupt the natural behaviors of marine animals, leading to a lasting impact on the oceanic ecosystems
The fundamental issue of the production of toxic chemicals lies in the chemistry from which they are made When a chemical reaction is used to create a substance needed for industry, it generally generates both a valuable product and waste. Take, for example, the production of ammonia through the Haber-Bosch Process. Nitrogen gas (N2) from the air reacts with hydrogen gas (H2) to produce ammonia (NH3). However, hydrogen gas is typically derived from natural gas, causing the release of CO2, a greenhouse gas, that destroys the ozone layer.
The rising field of Green Chemistry attempts to solve this issue. By creating chemical reactions that do not produce any waste, it aims to minimize the environmental impact and promote the development of safer industrial processes These processes are often inspired by biological systems, as they tend to be safer, more sustainable, and highly efficient. By mimicking the wonders of mother nature, green chemistry seeks to minimize waste and use renewable energy, all while producing equally accurate and precise chemicals for industry.
Recent advancements in Green Chemistry include discovering an eco-friendly bacterium and a replacement of fungicides and recycling shrimp waste as a catalyst for hydrogen generation. Inventing these processes requires enormous amounts of curiosity, observation, and interdisciplinary skills. In an era increasingly driven by AI, our human traits – the inherent curiosity and creativity are becoming much more crucial. Green Chemistry exemplifies the futuristic path of how humans can solve our environmental crises as well as underscores the importance of human ingenuity, something that AI lacks.
Everett Edens (‘25) lifting his PKer, photo credits to Hammond SmugMug
A scientist in a green chemistry lab running tests Photo credit to Biogen
Out and Abroad, Select Ensemble Takes on Austria!
by Anika Gupta
Nestled in the heart of Europe, where history, culture, and music intertwine, Hammond’s Select Ensemble embarked on an unforgettable journey through Austria and Germany. From the grand concert halls of Vienna to the charming streets of Salzburg, and across the border to Munich, these talented teens experienced a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform in some of Europe’s most iconic cities But beyond the music, the trip was a cultural odyssey one that bridged centuries of tradition with the voices of a new generation. This is the story of their unforgettable tour, where every note played was a step closer to history.
The tour began in the memorable Melk Abbey, a Benedictine monastery perched high on a hill overlooking the Danube River.
The abbey’s Baroque architecture was awe-inspiring, with grand frescoes and gilded ceilings that left students speechless. The Abbey’s library, with its impressive collection of ancient manuscripts, gave the students a glimpse into the long history of intellectual and spiritual life in the region Next, the Select Ensemble arrived in the heart of Austria’s capital, Vienna, known as the "City of Music" for its association with great composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. The singers spent three days exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, and the experience was nothing short of breathtaking. One such unforgettable experience was visiting the Haus der Musik (House of Music), an interactive museum dedicated to the rich musical history of Vienna The group was able to explore the world of sound and music through handson exhibits, including the chance to "conduct" a virtual orchestra.
Hammond also had the opportunity to delve deeper into the lives of famous composers at the Mozart Haus, the very residence where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart lived from 1784 to 1787. Touring the rooms where Mozart composed some of his most famous works was a powerful experience, reminding everyone of the enduring legacy of one of classical music’s greatest icons.
Top row (left to right): Ali Doorington ‘25, Mahalie Moore ‘26, Anne Perry Porter ‘26, Dansby North ‘28, Brooks Brewer ‘27, Libbie Williams ‘26, Madge Miller ‘26, Reese Wingo ‘27, Addison Sanders ‘26, Anna Claire Sanders ‘28, Emily Lanche ‘27
Bottom row (left to right): Annika Gupta ‘27, Christina Rizos ‘25, Malan Jones ‘26, Lila Migliore ‘27, Alice Thompson ‘27, Elizabeth Cason ‘27, McConnell Marshall ‘27
Stephansplatz Cathedral, Vienna, Austria Photo Creds: Reese Wingo ‘27
Hohenssalzburg Fortress, Salzburg, Austria Photo creds: Reese Wingo ‘27
From the moment we arrived, the rich sounds of classical music filled the air, blending seamlessly with the historical grandeur of the city’s Baroque architecture. During our time in Vienna, the Select Ensemble also explored the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with historic landmarks and majestic buildings. We walked through narrow cobbled streets, admiring the architectural beauty of places like the Hofburg Palace and the Vienna State Opera. The city’s festive holiday atmosphere only added to the enchantment, with Christmas markets filling the air with the sweet smells of roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and big pretzels, as well as the sound of choirs and locals singing and playing music in the cold winter air.
Next, our journey took us to the wonderful city of Salzburg, a city immortalized as the birthplace of Mozart and known for its stunning Baroque architecture. The students spent three days exploring this picturesque city, with its snow-covered streets and the backdrop of the Alps making the entire experience feel like something out of a fairy tale
Our tour in Vienna ended with the Esterhazy Palace, another gem of Austrian history, which was the site of a truly special moment for the group. Inside Haydn's Hall, the students spontaneously gathered to sing, their voices filling the majestic room where the composer Franz Joseph Haydn had once conducted. This impromptu performance was a magical experience, blending the voices of Hammond’s young singers with the echoes of musical greatness that had resonated there for centuries.
One of the most anticipated Parts of the trip was the visit to the Mozart Birthplace, located on the Getreidegasse in the heart of the Old City. The museum, housed in the building where Mozart was born in 1756, gave the students an intimate look at the life and genius of the composer. With exhibits that showcased Mozart’s early years, his family life, and his illustrious career, the students gained a deeper appreciation for the genius that had shaped the world of classical music.
But it was the later trip to the Salt Mines of Salzburg that became the overwhelming favorite of the tour. The group donned miner’s overalls and ventured deep into the mountain tunnels, exploring the historic salt mines that have been in operation for over 2,000 years. The underground caverns were unlike anything the students had ever experienced silent, dark, and filled with otherworldly beauty. The journey was both educational and thrilling, as they learned about the history of salt mining in the region, the tunnels’ role in the area’s economy, and the natural formation of the salt crystals that gleamed in the dim light. The adventure ended with a thrilling slide down the mine shaft, a fun and unexpected highlight of the day.
Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna, Austria Photo creds: Reese Wingo ‘27
Esterhazy Palace, Vienna, Austria Photo creds: Reese Wingo ‘27
Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna, Austria Phot creds: Reese Wingo ‘27
Sophomore Singers pose for a photo together in a Christmas market Photo credit Hammond Instagram (@hammondschool)
Although short, the last leg of our trip took us to Munich, where we got a taste of Bavarian food and culture We spent the day exploring the grandeur of Munich by browsing the Christmas markets, going ice skating, and even stopping for a pretzels and hot chocolate. Because Munich was the last part of the trip, it was extra special in the hearts of the singers. For the seniors especially, this would their final trip with the Select Ensemble, so everyone did everything possible to soak each moment in and to savor every bit of the extraordinary city.
Of course, I’d be remiss to not talk about the most important (and in my humble opinion, the best) part of the trip: our singing. Singing in Vienna’s St. Peter’s Cathedral, the Salzburg Cathedral, and Munich’s St. Michael’s Cathedral was an unforgettable, soul-stirring experience. The cathedrals’ breathtaking grandeur enveloped me the moment I stepped inside, with its towering Baroque arches reaching toward the heavens and intricate frescoes illuminating the walls in vibrant hueS.The golden altars and soaring columns seemed to hum with centuries of history and reverence, their sheer scale both humbling and awe-inspiring. As the first notes of the hymn filled the air, the acoustics of the cathedral made the sound feel alive, echoing and expanding throughout the space like a living force.
For many of the singers, it was their final international journey with the Select Ensemble, making these concerts even more special As their final notes reverberated through the St Michael’s Cathedral, I witnessed firsthand as the seniors were swept up in a wave of both pride and quiet astonishment Months of dedication, 7 AM rehearsals, and shared struggles had culminated in this surreal, poignant moment The concert was not merely an end to their Select Ensemble journey, but a reflection of their growth, resilience, and the bonds they had formed. The harmonies between sound, space, and spirit were nothing short of magical, and it left an indelible mark on everyone’s heart. Our voices seemed to merge with the sacred atmosphere, rising with the vaulted ceilings, carrying a purity and depth that I could never have imagined possible in any other setting Each time we began a new song, the walls opened up and enveloped us in centuries of history and peace The grandeur of the surroundings enhanced every tone, each phrase vibrating with a profound sense of beauty and history The warm light filtering from the ceiling windows cast colorful patterns across the stone floors, adding a divine touch to the entire moment As we sang, we felt connected to the past and present, to the generations of voices that had resonated in these hallowed spaces It was as though the cathedrals themselves were singing along, guiding our voices higher
Throughout the tour, the students experienced more than just the beauty of the cities they visited. They connected with each other through music, forging lasting friendships and learning about the rich cultural history of Austria and Germany. The grand Baroque architecture, the opulent palaces, and the awe-inspiring cathedrals provided the perfect setting for their musical performances, and each concert felt like a celebration of the holiday season. The trip was a reminder of the power of music to connect people across time and place. Whether performing in grand cathedrals or singing together in impromptu moments in historic halls, the students were part of a long tradition of musicians who have shared their gifts with the world. In the process, they not only learned about the history and culture of Europe but also deepened their understanding of the role that music plays in the human experience. As the group boarded the plane back home on January 3rd, they carried with them memories that would last a lifetime memories of music, friendship, and the beauty of a Christmas season spent in the heart of Europe. The majestic churches, the inspiring palaces, and the breathtaking landscapes of Austria and Germany had left an indelible mark on their hearts, and the echoes of their voices would continue to resonate long after they returned home.
Street performers in Salzburg, Austria
Photo creds: Reese Wingo ‘27
New Years in Salzburg, Austria.
Photo creds: Reese Wingo ‘27.
Seniors with Hillard at the Munich concert Photo credit Hammond Mom
However, this would have never been possible without our beloved director, Mr. Hillard.
Mr. Hillard always says his singers are the face of Select Ensemble. He rarely takes credit for the performances, even though it is his time, effort, and thoughtfulness that creates each concert’s playlist. For the last 20 years, he has successfully kindled the joy of music in each Select members’ hearts. He has enabled them to have a confidence in the arts that some never thought they had He is enthusiastic and encouraging, entertaining students’ ideas along with his own, and incorporating them into a concert series He laughs and cries with the memories he recalls, always passionate when telling a Select Ensemble story, and he remembers each member fondly He brings together a group of diverse students and creates common fellowship involving beautiful music His singers may be the face of Select, but he is the reason Select exists From the alumni, the present ones, and future members:
SKYHAWK RUMBLE: PHONE BANS IN SCHOOL
By Parsa Adhami
As of December 2024, 8 states have passed bans on phones in school, those states being California, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Ohio, South Carolina, and Virginia. For South Carolina, the phone bans have only been active since the new year, and the bans only apply to public schools. However, the idea of banning phones is relevant, and a school-wide phone ban is more possible now than ever. As for why phones are being banned, it is primarily due to phone use largely on social media apps like TikTok, Snapchat, or Instagram being associated with mental health issues and poor sleep quality. With teens averaging over 8 hours of screen time a day, it isn’t a surprise that people are trying to cut out as much screen time as possible.
Our wonderful director, Mr Hillard, and his soloist, Addison Sanders ‘26, in Salzburg, Austria
photo credits to education week
However, I would hesitate to use these statistics to describe Hammond students, and there are other reasons for phone bans. The first is that phones are a potential cheating device, especially with the rise of AI that can answer question types almost instantly. However, Upper School history teacher Greg Franke believes “that the strong Honor Code Hammond has ensures that students act with integrity” and that the phone holders in classrooms do a good job reducing any potential temptation to cheat I agree that phones are an unrealistic cheating device at or phones before every assessment.
The final reason for phones being banned, and the only reason I might apply to Hammond, is how they distract students from the learning mindset they should have during school Taking 5 minutes in between classes to scroll social media is not ideal for somebody’s concentration. That’s not to say that a small break isn’t necessary, but Head of School Andy North recently gave a message during assembly about restrictions concerning the use of phones during free time, and how he believed that minimizing phone usage would be beneficial to everybody.“These phones are both a useful tool in many ways, as well as an unwanted distraction” said Mr. North during his assembly speech
Mr North made sure to express how he does not feel obligated nor want to take away phones entirely He made no official ruling, noting that these were only requests in “the spirit of the law, not the letter of the law”. It seems that to prevent frustrations against a hard phone ban, he wanted to try and informally prevent phones from being a distraction without taking away student’s freedom. Now, it is up to students whether the restrictions he imposed are going to be a step towards or away from a full phone ban.
All students, including myself, don’t want phones to be banned. This isn’t just because we like being on our phones, it’s also because of the practical uses of phones that have become ingrained in our lives. During the school day, it’s quick and easy for me to check on what my clubs are doing that day. This also applies to my classes and out-of-school activities. On the days I’ve forgotten to take my phone to school, I’m constantly worried about being uninformed that something is happening Banning phones during school might have positive effects on student’s focus on their classes, but it would come at the cost of harming student’s awareness and activity when it comes to extracurriculars.
Phone holder used in Professor Beaver’s classroom
Photo Credits to maren howard ‘27
The issue that Mr. North has with phone usage is that students use their phones during times when they should be concentrating on other things, like walking throughout campus or when they could be studying. Mr. North even acknowledges that he is not an exception to this, and that he shouldn’t be walking around campus glued to his phone either. Simply, Mr. North is worried that phones have made it too easy to communicate digitally instead of in person, and in a way that distracts students from all other activities.
“A phone has helped me communicate with my friends, like discussing school or getting materials I may have lost” Miguel Shim, Class of 2027, when asked about how a phone has helped him manage school. Like Miguel said, students do use their phones in a productive manner; however, it’s unfair to ignore the recreational use of phones throughout the school day. If students are using their phones during a bit of free time, they are most likely using Snapchat to communicate with friends, and if they aren’t using Snapchat, they are probably on some other social media platform. Some might be quick to call this a bad thing, given the use of buzzwords like social media that trigger the “phones=bad” sensors in people’s brains, but I don’t think this is an actual problem. You will largely see students on their phones when it’s hard to find and communicate in-person with each other. That’s why you see kids on their phones in between classes and not during lunch.
Phone communication isn’t just for fun though important messages between families and students aren’t something that can be ignored for a whole school day. Even if email and other methods exist, those methods aren’t nearly as quick as texting or calling. Even if communication with family wouldn’t be an issue with banned phones, being cut off from the world for the school day might be jarring for students and lead to awkward situations that should be avoided.
At the end of the day, the only thing that has happened related to phones is Mr. North’s small restrictions. Based on opinions from several students, the restrictions haven’t been hard for them to adapt to, and they can see the reasons behind the requests Mr. North made. However, Kinley Brazell, Class of 2028, made sure to mention that “I just need my me time where I can just check out for a few minutes and be in my own world.” Most students would agree to this even most faculty would agree with this statement. I think that the phone restrictions are completely valid, since I have noticed phones being used more and more over the years to a point that they have become somewhat intrusive to things where they shouldn’t be included in.
Phone addiction photo credits to The Los Angeles Times
An SC state board votes to approve phone-banning policy Photo credit to WCSC Live 5 news
Let her bake
by Ali Dorrington
W I N T E R P A V L O V A
1/2 cup raspberries PAVLOVA
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white or apple cider vinegar
4 large egg whites, room temperature
1/4 teaspoon Kosher or sea salt
1 cup pomegranate seeds
1/2 cup blackberries
WHIPPED CREAM
1 cup heavy whipping cream, very cold
2 teaspoons confectioner’s sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Phone bans have been mentioned a lot in this article; however, I really doubt that phones will be banned at Hammond. I hope this article has shined a light on the fact that phone bans would accomplish the goal of having students focus on school, but it would have a lot of negative effects that I don’t think are worth it. Phones shouldn’t be a big issue considering Mr. North’s restrictions, and I think that Skyhawks are willing to go along with his requests and are able to moderate when and how they use their phone, whether it is for communication, activity management, or just a little bit of ‘me time’.
A pavlova is the perfect dessert. A meringue base can be kept relatively simple, and the only thing that needs to be adjusted is the fruits, depending on the season Though a pavlova is a relatively complicated bake (meringue can go very wrong), you have nothing to fear if you take your time. This desert depends on your impatience and the combinations of fruits you choose. Bon Appetite!
1
Preheat oven to 250 F. Draw an 8-inch circle
parchment paper Turn the sheet over so the side the circle is drawn on is upside down Set aside
Use a fork to whisk together sugar and cornstarch in a small bowl. Set aside 2 In a separate bowl, combine vanilla and vinegar Set aside 3
4
In a very clean and dry mixing bowl, add the egg whites and salt With a stand or hand mixer, start on the lowest possible setting and gradually increase the speed until the eggs begin to froth and look foamy With the mixer still running, add the cornstarch and sugar mixture gradually until fully incorporated Then, add the vinegar and vanilla mixture Turn the mixer to high and whip until the meringue forms stiff peaks
6
Scoop the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, gently spread it to the edges of the circle Make it taller at the edges than the center so you have a concave to place the toppings
5 Then, the pavlova goes in the oven and bakes for 75 minutes until puffy and slightly cream-colored. Turn off the oven and slightly crack the oven door Let the pavlova cool completely (a couple of hours or overnight)
Assemble the pavlova immediately before serving. Place on a serving plate 7 To make the whipped cream, take a large mixing bowl and pour in the whipped cream Bring your mixer to a medium setting and gradually add the confectioner's sugar Whip until stiff peaks form
9
8 In the concave of the pavlova, spread out the whipped cream and sprinkle the berries on top.
The phone “cementario” in Sr Azpurra-Borras classroom that holds student devices during class Photo credit to Theodore Lumpkin
Pomegranate pavlova photo credit to Buttermilk by Sam
on a sheet of
SERVICE IN THE HAMMOND COMMUNITY
By Alex Magargle
Hammond places a big emphasis on service-learning. This is shown perfectly through the service projects we’ve done throughout the year. The biggest ones this year have come from Hammond working together to serve our community. These projects demonstrate Hammond students’ dedication to our community.
The first important project was the Hammond Day of Service, which happened on Saturday, October 19th. There were over 100 participants- almost a third of the whole high school. Students served lunch at Transitions, cleaned up after Fall Fest, made over 1100 sandwiches in the Hammond Gym, served at Homeless No More, and prepared the pumpkin palooza at Camp Cole. Another service event, and one of the most notable, was the HomeWorks project of rebuilding a deck destroyed after Hurricane Helene. While the HomeWorks project was supposed to be only three hours, students stayed for almost the whole day to help rebuild.
Ms Fowler wants a future day of service to happen during the spring, since so many people were not able to participate in the first day of service, and those that could participate did. She hopes to have more on-campus opportunities along with the volunteer services away from Hammond.
Another school-wide volunteering event, that just recently occurred, was the Harvest Pack meal-packing event. This event got the whole school working together for two hours straight on packaging bagged oatmeal, totaling 60,000 meals packaged. The meals are to be distributed to organizations like Harvest Hope and local food pantries. The event was funded by the donations of Hammond students, the packaging was done by students, and setting up and putting up the equipment needed in the assembly lines was done by students as well. From Pre-K through high school, every student was able to help. Ms. Fowler likes how, unlike the Day of Service, students of all ages were able to help, and they didn’t have to work around booking their busy Saturdays. Overall, the Harvest Pack event was a big success because it showed how much impact Hammond can have on our local community.
Right now, Ms. Fowler has a couple of ideas for more ways to help our community going forward. One is simple a collection of gently used backpacks. This is a great idea, since backpacks can be expensive, and people often buy new backpacks even if their old one is in good condition. Another idea she has is a “mini dance marathon”, which would be different from the usual dance marathon by raising awareness and not money, since this year is not a fundraising year, but Ms. Fowler still wants to maintain a relationship with the organization.
Hammond has a lot of service opportunities with many different organizations, and the only thing that makes them work is the students. One of the speakers during the Harvest Pack event, Gavin Brown, said “I would encourage you to use your time to get to know organizations like transitions That is the way you are going to develop your understanding of what the community needs.” With that, make sure you go help whenever you can and get as many people as possible to do it with you. An individual can make a difference, and Hammond working together to help our community will have a huge impact.
Skyhawks help build a deck the all school day of service Photo credit to Hammond instagram (@hammondschool)
Students working together during Harvest Pack
Photo credit Hammond Instagram (@hammondsch ool)
Success beyond the classroom, Student teams and clubs
by Hayes Martin
Hammond’s HOSA club has also had a very successful year so far. HOSA is an organization aimed at reaching out and educating high school students interested in pursuing a medical career. Hammond’s HOSA chapter has a tradition of HOSA week, a week in which the students within the organization take each day of the week to participate in activities that educate or spread awareness on topics relating to health and the medical field.
Hammond is widely renowned for its academic prowess. However, the love of learning at our school extends far beyond the classroom, as made evident by some of our many academic extracurriculars, including Mock Trial, the math team, quiz bowl, and HOSA. These groups embody both the academic and competitive nature of our student body, as they all involve putting in long hours outside of class to learn, compete with other schools, and ultimately enhance our education.
Math team has been preparing for competitions to start all year; most competitions start after January 1st. However, the team has had several victories earlier in the season. Most notably sophomore Miguel Shim tying for 3rd place out of over 300 competitors from the southeast in the University of Georgia Mathematics Contest. What’s more, Miguel has qualified for the national American Invitational Math Exam. Given the team’s long history of success, it seems as though the math team is ramping up for a highly successful season of competitions.
Ruby Brock (‘28) tking John Cuda’s (‘27) blood pressure at the HOSA stress booth. Photo credit to Hammond SmugMug
Hammond students recieving a CPR certification phot credits: Hammond SmugMug
Students Jack Rich (‘28), Logan Rivers (’25), and Zamam Lone (‘25) pose for a photo together during HOSA week, Photo credit to Hammond Instagram (@hammondschool)
Day one of HOSA week is essentially a medical themed “career day”. HOSA members dressed as various types of medical professionals and explained to other students what the career they’re representing does. Not every career represented by the club requires going to med school. Biomedical or biochemical engineering, for instance, do not require going to med school. Day two of HOSA week, HOSA members ran a stress booth in the IC. The stress booth both provided information on stress, as well as possible solutions and remedies to stress. Stress has been shown to have serious mental and physical effects such as anxiety, poor sleep, and can contribute to more long-term issues, such as heart disease and substance abuse. Stress is extremely important to be aware of because it is often easy to feel overwhelmed by stress as student, whether it be from classes, athletics, clubs, or possibly putting your sentinel article off until the last day, there are many factors that can contribute to stress, and it’s important to know how to be aware of stress and respond to it. HOSA members also ran a blood pressure booth, in which students and faculty could have their blood pressure checked. While this process is relatively simple and quick, your blood pressure can be ndicative of other health problems. High blood pressure can lead to heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, and other health conditions. HOSA members also created de-stress bags for members of the faculty and staff These bags consisted of anything that might help combat stress, ranging from humorous cards to gardening supplies if you’re Mr Stanberry
HOSA’s successful first semester extends beyond HOSA week. Mrs. Jackson led an initiative to have students become CPR certified. This process involves a short online course and an in-person training course. This provided students who took the course with the valuable skills that could potentially save a life or aid in a medical crisis.
Overall, HOSA has had an incredibly successful first semester and is looking forward to another one with their involvement in other Hammond programs such as Lower School Science Night.
Hammond’s Quiz Bowl team had a rousing success in the first semester. Mr. Henderson, a fearless, ruthless leader and trivia master, led a team comprised of mostly seniors (Theodore Lumpkin, Michael Rice, Cole Glenn, Creighton Cook, Aspen Brooks, and one sophomore, John Cuda) to winning the regional division. Quiz bowl competitions often follow the format of having a toss-up question which either of two teams competing can answer, followed by questions relating to the first question of the round. Question topics range from geography, science, history, literature to pop culture, cinema, and other miscellaneous topics. Due to Hammond’s massive success at the regional tournament, we held the state quiz bowl championship at Hammond. Despite a valiant effort, Hammond did not come out on top at the championship
John Cuda, the youngest member of the team said, “I think our biggest flaw this year was that we were too slow, which was the result of practicing overly difficult questions ” Despite this, the team had a very successful semester overall, and the quiz bowl club is welcoming to new members who enjoy trivia, especially considering most of the competing team members will be graduating soon.
Hammond quiz bowl team members: Cole Glenn, Michael Rice, Creighton Cook, John Cuda, Aspen Brooks, and Theadore Lumpkin, photo credits to HammondSmugMug
Hammond’s academic extracurriculars are also represented by Hammond’s Mock Trial Team. Hammond participates in the South Carolina High School Mock Trial competition, a competition put on by the SC bar association The goal of the program is to teach students who may be interested in pursuing a legal career about the procedures relating to a court case. Team members are divided into two teams: prosecution (plaintiff in civil cases) and the defense. Within each team, there are attorneys and witnesses. Witnesses play the role of a character created for a fictional case designed by attorneys from South Carolina. Witnesses memorize an affidavit and exhibits, which, when put together, create the larger story of the case. Attorneys create questions and learn objections to properly argue a case for the prosecution or defense.
This year, the case involves a criminal trial in which a high school athlete collapsed during track practice and later died in the hospital. The athlete’s coach is on trial for willful negligence which resulted in the athlete’s death.
In February, Hammond’s Mock Trial team will go and compete with teams from other schools in front of South Carolina judges and juries comprised of attorneys from South Carolina. Teams are judged based off professionalism, knowledge of the case material, and proficiency in courtroom procedure, such as objections and entering evidence This is only Hammond’s second year with a mock trial team, but with an influx of younger members, and the extreme dedication of club leaders Shindara Olatosi and Isabella Aguilar, not to mention Mr. Simpson, the mock trial team has a promising future.
Overall, some of Hammond’s extracurricular academic teams have had very successful first semesters, and others are just getting started with their competitions These teams and organizations are open to all students, and they are a great way to enhance your education and time at Hammond, so if you have any interest in these teams, don’t be afraid to join and get involved.
Illeana Lopez (‘25) next to HOSA’s booth at the club fair photo credits: Hammond SmugMug
Hammond’s quiz bowl team celebrating their regional win Photo credits: Hammond Instagram (@hammondschool)
2024-25 Mock Trial Team Photo credits: Mr Simpson
Hurricane Helene Relief
by John Cuda
Many months have passed since the hurricanes of last year that swept across the southeast, particularly Hurricane Helene. This hurricane cut access to power and clean water to many across the southeast; it destroyed homes and livelihoods for many more as well. While this disaster isn’t fresh in our minds, it’s important to look back on disasters like these and remember that people were affected heavily by them. Looking at Columbia and neighboring areas, various members and organizations of the community stepped up to help. On the 29thof September, WIS news published an article detailing some of these efforts for victims of the hurricane. In Lexington and Richland counties, the JC’s Outdoor Equipment store gave out free food and showers and even offered to cook food that people brought. Additionally, Right Direction Church International, Loosh Culinaire, and the Richland County Bar Association, among others, held a cookout on the 5thof October in another effort to feed those in need. In Newberry, the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office offered food, water, phone charging, and power strips to those who suffered a power outage. Zion United Methodist Church also held a community supper on the 4thof October and allowed use of their facilities to fill water jugs and access air conditioning.
Broadening the scope to the entire Southeast, it’s clear that our communities did not get the worst of the hurricane. Areas like Asheville had deadly, torrential floods that claimed the lives of many and caused mass destruction. Thankfully, groups across the southeast stepped up to help. According to an article released by Columbia news outlet The Post and Courier, Lexington man Curtis Fink helped build cabins across western NC residents displaced by the hurricane even with an injured ankle. Additionally, the City of Asheville released a statement providing resources that they had partnered up with, such as Eblen Charities, who helped victims of the hurricane pay rent. Also, when food and water distribution sites were open, they distributed over 3,000,000 bottles and liter cartons of water and over 250,000 meals. So, while the scope and magnitude of these storms can seem very disheartening, it’s important to look at the sense of community that arises in their wake and brings us closer together.
Hurricane Helene’s path on the east coast Photo credits: KomoNews
Damage from hurricane Helene photo credits: AP News
Skyhawk Rumble: College Football Playoff Reactions
By Cole Glenn
Over the past month, we have seen the advent of the new 12team College Football Playoff. The opening round was a sequence of expected results, with betting favorites winning all four games. This led to reactions from around the college football community saying that the losing teams did not deserve to make the playoffs at all. Some of these teams lacked the quality wins of some programs ranked below them, despite their superior record. In particular, Indiana made the playoffs with an 11-1 record, with their only loss coming to the only ranked team they played.
In the quarterfinal round came a series of more unexpected results. One especially disappointing result came when Boise State, our Group of 5 underdog hero, unfortunately lost to Penn State. The Nittany Lions stacked the box against Heisman candidate Ashton Jeanty and Boise State’s passing game could not keep up Notre Dame surprised the college football world by solidly beating SEC Champion Georgia 23-10. Since their loss to NIU, they are undefeated and look like one of the best teams in the nation. Ohio State outperformed expectations by destroying Oregon, the 1 seed and a team who beat them earlier this year, 41-21. Oregon had not lost this year and looked like a favorite to win it all The most surprising result, however, came when Big 12 champ Arizona State took Texas to double overtime. While they could not pull off the win, this was a perfect demonstration that despite its flaws, the expanded playoff lets in extra teams who will give us good matchups against the powerhouses who would traditionally make it.
The semifinal round, functionally, is the old playoff. Four remaining teams battle for the championship: Penn State, Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Texas. We can compare this to the old format by guessing at what teams would have made it. Georgia and Oregon seemed like locks, with each winning their conference championship and each having several quality wins and minimal losses. Notre Dame likely would have made it, with only one loss early in the season and looking very strong lately. The fourth spot would go to either one loss Penn State or two loss Texas, depending on how the committee weights strength of schedule
Indiana team storming out on the felid Photo creds: IU Athletics
Georgia linebacker Damien Wilson (10) gearing up to play another game. Photo creds: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Penn State quarterback Drew Allar (15) giving the ball to Kaytron Allen (13) Photo creds: Basic Blue Nations
This means that Ohio State would not have been able to make the playoffs if we were still under the old format. I believe that this alone makes the 12-team playoff successful. A team with two losses, one of which was to the number one team in the nation, was given a chance to play for a title, and they were able to take advantage of it. The championship is yet to be played as of the writing of this article, but will be Notre Dame vs. Ohio State on Monday, January 20. (Editors note: Ohio State won 34-23 over Notre Dame.)
This massive expansion from 4 to 12 teams has also forever altered how we think about college football. Teams no longer need to win every game, with some teams, such as Alabama, South Carolina, and Ole Miss, arguing despite their 3-loss records to make the playoffs due to strength of schedule. It also means that teams from worse conferences or with bad losses can make up for their early season mistakes. Notre Dame lost to a Northern Illinois team that ended the season 7-5, but now they are in the national championship. Boise State, even though they lost 31-14 in the quarterfinals, was given the chance to represent Group of 5 football in the playoffs for only the second time ever.
College Football Playoff 2025 Bracket. Credit to CFP
Many sports pundits and coaches have criticized the new format, complaining about the large discrepancies between teams in some of the matchups, like Penn State vs. SMU. However, this is not an issue unique to the 12-team playoffs. In recent memory, there have been several blowouts in the 4-team playoff, including Georgia’s 65-7 dismantling of TCU in the 2023 national championship. Blowouts are inevitable, as there are not always 12, or even 4, evenly matched teams in the country. The point of expansion is not to find 8 extra good teams, but to allow a few good teams who would not typically be given the chance to prove themselves, i.e. Ohio State. We also would never be given thrillers like Arizona State vs. Texas.
Coach for Ohio state and his quarterback, Will Howard (18) celebrating their last national championship over the Texans Photo creds: The Columbus Dispatch
Running back for Ohio State, TreVeyon Henderson (32), avoids tackle attempted by defensive back for Oregon,Kobe Savage (5) Photo creds: Mark J Terrill
Fan favorite South Carolina quarterback, LaNorris Sellers (16), jogging on the field against Old Dominion. Photo creds: Sebastian Godun
Advancing Art with Ms. Chumley
by Adelaide Helmboldt
Hammond School has always committed to the work hard play hard mentality, as students are involved in rigorous classes and various extracurriculars. It should come as no surprise that Hammond excels in their artistic efforts as well. Arts have always played a critical role in fostering creativity, individuality, and self-expression for Hammond students. At Hammond, the development of the art classes and clubs reflects a commitment to cultivating these skills in our Upper School students. Under the guidance of Ms. Chumley, a dedicated and creative Hammond teacher, the program has experienced remarkable growth in the past few years. Ms. Chumley is the Upper School Art teacher, leading 9th-12th graders through a variety of concentrations and subjects. Ms. Chumley’s class time gives students ample opportunity to experiment with a plethora of skills. Ms. Chumley has also headlined the student's involvement in establishing artistic clubs, after-school programs, exhibitions, and a robust Advanced Placement (AP) Art course. No matter the day of week, Ms. Chumley fosters creative excellence in and outside the classroom through inspiring students to explore and connect with their community.
To highlight Ms. Chumley’s dedication to her students, one must acknowledge her role in artistic extracurriculars. Artistic clubs, such as the after-school art program and the art club, have emerged as spaces where students can freely explore their creativity outside the confines of a classroom. Despite one’s level of experience or expertise, their Tuesday afternoons are an outlet designed to let students unwind. Ms. Chumley found it important to provide a creative space for kids to exhale after a day of rigorous course work every once in a while. These clubs foster collaboration, creativity, and personal growth among participants. The after-school program, for instance, emphasizes hands-on activities that use any number of materials a student can find in the art room. By incorporating fine motor skills and communication amongst peers, this initiative broadens students’ artistic horizons while maintaining a relaxed and engaging environment. Similarly, the art club serves as a bridge between major projects and regular coursework, allowing students to decompress while honing in on their skills. The informal structure encourages participation, especially from students who may be hesitant to join an art class. Diverse talents and friendships are curated on these seemingly benign Tuesday afternoons. Ms. Chumley’s ability to create such inclusive spaces demonstrates her commitment to her students and her efforts to foster a sense of community among Hammond students.
Ms Chumley being held up by the Hammond Spirit cheerleaders. Photo Credits to Hammond
Additionally, Ms. Chumley acts as a fa . Layman Hammond’s Ornithos production. Student presidents Barrett Brazell, Alex Dubey, Maxine Palisin, and Sophia White work alongside their peers to produce a collection of Hammond Student’s creative works. With Ms. Chumley’s sponsorship, the publication can still be primarily student led but have faculty support to fall back on. These teacher-student relationships and the sense of rapport between students and their mentors has really bolstered student involvement in the publication. A clear example of this is shown through Ms. Chumley passing an Ornithos member in the hallway and reminding them of the meeting that week, or Ms. Chumley spotting a student who could contribute to the publication and encouraging them to attend meetings or submit work.
Another significant part of the art program are the annual art exhibits, particularly this year’s winter exhibition. These events provide students with the opportunity to display their work publicly, highlighting their progress and creativity, much like an artistic display for professional artists. The exhibit encourages participants to take pride in their artistic endeavors, whether they choose to focus on personal topics, global issues, or purely aesthetic creations. Furthermore, the exhibits also strengthens the relationship between the art program and the broader Hammond community. By showcasing the students’ work, the school fosters a culture of appreciation for the arts. Parents, faculty, and peers are invited to attend, transforming the exhibition into a celebration of creativity and collaboration. The displays stimulates conversation amongst peers while students discuss what they like about each piece of art. Through this discussion, students grow their sense of community within relaxing environment. The freedom to explore and express themselves is central to Ms. Chumley’s and Hammond’s philosophy, thus using the winter exhibition to serve as a tangible reminder of the Ms. Chumley’s recent success.
Moreover, Ms. Chumley’s ability to connect with students on an individual level contributes to the program’s welcoming atmosphere. She recognizes the “diverse backgrounds and skill levels of her students,” ensuring that every participant feels valued. This inclusivity strengthens the program and allows Hammond to cater to a wide range of artistic interests and talents. At the heart of Hammond School’s art program lies
Barrette Brazell ‘25 using charcoal in AP Art Photo Credits to Ms Chumley
Kami Penn ‘28 showing off her Pixel Art Photo Credits to Ms Chumley
Manny Johnson ‘25 standing in front of his art at the 2024 art show Photo Credits to Ms Chumley
its AP Art course, which offers students a rigorous yet rewarding experience. The curriculum is designed to challenge participants while also providing them with the tools they need to succeed. In the first semester, students focus on techniques, ideas, and developing their thesis statements, laying the foundation for their final portfolio. The class rubric stresses variety, encouraging students to experiment with different media and topics. One of the defining features of the AP Art course is its flexibility. Ms. Chumley describes this class as an opportunity where “students are given the freedom to explore personal, academic, or global themes, resulting in a diverse array of final projects.”
This quote acts as a testament to Ms. Chumley’s dedication to her students’ ability to express themselves in what can seem like a black and white class. Each student is required to produce five official pieces and several investigative works, culminating in a portfolio that reflects their artistic journey. Ms. Chumley expounds on the requirements for her students and says, “the level of dedication and effort required for the course is often compared to that of a master’s thesis,” thus allowing outsiders to underscore the program’s rigor and high expectations. Through this challenging process, students develop not only their technical skills but also their ability to think critically and articulate their ideas.
The development of the art program at Hammond School is a testament to the vision and dedication of Ms. Chumley. By fostering growth in artistic clubs, organizing community-focused exhibitions, and guiding students through the rigorous AP Art curriculum, she has created an environment where creativity thrives. Ms. Chumley has been a recent, positive addition to the Hammond community. Through her work, one can easily observe her passion for teaching and her care for her students. With Ms. Chumley’s continued leadership, the program is poised to inspire future generations of artists and leave a lasting impact on the Hammond community.
The final product of Timmy the fish, which was a public art project commissioned by the governor Photo credit to Hammond Instagram
Stella Young ‘26 working on her charcoal portrait Photo Credits to Ms. Chumley
Left: Child Ms Chumley at Hammond Right: Ms Chumley enjoying Chai Day Friday Photo Credits to Ms Chumley
Winter 2024-2025 EDITORIAL STAFF
Drew McCall
Isabella Aguilar
Editors in-chief
Ali Dorrington
Graphics and Design Editor
Theodore Lumpkin
Cole Glenn
Associate Editors
Caryn Crabb
Tiffany Beaver
Will Garland
Cissy Pope
Faculty Sponsors
THE SENTINEL
THE STUDENT MAGAZINE OF HAMMOND SCHOOL
WINTER 2024-2025, EDITION VII