This football season, there’s more to look forward to than just the games. The Cullman High School Band is set to dazzle with a Paul McCartney-themed halftime show titled “Sir Paul: A Journey Through Yesterday.” Band members Aubrey Shaddrix and Vivian Tran shared exciting details about their preparations for this upcoming performance.
Junior clarinetist Aubrey Shaddrix says that they are practicing almost every day after school for up to three hours. Their routine includes learning the music, learning how to march and stay in step, and collaborating with fellow members to overall enhance the quality of the performance. Aubrey and Vivian both agree that the hardest part about getting ready for the show is memorizing their music and keeping in step during the march. Aubrey’s favorite aspect of this year’s show is the music itself. She particularly enjoys the Paul McCartney theme, finding the process of learning his music both engaging and fairly interesting. Aubrey is very excited for the school to see the show; she stated, “Putting the full show on the field is always satisfying, and I look forward to everyone seeing it come together.” Aubrey also stated that this may possibly be one of her favorite shows so far.
Flutist Vivian Tran, on the other hand, is “indifferent” for the final product of their show to be seen. For her, the easiest part of the show is just playing her music. She, like the rest of the Cullman High School Band, is memorizing her music to prepare and attending their after-school practices to rehearse the piece. Vivian, however, appears less enthusiastic about the progress they’ve made so far and has even mentioned that she isn’t very fond of the overall performance.
Some specialties that will appear in this year’s band show are “really cool color guard features,” the recognizability of the music itself, and climatic pieces from McCartney’s music. The show is made up of a variety of McCartney’s songs, including “My Love,” “Live and Let Die,” and a thrilling part of The Beatles “Elanor Rigby.” The show promises to be an excellent part of the 2024 football season, showcasing the hard work and dedication of Cullman High School’s band members and bringing well-deserved recognition to their efforts.
The Hilight
The Newspaper of Cullman High School September 19, 2024
Sitting Down with SGA
An insight on the spokespeople of the student body
Anna Beth Burleson, Co-Editor
Who are the voices for the students of Cullman High? Do you even know? I sat down with our 2024-2025 SGA officers to find out more about their role and what they do on our campus.
I asked our President Aliceann Kontogeorge how the highly anticipated homecoming theme is decided and what that process looks like. She knowledgeably replied with her answer, “We usually brainstorm and write things on the board and let everyone pitch in ideas and then narrow it down from there, based on what we like best and what would be best for the student body.” Ava Flores, who is our Vice President, just happened to be in close proximity, and she confidently included that “[communicating] with each other” also plays a big factor in the success of a productive homecoming planning session.
Aliceann filled me in, “We donate to Curts Closet and Cullman Caring for kids. They are important charities in our community, and we always like to give back where we can.”
For my third question, I wanted to know how the SGA officers guide the class officers for success. Olivia provided me with a quality response, “We ask
when inquiring on the topic of keeping things fresh at CHS. She told me that, “We get our fun ideas from social media and our more serious things from what the student body wants.” I also asked the secretary, Lillie Smith, for her sentiment on this. She said that, “We usually just sit down and look at all the ideas that everyone who ran for SGA had,” referring to the packet all hopeful members complete before the voting process. She also told me that, “[they] really enjoy coming up with ideas, because it is fun to sit together and talk about them.”
For my next question I was feeling curious so I asked Olivia Dover, the treasurer, to tell me something that SGA is actively involved in that no one knows about. I was pleasantly surprised with her response, “We donate money to charities twice a year.” When I asked what specific charities,
for their opinions and make sure they feel included in everything we do. We try to be good role models and want them to follow our lead.” Ava considers the class officers beneficial as they “... bounce ideas off each other in order to make sure we represent each grade.”
Jerriesue Godbee, the historian and only junior officer, is who I asked
My very last question, and arguably the most unanimous, was referring to what their goals are for the 24–25 school year. All of them want every student at CHS to feel included and valued. They want students to feel excited about school activities and provide them with a well-rounded array of activities that they will enjoy at some point in the school year. I encourage everyone to participate in school events, as they are the best part of high school. If you see a member of SGA in the hallway, tell them thank you; they deserve it!
Our School Board Loves You! Aubrey’s Legitimate Horoscopes The Pickleball Craze
Get to know our CSS School Board Come see what the Universe holds for you this school year
Our Cullman City School board is composed of five voting members and one non-voting member. Members are typically elected other than for the superintendent and in special circumstances such as a resignation...
on page 16
Leo- Your year will be filled with highs, lows, and ripples of change. Amazing thrift finds coming your way.
The sport that is taking over Cullman
Cole Harrison and Aubrey Shaddrix, Staff Writers
Pickleball was invented in Washington State in the summer of 1965. Joe Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum came up with the idea of the game to entertain their kids.
From left to right: Lillie Smith, Ava Flores. Aliceann Kontogeorge, Jerriesue Godbee, Olivia Dover
Editors’ Notes
As we embark on a new year at Cullman High School, I’m thrilled to share with you a new edition of The Hilight newspaper. This edition is packed with enticing articles—from interviews with our students and staff to thought-provoking features on current events and school happenings. Whether you’re passionate about sports, arts, academics, or current events, there’s something here for everyone. Our dedicated staff has worked tirelessly to bring you the latest updates, and I am so thankful for them all. I hope you all enjoy the newspaper as much as we did making it. Happy back-to-school bearcats; I hope it’s the best one yet!
Anna Beth Burleson, Co-Editor
Happy back-to-school! I am incredibly excited to continue this school year as a part of The Hilight. I am so proud of this staff for the hard work and dedication they put forth in order to make this edition stand out. We are so blessed with a great staff this year. They have all worked wholeheartedly to put their best work into this paper. I hope everyone enjoys reading it as much as we enjoyed making it. Let’s make this school year great. Go Bearcats!
Mack Rudder, Co-Editor
Calendar
September 28th- Cullman County Fair Parade & Cullman County Band Exhibition
October 2nd- HOSA Blood Drive
3rd-12th- Cullman County Fair
7th- No School for Students
7th-11th- Homecoming Week
7th-11th- Alabama College Application Week
16th- WorkKeys and Pre-ACT Tests
Co-Editors
Anna Beth Burleson
Mack Rudder
Staff Writers
Claire Dossey
Cole Harrison
Maggie Hope Hetrick
Avery Hice
Elianna Hollis
Reilly Johnson
Jacob Larker
Dane Mauldin
Blyss Murphree
Aubrey Shaddrix
Elizabeth Smith
Advisor
Jennifer Calahan
Contact
Phone 256-734-2923
Address 510 13th Street NE Cullman, AL 35055 Member of Alabama Scholastic Press Association
Editorial Disclaimer: Any views or opinions expressed in the Editorials section belong solely to the writer and do not represent the Hilight Staff or Cullman High School.
Monthly Music
Hardcore at the Capital
Dane Mauldin, Staff Writer
Hardcore Punk during the 1980s was popping up throughout the U.S. and was known for its sped-up tempos and heavily distorted guitars. No scene had as much influence as the Washington D.C. Scene. Known to some as HarDCore, the D.C. hard core scene was like no other. With a lineup that includes legendary bands such as Minor Threat, Bad Brains, and Rites of Spring. It was no wonder they had such an impact on alternative music as a whole.
Who were the godfathers of the D.C. scene? Bad Brains was an all-African American hardcore punk band that mixed hardcore punk with elements of reggae and dub into their music, which created a completely new sound that is still talked about today. They truly laid the groundwork for hardcore punk as we know it today.
Fall
Festival Coming to Town Get ready for Cullman’s annual oktoberfest!
Mack Rudder, Co-Editor
This year Cullman’s Oktoberfest Festival will occur October 3rd through October 5th. This year Oktoberfest will include The Hofbrauhaus Experience by Merchant’s festival claims this experience will
Another big movement within the D.C. scene was the “Straight Edge” movement. Starting the movement and coining the term, Minor Threat’s song “Straight Edge” kickstarted the movement. They preached that you should refrain from drugs, alcohol, caffeine, engaging in promiscuous relationships, and maintaining a vegan/ vegetarian diet, which was in opposition to the punk culture’s engagement in all of those activities.
Eventually, the D.C. Scene started to change and traditional hardcore punk started to become stale. Out of that staleness came a new genre that was coined “Post-Hardcore.” Post-hardcore as a genre maintains the intesity and power in hardcore, but tries for a more creative approach. One of the most well-known bands from this era of the D.C. hardcore scene was Fugazi, fronted by Minor Threat lead singer Ian McKaye and Rites of Spring lead singer Guy Picciotto.
The 1980s hardcore punk movement in Washington, D.C., was pivotal for alternative music. Bands like Rites of Spring, Minor Threat, and Bad Brains revolutionized hardcore and introduced movements like Straight Edge, shaping punk culture. As classic hardcore waned, post-hardcore bands like Fugazi showed how the genre could evolve while retaining its raw intensity. The D.C. scene’s influence highlights its revolutionary energy and lasting impact on the broader music landscape as a whole.
starting at 10am until it opens for everyone at 2PM. On Saturday, the final day of the festival, the experience opens up at 10AM. The experience advertises live German music, a stein hoisting contest (21+), and dueling pianos. The full schedule is posted and can be found on the Oktoberfest website.
The festival will also include The
a 5k and 10k run will occur. Pre-registration for the 5k and 10k ends on October 2nd and the 5k’s registration fee is 35 dollars while the 10k’s is 40 dollars. The traditional weiner dog race will be continuing this year and will also occur on October 5th. You can register your weiner dog on the official Oktoberfest website for a registration fee of 5 dol-
get you “as close to Munich as you can get without a passport!” The tickets for this ultimate experience costs 40 dollars and includes an all-access 3-day package of food and drink tokens and “the best of Cullman Oktoberfest”.On Thursday Hofbrauhaus Biergarten opens at 4PM. On Friday they are offering senior day
Goat Island Biergarten which is presented by The Frankweiler Community. This addition to the festival is brand new this year and it will be open for everyone to enjoy for free. As usual, Oktoberfest will also have many unique and authentic German vendors around the festival.
To kick start the day on October 5th
lars. Other events at Oktoberfest clude a costume con and a brat eating contest.
FEATURES 4
150 Years Of Christianity in Cullman
St. John’s Church Sacred Heart Church
The beginning of Protestantism in Cullman
Claire Dossey, Staff Writer
St. John’s Evangelical Protestant Church was founded on May 1st, 1874, marking the beginning of its journey as a famous landmark in Cullman, Alabama. This was the first church in town and was founded at the beginning of the second year settlement shortly after the Civil War. The settlement of Cullman, initiated in late April of 1873, saw John Cullmann’s family alongside five other pioneer families establish their homes in the area. A year before the town’s official incorporation, Colonel Cullman and these initial settlers started the first religious organization in Cullman. Originally named “First Evangelical Protestant Church,” the church’s name was later changed to “St. John’s Evangelical Protestant Church.” Initially located in West Cullman between Fourth and Fifth Avenue, the church’s first pastor was Reverend J. Schmalter. The church quickly gained popularity within the German immigrant community, who were deeply religious and preferred services conducted in their native language. At that time, Cullman was predominantly German, and the church’s use of the Germanic language contributed to its rapid growth and community integration.
The beginning of Catholicism in Cullman
Cole
Harrison, Staff Writer
In September 1898, a significant development occurred when former members of St. John’s, who had moved to Birmingham, Alabama, for work, founded a new church in Birmingham also named St. John’s. This Birmingham congregation mirrored the Cullman church’s architectural style and cultural
emphasis. By 1922, the church had moved from its original location to a newly constructed sanctuary on Second Avenue, built by the dedicated members of the congregation. This move symbolized both growth and the continuation of the church’s mission. For many years, services were conducted in German, reflecting the community’s ethnic heritage and preferences. However, by 1932, the church began to adapt to the changing demographic by holding services in German only twice
a month, a practice that continued until 1941 when it was ultimately discontinued.
As Cullman was a rare German community in the South, St. John’s made an effort to maintain its ethnic heritage by seeking out German pastors. This dedication to preserving their cultural roots meant that pastors came from a variety of backgrounds, reflecting the church’s commitment to its traditions. Over time, St. John’s would affiliate with the German Evangelical Church of North America, and now, one hundred and fifty years after its founding, it is part of the Evangelical Association of Reformed and Congregational Christian Churches. St. John’s Evangelical Protestant Church remains a cornerstone of Cullman County’s history and identity. Its enduring legacy is a testament to the key role it has played in shaping our community, and its rich heritage continues to influence the character of Cullman to this day.
Sacred Heart of Jesus Roman Catholic Church in Cullman, Alabama began as the “Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus” under the approval of the Bishop of Mobile on April 9, 1874. The first church was simply a log-cabin-style structure with log benches and a rugged altar. The original floors were not nailed down, and Mary Hovater, Historian of Sacred Heart, adds that “There are numerous stories of people attending Holy Communion and the loose floorboards popping up, which you can only imagine the scene, I’m sure it was very interesting.” In 1874, the Catholic community surged in the Cullman area, resulting in an established rectory and school. In 1877, Cullman became an official parish with a German-speaking priest.
The second church was constructed soon after Cullman became a parish. It was a white building with one steeple, a pastor’s house, and a small convent. The parish soon began to follow the Benedictine tradition of service which paved the way for the establishment of Saint Bernard Abbey and the Benedictine Sisters of Sacred Heart Convent.
astic Studio of Columbus, Ohio in 1914. Twenty-four of the windows were made in Munich, Germany, but the outbreak of WWI required the windows to be buried underground until the end of the war and were shipped and installed in the new church in 1920. Sacred Heart is home to one of the largest pipe organs in Northern Alabama. Originally an Austin Organ- Opus 1029 received in 1959, the church is now receiving a new organ of equivalent size after some electrical difficulty with the original. The church has also undergone major restoration work on the steeples, roof, and stained-glass windows in recent years. Today, Sacred Heart remains a beautiful landmark and house of worship for the Cullman area.
The third church, the one we know today, began in 1910. The cornerstone was laid on July 3, 1913, and the church was dedicated in 1916. The church was built with locally sourced sandstone and asbestos roof shingles. Due to circumstances of embezzlement with the German Bank of Cullman, the original plan of two-tiered bell towers with clocks had to be scrapped. The remarkable stained glass windows were designed by Von Gerichten Ecclesi-
Sacred Heart School was established in 1873, but an actual building would not be completed until 1877. In 1880, the sisters of Notre Dame moved into a section of the schoolhouse and enrollment reached 100 students. In 1889, a larger schoolhouse was completed and the old school was used to house orphan girls and board girls for the school. In 1898, the school officially became staffed by Sacred Heart sisters, replacing the Notre Dame sisters. After enrollment growth, the current Sacred Heart School was completed in 1950. In 1977, the first German Festival was held to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Sacred Heart School and it continues to be an annual event for the school and Parish in Cullman during the Oktoberfest.
Sacred Heart of Jesus continues to be a remarkable piece of Cullman Heritage, standing the test of time for 150 years.
Artwork by Lane McLeod
Artwork by Elianna Hollis
FEATURES
Favorite Hangout Spots for Cullman High School Students
Cullman
High School Students share their favorite hangout spots
Elizabeth Smith, Staff Writer
Are you stressed out at school and want a way to relax? Do you want to find a place where you and your friends can hang out? Several randomly-selected students were asked what their favorite hangout spots were, and here are some answers they gave:
“I think my favorite hangout spot would be Yogurt Street because me and my friends like to get frozen yogurt while hanging out and having fun outside the shop!”
-An Lam, Freshman
“Mine would definitely be The Local coffee shop! They have ping pong, pickleball, basketball, and video games. Also a great spot for homework or when you just wanna grab a snack and talk to your friends.”
-Lily Shadeck, Freshman
“My favorite place to hang out is the pickleball courts. This is my favorite because we can go to the courts, listen to music, talk, and play pickleball with friends for hours.”
-Sofia Helms, Sophomore
“The parking lot before school with my friends in the car…because we get to listen to music and hang out with just the few of us”
-Campbell Kent, Sophomore
Cullman is Coming to Life!
“I prefer absolute random locations to make fun memories that can’t be forgotten, something obscure like just pointing out random stuff at Sportsman’s Lake (Ex: chasing off the geese because they’re afraid of me).”
-Parker Powell, Junior
“The Warehouse district, because it has things to do such as shopping and activities like painting at Sips and Strokes. It also has places to eat like Karmas and Flavors to make it the perfect hang out spot!”
-Lillie Hogue, Junior
“...My favorite hangout spot would probably be the warehouse district! It has a lot of fun things to do with a small group of friends. I especially like when they do events such as: the Strawberry Festival, the Christkindlmarket, and Second Fridays. It is a great place to have in a cute little small town!”
-Bailee Henderson, Senior
“... I think my favorite spot to hang out is Hurricane Creek Park, it’s really pretty and there is a ton to do like swim, hike, camp, or just jam with your friends.”
-Zachary Hall, Senior
Cullman, the sweet town that citizens adore, certainly has a variety of amazing activities and places for students to go in their free time. Whether it be restaurants, parks, or even your own car, anywhere can be made a fun and special place when you have friends by your side.
With Second Fridays ending, Cullman residents await new attractions coming to our town
Dane Mauldin, Staff Writer
Oktoberfest
If you like all things German, then this is the place for you. Oktoberfest is held every year in the Warehouse District. From traditional alpine folk music to beer steins for sale, and with delicious German cuisine available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. All this and more will be found at Oktoberfest from October 3rd to October 5th!
Christkindlmart
Continuing the German theme, Cullman brings you Christkindlmart!
Filled with festive joy and knickknacks, it really feels like Christmas when you walk around this market. All the foods you could enjoy can also be found here. Such as Liège Waffles, Schnitzel, gebratener Käse (Fried Cheese Sandwich), and so much more. Looking for more decorative items?
Maybe some of the gift vendors might intrigue you. From winter accessories to tree decorations, be there from November 21 to December 23 if you want to experience this winter wonderland!
New Restaurants
There are some restaurants that are new and upcoming to Cullman that are sure to entice your taste buds! If you like Italian, then head on down to Luigi’s Italian Grill! Supporting a wide variety of your favorite Italian foods like lasagna, spaghetti, manicotti, chicken alfredo, etc.
You can find Luigi’s at 1610 Main Ave SW.
Not in the mood for Italian? Get a taste of down under at Outback Steakhouse, with construction starting in June, Outback should be here in no time. Known for their big hit appetizer, the “Blooming Onion”, they are a taste of the bushlands. If that doesn’t interest you then you can order one of their delicious steaks ranging from
their petite but delicious “Victoria’s Filet Mignon” to their gargantuan 18oz bone-in ribeye. It will be located at 1106 2nd Ave NW.
If you just want a taste of the ocean, then Half Shell Oyster House, located at the Cotton Creek Warehouse, might get your tastebuds’ attention! With their extensive selection of Gulf favorites, you really can not go wrong. Their menu includes fresh oysters, selections of salt and freshwater fish, and crab, and if you just want the classics, they have a selection of steaks and other comfort food. All this and more is set to be at the Cotton Creek Warehouse at some point this year.
The Local A new coffee shop has popped up in Cullman! Owned by Desperation Church, The Local has become the latest talk of the town. Having all your coffee shop favorites while also sporting plenty of space to sit and relax. It invites you in with its warm and inviting atmosphere. Even if you have kids, The Local has tons of amenities for kids such as a pickleball court and a basketball court out back, so your kids will be plenty occupied while you get your work done. So go on down to the Local, it is located at 202 Elizabeth St NE.
FEATURES 6
Banksy’s Recent Street Art
A Nine-Day Stampede of Animal Art
Elianna Hollis, Staff Writer
Banksy is a prevalent street artist that has operated under an anonymous pseudonym since the 1990s. He is perhaps most notably known for his 2018 painting “Girl with Balloon,” which partially shredded itself immediately after being sold at auction. Recently, from August 5-13, various artworks of animals appeared all over London. Daily, there appeared a goat, elephants, monkeys, a wolf, pelicans, a cat, piranhas, a rhinoceros, and finally a gorilla releasing animals painted on the shutters of the London Zoo. Banksy has not added any sort of description about his new art to his Instagram, where he posts his verified works. While his management company claimed his vision was to “cheer up the public,” many are dubious, being that his work is typically blatantly political. This has left many to try to puzzle out the underlying meaning of the pieces.
Goat
The first artwork that appeared was a silhouette of a goat, appearing to balance on a small ledge. The goat is, in effect, backed into a corner, unable to make a move. Many have theorized that this reflects the Israel-Hamas war, with the goat representing Palestine. Another theory is that the goat is perhaps referring to the globe’s fascination with recognizing the greatest of all time (GOAT) in the recent Olympics, while the rest of the world remains in various conflicts. Another interesting aspect of the art is its location, which is on the side of Boss and Co., which is a gun manufacturer. It may be argued that the work insinuates, again with the theme of greatness, that guns and/or violence are recognized by many to be the greatest or best answer for conflict resolution.
Elephants
On the second day, two elephants appeared, painted over boarded-up windows. They appear to be reaching out to each other. It has been speculated this could represent our global need for peace, that while countries will always remember (elephants have good memory) the perceived wrongs committed against them, they need to reach out and resolve conflict. The choice of animal seems intentional in this painting as they are some of the largest animals in existence, possibly connecting back to geopolitics and representing large world powers.
Monkeys
On the third day, three monkeys appeared, swinging nonchalantly across a bridge. Based on Banksy’s previous artworks replacing political figures with chimpanzees, it can be inferred that these monkeys represent certain world leaders, and that they are “monkeying around” and treating the serious world issues like “water under the bridge.”
Wolf
The fourth day entailed a howling wolf painted on a satellite dish, which was subsequently stolen. There are few theories on the deeper meaning behind this piece, and though a stretch, it could be ventured a wolf howling-typically a uniting call- could represent a call for unity, whether of England or globally.
Pelicans
On the fifth day, a small flock of pelicans eating fish appeared above a fish and chips bar. This has been interpreted as a symbol of greed as the pelicans are effectively stealing fish from the store. Its location in the Walthamstow neighborhood is also suspected to have particular significance as it is one of the sites of a large leftist rally. This rally was in response to the anti-immigration rioting of the far right in the UK after a stabbing rumored to be committed by a foreign asylum seeker or a Muslim,both of which were found to be untrue. Based on the neighborhood, it
is thought perhaps Banksy sought to shed light on the serious rioting issues by gracing this neighborhood with his art.
Cat
Subsequently, a stretching cat popped up on an old billboard. In 2015, Banksy painted a mural of a kitten in Gaza, wearing a red bow and playing with a ball of wire, amid ongoing turmoil in that region. Some have speculated that any of his recent artworks could be related to the Israel-Gaza war, this one in particular has directly related subject matters, as it hearkens back to his 2015 painting. This artwork being an adult cat could further be a metaphor for the escalation of conflicts and violence in the region, as his work relating to this subject progresses from kitten to cat.
Fish
The next day, a school of piranhas materialized in a city of London police box in the city. This work was a departure from the previous and subsequent works in this series as it is not a silhouetted stencil, but rather a more realistic depiction. Again, location seems important to its interpretation, as Banksy’s art is by nature vandalism, making his attitude toward police one of disdain and avoidance. He has criticized police authority many times in the past, creating several artworks communicating his hatred toward them and their corrupt policies. It is theorized that by painting this school of fish on a police box, he aims to critique citizens blindly following and trusting in the actions of law enforcement, like a singular fish in a vast school. The choice of fish could also be intentional, as piranhas seem to be too specific of a choice to be purely randomized, perhaps representing aggression or brutality within society,
a further critique of the complacency of society relating to police violence and corruption.
Rhino
On the eighth day of this animal saga, a rhinoceros was revealed, painted to look as if it was climbing the abandoned car in front of it. This has been taken to represent oppression, or perhaps relate to the Israel-Palestine war and the weight of the violence that prevails in the Middle East.
Zoo
In his ninth and final artwork in this series, Banksy ended with a painting on the shutters of the London Zoo, a gorilla lifting a curtain to allow a seal and several birds to escape, while other animals’ eyes can be seen looking out into freedom. While this could be a simple message on animal cruelty and the ethics of zoos, it is more likely commentary on the UK rioting and global unrest, suggesting that as a society we become more animalistic the more violence we condone and become part of. Being that all of these analyses and speculations are interpretations, and that Banksy’s management firm claims this series is simply meant to liven the spirits of the art world, the true underlying meaning of these paintings is highly debatable. A final interesting tidbit is the significance of the number nine, the number of artworks he created on consecutive days. Both the dates of release and the number of days correspond with a traditional Jewish period of mourning. Some theorize this further proves the connection between the art series and conflict in Israel, but the truth of this idea and the meanings behind the painting remains unknown.
ENTERTAINMENT 7
Kamala & The Coconut Tree
Kamala Harris’s influence on young voters
Maggie Hope Hetrick, Staff Writer
Kamala Harris has since emerged as the front runner of the Democratic Party following Joe Biden’s decision to bow out from this November’s presidential race. Following the release of Charli XCX’s new album, Brat, an unexpected but impactful connection between Harris and the album formed. The album, released June 7, 2024, has boosted her popularity amongst Gen-Z voters in a significant and surprising way. Charli XCX’s endorsement of Harris, highlighted by her tweet “Kamala IS Brat,” has captured the attention of young voters. Her endorsement along with the rise of her famed “Brat Lifestyle,” became a viral trend on Tiktok. Kamala Harris’s team swiftly adopted a “green” theme which mirrored the aesthetic of the Brat album cover, further aligning her image with Gen-Z and providing a sense of relatability towards young voters. It’s a known fact politicians are notorious for using celebrity endorsements to enhance their appeal among the public, and Harris’s campaign is no different. Harris’s online presence and involvement with Gen-Z has been a key factor in her rising relevance. For instance, her eccentric comment made
in May 2024 “You think you just fell out of a coconut tree? You exist and live in the context of all in which you live and what came before you”, was once publicly criticized but is now publicly acclaimed amidst younger audiences, and is now viewed as humorous and even iconic.
In this final stretch before the No vember election, Harris’s campaign has shifted focus to capitalize on her surge of newfound social media popularity. In her past years as serving as Vice President, her social media presence has been relatively inactive. It has now become a central element to her campaign and has proven effective. Harris’s TikTok account has gained a large abundance of followers and views over the past few months - surpassing our President Joe Biden’s stats. As of August 8th, the BidenHQ TikTok account has posted 335 times and brought in a total of 174 million views, while the KamalaHQ account has made 65 posts, achieving an impressive 385 million views.
Harris and her campaign team are effectively causing engagement among younger audiences and are able to capitalize on it greatly.
Mood After Taking Ha Manzz
2024 Fashion Predictions
What will we be modeling this year?
Aubrey Shaddrix and Blyss Murphree, Staff Writers
With a new school year comes new fashion predictions, what will we be potentially modeling this year?
Tights are a fun way to incorporate abstract colors and patterns, especially in the fall.
This is controversial, but their unique silhouettes may make appearances this year in middle-aged women and freshmen girls
Thrifted and Handmade ClothesPeople may start leaning away from fast fashion and cheap clothing, thrift stores are a good way to reuse still fashionable clothes and be
Billie Eillish is making a lot of fashion statements this year possibly transforming these from grandpa to grunge.
Denim on Denim- Lets take more inspiration from the 80’s and 90’s this year and bring back the iconically horrific layered pattern.
Self cut clothes- We’re already cutting collars, why not get a little creative with the scissors?
Overalls- Be a farmer’s daughter and embrace the mechanic chic of overalls this year!
Hippie prints- We wanna see more unique prints this year, weird prints make anything way cooler, absolutely no galaxy please!
Freaky sunglasses- If you are going for the Tyler Durden look this year, we recommend some weird glasses.
Boxer Brief Shorts- We already see a rise in these shorts on instagram by y’allternative tatted 20 year olds. Will this trend make it out of the screen and onto the streets?
The rundown on the Madeline Argy, Ice Spice, and Central Cee love triangle.
Avery Hice, Staff Writer
Of course, most people in our society are somewhat involved in social media or have an online presence. Over the summer, tons of TikTok drama occurred, developing rapidly over the course of a few days. Model Madeline Argy and British rapper Central Cee have been an on-and-off couple for around 2 years. It is a well-known fact in the industry that Central Cee had been unfaithful, but Madeline was the only girl he “hard-launched” and she was mentioned in several of his songs, the most famous of them being his song, “Doja”. As of recently, their split became permanent due to Central Cee’s infidelity. Around this same time, Ice Spice and Central Cee were teasing a new song, called “Did It First.” The topic of this song repeat edly mentions cheating and cheating back to get even. Central refers to a time that his” gyal”, supposedly Argy, went through his phone, and he was lucky that he deleted the message beforehand. Of course, this angered Madeline, who then responded with a video addressing the situation. She tells her audience of about Nine Million followers that he showed her the verse, and thinking this is an admission of guilt, she searches his phone. She found some things piqued
her interest, such as messages and photos of other girls, but he dismissed her worries, by saying the verse was only for marketing purposes, and that how the internet works, which she believed.
Central told Madeline that he was giving a model his car to see him because she was recording a lip-sync video for one of Central’s songs.
Madeline then realized that she was being cheated on, and the Central Cee was exploiting her. The pair had a trip to Nigeria planned, and she agreed to go, under the condition that if photos were taken of the couple, they would not be published to the public.
instead of respecting her wishes. They officially called it quits, and the feud was fueled more by Ice Spice. Ice Spice, a rapper known for her bright orange hair, was suspected of being with Central Cee due to the photos and videos being posted of them together. Madeline revealed after Ice Spice and Central Cee went public, that days before, Central was still saying that he would always love Madeline, and he tried to convince her to promote the song as well– all while getting with Ice Spice and knowing the song was rude toward Mads. Her Tiktok story times fueled the idea of a with Cen-
Spice. Madeline has promised her next episode of her podcast will give the full timeline, as well as adding details that the infamous incident occurred during her birthday. Some people believe this is all staged PR to promote the song and Madeline’s podcast, due to all the details and lyrics being connected so neatly, and the idea that the perception of the drama feeds into all of their public personas, portraying Madeline as relatable, Central Cee as a bad boy, and Ice Spice as a homewrecker. At the peak of this “beef”, Ice Spice posted a video of her doing pushups, and after completing the pushups, she gets up and “daps” up Central Cee. This video, obviously made to ruffle feathers, was captioned, “mood after takin ha manz.” Gaining 83.3 million views and 1.8 million likes at the time of writing this article, the majority of comments are defending Madeline Argy, and asking why Ice Spice would choose that caption in particular, knowing that it would upset both Madeline and her fanbase. In conclusion, the love triangle at hand was charged by the fanbases and stan culture surrounding all three parties involved. Whether the drama was a PR stunt, or genuine issues brought online, it brought attention to all involved and makes us wonder: what will happen next?
ENTERTAIMENT 8
Iron Man Back from the Dead
American actor Robert Downey Jr. returns to the Marvel Franchise as Dr. Doom
Elizabeth Smith, Staff Writer
On July 27, 2024 in San Diego, California, Marvel Studios hosted an exclusive panel at San Diego Comic Con 2024. In this panel, Marvel promoted several new movies coming to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, like Captain America: Brave New World; Thunderbolts; Fantastic Four. Above all, the most anticipated franchise for Marvel fans would be the two upcoming Avengers films- Doomsday and Secret Wars, which are set to come out in 2026 and 2027. When it was revealed during the Marvel panel that the Russo brothers, Joseph and Anthony, who famously directed some of Marvel’s most successful and impactful films, were coming back to direct the newest Avengers movie, fans were ecstatic. It was previously believed by the Russo brothers that, “...it was the end of the road for us in the Marvel Cinematic Universe…”. The brothers, however, announced on stage, “...through a very special story, Joe and I have come to potentially see a road forward with you all.”
For the game changing motion picture, Avengers: Secret Wars to take place and have optimum impact,
shared by the Russo brothers, there would have to be a film before with an essential character that had not been introduced yet - Victor von Doom.
“If we’re going to bring him to movie
American actor famous for his portrayal as Iron Man, revealed himself with the villain’s mask at Comic Con 2024, the crowd of adoring fans jumped up with applause and cameras flashing.
theaters worldwide…we’re going to need the greatest actor in the world… Ladies and gentlemen, as proof of the unimaginable possibilities in the Marvel Multiverse, we give you the one person who could play Victor von Doom.” When Robert Downey Jr.,
Falling into Autumn
The fleeting glimpses of fall
Jacob Larker, Staff Writer
With the approach of fall, the temperature drops, and the leaves change colors. The change around us blinds us to the change that happens to us. Though the year will slowly end with fall, it is the beginning of a new cycle. Though fall is a melancholic season, it carries this joyous sense of nostalgia. Autumn and school coincide simultaneously, and stands as a new beginning. The falling of leaves is like the process of metamorphosis that we go through; this evokes these sorts of feelings of existentialism. That’s not the only way that it makes us feel. Fall is so joyful because it reminds us of when we were kids. The fair and Halloween are not just happy in their basis but embody this childlike nature that makes us feel like children. The entire culture that surrounds fall is childlike. Watching The Peanuts Movie, Harry Potter, and Halloweentown are all reminders of our childhood that bring us comfort, which is why autumn carries this warm and comforting feeling. Fall not only changes everything around us, but it brings back so many cherished memories that we come to experience once again. Football season and the excitement it brings through cheering on your team, helps us to join together and enjoy this time. The fair
also brings this overwhelming joy with the distracting lights of the carnival rides, the echoing sounds of the people on these rides, and so many familiar faces you’ll see while wandering around. The fear of waiting for that very tall swing ride and the dizziness brought upon by the Gravitron will all end in joy as you go on to the next ride. This will all be so much fun and create so many memories, proving that enjoyment does not come from all that is pleasurable; you are stepping outside your comfort zone to try new things. Even though fall is full of uncomfortable change, it is the time that will be the most memorable.
“New mask, same task. What can I tell you, I like playing complicated characters.” With Doomsday set to hit theaters in two years, fans already are pumped about the portrayal of a new, complex character with their favorite Marvel actor, Robert Downey Jr.
Cullman High School also has many Marvel fans, including sophomore Claire McPhillips. When asked the question: “How do you feel about American actor Robert Downey Jr., who previously played Iron Man before the character’s death in Avengers: Endgame, coming back into the Marvel Universe to play the newest villain, Dr. Victor von Doom?” she replied: “I’m pretty excited just because I really missed him in the recent movies. I know a lot of people aren’t excited because of Victor having a different backstory and they feel like Robert wouldn’t be a good actor for it. I personally think he’ll do an amazing job. I think he is a great actor. I am excited for it. It is definitely going to be different to see him play as a villain when he was a hero.”
Whether you are excited for the return of Robert Downey Jr. or not, it is certainly going to be an impactful, action-packed film that will change the Marvel franchise. If you wish to watch this movie for yourself, Avengers: Doomsday is set to hit theaters in May of 2026. Get ready Marvel fans, Dr. Doom is coming.
ENTERTAINMENT
The Origination of Fashion Trends
Your drip derives from a trickle
Elianna Hollis, Staff Writer
The trickle-down fashion theory is the i dea that fashion trends disperse downward through the social classes. In this theory, fashion trends derive from the catwalk. These high-end garments are worn by models, the upper class, and celebrities, which are then emulated by more affordable brands, eventually becoming fully accessible to the masses through fast fashion. Several factors in our society that promote the trickle down fashion theory.
1. Social media is a purveyor of this system, as consumers are constantly being subjected to marketing either through conventional advertisements, or endorsements from celebrities and/ or influencers. A celebrity wearing yellow, for example, may impact an influencer’s perception of fashion, causing them to adopt the color, market it to their followers, and start a widespread trend. Additionally, consumers may be influenced by high-end advertisements and seek to emulate certain looks in their own style.
2. The economy is also an important factor in the trickle-down system, as inflation contributes to higher expenses, making purchasing the latest trends more difficult for the middle and lower
classes. If the general public is unable to afford long denim skirts, for example, that trend may not catch on as fully as it would in the upper class, who tend to have more disposable income regardless of economic fluctuations.
3. The cyclical nature of fashion also contributes to trends. Every 20-25 years, previous styles reemerge at the forefront of trends. This would explain why we are now seeing a resurgence of low-rise jeans, as they were
popular in the late ‘90s and early 2000s. This cyclical theory works in tandem with the trickle-down theory, as designers eventually regentrify old styles after a certain period, which then moves downward to the general public.
20 years is also about the length of a generation, meaning that the
youth of the time would not have lived through these trends previously, making them the perfect market for these “new” styles. Many millennials on social
media reject current trends because they fell victim to the trickle-down theory in their youth, and feel that they have outgrown these styles now that they are reaching resurgence.
The main problem with the trickle-down system is overconsumption and fast fashion. The trickle-down model encourages overconsumption by pushing the latest trends, making consumers feel as if their style will be outdated if they do not continue to purchase clothing to keep up with trends set by the upper class. This propels fast fashion, as consumers cannot afford to buy high-end, high-quality pieces if trends are constantly evolving and clothing must constantly be purchased, only to be in style for a short period.
While we as consumers cannot easily change this system, we can recognize it for what it is and be mindful when purchasing clothing. Are you buying those low-rise jeans because you like them and they integrate well with your personal style, or because you saw Zendaya wearing a similar style on Instagram?
ENTERTAINMENT 10
Aubrey’s Legitimate Horoscopes
Come see what the Universe holds for you this school year
Aubrey Shaddrix, Staff Writer
Aries- Go into the year accepting change by navigating through tough decisions and working on your own peace of mind. Keep the buzzcut.
Taurus- Your year of immense evolution. Explore deeper connections with yourself and others. Utilize that ouija board.
Gemini-This year along with major breakthroughs, someone you dislike will also be breaking something too…
Cancer- Embrace new opportunities for self development and challenges presented your way this year and find yourself in abundant success. Do not buy that voodoo doll.
Leo- Your year will be filled with highs, lows, and ripples of change. Amazing thrift finds coming your way.
Virgo- This year is filled with changes, let go of the old embrace the new, you know a vibrant and funny girl. She will do.
Libra- Your year of considerable change. Expect big opportunities coming your way, as your love life will have a big transition this year. Force a meet cute.
Scorpio- The year promises you improvement and positive shifts in all areas. Focus on the balance of your physical and emotional health. Stay freaky.
Sagittarius- Your relationships and financial situations will improve this year, but if he can not buy your dollar sweet tea, do not let him get that Quarter Pounder with cheese.
Capricorn- Maintain your ambitions and seize new opportunities this year as you will be faced with greater responsibilities. Audition for Love Island.
Aquarius- Better relationships and connections coming your way this year prepare for high-flying achievements and an intense year. Maintain your relationships and look for deeper connections, not with older men.
Pisces- Your naturally com passionate nature will guide you through the year, embrace the uncertainty and you will succeed. Enjoy some woodland frolicking on occasion.
Meet some of the new Teachers, Guidance Counselor, and Assistant Principal Reilly Johnson, Staff Writer
As the new school year begins, we’re excited to introduce several new members of our school community. These fresh faces bring an abundance of experience and enthusiasm to our campus. To introduce some of our newest faculty members, we asked them to fill out a survey with questions about their experience and how they feel about their new job.
Here’s a look at who they are and what they bring to our school:
Ms. Emily Hines
What position do you hold? Assisstant Principal
What are you most looking forward to this school year?
I am looking to getting to know all the students, faulty, and staff at CHS.
Do you have anything else you would like to say?
I am enjoying my first 2 weeks at CHS. The students, teachers, and staff have been very welcoming and kind. I am excited for what the future holds at CHS.
Ms. Shannon Dutton
What position do you hold? Guidance Counselor
What are you most looking forward to this school year?
I am looking forward to building relationships with students.
Do you have anything else you would like to say?
The culture at Cullman High School is very positive and welcoming! I am glad to be a Bearcat!
Ms. Ashley Hasenbein
What subject do you teach? 10th Grade English
What are you most looking forward to this school year? Being a life-long learner
Mr. Tyler Calvert
What subject do you teach?
Math
What are you most looking forward to this school year?
Getting in a routine and meeting new people.
Do you have anything else you would like to say?
Mr. Zach Searels
What subject do you teach? Computer Science
What are you most looking forward to this school year?
Learning about the different special elements that make CHS unique (traditions, pep, performances, etc.)
Do you have anything else you would like to say?
I am thrilled to be here at CHS teaching computer science.
Ms. Ramona Weeks
What subject do you teach? Agriscience and FFA
Success is not a goal, its a choice.
What are you most looking forward to this school year?
I look forward to serving the students in my home community. Serving the students in my home community
Do you have anything else you would like to say?
I’m super excited to be part of CHS and look forward to leading FFA to next level!
We’re thrilled to welcome these new members to our school community as well as Mr. Matt Hopper, Dr. Chad Airhart, Mr. Garrett Wade, Mr. David Hays, Ms. Alyssa Lindsey, and Ms. Jessica McBrayer who were unable to respond before press time Their diverse expertise and commitment to education promise to enrich our school environment. Be sure to introduce yourself and take advantage of the valuable resources and opportunities they have to offer.
Here’s to a successful year ahead with our new staff members! For more information about our new staff or to learn about upcoming school events, visit cullmanhigh.cullmancats.net
CAMPUS NEWS
Behind The Scenes
Who makes it happen?
Blyss Murphree, Staff Writer
The Cullman High School Theater Department has many jobs on stage and backstage. All of these jobs are what makes the show run. Many people think that the actors are what make a show; however, they only think that because they do not know what actually goes on behind the scenes. Who makes the theater department run are our directors Wanye Cook and Sarah Jane Skinner; however, they are not the only ones. We have a wonderful stage crew who build, paint, move, organize, and fix the sets for the show. The stage crew this year is run by Riley Kate Tucker and Blyss Murphree. The stage crew’s job is not only to put the sets out for each scene, but they do so much more before and after rehearsal. Stage Crew members have been Mr.
Cook’s understood personal assistants for years, so they run errands for him, clean, make copies of scripts, etc. Before and after every rehearsal, they clean and organize the shop to make sure everything runs smoothly.
The Cullman High School Theater also has a tech crew. Tis tech crew is run by Jacob Burtis. Their jobs are to arrange the lights in a particular way that the actors can be seen clearly but also look amazing while performing. They also create lighting scenes where a storm can occur, explosions, blackouts, strobes, funky shapes on the walls of the audience, etc. The tech crew also runs the sound booth.
All of the previously mentioned positions are open for applicants. If you would like to apply, please contact the following:
Stage Crew
Riley Kate Tucker at riley.tucker@ ccsstuent.org
Blyss Murphree at blyss.muphree@ ccsstudent.org
Tech Crew (lights and sound)
Jacob Burtis at jacob.burtis@ccsstudent.org
Wayne Cook at wayne.cook@cullmancats.net
New Amenities at CHS Enhancing
our campus
Claire Dossey, Staff Writer
From outdoor learning centers to a new baseball field, our campus continues improving daily. The idea for the latest outdoor learning center/ amphitheater came about after the pandemic so that teachers could have an outdoor space to conduct lessons. This area is accessible to all of the teachers at the high school, middle school, and primary school. In addition to this area being utilized as a place for students to learn outdoors, it will also be used as a space for fine art performances, a place where teams/clubs can meet, or even a place where students can go to study after school.
Other new amenities at CHS are our baseball and soccer fields. The goal of this project was to create a space that would be suitable for all types of weather. For the past five to ten years there has been trouble having available space for athletic teams to practice; this problem mainly arose during our spring sports season. Baseball, softball, soccer, and track were always searching for places to practice due to the springs unpredictable weather. The rain left both soccer and football practice fields muddy, and coaches as well as athletes scrambling to find places to practice. Scheduling practice times for the different sports was not an easy feat
to accomplish as it can come confusing to all involved. Another issue arrises when a JV, 9th grade, or middle school team is utilizing the main field, it leaves nowhere else to practice. Now we can practice every day no matter what the game schedule is.
Our CHS Southerner also recently donated an electric sign which displays weather, date, time, football schedule, as well as other news and thing happening on campus in the coming weeks.
All of these additions are game-changers for our sports programs. Our school would like to thank Mr. Kallhoff as well as the school board, The Southerner Staff, and Mr. Stephens for supporting these projects
CAMPUS NEWS 16
Our School Board Loves You!
Get to know the CCS School Board members
Mack Rudder, Co-Editor
Our Cullman City School board is composed of five voting members and one non-voting member. Members are typically elected other than for the superintendent and in special circumstances such as a resignation during a term. Our school board meets roughly once a month, and throughout the month they all also individually participate in different events such as sporting events, etc..
While an integral part of our school system, our school board members have jobs, kids, and other passions as their roles are simply part time roles. Cheryl Harrison, current CCS School Board President, describes what the school board does as more of a “big picture thing” and credits teachers, administrators, and the superintendent with dealing with the more basic everyday duties. All school board members were reached out to for comment, but due to conflicting schedules, not all could.
Mr. Neal is a current member of our CCS School Board, and he describes his role on the school board as helping
“to make decisions brought to me by the Superintendent, to help improve the system and give all of our students opportunities to complete their education and prepare themselves for life.”
His inspiration for his work on the school board resides in his desire to help Cullman’s school system improve each and every year. His favorite part of his role is “serving the people of Cullman.” Outside of his role Neal is an, “Agency Owner with Liberty National Life Insurance Company and [the owner of] Duchess Bakery.”
Mrs. Harrison is the current elected president for the Cullman City School Board. She describes her role as, “extremely fulfilling.” Harrison first became inspired to run for the school board in 2020, during her daughter’s senior year. She says her involvement in the graduation process, one that was being threatened by Covid, is what pushed her to run, stating it was her “first taste” at “championing a cause.” Harrison announced she was running for her position in July of 2020, a
Chris Branham is the current CCS School Board Vice-President and proud alumni of the CHS class of 1994. When asked, Branham described his role on the school board as being, “to set policy’s , manage financials ,over see the superintendent and CFO.” His inspiration for running for a position on the school board was his love for the community and his want to serve. Outside of his position Branham describes himself as an “entrepreneur” as he owns, “Branham Tire & Auto as well as enjoys commercial real estate.” He also “loves sports (mostly racing).” He currently “ road races cars and also races off road rally cars.” His favorite part of his role on the board is interacting with students and staff at CCS.
month before the election, which fell in August. Announcing her campaign so late was difficult, and on top of that, she faced the additional challenge of Covid which hindered many traditional ways of campaigning such as knocking on doors. Harrison credits her mentors for helping her have a successful campaign in the face of these challenges. When Harisson ran for election in 2020 there was no staggering of elections to prevent a total and complete change of power. In one election the mayor, city council, and school board could all change, and if the election fell on a presidential election year, there would be even more turmoil. In 2021, though, Governor Kay Ivey passed a bill that no longer allows
municipal elections to fall on the same year as presidential elections. This means the next school board, and municipal election, will occur in August of 2025. Harrison says she will be running
for another term, saying that “At this point in my life, I feel as if I have one more term in me.” She also mentioned wanting to be able to see some of their projects come to completion, especially their building projects that are currently ongoing.
The board’s two big building projects currently include the additions to the primary school and the renovation of the middle school. Harrison recalls when she was running, facing pushback on planning two projects that would occur at the same time. Her answer to the naysayers was, “well why can’t we?” and not only has the school board accomplished having these two projects going on at the same time successfully, they are also planning to add on a third project, an addition to the high school, to their list. Harrison says these projects really speak to her bigger passion in life: creating a big vision for something and then implementing the steps to create the vision.
Outside of her role on the school board, Mrs. Harrison is an interior designer, a job that also aligns with her passion in life. Both Harrison and her husband attended Cullman High School, and while Harrison says that being an alumni of Cullman City Schools didn’t necessarily drive her to run for her position, it does give her a “warmness in her heart” when visiting the schools and reminiscing on the days she walked those hallways. Above all, Mrs. Harrison wants Cullman City School students to know that, “the school board loves you!”
The current construction of the new middle school.
Left to right; Cheryl Harrison, Chris Branham, Amy Carter, Kyle Kallhoff, Jason Neal, and Jill Bradberry.
Branham Tire & Auto, owned by Chris Branham.
Mr. and Mrs. Neal, owners of Duchess Bakery.
A school board member and the superintendent recgonizing students for an art award.
A school board member and the superintendent recgonizing top CCS teachers and nurses.
Harrison’s campaign image from 2020.
A school board member and the superintendent recgonizing a student for an art award.
Catching up with the Captains
An eight question update with the Cats Commanders
Anna Beth Burleson, Co-Editor
I sat down with the leaders of the Bearcat football team and asked them questions about this upcoming season. All of these players are well respected by teammates and are a mentor to all. Without them, a vital part of the team would be incomplete and the Bearcats would not have a successful season. We are thankful for them and their Bearcat Pride.
Questions:
1. How has being a mentor to the other players affected your own mindset?
2. As seniors, have the football teams you’ve been on before made you a better player for this upcoming season? If so, how?
3. What have you guys worked on during summer practices that you’re excited to implement into games?
4. What is the best piece of advice Coach Stiff has given you?
5. Does this year feel bittersweet for you as it’s the last season you’ll be playing for the bearcats?
6. What are your expectations for yourself and other players this season?
7. Including last year, has the arrival of Coach Stiff changed the way you view and prepare for games?
8. Finally, how has football influenced your life and what are you going to miss the most about it?
Preston Gay
1. “I feel like I try to keep good energy through practice because what I do as a leader I feel rubs off on the other guys. This helps me stay confident and keep a good attitude for the season ahead because I feel we’re all on the same page and prepared.”
2. “Yes, the seniors last year really helped me prepare for the leadership role I was given this year. I learned a lot from them on keeping a good attitude and to help the younger players like the way they helped me.”
3. “Definitely our offensive scheme and how much we’ve grown and learned since last year.”
4. “To always keep a good attitude because a bad one could affect the way I play.”
5. “Not right now, I’m just excited for the season but I’m sure as the season goes on and comes to an end I’ll be upset.”
6. “I’m hoping I will grow as a quarterback and hopefully lead the team deep in the playoffs. I hope we grow as people and players all together.”
7. “Yes, I feel a lot more prepared before games. We spend a lot more time on film and scouting on the teams we play that week.”
8. “Definitely the brotherhood I’ve been a part of. All the friendships and relationships I’ve gained through the sport.”
Miles Smith
1. “It hasn’t”
2. “Yes, because last year was one of my
favorite years of playing , football and I feel like this year is more special to me because of who I am surrounded by.”
3. “Mostly my footwork and hands this year and the practices are game-like.”
4. “Be a Leader”
5. “No not really, it feels the same every year but the difference is who I’m surrounded by.”
6. “To not give up, and just because we are down a few touchdowns or we did not have a good practice the week before, does not mean give up and just take a break.”
7. “Yes, because we have changed how we have practiced and why we play the sport, he has changed how we act and how to be a leader.”
8. “Football is a sport any kid needs to play because it kind of shows you how to be a man in the real world, because football is tough and you have to fight and not give up. I’m going miss my team and
JC Patterson
1. “It has helped me mature alot and made me a better player and person all around.”
2. “I feel like out of all of the teams I have been on, last year’s team has had the most impact on me, because they showed us how to be leaders.”
3. “I’m excited to see some of our blitzes come into play on the field.”
4. “Coach Stiff and Coach Esmann have always brought the energy to practice and made us a better team, they have taught us how to push past mental boundaries and exceed limits we never thought were possible.”
5. “Yes, I am going to miss the relationships I have built over the years with the guys on the team.”
6. “I expect this team to be a special one. I feel like the team chemistry is
coaches the most, all of my friends play football and that is what we do together because we cannot do anything else.”
Mack Dumas
1. “Teaching the younger guys has taught me to have a lot of patience.”
2. “Last year was Coach Stiff’s first year and with a new coach means new things so last year just layed the base to build on.”
3. “We’ve gotten so much stronger since last year, and I’m excited to see how it translates.”
4. “Coach Stiff was the one that asked me to play football, and I’ve loved every minute of it.”
5. “It’s definitely a weird feeling just knowing the clocks ticking for you.”
6. “We want our team picture on the wall in the locker room, and you have to get 9 wins for that.”
7. “I wouldn’t be playing football right now if he wouldn’t have asked me so I don’t know what it was like before so I’m just thankful to be playing football.”
8. “Football has taught me to have a good work ethic, all the early mornings gives you a good sleep schedule, and the thing I’m going to miss most is the adrenaline rush you get from running out on the field.”
way better than years before and I am expecting to have a very big year for me personally.”
7. “Yes. He has completely changed how we look at our team and we understand that we have a chance to do something that Cullman football hasn’t done in a while.”
8. “Football has had a huge impact on my life. It has made me a better person and changed my outlook on how I push myself and changed my mindset on mental boundaries.”
Ben Conway
1. “It has shown me I have a larger role by making me set a good example and to not be selfish.”
2. “100%. My sophomore year I was Patton Elkins’ back up, and I took his tips and advice, and that made me the player I am today.”
3. “Just expanding our offensive and defensive playbook and running new plays”
4. “Know before you go”
5. “Yes, but I can’t get hung up and emotional about it being my last year because I need to have my mind on just the next game.”
6. “Play better than I did last year and limit the amount of busted plays every night”
7. “Yes, we ran a new defense and it is a lot more complex so we have to be smarter about the decisions we make on and off the field.”
8. “Football has heavily impacted my life because it teaches you about the responsibility of showing up on time and going to work on days I don’t want to. I will miss the physicality and the intensity of the sport.”
Kam Myers
1. “It really pushes the team to be a better program because player led teams are the best way to improve as a whole.”
2. “Yes, I’ve always looked up to the people above me and now being in that spot where people are looking up to me really makes me wanna push myself.”
3. “I’m ready to see how we compare to other teams and see how well we can do this year.”
4. “Coach Stiff is probably the smartest person I’ve ever met and definitely one of my favorite coaches I’ve ever had. He always has that dog mentality along with Coach Esmann and they always bring the energy.
5. “Yes, I love football and I love the brotherhood it brings together. We see each other as a family and I’m going to miss that.”
6. “I’m expecting to be at the top of the region this year.”
7. “Coach Stiff and the new coaching staff really did change my love for the game. They made it enjoyable and made me love the game way more.”
8. “Football has influenced my life in every aspect, it helped me become a better person, and helps me prepare for the future. The thing I’m going miss the most about it is playing on friday nights. I love to have a big crowd rooting for you and cheering you on. There is no better feeling in the world.”
Cooper Ogstad
1. “It has affected me by being more mature and I know I can lead younger players
2. “Yes, it has affected me in a positive way. I’ve learned how to push myself to be a better player.
3. “We have been running a lot so our conditioning should hopefully be way better than it was last year.”
4. “Do your job”
5. “No, not bittersweet. I would say I’m more excited to get the season started and I’m ready to see everyone in the crowd.”
6. “I expect to get better and make all of my teammates better as the season develops.”
7. “Coach Stiff and all of my other coaches have really made me a better football player and honestly a better person.”
8. “Football has made me a better person and has really prepared me for the future when I’m working a full time job and others around me depend on me showing up and getting the job done.”
SPORTS 18
The Pickleball Craze
The sport that is taking over Cullman
Cole Harrison and Aubrey Shaddrix, Staff Writers
Pickleball was invented in Washington State in the summer of 1965. Joe Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum came up with the idea of the game to entertain their kids. Their invention included a badminton court, ping-pong paddles, and a plastic ball, from which Pickleball was developed. In recent years, Pickleball has worked its way across the country, and is now very popular in almost every city. It was recently declared as a national high school varsity sport. In some cases, Pickleball has become more popular than tennis, with tennis courts being repurposed into pickle ball courts.
In Cullman, there are four city owned locations to play Pickleball, with various other privately owned courts. In Cullman, Pickleball has become both a leisure and competitive sport. People see Pickleball as a more practical option as compared to tennis, yet Pickleball paddles can still cost upwards in the 200s.
With all of this transformation and accommodation of places into Pickleball courts, the Cullman pickleball player demographic has reached all ages, with an overwhelming majority in teenagers. Three Cullman High School students were selected to
answer questions about Pickleball to further understand the rapid growth it has had in Cullman over the past few years.
Questions
1. What made you start playing?
2. Where do you play?
3. Do you think it is a recreational activity or a sport?
John Lunsford
1. I started playing when one of my friends asked me to go play with him.
2.Terri Pines
3. It’s definitely a sport.
1. My friends started playing so I went and played with them and really liked it.
2. I usually play at the tennis courts or Terri Pines.
3. I think it is a sport.
1. I started playing pickleball in 5th grade when one of my friends at Saint Bernard invited me to play with her and her family.
2. I play pickleball at Terri Pines, Ingle Park, and a small park in Arab.
3. I believe pickleball started out just as a hobby, but now with everyone playing it, I believe it could definitely turn into a sport because it is a very fun and competitive activity.
Sage Wilhite
Charli Roberson
Preparing for the Season
Reilly Johnson, Staff Writer
As we transition into the new school year, our athletic teams are hard at work getting ready for their upcoming seasons. Each team has its own unique approach to training and preparation, ensuring they are in top shape for the challenges ahead. Here is a look at how our volleyball, cross country, and football teams are gearing up for their respective seasons.
Under the guidance of Coach Amy Hudson, the volleyball team has been focusing on a combination of physical conditioning and strategic drills to prepare for the season, players are engaging in strength training and agility workouts to enhance their speed
and power on the court. This includes weight lifting, and core strengthening exercises. The team is refining their skills with drills focused on serving, passing, and setting.
For the cross country team, the emphasis is on building endurance and perfecting running techniques. Coach Trent Dean has outlined a rigorous training program designed to prepare athletes for the demanding race season. Runners are participating in long-distance runs and interval training to build stamina and speed. Attention is given to running form and efficient pacing. Stretching and flexibility are prioritized to prevent injuries and ensure peak performance.
Football practice involves a comprehensive approach, blending physical conditioning with tactical preparation. Coach Danny Stiff has implemented a detailed plan to ensure players are ready for the physical and strategic demands of the season.
The team is involved in rigorous weight training, agility drills, and conditioning runs to build strength and endurance.
Position-specific drills focus on
enhancing skills relevant to each player.
Practices include reviewing playbooks as well as running offensive and defensive drills.
As our volleyball, cross country, and football teams continue their rigorous
preparations, they are setting the stage for a competitive and exciting season. Each team’s dedication to their training routine will be crucial in achieving success and showing their skills on the court, track, and field. Be sure to support our teams as they embark on their seasons. With the hard work and commitment displayed by our athletes, there is no doubt that this season promises to be full of thrilling moments and outstanding performances. Let’s rally behind our teams and celebrate their achievements as they strive for excellence and make us proud. For information about game schedules and team highlights, visit the Cullman High School website.
About Bearcat Buddies
EDITORIALS 20
Cyberstunk!!
Pros and cons of Cybertrucks
Blyss Murphree, Staff Writer
We have all seen the new Tesla Cybertruck; however, I have heard many differing opinions. Some people love the Cybertruck due to its effective aerodynamic body build. Others absolutely despise this new vehicle for its “all-tech” goal. Although there are many cool and innovative features of the Cybertuck, there are also just as many bad qualities with the way the smart car effectively acts as a truck. In order to get some inside information on the Cybertruck, I interviewed Cullman’s first Cybertruck owner, John McPhillips.
The cybertruck has many neat features; however, there are also many issues considering the vehicle itself. Some of those issues are the tight steering radius, turning signal cameras, giant screen, previous recalls, weak axles, and truck effectiveness. Let us cut to the chase and address a few of these concerning characteristics. First off, the tight steering radius. The tight steering radius can not only cause a learning curve for drivers new to the Cybertruck, but this can also cause lots of misjudgement when turning, parking, and driving in general. The same can be said with the turning signal cameras and rearview mirror substitution being a camera. The screen
in all the Teslas just seems like a bad idea in general. If we as a society are already struggling with texting while driving, I do not see how a giant screen in every new vehicle is making that situation any better, especially when ALL the vehicle controls are within said screen. As a society, we hold Elon Musk to a high standard. This being said, the FOUR previous recalls on the Cybertruck sound like Mr. Musk is not fulfilling his role. In my mind, if someone is going to create an all-new, never-thought-of design with anything, I expect it to be groundbreaking. Not saying this cybertruck is not groundbreaking, but I would assume the design to be foolproof with everything a normal vehicle possesses upon release date. This assumption apparently does not apply to the cybertruck due to its previous 4 recalls concerning normal vehicle qualities. These recalls consist of: font size for warning light being too small, loose trunk bed trim, gas pedal plate getting stuck under the dash and causing continual acceleration, and defective windshield wiper motors. Another thing considering the design of the vehicle being during crash tests, the back axle likes to completely detach from the vehicle and run away; do with
Climate Change Craziness
Defending the earth in the wrong way
Cole Harrison, Staff Writer
that information as you will. That is enough of Negative Nancy for me. Let us get to the positive qualities this vehicle has. One of the coolest things about this vehicle is its amazing aerodynamic body style. This body design allows the vehicle to accelerate 0 to 60 in 2.6 seconds. The cybertruck also has a dual motor. One motor is located on the front axle, and the other is located on the back axle. These two motors together generate 600 horsepower, meaning the maximum tow weight is 11,000 lbs, including the bed. Fun facts about the Cybertruck: 1. Owners must name their Cyberttruck when setting up the app.
2. Every Cybertruck comes with a security system complete with tiny cameras on every corner of the vehicle.
3. Installing a charger at home is 10x’s cheaper than gas. (I actually figued this out).
4. John McPhillips named his Cybertruck “Optimus Prime”.
John McPhillips with Optimus Prime
Safety at Concerts
Entertaining places are no longer safe spaces
Anna Beth Burleson, Co-Editor
“It was just a case of being in total shock and panic. I remember suddenly being on the floor, and I was covered in blood from head to toe,” recalls Manchester Arena bombing survivor Sarah Nellist. On May 22, 2017, Salman Abedi detonated an improvised explosive device in the Manchester Arena, resulting in 23 deaths, including his own. After the bombings, his sister spoke to the Wall Street Journal and said, “I think he saw children— Muslim children—dying everywhere and wanted revenge.” She also said that “he saw the explosives America dropped on children in Syria, and he wanted revenge. Whether he got that is between him and God.” This attack was the deadliest attack on U.K. soil since the 2005 London bombings.
I was a naive nine-year-old girl, just a month short of turning ten, when these events took place. I was a constant listener of Ariana Grande, as her album that had been released just a year prior, “Dangerous Woman,” was on constant repeat in my room and in the car. When I heard about the bombing, my mind could not fully process the magnitude of what had occurred. All I could comprehend was that a bad man set a bomb off in a place that created joy for others and was on a purposeful mission to cause inexplicable harm to others. Even now, when I reflect back on this, I mark this catastrophe as my first memory of mass violence.
they found 23 firearms in his room and 19 more at his home in Mesquite, Nevada. Paddock’s criminal history was clean, other than one citation he had received years prior that was handled appropriately by the courts. In January of 2019, the FBI released a three-page behavior report regarding Paddock. They found no clear evidence of the attack being specific to the people in the crowd or Mandalay Bay; it was all to gain infamy and do as much damage as possible. Law enforcement shared that Paddock had connecting rooms and ran between the windows, firing out of both. He had also smashed out windows to aid him in his pursuits. To this day, it is still the worst mass shooting in modern American history.
citizen. Investigating authorities stated that the plot was inspired by ISIS, the Islamic State group. Both the 19 and 18-year-old suspects pledged “an oath of allegiance” to the Islamic group. While examining the main suspect and 17-year-olds home, authorities found bomb-making materials and items related to ISIS. The suspects have refused to speak to authorities and were hired days before the event in order to provide unknown services during the concert. I mention this failed terrorist attack because it draws comparisons to the Manchester bombing at the end of the Ariana Grande concert from 7 years ago. It also sparks safety concerns for artists, as Coldplay is scheduled to play in the Austrian stadium at the end of August.
an emergency.
3. Identify an exit route easily accessible to the area you are in.
-Trying to navigate in an emergency is near impossible, so before the fun starts, make sure you know where you can get out of the venue quickly and safely.
4. Keep first-aid essentials on you at all times.
-Most, if not all, events have firstaid table-bearing supplies, but they can be hard to find during an emergency. Be sure to carry everything you might need to a venue, even if you do not end up needing it.
5. If you are at a festival or concert and you are standing in the pit, be smart about where you are standing in the crowd.
-While you might want to get up near the stage, being in the pack of the crowd is a lot more convenient to leave but also safer because the people towards the front are more than likely being injured and pushed up against the guard rails. If you are ever caught in this position, keep your arms in front of you in order to best protect your head and chest.
Four months later, mass violence at concerts occurred in the United States and woke up the nation. On October 1, 2017, an individual by the name of Stephen Craig Paddock entered the Mandalay Bay hotel in Las Vegas and entered a room on the 32nd floor. From there, he unleashed massive amounts of gunfire on the people below. The lone gunman killed 58 people and injured 546 others. The attack was not quick; it was seven to ten minutes of complete terror and chaos. Witness Meghan Kearney told NBC News that “...people kept dropping and dropping. ... People were getting shot one foot away from us. People were trying to save their friends. There were gunshots everywhere. Helping them would’ve meant that we got shot, too.” The police responded to the reports at 10 p.m. Pacific time. Paddock killed himself before authorities could get to the hotel room, and upon investigation,
If we fast forward to the current day, the pop star on everyone’s lips is Taylor Swift. While it’s true that Swift has been popular for a while now, her current tour, The Eras Tour, has launched her stardom to new heights.
For all attendees, The Eras Tour has been a place filled with happiness and has created a space for fans to gather and express themselves through outfits and sing every lyric to songs she plays. On August 7, 2024, Swift canceled all three nights of her Vienna stop due to threats of a terrorist attack. The principal suspect was 19 years old. They planned to target fans, up to 30,000 each night, who gathered outside Ernst Happel Stadium, each night of her show. This is not including the 65,000 fans inside the actual venue. The suspect planned to “kill as many people as possible” with knives and homemade explosives. That suspect was taken into custody along with a second and third suspect. The authorities did not release the names of the individuals but released their ages; the second suspect is a 17-year-old Austrian citizen, and the third suspect is an 18-year-old Iraqi
Concerts are an incredible experience for all who are able to attend. There is truly nothing like gathering in a venue and listening to your favorite artist sing songs that you feel so deeply, surrounded by others who feel the same way. That being said, we live in a day and age where safety can never be understated and people can never be underestimated. Safety should always be taken seriously, as you never know when terror can strike, and how you react determines life or death. Whether you are at a concert, stadium, or festival, these few safety tips could save you from a possible scary situation.
Seven tips to stay safe:
1. Always stay with your group.
-Whether you are going to get a snack or going to the bathroom, bring a buddy. There is safety in numbers.
2. Have a plan in case someone gets separated from your group.
-If venue rules permit, bring a sign, making it easier to find your group in a crowd. If not, decide on a meeting place your group can easily access in
6. Stay hydrated
-If the venue permits, bring your own water and snacks, as it can be expensive inside. If you do buy a drink, always make sure you never leave it unattended. If you do accidentally leave your drink unattended, do not drink it again. I know drinks are expensive, but it is better to be safe than sorry.
7. Leave if you feel unsafe at any point. -I know concerts are expensive, and you went through a lot of logistical planning and financial strain, but leaving if you feel unsafe is the best option. Small situations can become big ones rapidly. If you do not want to leave the venue, get to the back of the crowd or find somewhere in the venue to get to safety.
EDITORIALS 22
A Women’s Economy
How makeup, high-heels, and skirt hems say about the economy
Mack Rudder, Co-Editor
The way women spend surprisingly gives economists a good insight into approaching recessions and dips in the economies.
One of these ways has been coined The Lipstick Effect, also known as the Lipstick Index, which refers to the purchasing of lipsticks as a luxury item during a recession. Leonard Lauder, an heir of Estee Lauder, is credited with coining the term Lipstick Index. Estee Lauder is a well-known and prestigious makeup brand created by Leonard’s parents. He coined this term in 2001, in the aftermath of 9/11, when America was dealing with a deep recession. Lauder noticed that as inflation increased, lipstick sales, instead of decreasing like they theoretically should, actually increased. In fact, during this time lipstick sales saw an 11% increase according to CNN. Deepti Nagulapally, Behavioral Science Specialist at J.P. Morgan Private Bank credits this increase to basic human nature, “...Because when big things are out of reach [people] naturally go for the little things.” This concept applies to any purchase, not just lipstick, that is inexpensive and provides emotional relief during times of economic stress. This purchase becomes a luxury during
this time despite its low cost. Another women-fueled economic theory is the Hemline Index. This index suggests that the length of a woman’s skirt directly correlates to the economic climate surrounding her. Within this index, a shorter hemline constitutes an economy that is “booming” or doing well, while a longer hemline may mean an economy is heading towards a decline. In 2010 economic analysis conducted by Marjolein van Baardwijk and Philip Hans Franses found the reasoning behind this correlation dates back to the 1920’s. During times of economic prosperity, such as during the Roaring 20s, women would wear shorter skirts to show off their stockings. The shorter skirts were also due to designers wanting to cut costs when fabric prices grew hence why the skirts became shorter. Oppositely during economic struggle longer skirts become more popular due to low fabric costs and because of what many describe as a reversion back to conservatism that happens during recessions. During the transition from the Roaring 20s to the Great Depression women made the switch from shorter skirts to longer skirts. This is due to the growth in conservatism
A Sinister Algorithm
that transpired in opposition to FDR’s New Deal, FDR’s response to the depression, which was slammed for being too liberal. While the Hemline Index revolves around skirt length it can also be applied to other aspects of women’s fashion. In fact during the 2008 recession, fashion aesthetics drastically changed. There was a big switch from gaudy and loud clothes to more minimalist and timeless pieces. This transition to minimalism can be credited to consumers’ need to buy clothes that could last and be reworn over and over. The Hemline Index is not foolproof though and has been seen to have the reversal to be true such as in the 1950s when longer skirts were actually popular despite a relatively good economy. It is true, though, that fashion and the economy are deeply intertwined and trends can be used as a good indicator of economic growth or recession.
The High Heel Index is another fashion economic indicator. IBM, International Business Machines Corporation, one of the largest tech companies, came up with this index after studying the height of high heels during times of economic hardships versus economic prosperity. They found a correlation between the two
The connection between mass shootings and political polarization
Jacob Larker, Staff Writer
As a result of social media, people are becoming more politically polarized everyday. The reason? Social media algorithms. When using social media, your algorithm will recommend content based on what you interact with daily, while seeming relatively harmless at first, the effects that it has on forming our political beliefs is where the harm resides. If you have a preconceived notion on one side of the political spectrum, and you interact with content based on those beliefs, it will create these filter bubbles in which specified content is sent your way to keep you using the platform. Algorithms are inherently biased, so because of your interactions with specific political content, you will only receive similar political content, not allowing for other perspectives. This is called an echo chamber and is why people might be so firm with their beliefs because it does not allow for them to hear the other side, instead allowing for confirmation bias to happen. They are only hearing their voices and their beliefs. You are isolating yourself from other people that do not share your beliefs, and in turn, you are validating each other in those echo chambers. This is a part of algorithmic radicalization and echo chambers can potentially push us-
ers to more extreme views. According to the National Library of Medicine, “Users online tend to prefer information adhering to their worldviews, ignore dissenting information, and form polarized groups around shared narratives. Furthermore, when polarization is high, misinformation quickly proliferates.”
Algorithmic radicalization is the progressive descent towards more extreme political views through social media. Algorithmic radicalization has been recognized to occur on platforms like YouTube. The alt right pipeline being an example of internet radicalization, a proposed concept where consumption of right-wing content can progressively lead to exposure of more extreme far right content. This pipeline has many entry points, making a lot of people susceptible to radicalization. Most commonly starting out with content that is “anti-feminist” and “anti-SJWs”, the manosphere or the men’s rights movement being a proponent of these ideas. There are a wide variety of creators that advocate for beliefs associated with this movement. This content focuses on the affect or the way that it is presented rather than the take itself, making these creators more of a political personality and an adher-
ent for these right wing beliefs. New personalities will pop up from time to time introducing people to these beliefs in a new way that makes more people prone to radicalization. A prominent figure in recent times is Andrew Tate, while not preaching anything new, the way in which he appealed and presented this information to people is concerning.
In a new age of short form content, different from the long videos of the alt right on YouTube, the appeal to impressionable people is far different in many ways. People are consuming more content than ever before which is why you’re more likely to be radicalized on TikTok than any other platform. The app has been shown to expose people to more extreme views over time, which is why it is so easy for content like Andrew Tate to appear on your for you page, you may have not even agreed with him and he might have appeared on your For You Page. This is exactly why it is so dangerous, young and impressionable people can come across his content and adopt his rhetoric so easily, and this can push them to more extreme ideas. This rhetoric is nothing new, but with the conditions of TikTok, and the way he says it is the driving fac-
by studying online trends regarding heel length and then connecting them to corresponding economic events. They found that while, yes, when the economy looked not so good high heel height went up drastically, they also found that if the economy stayed in this recessive state high heel height went back down, instead of continuing to grow as the economy got worse. This makes the High Heel Index a much more unpredictable indicator of the economic state.
While some indexes may be true in regards to some recessions, they are rarely supported by all economic downturns. The basic principle remains true, though. During times of economic stress women, while maybe not a sound or logical move, turn to smaller, low-cost products in order to still treat themselves when other items may be out of reach. The economy can be predicted through many indicators, such as fashion, as it is deeply entangled with all parts of our life, which is exactly what makes the economy so hard to predict.
tor behind his influence. Like other personalities he relies on the cadence of his words rather than argumentation. His ideas are not good on their own merits; they are good because of the way it’s presented. This sort of rhetoric hasn’t been seen before, but it is deeply rooted in hatred towards women. In the case of Andrew Tate, it attributes women to being inferior. It imposes this negative view of women that can become very extreme and very violent, and in some cases this hatred can translate into real world violence, as seen before in the case of Elliot Rodger. While these personalities come and go, the ideas stay around, and we ask ourselves: How long until another person comes along preaching the same thing, and more people fall victim to radicalization?
Gluttony on Screen
How the internet is exposing us to the spectrum of eating disorders
Aubrey Shaddrix, Staff Writer
Social media has always influenced the younger generation in regard to their eating habits. We saw it once before with platforms like Tumblr, that cultivated eating disorder culture in the 2010s. These platforms worked to glamorize the thin, sad, and hungry heroin chic aesthetic and took control of countless young people, ruining their perception of food. Despite the downfall of Tumblr and other online forums, these toxic ideals have simply seeped into other popular platforms.
Now a new side of the internet is rising in popularity, influencing trends with hidden, but drastic effects on the relationships with food and ourselves. In 2024, we are moving past the glamorization of heroin chic thinness and stepping into a different side of the dark spectrum of eating disorders with the rise of mukbangs.
From this week’s Crumbl Cookie lineup to the entire Wingstop menu, we have seen people consuming extreme amounts of processed food in one recorded sitting. Dieticians are beginning to fear the effects of these videos as they rise in popularity and reach a wider audience. Now there is raising suspicion of how problematic this type of content truly is. Of course, the internet influences everything we do, and we need to acknowledge that these are not only a harmful trend but a representation of Binge Eating Disorders, or BED, on screen.
Eating disorders are not simple. They have often been represented as the extreme restriction of food intake and while, yes, this does represent a portion of people struggling with disordered eating patterns, there are other less represented behaviors. Binge eat-
ing is the act of overeating as you feel you have lost control over your food intake and is often a side of the eating disorder spectrum that has been cast away from the limelight. In fact, binge eating is the largest eating disorder in the United States. How are these disorders connected with mukbangs and eating content? This trend has sparked the normalization of overeating for viewers. Especially as many mukbang hosts are typically of healthy weight, we create the assumption that eating these copious amounts of food can fit in a regular person’s diet. However, it is never that simple. It has been noticed that focusing on content regarding overeating triggers maladaptive eating behaviors and can set off a binge cycle, causing a person to lose control of their food intake for a period of time. Not only do mukbangs impact those with binge struggles, but also those with under-eating disorders, like anorexia, who watch the content to avoid their own need for food and live through content creators to feel as if they can eat without guilt. Creating this type of content is almost a form of self harm. As a creator takes in an obscene amount of food in a recorded sitting, we have to wonder what is happening off camera for these videos to be produced. Are these content creators pushing themselves to overeat for views? Are they purging once the camera is shut off? How are these diets affecting them mentally and physically? Even if you are being paid, you are still a victim to your actions. There have been cases of well-known mukbangers having a medical crisis due to their lifestyles, most recently a woman’s stomach ruptured on live, killing her. We do not know what these influencers are doing off-camera to maintain these unhealthy lifestyles, and
we cannot assume they have regular eating patterns off camera from the small portion we see on camera. Even if they really are just doing it for a check, it should still be addressed that these influencers are struggling. We have seen the rapid decline of Youtubers and TikTokers who have adopted these lifestyles and gained an obsessive amount of weight. These people could be suffering just as much as anyone else with eating disorders, but the camera is not an excuse. We can not assume the lives of others especially in regards to something as personal and sensitive as disordered eating.
Victims of Binge Eating find themselves in the constant cycle of binging and restricting themselves from food, this cycle becoming a gravitational pull in their lives. Physically these habits can result in cardiac arrest, muscle fatigue, and stomach rupture. On a mental level, binging and other disorders on the spectrum, like Anorexia and Bulimia, are just as effective on the mind as on the body. Those suffering from these diseases begin to lose their sense of self and succumb to the idea that what we consume and what we look like controls us. The harsh reality of eating disorders is they are not a simple medicated fix. Once they begin, it takes years to break old habits and learn to rebuild the relationship with what is on your plate.
In connection to the internet it is important we address the unpleasant reality and deeper meaning behind mukbang content. Most importantly how it influences viewers and creators. It is important to look past the romanticized lenses of the internet and notice real world problems occurring in front of us and to avoid the bingelike patterns associated with mukbang content.
THE BACK PAGE
“Here
I Come, High School”
By: Evelyn Greenlee
Here I come, high school!
I can’t wait to see the type of person I will be!
And I can’t wait for the football games I will see!
I’m excited to find my way!
Where is room 201?
I can’t wait for Friday.
Shouting the cheers loud and proud, My school spirit is allowed!
Look at the Hilight going around!
Look at this crowd!
There’s so many people here to show their support.
