Red&black Winter 2017 Vo. 4 Issue 1

V O L U M E 4 I S S U E 1

DECEMBER 2017

M A G A Z I N E Jalen Willers Back on the field after a battle for his life

Shawshank

Redemptive movie an oldie but goodie

Converse vs. Vans

Out for the Season

Red&Black selects the better kicks

JT Irvin, one of millions affected by sports injuries

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RED & BLACK CONTENTS 10

Drum Corps

Get an inside look on how the international Drum Corps prepares for competitions

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Abari Game Bar

REVIEW: Check out the old fashioned arcade for retro games and pin ball

24 Stranger Things

REVIEW: Hit NETFLIX series Stranger Things keeps audiences on the edge of their seats

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Worth It

REVIEW: Morphe 350 sequel palette offers vibrant shades of eye shadow

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NFL Players Take a Knee OPINION: All sides have rights, but ultimately owners make the rules

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Jalen Willers

Willers steps back onto the field after facing a battle for his life.

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Sitting It Out

Injuries can sideline athletes, and JT Irvin knows from firsthand experience

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Karate Mom

This mother gets her kicks working toward her black belt

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Skyler Delong

Delong commits to Alabama on a football scholarship

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Graffiti is art

OPINION: Art is art, whether it’s on a wall or in a frame

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Schools starting Later

OPINION: Teens need their sleep, and they want later school start times

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DACA

OPINION: Dreamers worry about new policy, but they should be able to stay in the U.S.

R E D Editors-in-Chief Hannah Barnes Graycen Hall Production Managers Ansley Archuleta Stephanie Lange Art Directors Hannah Hartleb Leah White Adviser Beth Swann

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B L A C K

Section Editors Kelci Adams Kathrin Alexander Angela Devone Divya Kandpal Natalie Sawyer Amber Snincak Grace Walden Emily Willers Keeley Wong Chase Zeanchock Staff Jacob Ballance Elijah Brinn

S T A F F

Jay Brown Salleah Brown-Massey Alexandra Cardona Julian Cellucci E’lashia Davis Alexia De Souza Taylor Dunifer Tugsbeleg Ganbold Amanda Gonzalez Jordan Jones Ashley Jordan Roman Kauer Jaden Kelley Khonnie Kounbandith

Michelle Luong Sydney Mason Chloe Morris Joi Nelson Kareem Omar Nicholas Roarty Alyssa Rollins Simon Wallace Tessa Wells Delaney White Elana White Mackenzie Wilson Shaun Wilson Bianca Yurdock

F E A T Khonnie Kounbandith U R The story of a family’s journey from one country to another E

Laos: The Forgotten Sister Country

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small, one-room home squats in what used to be a flourishing grassy field. Similar huts are scattered throughout the muddy expanse.

Along an equally muddy pathway, villagers from the makeshift neighborhood huts have set up tents and mats for their fresh crops, goods, and meat.

The constant hollering of sellers hawking their wares fill the atmosphere. Up ahead, a lively school sits on ahead on a partially grassy hill.

Hugging a small blackboard, a girl is treading up the hill on her first day of school.

Laos, the now communist country landlocked between Thailand and Vietnam, is full of rich history.

A revolution, and war had led to the departure of a family. Sengtula Bounphasaysol is fleeing the poverty stricken country with her mother, two sisters, and one brother in hopes of finding a better life -- without war.

The Vietnam War, a war that involved many South Asian countries, greatly affected the Bounphasaysol family. Ohn Bounphasaysol left his family to fight for his country but ended up being captured in a concentration camp for 13 years.

Payhon Bounphasaysol, his wife, and four children were left afraid, alone, and confused -- so they left Ohn trapped in an unknown camp

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and never returned.

Where do we go? Payhon pondered the thought of leaving the country she’s known ever since she was a young girl.

Before the Vietnam War started, Laos was colonized by French settlers which, of course, caused riots among the people since they already had their own government.

When the French refused to leave, Laos made an agreement to

allowed her to take her family elsewhere. Instead of staying up north, Payhon crossed the border of Laos to Thailand.

But leaving wasn’t that simple.

“Before we moved to Thailand, my mother and sister travelled to America for better for a sickness I did not know of,” said Payhon. “I was left in Thailand with my children feeling alone and too lazy to take care of them.”

For a whole year, the Bounphasaysol family lived in a camp in “I was left in Thailand Thailand. They attended school, with my children feeling did chores, and worked until they felt apart of the community. Their alone and too lazy to plan: travel to America. Payohn had spent the entire year trying to raise take care of them.” money to keep her family stable take only half the government pow- until they could flee to America. er, but the people continued to riot. After raising enough money, the The country split into North and small family left everything for a South. The North, a communist new life in the United States. group (or the Pathet Lao), and the “We escaped in a boat with South, a more democratic group, cargo, or something being traded fought against each other in a civil to America,” Sengtula, the youngest war for power in the government. daughter, said. “We were probably The North won, causing commuon there for a few months since nism to spread throughout the Laos is quite far from America.” country, which meant restrictions They successfully arrived, but on where the people could and they had nothing to start with. couldn’t go.

“When we arrived , we stayed in Payhon, however, outsmarted California for a day, then moved the government. Knowing that the in with relatives in Texas for a few government monitored where her months,” Sengtula said. “After that family is, she told them that she was we moved to Massachusetts for five simply moving up north. Thinkyears until moving to North Caroliing that she was only going north, na permanently.” officials signed documents that Not knowing any English what

photo by: Khonnie Kounbandith At home, Khon Kounbandith prepares a freshly baked ham for a party at Poly Outhay’s home.

Above: On Thanksgiving day, Leck Kounbandith makes a side dish for the baked ham.

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Above: Family and friends offer a toast to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday Nov. 23 at Poly Outhay’s home.

Right: At the Thanksgiving dinner party, sisters Leck Kounbandith and Poly Outhay watch a Lao music video on the television. soever, the family had a hard time adjusting to a more modern and fast-paced American society.

America’s system was bigger, better, and richer. Their schools now provided supplies, food, and longer school days.

Anyone had the opportunity to go into college or an university to pursue a career. Jobs, people, items were more abundant.

Even after 13 long years, Ohn Bounphasaysol, came to America and joined his family once again.

Now their family felt complete.

For the first time in a long while, the family was able to settle down.

Though they’ve adjusted American society, and they brought their own culture as well.

“We attended temples created 6 n RED & BLACK

by the Lao and Thai people who moved to America,” Sengtula said.

“Occasionally we would wear traditional outfits and eat food, but we always eat traditional food at home - it was what we could afford.”

Almost every Sunday the family still goes the temple for prayer.

They wear traditional outfits.

Women wear a skirt or “sinh” with a matching blouse and scarf; usually they coil their hair into a tall bun with a golden-like chain.

Each outfit was unique with details, and colors, depending on how the person made or bought it. Men, however, are a bit simpler, they wear a pants called a “salong” which is accompanied by a matching scarf.

From April 14 to 16, the temple

celebrates the Lao New Year with foods, intricate outfits, and loud music. A buffet, offers sticky rice, a dipping sauce called padeak, a salad with minced meat called laap, and the world-wide soup pho.

Though these foods and meals may seem like they are meant for a party, they are eaten almost everyday by Lao families.

These traditions may have been from the past, but they are celebrated every day by Lao families, including the Outhay and Kounbandith families, who moved to America and married into the Bounphasaysol family Today, the girl who once trudged up the grassy hill now sits atop.

Alongside her are friends and family, enjoying a fine day in America.

Nick Carboni Sports broadcaster starts from scratch to work in big media

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Roman Kauer taring at the computer, he searches for a story he can make his own.

Nick Carboni is a Sports Broadcaster at NBC Charlotte.

Before he arrived in the Queen City, he was the Sports Director at WBIR in Knoxville, TN for three years, and a Sports Anchor/Reporter at KOLR in Springfield, MO for another three years before that.

“I’ve worked so hard to accomplish my dream,” he said.

Nick started his journalism career as a sports writer for The Hartford Courant in his home state of Connecticut. His passion for storytelling in sports comes from his days spent roaming the sidelines as a ball boy for the high school football team his father coached.

“I hated being injured, especially getting in trouble Nick Carboni, Sports Broadcaster at NBC Charlotte with my mother”he said.

But his own playing days ended after far too many Carboni said. trips to the emergency room, and too many calls to his In addition to anchoring nightly sportscasts, Nick mother from the school athletic trainers. hosted “Ozarks Sports” on Saturday and Sunday nights “I get to go to some of the games sometimes, I also which is an all-local, 30-minute sports show that Nick loved interviewing big time players” he said. created from scratch. He writes, hosts, shoots, and Nick has received several awards for edits the entire show and it continues to “When you have a his sports storytelling, including two be very popular in the Springfield area.

Edward R. Murrow Awards. He’s covered job that you love Nick has a comfortable, confident delivWorld Series games, Sweet 16’s, and SEC ery, giving him a strong on-camera presdoing, it doesn’t football. ence. He is adept at live interviews, asking Carboni feels that some of the best comprehensive questions, and smoothly feel like work stories in sports come from our local directing traffic. anymore.” community here in Charlotte.

Prior to joining WCNC, Nick was the “The newsroom is astonishing, all of sports director and lead anchor/reporter the news cast were working so hard”, carboni said. for the local NBC affiliate in Knoxville, WBIR-10.

“Some days the newsroom is so quiet from every Nick was able to use his experience and creativity body focusing on their work”, said Carboni. to reshape the sports department and bring a fresh, Carboni loves what he does. “When you have a job vibrant look and feel to a station that was already conthat you love doing, it doesn’t feel like work anymore,” sidered the top local station in the area.

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F E A T U R E

Overcoming

ADVERSITY

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Tessa Wells

Amiya Hunt finds friends and a new home in Fort Mill

“She’s been through more in 17 years than most have been through in a lifetime.”

-Kym Wells

“You should always be grateful for what you have. Things will work out and it will all be okay.”

-Amiya Hunt 8 n RED & BLACK

he loss of her home.

Sent to live with her second cousin at the age of six. Her mother’s abusive drug habits. Her father’s crimes. She overcame it all.

On the outside someone would never expect the bubbly personality and odd sense of humor that makes up 17-year-old Amiya Hunt hides a history that is both inspiring and heartbreaking.

“My biological mother was very abusive to drugs and not very capable of taking care of me,” Hunt says.

“My real dad is still currently in jail -- mostly for drug charges and burglary.”

Hunt’s second cousin, Kelly Dockter, whom she refers to as Mom, took Hunt in when she was 6.

“I’ll always be grateful for what [my cousin’s family] did,” Amyia said. “They already had two other kids -- they didn’t have to take in me and my two other siblings. It’s hard to go from two young kids to automatically having five overnight.”

However, Dockter began to have problems with Hunt last year.

“It was a Sunday evening around 10 o’ clock at night,” says Tonya Stone, Amiya’s Aunt with whom she

is currently living. “She was having trouble with Amiya and didn’t know how to really control her. She asked if she could bring her to me, and I said yes.”

Hunt moved to Fort Mill from Kentucky at the end of the 20162017 school year.

“She’s been a pleasure. She has come a long way, and I’m really proud of her.” Stone said.

Hunt quickly made friends with twin sisters Maya and Becca Wells at Nation Ford High School. She hangs out at their house often.

“I always think it’s a shame when a parent is so deep in addiction they can no longer parent.”

-Kym Wells

“They were the first, well, the only friends I made here,” Hunt said. “I’m very grateful for the way they treat me and how they took me under their wing and welcomed me.”

The family of six has known Hunt since she first came to Fort Mill.

“I think she has become a little more relaxed,” said Kym Wells, mother of Maya and Becca. “She has come into her own and started to make some of her own decisions versus what everyone else wants her

Tessa Wells

In preparation for the upcoming winter holiday, Friends Amiya Hunt (‘18) and Rebecca Wells (‘18) decorate the Wells family Christmas tree.

to do.”

Mrs. Wells is something of a mother figure to Hunt, and she has her own opinions about the teen’s situation and how she’s handled it. “[Hunt] has handled it flawlessly,” Wells said. “It’s a shame when a parent is so deep in addiction they can no longer parent.”

Although Hunt’s past was far from ideal, she has pushed through and has learned a lot from her experiences.

“I’m a pretty happy person for the most part,” Hunt said, “I’m pretty grateful for everything that I have.”

Stone agrees with Hunt.

“She’s a social butterfly,” Stone said. “She doesn’t know a single stranger. She lights up whatever room she’s in. She’s very fun to be

around. Fun, with a responsible edge.”

Hunt and everyone she knows has high hopes for her future, despite her difficult childhood.

“I obviously want to go to college.” Hunt says. “Maybe social work. Me wanting to be a social worker has a little to do with me being in the foster system. I really like kids. It’s either that or early childhood education.”

Hunt hasn’t had many good role models in her life, but Stone feels that she will be able to learn from her biological parent’s mistakes.

“Amiya’s mom had drug problems, so I feel like Amiya will look at that and know she wants better for herself,” her aunt said. “I feel like Amiya will always strive to be better than what her biological

mother was.”

Her family has faith that she will succeed in life.

“I think there is nothing that will hold Amiya down,” Wells said.

“She’s been through more in 17 years than most have been through in a lifetime.”

In a world where 31 percent of children are not growing up in homes with two stable parents (United States Census Bureau), Hunt has some advice for those who may be going through something like what she went through.

She believes a bad situation doesn’t mean that all hope is lost.

“Things could be a lot worse,” She said. “You should always be grateful for what you have. Things will work out and it will all be okay.”

DECEMBER 2017

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F E A T U R E

Drum Corps International

Kevin Morrison comments on intensity of the program

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n drum corps, there’s no room for good or bad days, only great days. His heart pumps faster as the large crowd begins cheering. He turns around and nails the first chord in the opening hit. The crowd goes wild as The Cadets perform their 2007 show, “This I believe.”

For Kevin Morrison, this feeling, this show, this energy is what he lives for.

In 2003, 2004, and 2007, Morrison marched with Spirit of Atlanta and The Cadets, and played the baritone alongside about 22 other people.

Drum Corps International is a league of marching bands consisting of only brass, percussion, and color guard. All the bands participate in year round schedule, getting only some of fall and winter as resting time until the next season.

It’s like a regular high school marching band, only DCI requires more practice and intensity. Plus they perform more complicated music selections.

Member’s ages can range anywhere from fresh out of high school to the age of 21.

Ansley Archuleta “It’s all day, every day,” Morrison said.

Band Members get an average of 10 hour days during spring training, only taking breaks to eat and shower. Once the day is over, they sleep on the gym floor only to do it again in the morning.ww “If you’re not really into it, you’re definitely not going to like it because it’s a never ending cycle,” said Morrison.

However, DCI is a great opportunity to travel. Competitions are everywhere. They have been held previously in Massillon, Indianapolis, Michigan City, Fresno, and Lexington. Morrison’s personal favorite competition is in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

It’s a smart yet energetic crowd, he said.

It’s also later in the season when all the bands improve and get better.

“The intensity and emotion of a live performance at that level,” is what Morrison said to describe his favorite thing about drum corps.

Because bands in International Drum Corps have winter for music, spring for practice, and summer

“It’s almost like a drug that can’t happen anywhere else.”

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for competitions, it is more psychological than high school band. This means that more time can be spent on fine tuning music and adjusting people carefully in drill practice to find what works best for the band.

After marching for Spirit of Atlanta and the Cadets, Morrison worked for Jersey Surf, The Cadets, and is currently on staff for the Boston Crusaders.

As well as working for drum corps, he also works at Nation Ford High School for mainly music, the brass section in specific. While the band practices, he monitors the bell angles, tuning, and lines in sets. He also helps the students with problems such as marching technique and using proper step sizes.

With the band schedule, not much free time is left, but when he is not helping with the band, he enjoys hobbies such as writing music for bands, makes short films and trailers, and lifting weights.

Once you are part of a band, that is your new family. You spend all your time with them, on the field and off. “It’s almost like a drug that can’t happen anywhere else,” he said.

“The intensity and emotion of a live performance at this level.”

Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps, 2007

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F E A T U R E

Hanukkah,Sochelnik, Kurisumasu...

There is more to celebrate than Christmas during the winter season – food, family, fun!

“We have a big Kosher dinner, and we exchange presents... We

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keep the Menorah burning. Usually when you have a big celebration like this you burn through a few candles.”

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Salleah-Brown-Massey

anukkah, Sochelnik, Kurisumasu … These are just a few phrases that will be used to describe holidays celebrated in December and January.

Many universal holidays are celebrated among individuals around the world.

In America, Christmas is mostly used to express the joy and birth of Christ.

Christians sing carols and do extensive holiday shopping, and they even decorate their houses! they decorate the Christmas tree and exchange gifts with family and friends.

But have you ever wondered about the other cultures in the world and how they celebrate their Christmas?

In Israel, there are very few Christians who celebrate Christmas, but those who do, have huge celebrations and services in the capital of Israel, and the birthplace of Jesus, Jerusalem.

Hanukkah (Han-na-kah) is a celebration that follows the Jewish religion.

“I usually go up to my Grandfathers house in Kannapolis,” Preston Lyerly(‘18) says. “We have a big Kosher dinner, and we exchange presents.. we keep the Menorah burning, usually when you have a big celebration like this you burn through a few candles.”

Israelites make a hearty dinner to be shared with family and friends. They make Turkey, spiced with pepper, cinnamon and nutmeg and stuffed with rice and almonds according to Jerusalem-insiders-guide.com.

Israelites also have a daily prayer that they have that is extra special on the last day of Hanukkah. “...Lastly, we pray for Shabbot (end of the day prayers for Jewish people) which is an extra special one.” Lyerly states. n Russia, Sochelnik is what Russians call Christmas Eve, it celebrates the last day of the Christmas fast. It is custom not to eat anything until the first star appears in the sky, to symbolize the star of Bethlehem. It is celebrated on Jan.7 instead of Dec.25. This is because of the Russian Orthodox Church, which follows the Julian Calendar, who made Sochelnik an official holiday after it was banned in 1917 after the Russian Revolution.

According to theholidayspot.com, Russia celebrates Sochelnik with brilliant lights and many people go on a fast, giving up meat, eggs, and milk a few weeks before Sochelnik to purify the soul.

Russian dinners are never complete without a special dish called Kutya, a

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Joe Smith

Art: Leah White

dish made out of wheat berries, which symbolize hope and immortality. ussians also hold a ceremony where priests come to every home with boys carrying holy water to bless the home with happiness and love.

Japan, however is a bit different than Russia and Israel. Kurisumasu was adopted by Japan from Christian missionaries, as Christmas was never celebrated in traditional Japanese culture, according to thehistoryofchristmas.com.

The Japanese decorate their homes with mistletoe and evergreens, and ex-

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change gifts and eat turkey on Kurisumasu Day. In some homes, Christmas carols are sung as a blessing from Hoteiosho.

Their patron saint for Kurisumasu is Hoteiosho, who is believed to look like our Santa Claus, only Hoteiosho has eyes in the BACK of his head.

He watches the little children and make sure they do good to receive presents.

The holidays are a time to gather around and celebrate culture and traditions. They are a time to show love and express joy.

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F E A T U R E

FOUR WALLS, ONE STATE OF MIND Feeling trapped by anxiety is all too common

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Delaney White

he struggle to catch a breath.

The weakness in her legs. A heart races at what feels like a thousand beats per second.

Lisa (not her real name) deals with something that’s common.

What it is like to deal with such severe anxiety?

“Miserable. It’s like living everyday waiting for your worst nightmare to come true,” Lisa says. “Even if it as simple as walking into a grocery store, I always feel like [anxiety] is crawling up my spine and never lets go.”

Her life wasn’t always this way.

“Anxiety has changed my life tremendously,” she said. “It’s prevented me from doing things I wish I could do, and it’s held me back from just being a kid -- and it’s transformed me into a neurotic atypical.”

Atypical neurology is a term that means a person’s nervous system doesn’t function like most people’s -- it is outside the norm.

The fight or flight mechanism kicks in even when a person is not in what would seem to be distress or danger.

Diagnosed as a fourth grader, her worst experiences began with anxiety began as a 14-year-old.

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“This all happened at the Governor’s School for Arts and Humanities,” she said.

“It started off with me not even realizing it was anxiety. I just kept vomiting profusely, and then one day I found myself trying to leave my dorm room on the campus. And even the thought of it made me nauseous, causing me to leave after four days into the two-week program, making me leave the best opportunity I had in my life.”

Eight percent of American youth have anxiety disorders, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, there are a variety of coping skills to help those who struggle with anxiety and depression. For example, experts recommend scribbling or doodling, stretch let all your jitters out, taking deep breaths, having your favorite scents that bring you to a happy place with you at all time (perfume, lotion,hand sanitizer,essential oils). Using a mantra -- repeating a word or phrase with an image that soothes -- can also knocks negative thoughts out of the mind.

Lisa has been working on some strategies she claims have helped.

“It has taken some time to figure out what works for me, but journaling and writing has really helped clear my mind,” she said.

Symptoms of Anxiety Dizziness Shortness of breath

Chest pain

Stomach pain Clammy hands

Anxiety disorders affect one in eight children. Research shows that untreated children with anxiety disorders are at higher risk to perform poorly in school, miss out on important social experiences, and engage in substance abuse. – Anxiety and Depression Association of America

Delaney White

Weak Legs

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F E A T U R

E

Grace Walden

On Her Own

Alexis Walden finds her new place to call home in college

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hen she was younger, she believed that growing up could not come soon enough. Now, she’s sitting in a room with boxes thrown everywhere, unpacking and decorating a tight space that’s going to be her new ‘home.’

Alexis Walden, age 19, is finishing her second year at Columbia College in South Carolina, but she still remembers the very first, nerve-racking day of beginning a new chapter to her life.

“I was feeling all types of different emotions,” Walden said. “From excitement to nervousness all at the same time because I knew I was moving away from home.”

In fact, the car ride wracked her nerves. She was impatient and unsure about what was to come.

“I enjoyed meeting new people from all over,” she said. “You don’t realize how big the world is and how much you’re missing out on until you become closer with people that aren’t from your little town.”

She was to live with another girl for the next year who grew up in a town 14 hours away from Fort Mill.

They’d never met. Never talked.

Never even heard each other’s names.

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“I will eventually move away from home again,” she said. “However, my views are much different now. I am currently in no rush from moving away from home again, because once you’re away you tend to value your home life with family a little more.”

Finishing up her second year of college, she has had experiences of living on campus and living at home while still attending a nearby school.

be to make sure you balance everything if you want to succeed,” Walden said. “Classes are highly important and they are not easy in college, and professors don’t take excuses! So make sure you keep up with studies.”

Fifty-eight percent of high school graduates attend college within 100 miles from their hometown. A small number (11 percent) of high school graduates venture to colleges that are 500 miles away from their hometowns.

“I knew that she “I couldn’t believe that my baby wasn’t much of a baby anymore!”

Stacy Harris, Alexis’ mother said. was grown up, “I knew than that she was officially and it hit hard.” grown up, and it hit hard. Being a parent with a kid in college makes “Living on campus was definitely you realize how much you’re more fun, but it got lonely sometimes,” involved into the school.”

Walden said. “I would wake up go The day Walden moved into the to class, practice lacrosse, and go dorm, Harris helped unpack and back to my dorm to do homework. organize the small dorm room.

After that, lights out, and onto the That’s when the mother and daughnext day to repeat.” ter shared their last heart-to-heart Her social life was gone it seemed. moment until the Thanksgiving With her busy schedule of practice holiday rolled around again. and school. Due to the loneliness “College is a tough experience for of the college life, she felt, it only young adults. It’s a very difficult made each day go by slower as she changing process from your eveymarked off the calendar til’ the day day life,” An English professor at she could come back to Fort Mill. the University of South Carolina “Advice I would give to high school stated to a Journalism class. “It’s seniors heading to college would definitely worth wild the experience

“Classes are

Focusing hard in the quite library, Walden critiques her final math project for her night class.

important.�

Grace Walden

y l h hig

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R E V I E W

Hannah Barnes

uk,

Hannah Barnes

Arcade games, drinks and more – Abari Game Bar is the place to go

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bari Game Bar is a recent addition to the Noda area and the first barcade to reach Charlotte. With pinball machines, multi-player arcade games and consoles, and two TVs with multi-player games, this bar is the place to go for the big kids who miss their games.

Lucky for teens, Abari has a welcoming atmosphere every Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 P.M. for all ages.

After recently visiting the barcade, on North Davidson St, I can happily say be prepared to have a few hours fly by in a matter of minutes.

Walking in, the first thing you’ll notice is a row of pinball machines to the left, a comfy couch and TV area on the right, the bar in the back, and a creative, weird flow of arcade games. The games can be crazy to figure out if you’re not a big gamer, but it can also be irresistible to try to conquer every one.

For the more serious gamers, there are even occasional competitions to enter.

For first time goers, there is a $1 entry fee for those 21 years of

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age. After that initial fee you’ll be given a membership to come and go as you please. Those who are under the legal age to drink, are not charged but will be required to wear a wristband so they cannot purchase alcoholic beverages.

While being old fashioned, Arbari seemed to miss one detail. Gaming tokens. Rather than paying for a number of tokens to use for the games, Abari has a single machine that will convert your dollars to quarters. This can cause a hassle for those who show up without paper bills and the line for this machine can

get long.

Despite those flaws, this barcade, is the place to go for all types of gamers and anyone who is looking to have a good time.

Overall Rating: 4/5

Rating Games: 3/5

Hannah Barnes

Main: Pinball machines are seemingly endless as they line up along the side of the bar. Go from playing Game Of Thrones to Indiana Jones with these machines.

Right Top: Gamers can relax on comfy couches as well as play on the TV console. Wall art adds a game-related atmosphere both in and outside the arcade.

Right Bottom: From Spider-man to PAC Man to Donkey Kong and more, the arcade games flow in a random pattern that allows room for multi-players at Abari Game Bar. Don’t forget the cup holders for your drinks while you conquer Mario.

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R E V I E W

Julian Cellucci

Destiny 2 Better Though some aspects need improvement D2 definitely steps up their game over D1

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estiny 2 is an online game made by “Bungie” and “Activision.”

It is a sequel to Destiny 1 and is only available on the next generation consoles Xbox one, Ps4, and PC. \ If you are not familiar with the games, then here is a quick overview of the story so far. The game starts with your character waking up in a post-apocalyptic world where almost all humanity is wiped out. You are met by a small floating robot called “Ghost.” He tells you that he and thousands more like him were sent out to revive dead warriors and recruit them by a being known as the traveler to be Guardians of the Light and the protectors of earth.

Each guardian has special powers gifted to them by the light.

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The Destiny 2 story opens with an attack on the last city of earth and the trapping of the traveler by a creature named Ghaul. Because Ghaul has caged the traveler, your character’s connection light is temporarily severed but then later regained by you and your ghost by finding a shard of the traveler, and therefore reconnecting you to the light. After that you set out to defeat Ghaul and rebuild the last city of earth. Of course you are successful in defeating him and reclaiming the travelers light completely.

If we compare the D1 storyline and the D2 storyline, Bungie really stepped up their game for the sequel. The D1 story was extremely lackluster and was a huge disappointment, but D1 one redeemed itself with expansions that had a much more in depth story and bet-

ter character development.

Aside from the main storyline, the game’s playable content was, and is, severely lacking. This has been a problem ever since D1 which debuted 3 and a half years ago. The problem is that the player base eats up all the content so fast that the developers can’t make more in time.

Many solutions have been suggested to Bungie, but we still haven’t gotten a response. The most recurring and simplest solution is to just make more difficult content for the hardcore dedicated players (which is most of the community).

On the bright side, the first D2 expansion will be released, Dec. 5, 2017 and Bungie has announced that there will be more content and much better replay value for certain activities.

Going off the Gamestop prices, the standard edition of the game costs $54.99 which is the price of most fairly new games, but for the more dedicated player you can get the Expansion pass edition, deluxe editions, and the limited edition. The expansion pass edition is $89.99, and both the limited and deluxe editions are $99.99.

If you are interested in D1, then you will have to settle for the standard because it is only available in standard edition at stores, and it is a small price of $2.99 for a preowned (there are no new copies of D1 being made anymore).

If you have played D1 and have been involved in the community then you will have a higher appreciation for the game and will probably think it’s worth it.

On the other hand if your a new

player then know that the game isn’t perfect and you’ll need some patience. I leave the final decision up to you.

Aside from the main storyline, the game’s playable content was, and is, severely lacking.

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Album of the Year

Taylor Dunifer

Sza has changed the R&B game and inspired others to be themselves

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t’s been a great year for music. We heard amazing albums such as “Culture”, “4:44”, and “Ctrl.” I’m a music fanatic, and one album in particular that caught my attention was Sza’s album “Ctrl.” This is her second album, but it is also her first mainstream album, with hits such as “Love Galore” and “The Weekend.”

“Love Galore,” which was her first single, went platinum while her whole album is considered gold.

When I first heard the album, I wasn’t a huge fan, because a lot of the music now days is trash. The music was what caught my ear the second time around because it was something I had never heard before. On “Drew Barrymore,” the instrumental is very upbeat, but the song has a dark meaning behind it. Most of her songs are intriguing because the instrumental doesn’t match the story behind the song, causing tension.

One of my favorite songs from the album is “Supermodel,” because it is relatable, and it talks about people who expect girls to be strong and just take anything. In this song, she says, “wish I was comfortable, but I need you, I need you, I need you.” This song is very empowering because it shows that women are sensitive, and although we are

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strong, we sometimes do need help.

The part that amazes me most about this album is she has no features, it’s all her. She also wrote

I haven’t been able to stop listening to this album for months now. all of her songs, with a help from a few professional writers. It take her three years to write and record the album, which shows me that she really perfected her album. She also

stated that she freestyled on most of the album.

The purpose of the album was to show the amount of control in Sza’s life, hence the title of the album. The album cover is Sza with electronics surrounding her, and I think that the cover makes perfect sense when it comes to the theme of the album. I give “Ctrl” a 5 out of 5, for I haven’t been able to stop listening to this album for months now.

I feel “Ctrl” has changed the R&B game because she gave us something we haven’t heard before.

Saturation II

Jacob Ballance

The young hip-hop group BROCKHAMPTON released their second great album of the year as they rapidly close in on the release of their third project of 2017

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ROCKHAMPTON’s second album, “Saturation II,” arrives just two months after their debut with a third one to drop around the middle of December. Seeing one good album every year from an artist is rare enough, but having two really good albums with a third on the way is something special.

The reason for such a rapid pace can probably be attributed to the 12 guys that make up BROCKHAMPTON, six being vocalists and the other six being producers.

The young vocalists Kevin Abstract, Ameer Vann, Merlyn Wood, Dom

McLennon, Matt Champion, and Russell Boring achieve a cohesiveness on each track with a chemistry that can be traced back to when Kevin, Ameer, Matt, and Merlyn attended Woodlands High School.

Each one of them have their own unique style which provides great diversity among the verses, hooks and tracks as a whole.

The chemistry and the fact that they are a hip-hop group has made people draw comparisons between them and Odd Future, another rap group that peaked in popularity years ago, but this seems to only be because of the fact that they are both collectives.

In “Saturation I” the main theme was self-acceptance and being yourself. In “Saturation II” BROCKHAMPTON builds upon that theme of authenticity as they talk about their own personal struggles, showing that they are human just like you and me, whether it’s Russell talking about getting bad grades in “SWEET”, or Ameer on racial prejudice in “TEETH”.

There’s a good feeling of relatability in their music.

Armed with great production, diverse personality, and charismatic verses and hooks, BROCKHAMPTON delivers a sound that most people can enjoy.

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Stranger Things 2

Leah White

Stranger Things has yet another fantasic season with more thrills and adventures than the last

Each actor/ actress gave a stellar performance every episode.

Noah Schnapp’s portrayal of character Will Byers acting hit a homerun.

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ausing a frenzy of social media outbursts, “Stranger Things 2” debuted on Oct. 27 just in time for Halloween. With the immense success of season one, high standards were set for its second season, and it was absolutely incredible.

Stranger Things takes place in the fictional rural town of Hawkins, Ind. during the early 1980s.

One night while riding home on his bike, main character Will Byers (Noah Schnapp) suddenly goes missing. His Dungeon and Dragons-obsessed friends, Dustin, Mike, and Lucas, will come together to help find their lost companion.

However, along the way, they end up finding a totally different person instead, a girl in fact, named Eleven -- yet this is no ordinary girl.

Eleven has the power of telepathy.

Despite meeting this extraordinary girl, the group of friends soon realize Eleven just might be their answer to find their missing friend Will.

Consisting of nine episodes in total, “Stranger Things 2” is an epic, sci-fi thrill ride from beginning to end.

Starting off in episode one where they left off, it seems everything has gone back to normal from all the chaotic Demogorgons, but the Duffer Brothers do an excellent job of leaving you on the edge of your seat through the entire season. This

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season was more action-packed with more twists and turns. Many questions from season one are answered, but audiences are left with many new questions. The plot twists and mysteries leave enough content for hopefully upcoming season 3.

The acting this season was phenomenal. Each actor/actress gave a stellar performance every episode. Noah Schnapp’s portrayal of character Will Byers acting hit a homerun. Last season he rarely appears, but this season he’s in every episode and it is rewarding. Many new characters were also introduced in this season including Max (also known as MadMax), and her hostile brother Billy.

Also introduced this season is the character known as Eight, who possesses the power of illusion. The addition of Eight was so fitting for the multiple scenes that involved her and kept this season fresh.

Set in the 80s, it could be hard to stick to all the trends during the time. Not with “Stranger Things 2.” Down to the details, the show is consistent with nothing misplaced.

An excellent job with the music, clothes, and even the music shows how much thought is put into production.

“Stranger Things 2” is a definite must watch. If you are into sci-fi thrillers with a good plot then this show is perfect for you.

Joe Smith

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Amber Snincak

You have to have a headline that tells your opinon

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here are thousands of thrillers and horror films, but Stephen King’s “IT” is one worth watching.

Clowns are scary enough, yet Pennywise, the dancing clown who tracks children in the sewers of a small town in Maine is very unsettling. Especially in the newest remake of “IT”.

What Bill Skarsgard does with the role works so well, because he doesn’t appear to be working hard at all so scare us. He doesn’t “vamp” it up. He plays with these kids making his sudden outbursts of insanity much more shocking and scary.

And what’s even more interesting than the horror part of the film is the humor. Both horror and humor in the same film is hard to pull off. But “IT” makes the two work together work almost every time; while in a tense moment with a quick clever remark or an intense monologue in the face of danger.

Unlike King’s original novel and 1990 “IT” film the new movie doesn’t jump back and forth in time. It goes between 1988-89

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and mostly sticks with the main 7 characters while they are still kids, which “grounds” their story and makes it more alluring. That make it more alluring so that the watcher have the chance to get to know the characters.

Even with the terrifying experiences the seven had gone through during their quest, many scenes that had me trembling and laughing all at once, “IT” is even more powerful in the togetherness the characters are purveying. It could be viewed as a complete horror flick, but the hidden story of these characters facing their biggest fear as they grow older gives the movie more of an emotional path.

“IT” could’ve used a bit more suspense building up to the climax.

While the images seemed quite real and the action was overbearing, the story seemed to be dragged out. As well as the last scene is in the dark, in an underground layer, and it was hard to see what was actually going on. Yet the visuals on Pennywise when he unleashed his full power on the young attackers was unforgettable.

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THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION Graycen Hall

Widely known as one of the greatest films of all time

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ndy Dufresne proves that something so seemingly hopeless as a prison drama can be surprisingly refreshing and optimistic.

Frank Darabont’s take on Stephen King’s novel is breathtaking both in the visual and emotional sense.

Portrayed in such an elegant way through moving acting and a sentimental story, “The Shawshank Redemption” is a remarkable drama film, particularly in contrast to King’s usual horror fiction stories.

The film not only has entertainment value but also a profound meaning and life message: “Get busy living, or get busy dying.” Darabont most certainly takes this message to heart and gets busy making an influential story into an outstanding film.

A banker is thrown into jail for a crime that he claims he never committed: murdering his wife and her lover. He claims his innocence, but the only problem is, “everyone is innocent in Shawshank.” But Dufresne has something the other convicts do not have, which is his brilliance. Ellis Boyd “Red” Redding, long time inmate who feels he will be in Shawshank for life, eyes Andy from day one, but his initial impressions are proven incorrect in every way, for Andy refuses to crack

under the ruthless guards, sadistic jail gangs, and the corrupt warden.

Andy attempts to prove to his jail mates that breaking away from fear is not as hard as they think, for all that is needed is a tiny rock hammer, a scandalous poster, and most importantly, a little hope.

The film’s story is told through Red, played by Morgan Freeman, who is well known for his narrative voice, so this helps to keep the film’s story which spans over 20 years, well-paced and clear. The true reason that Darabont’s film is so

The positive turn that the film takes is enough to make the audience forget that the convicts are even criminals. incredibly moving is based on the outstanding acting by Freeman and Tim Robbins, who portrays Andy.

Their performances are effective because they are realistic and make the audience truly believe they are serving multiple life sentences in a corrupt prison and are facing many hardships. The fact that these two characters establish a deep friendship is appealing and makes the film uplifting despite its dark situation. “The Shawshank Redemption”

possesses numerous themes with one being institutionalism, yet its biggest message is to hold on to hope in the darkest of times. This theme proves that a film with such a grim subject can take a turn for the best and end up being feel-good and enjoyable. The positive turn that the film takes is enough to make the audience forget that the convicts are even criminals.

Of course, “The Shawshank Redemption” lacks the presence of women characters. Besides flashbacks of Andy’s wife and a few posters, women are absent the entire film, yet this happens to preserve realism in the fact that the film is limited to the prisoners’ point of view and Freeman’s narration. Some may claim that the pacing is slow at times during the 20-year time span, but it works to prepare the audience for the suspenseful climax. This highly successful film in the drama genre also lacks any love story, so for those looking for a romantic drama film may only be satisfied by undeniable love in friendship. This optimism found within trust and friendship, Darabont’s theme of hope, and the film’s ability to connect with the viewer is what makes “The Shawshank Redemption” such a compelling film worthy of a 9/10 rating.

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Thor:Ragnarok Lights, Camera, Action! The time has arrived for the new Thor movie – and it rocks.

T “Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston do an excellent acting job in this movie, taking it to a whole new level of comedy, mystery and thrills.”

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Salleah Brown-Massey

hor: Ragnarok made me laugh and really showed depth. Although I felt the film was a little rushed, it was still an action-packed movie that I would recommend to everyone with a good sense of humor.

It all starts off with Thor getting trapped on a fiery planet talking to a skeleton. Typical Thor, right?

As the trap door below him falls, dropping him a few inches above a fiery pit of lava, he sees Sutur, the man who wants to destroy all Asgardians (including our loveable Thor.)

After sharing his plans, Thor does something totally unexpected, he laughs!

Thor NEVER laughs.

He is always the serious Asgardian willing to protect humans and Asgardians from peril.

He makes fun of Sutur (which enrages the fire god) causing him to call upon all of his minions to fight and try to kill Thor. (Impossible I know.)

Now that Thor sees that he is in actual danger, he calls upon his trusty hammer, Mjoltnir, who, as always, shows up late to the party.

After an epic (and nail-biting) fight

to the surface, he is finally called home by Heimdall-or what looks to be Heimdall.

This movie is great for anyone who loves a good laugh and, of course, fighting aliens. Of course these Aliens are cuter, but hey, what’s not to love about that?

Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston do an excellent acting job in this movie, taking it to a whole new level of comedy, mystery and thrills.

They have really changed since Thor. Tom has gotten less evil, and has an even better understanding of family, especially after he causes the death of his father, Odin. n this movie he really struggles with finding his place, and being second to his older brother Thor. Naturally, he wouldn’t be Loki, God of Mischief, without a little Mischief!

After leaving his brother to fend for himself on an Alien planet, where he is finally accepted, he soon realizes that he might have made a mistake that jeopardizes the fate of his people.

Overall, Thor: Ragnarok is a movie that will make you laugh.

The plot in this movie is outstanding, and I would recommend this film to anyone who wants to know how Asgardians get down.

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METERS DOWN Hannah Hartleb

While the film throws in some unexpected twists, “47 meters down” will leave you wanting more.

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any would consider “47 Meters Down” a struggle to follow after some of the greatest shark terror movies, including “Jaws” and “The Shallows.”

Since the film is categorized in the horror genre, you would expect to be squirming in your seat while watching, but instead you will be left unsatisfied and disappointed.

While the twist at the end added a surprise factor and made the film more enjoyable, it then quickly cuts off and leaves you wanting more – and not in a good way.

After recently being dumped by her boyfriend, Lisa (Mandy Moore) and her sister Kate (Claire Holt) take a last minute vacation to the tropics of Mexico. There they meet two local guys who convince Kate to go on a shark cage excursion.

Reluctantly, Lisa agrees.

When the day arrives, they find their way onto a sketchy boat with a not-so-promising cage. Ready for adventure, the girls are lowered into the water at a mere 5 meters.

Everything is fine and dandy while they catch glimpses of sharks.

Suddenly, the winch breaks and the cage is plummeted to the ocean floor – 47 meters to be exact.

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Quickly running out of oxygen, the girls have to find ways to work together to survive. They learn if they try to leave the cage, they will most likely die whether it be by sharks or nitrogen bubbles in their brain.

Compared to the ending of “The Shallows,” this film does throw in an unexpected twist. While the ending of “The Shallows” was sadly predictable, in “47 Meters Down,” no one saw this coming.

However, the film left you wanting more on what happened to the sisters after the accident. Something we’ll never know.

Overall, the film “47 Meters Down” definitely has more weak points than strong. Quite frankly, there are too many uneventful scenes in it to classify this as a horror film. While the acting made up for some of it, all in all, this movie was a dud. I do not recommend seeing it unless you like to fall asleep in the theater.

I Hate You, I Love You

Teens around the world relate to Gnash’s hit single

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he song “I Hate You, I Love You” from the album Us is about a girl who is still in love with her past relationship, but the guy moved on, and fell in love with someone else. They are still friends, but she realizes that she will never be like his new girl. She is completely devastated about it. Just being friends was hard for her.

This song is relate-able to a lot of teens all around the world. All the emotions that the girl is singing is relating to how you can’t get

Michelle Luong

the person you want. She sings, “You want her, you need her and I’ll never be her.” Teens and any other age people can relate to this because it relates to where you like or love someone but they never notice you and notice someone else instead, “I miss you when I can’t sleep, or right after coffee, or right when I can’t eat, I miss you in my front seat.” This lyric relates because when you get your heartbroken you can’t bare to do anything.

Gnash has made tons of other songs in the album “Us,” but this

one is the top favorite because there is an aspect of both gender relating and telling us their problems instead of just one gender.

What I dislike about this song is how much profanity it has in there. I do not like how each part of that song has profanity, I also don’t like how the rap was really fast, and how you couldn’t understand to what he was saying, it is also overplayed. But overall, I thought the song was catchy, soothing, and relatable to a lot of girls and boys everywhere.

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Falling for Apple Cider The winter season is the perfect seaosn for apple cider.

Red & Black staff has selected three ciders to try.

Jordan Jones

Spiced Apple Cider Origional Instant Drink

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10 pouches of powder are priced at $2.73.

This drink was very watered down and pretty much tasted like it was a powder dissolved in water. The only flavor I got from this was tangy and I did not enjoy it. The water also made the drink have an after taste that was not pleasant. Overall this was my least favorite out of the three and the only good part about it was that it was cheapest

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Green Mountain Keurig Hot Apple Cider

TTTTT

Priced at $11.49 16 k-cups ,taste more traditional than the Starbucks drink. It also tasted like apple juice and brown sugar. I did not hate the taste, but I also didn’t love it. It was very tart and a little sour.

Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice Drink

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The drink was $3.25 for a tall with whipped cream. It smells like cinnamon and tasted very sweet.

Because of all the spice it was not just a regular apple cider that consisted of apple juice and

sugar. I liked all the flavor and drank the whole cup. But I did not taste any caramel because by the time I got my drink all the whipped cream had melted, and the caramel drizzle was unnoticeable.

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E

ver wondered how it would feel to drink a cappuccino in Paris with a clear view of the Eiffel Tower? Or how about eating a croissant pour deux (croissant for two). These are a few of a wide variety of items that Amelie’s French Bakery offers on their menu.

Amelie’s French Bakery is a French styled coffeeshop located in Uptown Charlotte, and in four other locations around the Charlotte area; it has even made its way to Atlanta. At first glance, the decor is an exaggerated representation of France, but this whimsical feature is what makes Amelie’s so unique. As soon as you walk in, you feel captured by all of the paintings, lights, vibrant colors-not to mention the sweet aroma of coffee.

Their atmosphere and decor make the coffee shop feel cozy and home-

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Alexia DeSouza

like, so it is easy to go into Amelie’s to socialize with friends or even to study.

The service at Amelie’s is about the best around. Even with them working all day, (and even all night in some locations) the staff still manages to show a smiling face ready to serve everyone who comes in. The baristas are trained and make one of the best coffees in the city. The servers at Amelie’s are friendly and ready to engage in conversation.

While the atmosphere, decor, and servers are astounding, the food and coffee are the main event.

Being a self-proclaimed coffee enthusiast, I have tasted a lot of different types of coffee from various shops, such as Not Just Coffee. After trying Amelies’ chai latte and some of their pastries, I can wholeheartedly say that the coffee is one of the best I have ever had.

Now while some people may not care for coffee, there are many other options. Amelie’s French Bakery offers dozens of different sweets, teas, breakfast options and even some sandwiches. There is something for everyone to enjoy.

If you are wanting to experience a modern twist to French architecture and glorious pastries, I would suggest paying a visiting to Amelie’s French Bakery.

“Amelie’s French Bakery offers dozens of different sweets, teas, breakfast options and even some sandwiches.

There is something for everyone to enjoy.”

Panera Bread Company Natalie Sawyer

Panera Bread is the perfect option for all lunch needs

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ith colder weather blowing in, it is the best season for warm sandwiches, soups, and chilies. Open since 1981, Panera Bread offers a warm sanctuary for its customers out of the cold weather. Panera is a fast-paced counter-serve restaurant that offers free bread, chips, or an apple along with free Wi-Fi. With over 2064 locations worldwide, Panera Bread’s locations present a variety of food on its menu to satisfy your cravings like sandwiches, flatbreads, salads, bowls, pastas, mac and cheese, along with many bakery goods.

At the Kingsley Panera Bread location, the atmosphere is very enjoyable with soft music playing in the background. This location has multiple tables covered by umbrellas with seats outside for customers to enjoy their food on a nice day, as well as a covered patio area with a fireplace for rainier and colder weather.

The inside is charming, with a variety of booths and regular tables. The restaurant was also very clean, with shining floors, spotless windows and mirrors, and a tidy bathroom.

Approaching the service counter I found I could also order on a modernized tablet that provided many facts, such as calorie number and ingredients about my food

I felt the prices were very afforadable. order. Not only did I find Panera to have a great variety but their selection of organic drinks were even more immense.

I found the service to be very pleasant. Our server, Teresa, seemed happy to take our order and gave us good suggestions on what to get. After I ordered, it only took about 5 minutes for servers to get my food out.

I felt the prices were very afford-

able as well.

When I received our food it was warm, with steam rising from the top of the mac and cheese. Not only did the food look good, it tasted good, like home cooked.

I found the portions were not too small, and not too big-- just enough to feel full. With the amount of food, the prices seemed more than fair.

Panera offers a similar menu to its rival McAllister’s, so the question is which restaurant is the better choice? I would recommend Panera over McAllister’s because they provide a variety of ways you can order. You can order by an electronic kiosk, at the service counter, or by rapid pick up all within the restaurant, along with a delivery and drive through option.

Overall, I found the service to be fast, the servers to be friendly, the restaurant to be clean, and the quality of the food to be fantastic. If you need a new lunch place to try, Panera Bread is the perfect place for you!

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Alyssa Rollins

Vans run ahead of Converse

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onverse started off as elite basketball shoes but developed into a trend for everyone.

Vans are advertised as “skater shoes” but anyone can wear them. They both are in style with a vast range of ages.

I personally prefer my white Sk8-Hi Slim Vans over my white Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low Tops. The price is about the same, my Vans were $60 and my Converse were $50.

The Vans are more comfortable and easier to move around in.

When you first buy Converse they are stiff and can be painful to break in. Vans are comfortable the first

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time you put them on.

They are both hard to clean since mine are white but if you don’t let them get too dirty they are easier to clean. If you have the right shoe

“Converse do not have good traction, and the bottom of the soles wear off easily.” cleaner they will be easier to clean.

The high top Vans take longer to put on because you have to loosen the laces before you can set your foot in the shoes. They are good for skateboarding or just walking

around in because they move easier with each step. Also, it won’t hurt to walk in them for a long time.

Converse do not have good traction, and the bottom of the soles wear off easily. They would definitely not be good for skating and would wear down or fall apart.

Converse may be more in style than Vans but they aren’t very comfortable to walk around in, especially for long periods of time.

Overall, I prefer my Vans over Converse because they are more comfortable and easy to get around in. I like how both of them look but I prefer being comfortable over being stylish.

Vans are my favorite shoes.

Definitely Worth it

The recent release of the Morphe 350 sequel palette is without a doubt worth the money, with all new vibrant and glittery shades.

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Sydney Mason o celebrate the second tones. Many makeup enthusiasts annual anniversary of the would jump at the chance to be able Morphe 35O eyeshadow to use this palette aiming for lively, palette, Morphe released bold eyeshadow looks. The shadows a sequel palette on Oct. 12 known are all super pigmented and very as the Morphe 35O2. Morphe is a easily blendable on the eyelid. The popular brand best known for its metallic shades are ultra-pigmented high quality, inexpensive makeup, and have a buttery texture, similar and this new palette proves that. to the mattes in the palette.

The Morphe 35O2 includes all new rich and vibrant shades.

It could possibly be a bigger hit than the original. This collection of eyeshadow screams fall and has a wide variety of warm-toned colors.

With 35 shades in an array of different finishes from matte, metallic and satin, this palette is definitely worth your money. Retailing Some of the metallic, glittery shades at $23, this palette offers the best in the palette, however, were a little quantity and quality desired for the disappointing. They had a lot of price. extra fallout beneath the eye which Unlike the first palette released was unappealing to say the least. a couple years ago, this new palette There does happen to be a shade comes with a transparent plastic of black in the palette which, persheet giving the names of each sonally, did not attract me, since I shade, making it more convenient would never use a shade that dark. and more fun for customers to pick Another possible con about this out the right shade for them. product would be that it is not in This palette includes many rich, stock at any store. It is only availburnt oranges, copper, and pink able on the Morphe website. How-

ever, it does not take too long to ship, maybe five business days. The price of shipping doesn’t drastically affect the total either, unlike most products in retail.

I really like this palette because it has a lot of pink shades which is what I usually go for. If I had to pick favorites from the palette, they would have to be Risky, Chestnut, Halo and Pure. Risky is more of a dark salmon color, while Chestnut is a dark pink, mauve color. They are both matte shades.

Together they create a beautiful mixture of color on the eyelid and they are especially good crease colors. Halo is a lot similar to Risky, however it has more orange undertones, and it is one of the metallic, glittery shades.Halo works well with the two crease shades, Risky and Chestnut. Pure is more of a light gold, glittery shade that goes well with any other color.

The palette has a lot of colors that are similar to those of the Morphe 35O, however it is obvious that it is unique and much more vibrant and bright. In my opinion, the purchase price is worth it, and I recommend it to any makeup lover. You definitely get your money’s worth with this palette.

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Jigsaw

Kelci Adams

The Spierig brothers create a spooky series finale fans will love

The end of the movie has a huge twist that will leave you in awe.

Even though the special effects were a bit cheesy (as they always have been throughout the series) the actors were very funny and entertaining.

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igsaw, an American horror film directed by Michael Spierig and Peter Spierig that released Oct. 27, ends the Saw film series that all started in 2004 with the first “Saw” movie directed by James Wan. In the first Saw horror flick, Adam (Leigh Whannell) and Gordon (Cary Elwes) find themselves trapped in a broken down bathroom and are forced to kill each other or their family members will die. Despite a variety of directors, the series continues Jigsaw’s gruesome killing traps and games.

In “Jigsaw,” law enforcement is trying to crack the case of all the murders in the area.

Some citizens in the town believed John Kramer, The Jigsaw Killer, came back from the dead to continue to teach bad people their lessons. The Jigsaw Killer is known for his death traps and mental and physical torture to his subjects.

Although John Kramer has been dead for over a decade his torture games start up again, and the whole town is confused.

The end of the movie has a huge twist that will leave you in awe.

Even though the special effects were a bit cheesy (as they always have been throughout the series) the actors were very funny and entertaining, especially Ryan, played

by Paul Braunstein.

All four victims of Jigsaw have twisted stories of why they ended up in Jigsaw’s game. All four actors Laura Vandervoort, (Anna) Paul Braunstein, (Ryan) Mandela Van Peebles, (Mitch) Brittany Allen, (Carly) do an excellent job to pull audience in and you’ll feel bad for them but hate them at the same time.

The film “Jigsaw” was better with the quality of affects, acting, camera angles and storyline. The older films had trouble with acting and special effects.

Jigsaw had a $10 million budget that showed in the quality of the horrific scenes throughout the movie. The film is 92 minutes and keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering what the victims will take on next.

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R E V I E W

Danganronpa V3 Killing Harmony

Murder mystery video game offers hours of fun

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Chloe Morris gameplay begins. The students and player anganronpa V 3 is a murtake part in the Class Trial, where you have der mystery-solving game to refute statements, find contradictions, for 16 and older, yet very entertaining and keeps you and sometimes agree with others. It is on edge with its characters’ quite an experience that uses logical thinkpersonalities and plot twists. Players get at- ing and skills. The theme behind the game tached to a character, hoping that he or she is truths versus lies, and sometimes logic doesn’t get killed off – or murder someone, versus faith.

The antagonistic one of the group, Kowhich results kichi Oma, the Ultimate Supreme Leader, in execution. plays a major role in the game. Kokichi The plot revolves around 15 students is a pathological liar and is always telling who get trapped in a prison-like school called “Ultimate Academy for Gifted Juve- lies and crying crocodile tears. He sometimes causes trouble for Kaede and Shuichi niles” and are forced to kill each other to during investigations and Class Trials. Koescape. This activity is called the “Killing kichi says that to end the killing game, you Game,” not unlike “The Hunger Games,” but students win nothing and are trapped have to win the killing game. He always wants to make the killing game less boring in the world of the academy. The Killing Game only ends when two remaining stu- for himself. dents survive or if they manage to escape. This game has flaws, but overall the plot is brilliant and the characters are amazing.

In this single-player game, the protagThe gameplay isn’t too hard. The difficulonist is Kaede Akamatsu, The Ultimate ty increases from level Kind to Gentle to Pianist. Kaede is a very optimistic person, especially in this situation. She keeps Mean. If a player wants a good challenge, telling everyone to not give up and to keep the Mean difficulty is the way to go. trying their best. Her friend, Shuichi Saiha- The mix between two dimensional and ra, the Ultimate Detective, is always by her three dimensional characters and objects side. He helps her investigate through the fit well in this game. The execution of each class trials to find out who is the culprit, or culprit that are based off of their ultimate talent has been a tradition in the Danganin this game the “Blackened.”

Once a student is murdered, the player ronpa series, and won’t ever change. The controls of the game are smooth at some must go through an investigation where points and others, not so much. they have to search all possible crime scenes to gather clues, accounts, and alibis. I highly recommend this game for people who enjoy solving mysteries.

Once the investigation is over, the real

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This game has flaws, but overall the plot is brilliant, and the characters are amazing.

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S P O R T S

The Great Comeback

Cancer Survivor Jalen Willers Is Back In The Game

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Emily Willers

he day begins with every doctor’s appointment, and Jalen also gives back to the orgahis mother taking his chemo day with Jalen. nization Dream On 3, which gives temperature to see if “Watching him beat and rise from kids with illnesses their dreams. he’s okay to get out of cancer put a new perspective on Jalen was lucky enough to get one. bed. Every day for 5 everything,” she said.

His dream was to go to a New York months until Jalen Willers (‘18) was Jalen now plays cornerback for the Knicks game and meet small fordiagnosed with stage four HodgkFalcons. He is thankful and happy ward Carmelo Anthony. ins’ Lymphoma, to be back, even “My dream was the best thing that “I look up to him. He if it’s hard. the routine was the has happened to me and made me same.

“With the help happy again,” Jalen said. has shown me if you During the sumfrom my coaches He and his family felt so touched work hard you can do mer of 2016, Jalen and teammates,

by Dream on 3 gift, they wanted to anything,” woke up at 6 in they got me get give another child his dream. The – Korey Mcgarrigle (’20) the morning, weak back on my feet,” autistic boy wanted to go to a Charand tired only to Jalen said. lotte Hornets game. spend up to six hours in a chemo Now he starts for the Falcons and “It’s amazing to be able to have room to fight for his life. After five couldn’t be happier. this opportunity, to help kids feel cycles of hard chemo, Jalen came “Watching him playing as happy as out a survivor. football is amazing,” “It’s good to be back I did,” Jalen He describes the feeling as “a sense said Jalen’s father, Craig to normal. I couldn’t said. of relief.”

Willers. “From where he Jalen knew be happier with “Everyone knows I had cancer, but was a year ago to now is he could beat the way things I’m okay with it and embracing it,” unbelievable.” cancer, but he said.

Now his teammates see he was scared turned out.”

Now he’s going back to school and him as a role model. he wouldn’t playing football. But he feels things To give back to the cancer combe able to recover completely. The will never be the same. munity, Jalen and his family partic- experience changed him.

His mother, Sue Willers was with ipate in the Walk the Night fund But now he’s back to school, Jalen through it all. She was at raiser for the Lymphoma Society. work, and football.

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Emily Willers

During the Rock Hill vs.

Nation Ford game, Jalen Willers (‘18) sets in postion in the first quarter of the game.

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S P O R T S

Out For The Season Stephanie Lange

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Student JT Irvin knocked out for another season with serious injury irst day back in full pads, first day back using full contact. The heat beats down as the football players warm up. JV wide receiver JT Irvin runs forward to block the man in front of him when he feels an excruciating pain as his knee snaps back.

Caught in a lose-lose situation, Irvin injures himself once again, putting him out for more months, preventing him from doing the two things he truly loves -- football and basketball.

Like many young athletes, Irvin struggles with the disappointment that comes with suffering injuries.

Immediately affecting his life, the knee injury rendered Irvin unable to use the stairs in school.

“For my entire summer, I spent watching my teammates and my friends have fun on the field and the court while I sat,” he said.

Heartbroken at being unable to play for almost a year, Irvin struggled with this injury.

“Everything that made me happy was gone,” he said. “I had nothing to look forward to other than the end of the hour to take pain medicine.”

Irvin was given the option of surgery with a six-month recovery, but he declined. Even with the risk 46 n RED & BLACK

of dislocation, he chose to self-heal his knee as the doctors suggested.

He was supposed to be cleared to play at the end of August, but Irvin decided to skip football for the year to stay safe. But problems started to occur.

“Towards the end of September, my knee started to pop and grind,” he said.

Despite the injury, the 6 feet 2 inch shooting guard decided to play

“Yet when I turned to grab a rebound, my knee gave out again.” what he loved -- playing basketball for his AAU team.

“I was playing in a basketball game with my knee brace, and full speed,” Irvin said. “Yet when I turned to grab a rebound, my knee gave out again.”

And his ability to play was gone in one second.

Irvin injured his MPFL-the medial patellofemoral ligament.

The MPFL plays an important role in keeping the [knee cap] on track to restrain movement, according to an interview with Dr. Beth Shubin Stein and Dr. Sabrina Strickland on

Hss.edu, the website for Hospital for Special Surgery.

“During the procedure, the orthopedic surgeon replaces the injured ligament with a tendon, taken from the patient’s hamstring or donor tissue, and creates a new ligament,” the doctors say. This is the procedure Irvin underwent on Tuesday, Oct. 10.

Joseph Taylor, Irvin’s father and coach is able to relate to his son’s injuries. When he attended University of South Carolina, he played lineman for the Gamecocks, and Taylor was forced to walk away from football because of an injury himself.

“J.T. has taken this injury in stride better than I ever expected,” he said. “I know he will work hard to allow himself an opportunity to play again.”

Irvin was able to cope with this tragic injury. “I handled it with a look to the future, to be stronger than I was before,” he says.

He’s stuck with six more months of recovery, “Now, I’m waiting again,” he said. “Waiting to run side by side next to my boys. Running down the field to give my teammates a high five when they score a touchdown or fist bump when they knock down a shot, and waiting to do what I love again.”

Art by Sam Ganbold

High school athletes account for an estimated 2 million injuries and 500,000 doctor visits and 30,000 hospitalizations each year.

– Journal of Athletic Training

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At Blue Wave Stable Waxhaw SC Ansley Archuleta (21’) prepares to practice with 7-yearold American Paint Horse Chase.

S P O R T S

Horsing Around Lay-Lay Davis

Freshman Ansley Archuleta rides for fun and health

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hree years ago, Freshman Ansley Archuleta had no interest in horses. But then something happened.

Suddenly, Archuleta had a striking interest in Equestrianism.

“The first time I rode a horse,I was 6 years old and the instructor walked with me on the horse,”said Archuleta.

“I started riding when I got lessons for my birthday,” Archuleta said. “It was a fun experience but different from how I ride now.

She began riding in Florida.

“I did Western riding and now I do English riding,” she said. “English riding is all about technique and is more proper than Western.

The western saddles have a horn on them.”

Although she doesn’t ride competitively, she enjoys riding a 7-year-old horse named Chase at Blue Wave Stable in Waxhaw, SC. “When I ride it’s me,some friends from Indian Land and 3 adults but the adults stay off to the side and watch” said Archuleta.

There she practices riding, show jumping techniques,teaches how to ride the horses and leads trail rides.

One trail ride consist of 90 minutes and cost up to $30. A Trail Riding Ticket Package is when a

single rider can pay for four rides and get the 5th one free.

“My relationship with Chase has gotten better over the years. He used to be grumpy, but we have adapted to each other and he acts different towards other people compared to how he acts with me.”

The Health Benefits of Horseback Riding is body awareness, coordination, core strength, muscle tone, flexibility, stable strength, mental exercise and quick thinking.

“We know the risks of riding, but we are all required to wear our helmets.” riding a large, powerful animal with a mind and agenda of its own is a full-body workout that will force you to engage muscles you didn’t know existed and be constantly adjusting to the form of the animal.

“When riding it is typically at night so it’s dark cold and lots of trees on one side and a pasture with mini horses on the other.”

Is riding is easy for a beginner?

“Yes, [horseback riding] is somewhat easy to learn, but you must practice,” said Archuleta.

She’s learned a lot since her first ride.

“Practice is easy, but learning

how to control the horse is important,” said Archuleta.

With riding horses comes the responsibility of serious injury.

TBI, traumatic brain injury, is something that can cause concussions,turning to a vegetative state or even death of the riders.

“I have never been hurt and never had a concussion, but my friends have had back injuries,” said Archuleta . “We know the risks of riding, but we are all required to wear our helmets.”

Horseback riders have a higher risk of TBI than any other sport.

Doctors began focusing on the issue just last year. Nineteen thousand people have been admitted to the hospital because of TBI in 2016, according to Dr. Lola Chambless, an assistant professor of neurosurgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and an equestrian.

Studies show that only 25 percent of riders actually wear their helmets, and wearing a helmet can reduce the risks of TBI by 50 percent.

Three years ago, Ansley didn’t know chase, nor did she know how to ride a horse. But now you can find her every Friday at Blue Wave Stable practicing with Chase around the arena or teaching to younger children.

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S P O R T S

Hiyah!

Mom By Day, Karate Master By Night

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Mackenzie Wilson

ive years ago, Mary Aufand playing with their two dogs. demberg wouldn’t have “For about a year I had to stop. In ever thought about doing between work, traveling, and getting karate. Now, she’s nearly the kids into the routine of school, I eight months away from needed a break.” That break gave her being a black belt and going onto the time she needed, and gave her advance even more. time to figure out what she needed Nearly three days out of the week, and wanted to do most in life. By Mrs. Aufdemberg says goodbye to doing this, not only did it help her, it her kids and husband, goes into the helped many people around her. car, and drives off to karate. This “I would definitely recommend has been the case for four years by young girls and women taking kanow, but in these last rate. Working in “You grow more couple of years, she the business world. has become stronger Taking karate you confident in speaking then ever. Indepenhave to go out and dent, confident, and perform in front of up, advancing and truly ambitious would be a 300 people which showing everyone what few words to deboost your confiscribe her now. dence. By doing you’re capable of.”

“I started at 35. that, you grow It was a way for me, more confident in - Mary Aufdemberg Clara [ daughter speaking up, ad], and Elliot [ son ] to bond and vancing and truly showing everyone get some exercise once in awhile,” what you’re capable of ” Aufdemberg said. She was involved According to the Huffington Post, in color guard for 6 years throughnot only does karate build more out middle and high school and was confidence, it can make your child “fairly good”. bully - proof.

“It’s funny because now, neither It is something she will never be Clara or Elliot do karate anymore. able to give up because like most I’m the only one that’s stuck to it.” people, once you start something Clara had went on to do a various you love, it’s hard to stop and all number of sports including soccer you want to do is keep on going. and archery, while Elliot decided to After Aufdemberg gets to her black be more of a introvert and play vidbelt, she will go on and start all over eo games, occasionally going outside again, aiming for a double black belt.

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Kung Fu Fighting!

Stretching before class, Mrs. Aufdemberg and her daughter Clara prepare for a karate lesson at UpLevel Martial Arts on Oct. 24.

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Emily Willers

52 n RED & BLACK

Kicking With Skyler Simon Wallace

For Falcon kicker Skylar Delong the sky is the limit as he heads to Alabama

Ashley Garcia

S Skyler Delong (‘18)

At the Rock Hill game, Skyler Delong (’18) warms up on the sidelines in the Nation Ford stadium on Oct. 6.

kyler Delong, 6’4, 180 this year. lbs., is a 3 out of 5 star “It was a great opportunity for athlete, which positions me to get the experience”.he said. him in the no.1 spot in He was very excited when the nation for recruits. he got the call from the All The Nation Ford Falcon American Bowl. Delong is a Football kicker decommitted big time punting prospect with from the University of Tenneselite leg strength. He has a very see to head down to Alabama powerful leg that can boot the University for football as far as a great op55 yards. He has a “It was a great portunity for great frame, natural him. He felt punting ability and that Alabama shows all the skills opportunity for was one of his to dominate the D1 top pick of level. Delong’s punts me to get the schools and have great distance was willing to and hang time. He be ready for a is also competiexperience.” great time in tor who does well Alabama. under pressure.

The Alabama team will need Which gives him his ability to Delong as a freshman right away. do what he does. The Alabama’s Current kicker at Alabama is new kicker, Delong will be the J.K Scott, he will be a senior number 1 kicker on their depth this year, which he said “it will chart next season. He will have playout perfectly”.With Delong a great opportunity to have a coming in as a freshman to take chance to go at the pro level if he his place. Delong will be the wanted too. The Nation Ford’s second punter from Fort Mill to kicker journey will start in 2018. kick for Alabama. Delong went “I felt like Alabama was the right to the Army All American Bowl place,” he said.

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S P O R T S

NFL Playoff predictions

Nick Roarty

Red&Black picks for the upcoming Superbowl LII

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nother NFL season is coming to a close and the playoffs are right around the corrner thease are the teams that have a run at the playoffs.

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Detroit Lions Around this time of year the Lions are 17-4 under Jim Caldwell, and if quarterback Matthew Stafford had eight fourth-quarter comebacks last season against good teams, he can lead the Lions to a playoff appearance or even a win.

The Lions haven’t won a playoff game since 1991, but that hasn’t stopped the Lions from competing against their opponents in the playoffs. Regardless, this year the Lions are looking to make a deep run.

Philadelphia Eagles The Eagles are one of the best teams in football. They have an easy schedule going forward against mediocre teams such as the Bears, Giants, and Cowboys. Quarterback Jared Goff and the Rams won’t be able to stop his rival Carson Wentz and the Eagles from reaching the NFC Championship game.

Seattle Seahawks Due to a ruptured Achilles 54 n RED & BLACK

tendon, the Seattle Seahawks are without cornerback Richard Sherman who is, arguably, their best defensive player.

They’re going to have to rely on their offense to carry them to a winning record and to the playoffs.

Previously, the defense has been the Seahawks’ strength.

Minnesota Vikings The Vikings have emerged as one of the better teams in the NFL. After Sam Bradford’s knee injury and relying on quarterback to Case Keenum (who, at the moment, looks to be as good as the great Joe Montana), the Vikings could have just quit when they were 2-2.

When Dalvin Cook was injured against the Lions, they lost their starting running back, and from that point, their fans gave up on the run game. Then Keenum TOOK OVER and threw for over 304 yards against the Redskins. He looked like a god.

Vikings are atop the NFC North and show no signs of slowing down, but they have Detroit, Carolina, and Atlanta standing in their way for a playoff spot.

New Orleans Saints The Saints have won eight straight games with quarterback Drew

Brees and running back Mark Ingram. They are looking to meet the Eagles in the NFC Championship game. What they did to the Bills was one of the best offensive performances the NFL has ever seen -they got three rushing touchdowns and over 482 of total offensive yards, and 298 of those yards came from the Saints running game that defied all odds. Ingram ran through seven Buffalo Bills stacked in the box. With five offensive linemen, they left two defenders unblocked, and the Saints’ running backs still ran for 298 yards.

Carolina Panthers The Carolina Panthers are shadows of their former selves. While in 2015, they went 15-1 without their star wideout Kelvin Benjamin, now that Benjamin has been traded to the Bills, the Panthers’ no. 1 receiver is Devin Funchess.

Cam Newton has struggled to stay afloat this season, but they will make the playoffs.

Tennessee Titans The Tennessee Titans have the will to win. They keep finding ways to win, and that’s a perfect locker room. They have a tough game coming up against the league’s highest scoring offense, the Los

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Angeles Rams. They are first in the AFC South and don’t show signs of slowing down.

Buffalo Bills Even though the Bills’ defense was dismantled by the Saints in week 9. They are still playoff-material though they have got to work on some things by resolving the quarterback situation that is clearly dividing the locker room. Also, they better work on the front seven if the Saints can rush for 298 yards with seven Buffalo Bills stuffed in the box there is a definite problem.

Jacksonville Jaguars The Jags are favorites to win their division this year. Only the Titans are standing in the way of that.

They play teams such as the Browns

and Colts, and the Jags are favorites to win those games. They had and easy schedule coming into the 2017 season, but if they want to make the playoffs, their offense has to step up and make plays for them.

New England Patriots The Super Bowl LI champions, the New England Patriots, are looking to repeat in the Super Bowl, and they show no signs of slowing down after the signing of tight end Martellus Bennett from the Packers. The only team that has a chance against them is the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Kansas City Chiefs The Chiefs started out 4-0 on the season. They showed that

they were looking to run the AFC and compete with the Patriots and make a run for their second Lombardi Trophy -- but then they lost to the Steelers. They looked like the Chiefs (we all know), but Alex Smith is on fire at the moment and shows no sign of slowing down -so Rookie Patrick Mahomes better get comfortable on that bench.

Pittsburgh Steelers The Steelers are the team to beat in the AFC -- next to the Patriots, of course.

Their defense has matched up to hot Detroit Lions and Tennessee Titans teams.

The killer B’s are looking flawless with rookie Juju Smith-Schuster, Big Ben might ride off into the sunset with another ring.

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Basketball player, football player, son, brother, student, friend. Xavier Easterlin only shoots for the stars.

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ounds of dribbling echo off the sweat stained walls. Shoes squeak on the court. Players race past as the crowd cheers. Xavier Easterlin, a 2020 Nation Ford High School graduate, wouldn’t want to be anywhere else but on the basketball court.

Xavier has played basketball since he was a young boy. Now at age 15, basketball is still one of the highlights of his life, and he doesn’t plan on giving up on playing. However, the thought has crossed his mind.

“I wasn’t playing well for a

“I think he probably out works, in terms of practice, about 90 percent of his peers.” stretch of games, and everything seemed like it was going downhill,” Xavier said. “I told myself that it’s just a phase, and I’ll get through it.

It’s just temporary. Keep working hard through everything.”

Xavier plays shooting guard/ 56 n RED & BLACK

Elana White

wing and has been playing basketProblem-solving and hard work are ball ever since he was 8. what brought Xavier to where he is “Basketball is definitely a huge part of his life,” explained Xavier Easterlin Senior, Xavier’s father and former AAU coach explained. “I could see him being a really good coach or After a layup, Xavier Easterlin finishes with a something. He one-and one free throw. which he sinks for 2 could probably more points in a summer AU game. be in the NBA if he really wanted to.” today.

Not everyone is lucky enough to “During football season, it’s have a father as a coach. However, probably hard for him to practice coaching wasn’t necessarily Mr. so much, so he probably practicEasterlin’s choice. It was more of an es about 3 to 5 days a week,” said act of problem-solving.

Dennis White, Easterlin’s former “While Xavier played JV in 9th AAU coach. “When it’s not football grade, he didn’t get much playing season, probably everyday.” time, so I became his coach so we Xavier puts a lot of hard work, can work on some tactics to change pride and dedication into basketthat for next year,” Mr. Easterlin ball, and it doesn’t go unnoticed. said.

Terence Gordan

Home on the Court

Terence Gordan

“Xavier first and foremost has a really great jump shot,” White said.

“He’s long for a guard, he’s got a very good basketball IQ. I think he probably out works, in terms of practice, about 90 percent of his peers. His best skill is shooting, but

“At the last three seconds, he hit a half court shot which won us the game.” he’s also really good at blocking shots--especially from behind.”

Xavier still needs to work on some skills obviously, and there are some things he can’t really help. He has a slim physique, which definitely plays a huge role in how aggressive he can play. The rest of the things Xavier needs to work on are only obstacles in his eyes. Obstacles he could set goals to overcome.

“He’s the type that would be outside shooting hoops while other kids are playing video games,” Elizabeth England-White, Xavier’s mother explained. “It is stressful because he puts a lot of pressure on himself.”

With basketball comes pride, laughter, joy, anger, and even sadness. With so many hours, blood, sweat, and tears all put into one task, when work pays off and every-

#0 on the Fort Mill Phoenix, Xavier Easterlin, lobs a pass at his second tournament of the 2016-2017 AAU season. He plays shooting guard/wing on a CBC team. one sees, of course he’s going to be proud.

“This summer during AAU, we were losing to another team, and Xavier hit a bunch of 3’s to get us back in the game,” White said. “At the last three seconds, he hit a half court shot which won us the game.”

That was definitely a moment

of pride for Xavier. Traveling with his teammates, winning with them, losing with them, crying with them, sweating with them, recovering from injuries with them. It turns them into a family. With family comes laughter and joy. As serious as Xavier is about the sport, he also takes every bit of positive energy DECEMBER 2017 n

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Jaylin Stukes

Cruising in the backseat of Elizabeth England-White’s car, Jaylin Stukes, Xavier Easterlin, and Kaiden Kebert pose for Jaylin’s selfie on the way to Cloud 9, a trampoline park. out of it he can. Anger can also surface with his passion for basketball.

“One time, someone hit my friend Gabe while he was on the ground for no reason. The whole team almost fought,” Xavier said.

His strong love for his team makes him feel like messing with any of them is like messing with all of them. Most bad basketball vibe’s grow out of disrespect toward teammates. Some grow out of sadness, too.

One of Xavier’s close friends, Jaylin Stukes, had recently passed away from cancer a while before Xavier participated in a basketball tournament in Myrtle Beach, SC. “When we were in Myrtle Beach, 58 n RED & BLACK

his friend had just died, and it was just a very emotional game,” Mr. Easterlin said.

England-White also witnessed the tears.

“His friend had died not too long before that game, and in his mind he had dedicated that tour-

“In his mind he had dedicated that game to him.” nament to him,” England-White said. “He cried after winning that game and overall we came second in the state which was pretty good.”

Xavier struggles to talk about

the game.

“In Myrtle Beach I started crying,” Xavier said with tears. “The shoes I was wearing, I had custom made for Jaylin. Before the game I had promised him I would win.

Jaylin was one of my best friends from when I lived in Virginia and he passed away from cancer on Feb. 4… I can’t talk about this right now,” He later wrote a message for Jaylin.

I’m always thinking about you and all my accomplishments are dedicated to you. I love you.

Xavier is continuing to work hard and play basketball every day.

He’s unstoppable.

O P I N I O N

Taking A Knee

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Jay Brown

Football players, coaches and fans are all entitled to free speech ven if you are not a sports fan, you have probably heard of the controversy in the news about NFL Players taking a knee during the National Anthem in protest of police brutality against African Americans. Former San Francisco 49’er quarterback, Colin Kaepernick, started the trend in 2016 when he began kneeling during the preseason games. He continued this practice throughout the season.

More recently, President Trump weighed into the issue during a recent speech in Alabama that ignited the issue further. Following President Trump’s comments almost all

teams showed some sort of protest the following week. This leads to the question, do NFL players have the right to take a knee during the national anthem? NFL Players have the freedom of expression and right to kneel during the National

“Of course they have the right to kneel, but it does not mean they should.”

Anthem. In turn, business owners have the right to tell the players who stand that they can lose their jobs. Finally, the fans have the most power by choosing not to watch the games or buy merchandise, which could cost the owners money.

According to the NFL Players Code of Conduct, all players should stand during the National Anthem.

Most people interpret this language that is not required that they stand, so technically they have the right to kneel during the National Anthem. Of course they have the right to kneel, but it does not mean they should. Some people believe that not standing for the National Anthem is a sign of disrespect for our flag and soldiers who have fought and died providing the freedom we have in the USA. Players should stand even if they don’t believe it’s right because it’s helping the NFL, who pays them.

They can speak on their own time.

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O P I N I O N

Jaden Kelley

Graffiti Is

Graffiti is not only art, but an art form

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n the walls of many urban cities lay pieces painted by graffiti artists and some people argue that it can never be considered art. Art is defined in many different ways and is different to many people. The definition found in the Merriam-Webster dictionary is “the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.”

“The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination...”

While there are many different types of graffiti, and what most people see doesn’t strike much feeling. However, a lot of graffiti is made to spread a message, such as Banksy’s art. Banksy is an anonymous England-based graffiti artist, political activist and film director of unverified identity. Their satirical street art and subversive epigrams combine humor with graffiti executed in a distinctive stenciling technique. When Banksy paints a piece, he uses images that are play60 n RED & BLACK

ful but also has philosophical and political messages.

Graffiti is not only art but an art form, as is music, and traditional painting. Graffiti is a way for artists to express themselves. An artist can paint their views through political cartoons, express feelings towards a subject, or just express what they are feeling at the time.

“I’ve learnt from experience that a painting isn’t finished when you put down your brush — that’s when it starts,” Banksy says In a 2013 interview with Michiko Kakutani, “I’ve learnt from experience that a painting isn’t finished when you put down your brush — that’s when it starts. The public reaction is what supplies meaning and value. Art comes alive in the arguments you have about it.” And this statement solidifies the argument that Graffiti is art, and, if done by a skilled artist strike feeling and create conversations about topics in the news and society.

In Bateman’s row this piece by David Walker was painted in 2010.

Photo from http://www.artofdavidwalker.

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O P I N I O N

Dropout Epidemic

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How to terminate a crisis in South Carolina

very year 1.2 million students drop out of school in the United States alone. That is one student every 26 seconds-- 7,000 kids per day according to dosomething.org.

In the United States, 15 states require dropout age to be 16, 11 states require it to be 17, and 24 require it to be 18. South Carolina’s dropout age is 17.

If those in power are trying to create dropout factories they are doing the right thing. But if they want their citizens to do something that deserves their potential, the government needs to encourage students to stay in school by raising the dropout age.

Nationwide, there are five high-graduation-rate high schools (85 percent graduation rate and above) for every one low-graduation rate high school (67 percent graduation rate and below) according to americaspromise.org. The crisis is not acceptable; there are still students who dropout, who try to escape school, and who try to make their life easier but are instead, more miserable. The South Carolina Government needs to raise the dropout age.

Students believe that even without a high school diploma that they have many options. Yes, there are options but not as many as it would be if they had stayed in school. And it is true students can have more 62 n RED & BLACK

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time to be in their career, and that students could get a decent job. But with a college degree or even a high school diploma, the opportunities are limitless. Dropping out, sticks careers in the corner.

Males are more likely to dropout than females. Black or Hispanic youth are more likely to dropout than Whites or Asian youth.

Foreign-born are more likely to dropout out than native-born, according to americaspromise.org.

South Carolina should raise the dropout age to 18; the government

After WWII, the United States had the #1 high school graduation rate in the world.

Today, we have dropped to #22 among 27 industrialized nations. shouwld encourqage students to continue attending school. If the age of dropout for South Carolina is raised, more students will have more stamina to finish because they are closer to graduation.

In 11 states, less than 70 percent of low-income students graduate.

Nearly nine out of 10 middle- and high-income students are graduat-

ing on time, while only about three in every four low-income students graduate on time, according to americaspromise.org. Though it is true that one of the causes of dropping out is due to family financial issues. But to better contribute more to financial problems would mean finishing high school or getting a college degree. High school graduates earn a national average of $8,000 more annually compared to high school dropouts according to americaspromise.org.

Seventy-Five percent of high school dropouts commit crimes. If the school restricted dropout until age until 18 this would encourage to finish what they started. There would be less high school dropout crimes committed, and more opportunities for students.

Dropping out of school might seem like the easiest thing to do for many teens, but it is not worth it.

Merely trusting that students can finish high school without a little nudge in the right direction will not benefit towards the students.

Government officials should understand that students drop out because they misunderstand the lack of options and opportunities they have if they don’t graduate. If officials push that dropping out of school leads to low-income and a stressful life, students will feel more obligated to finish school.

South Carolina should raise the dropout age to 18 to ensure that

Alexandra Cardona

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HOW MUCH SLEEP SHOULD YOU BE GETTING? Teens are supposed to get 9-9.5 hours of sleep every night

33% of teens report falling asleep in school at least once a week. source: Lucie Hemmen, PhD.

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School vs Sleep What’s more important?

School should start later for teens

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Divya Kandpal etting enough sleepy in class which will sleep at the help them make better right time grades. If students sleep protects more and are well rested, your physical and mental they will be more energethealth. ic in school and after.

In fact, car crash rates Teenagers should sleep fell by 16.5 percent in the at least 8 to 10 hours a two years after one school night, according to the district shifted its start American Academy of times an hour later than Sleep Medicine. A lot of the previous two years, students have two to three according a 2008 article hours of homework every in the Journal of Clinical night, and they also have Sleep Medicine. Schools extracurricular activities. should start later in the Usually this will cause morning so students can them to stay up late and be attentive in class. not get the right amount Yes, teenagers could go of sleep. If school started to bed early, but biological at 9:30 a.m. and ended at sleep patterns shift toward 3:30 p.m. students would later times for both sleephave time to do homeing and waking during work before school and adolescence -- meaning it after school. They can also is natural to not be able to get extra time to themfall asleep before 11 p.m., selves. according to the National Almost 70 percent of Sleep Foundation. How high-school students reare teens supposed to “go port sleeping seven hours to bed earlier” when their or less on a regular basis, brains are wired to do the according to the Centers exact opposite? for Disease Control.

If students get more High schools should time to sleep at night, start later in the morning, they will be more focused so teenaged students in class. They won’t feel can excel.

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Not So Music to your Ears Joi Nelson

Nation Ford struggles with the headphone policy

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eadphones should be used in school. While many students who choose not to socialize during the break periods they could spend that time listening to music.

According to the Nation Ford High School student policy no headphones are allowed with the use of a phone or any other device without permission from administration. The old policy was that headphones are allowed if your teacher gave permission to the students. They could be used in the commons and during lunch. Headphones should not be banned because music is a big stress reliever. “Music helps me focus and relieves my stress.” said Ashley Jordan. Music has a unique connection to feelings and emotions. Listening to music can be very effective as a stress manage-

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ment tool. It eases the pain mainly to an audience who may take certain medicines by taking a huge load off of a problem. Listening to music can have a tremendously relaxing effect on the minds and bodies.

“Listening to music can be very effective as a stress management tool.”

Studies indicate that music actually helps you study and those who do listen to music while studying may actually be better off for it.“Music activates both the left and right brain at the same time, and the activation of both hemispheres can maximize learning and improve memory,” said Dr. Masha Godkin professor in the Department of Marriage and Family Sciences at NCU.

If students are listening to their music by themselves with headphones there should not a problem. In some classes, headphones are allowed in class only when the teacher is not giving instructions.

If headphones could be used in a classroom, why are they not allowed in the commons at lunch or in the library?

With the headphone policy many students ask for an explanation or a good reasoning to why administration’s rule in such judgment. Why is the headphone policy the way it is, or what is the distraction for this? Some administration feel students will be to interested in their phone, or they will not be alert if a lockdown occurs or a fire alarm goes off. All students ask for is to be able to music in the commons or in the morning before the bell rings to go to class.

CRACKDOWN ON HEADPHONES Why Is Listening To Headphones During School Such A Big Deal ?

BENEFITS : Ability to study for longer periods of time Improves test scores Calms hyperactive children and adults Improves creativity and clarity Cuts learning time Reduces errors Heals the body faster Integrates both sides of the brain for more efficient learning Raises your IQ by nine points (Research done at the University of California, tested on Some people may find students). that listening to music distracts them from concentrating but for some people it helps them with focusing, memorizing, and keeping on task

CONS : Some have difficulty paying attention or multitasking

"Music can deliver much needed relief on the job" - Tom Popomaronis

STUDENTS CHOICE Takes stress off their mind by focusing on something else, such as work which makes someone want to work more then usual. If they finish that task then its one more thing off of the list

Normal noise levels are the sweet spots for creativity.

Ambient noise gets our creative juices flowing, and doesn’t put us off the way high levels of noise do. Noise levels increase processing difficult task which promotes abstract processing, leading to higher creativity DECEMBER 2017 n

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Unjustified

Keeley Wong

Students suffer the harsh reality of arriving late to class

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utes does not benefit students in any way. Eduhe school bell, the sound students all dread especially if they aren’t in cation is supposed to be the priority and goal for all students. class. Whether in the bathroom, Most students are late to class mainly to use getting breakfast, or just the restroom, Coach Brown said. Teachers prenot all the way to fer students going before class so not as to class yet, students must report miss their learning, yet some students do straight to In School Suspennot have enough time to travel from class sion (ISS) for the rest of their to class and use the restroom. Students 90 minute class period. then get sent o ISS for being tardy miss Administrators and staff ’s ing more class time than if teachers main priority should be betwould just allow students to go tering student’s education over during class. punishment for a tardy.

There must be a bet ISS Administrator, Mr. Brown ter alternative instead of reported on average two to having students sit in ISS for three students go to 90 minutes. Principal Jason ISS per block each Johns said at his previous day for being school he has tried many other tardy to class. ideas, and this is the best one Students yet. must go He has attempted giving straight students multiple chances to ISS and and warnings, but nothing has are not allowed worked thus far to reduce tardies back to class for except the current policy. the rest of the block Art: Leah White Teacher, Melissa Strelick said stuwasting their time and causing them to miss precious class work needed dents should have any type of punishment that does not take out of students learning time. to better their education.

A better solution is to have students attend ISS Teachers Senora Christi Sain and Melissa Strelick both say they would rather have students during Flex or an after school as punishment so students may still attend the classes needed. in class learning instead of sitting in ISS. Senora Sain even said that in the past she has had to call Tardy students should stay in class to receive ISS to send for a student so he did not to miss an the education. Administrators need to prioritize important test or quiz. Sitting in ISS for 90 min- student’s learning time and education more.

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Paying for Parking

Painting parking spots should simply be a senior privilege

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Angela Devone

fter 13 vigorous years of school, seniors deserve to paint their parking spot, a new senior tradition, without extra fees.

Seniors who wish to decorate their own parking spots must pay $75 in order to “purchase” their designated spot. The fee does not include the cost of paint or brushes required to paint a parking spot.

Students have to go to Lowes or the Home Depot and purchase their own latex or acrylic paint, which can be expensive - around $10 for a 32 ounce can at Lowes.

Senior Carlie Nance, a student at Nation Ford High School who painted her parking spot at the beginning of the school year, says she “probably spent around $200 for all of the expenses combined.”

Decorating parking spots should be a senior privilege. Seniors should not have to pay $75 just to rent a parking spot for a school year, plus paint and supplies. The rented parking spot should be included with the price of a parking pass for seniors.

In addition, parking passes are an unnecessary fund that students or parents have to pay in order for their child to drive themselves to Nation Ford High School, especial

“A parking pass alone is $40, which can be a lot for a low income family to pay.” ly when it comes to the new tradition of the seniors painting their parking spots.

Many parents do not have time to drive their kids to school in the mornings or pick them up in the afternoon, especially with all of the traffic on Springfield Parkway.

Although taking the bus is a cheap option that does not require parents

to pick up or drop off their kids, many students have practice for a sport, band, or a job directly after school. Therefore, many students must pay the hefty fees to be able to park their cars or else they face the threat of getting their vehicles towed at their own expense. A parking pass alone is $40, which can be a lot for a low income family to pay.

Although seniors do not have to paint or buy their own parking spots, it is a way for students to express their creativity and put it on display for others to see.

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Dreamers Many dreamers are worried about what is going to happen to them after they don’t have DACA to support them.

Art: Ashley Jordan

Amanda Gonzalez

Trump’s policy affects thousands of young people across the nation

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early 790,000 immigrants have benefited from the Deferred Action from Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, according to Pew Research. The DACA program is an immigration plan that allowed children who arrived in the United States as minors to receive rights, such as to be able to work and get a driver’s license.

Recently Donald Trump decided to end this. Trump should not end this because it has given many dreamers a better education and more opportunities.

Many dreamers are worried about what is going to happen to them after they don’t have DACA to support them. 58 percent of the voters believe dreamers should be allowed to stay and if they meet certain requirements they could also become legal citizens. Another 18 percent think they should stay and become legal residents but not citizens. The other 15 percent think they should be deported according to Politico Playbook.

Dreamers want to be successful in the future, but without having

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DACA available that won’t be possible anymore. President Donald Trump gave congress until March 2018 to come up with a better solution.

A solution to this problem could be to allow dreamers to remain in the United States as long they have a good reason to stay. Also, if they have family in the U.S. they should not be deported or separated from their family. For example, if immigrant parents have kids that are born in the U.S. the parents should become residents of the US too, after they complete the Citizenship test.

The young dreamers should be allowed to stay so they can go to college and receive a quality education. If the president doesn’t want them to stay in the U.S. and become legal residents or citizens he should allow them to stay in the U.S. and finish all of their high school and college classes to receive their diploma and degrees. When they complete their classes they can get deported back to their countries.

Therefore, they will be able to receive better jobs. Not only will they have a quality education, they will also be bilingual.

PHYSICAL FLEX

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Kareem Omar

The gym should be open during FLEX for kids’ health benefits

LEX, a 25-minute period of time in the school day to be used by students to study or finish work, is a good opportunity for students -- unless a student is all caught up and doesn’t need to study.

If a student is finished with homework and has no tests to make up, the gym should be open for students. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children and adolescents should have one hour for physical

activity daily (preferably aerobic). Since basketball is an aerobic exercise, not only will the students

Kids are very energetic (especially during 3rd and 4th block) and they need some time to run around and play. become more relaxed, but they will have a healthy physical break.

Currently, during FLEX, the gym is closed, but there could be some good in opening up the gym.

Kids are very energetic (especially during 3rd and 4th block) and they need some time to run around and play. If the students don’t have anything to work on, they could go to the gym during first FLEX and play basketball or other sports.

The people who want to go study and what-not can go the media center and do it.

Sure, academic time is important, but opening up the gym can be fun and good for the teachers as well as students because it will cut down on disipline problems.

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P erfection “I Kathrin Alexander

There is too much pressure to have the perfect body am fat.”

It’s what so many girls think when they see themselves in the mirror. About 90 percent of all girls in the United Kingdom are unhappy with their body, according to the Daily Mail. Even though more people are okay with their own appearance, there is too much body shaming in society.

For example the German-American model Heidi Klum once called a girl from her own television show “Germany’s next TopModel” fat because she did not exactly look like she used to when she applied to be on the show. The girl had malaria, and to survive, she had to stop her diet.

The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders asserts that roughly 8 million people in the U.S., which represents about 3 percent of the total population, suffer from anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and related eating disorders.

UK-based Crossland Employment Solicitors found in a survey that almost half (45 percent) of people with hiring responsibilities said they were less inclined to recruit a candidate at the interview stage if the applicant was obese.

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“They wouldn’t be able to do the job required” and “they’re lazy” were just two of the reasons cited.

By early childhood are young girls especially connected with a totally unrealistic ideal of beauty due to Barbies or Disney princesses, whose bodies are physically impossible in nature.

... social media is often the reason why people have the desire to change something about their shape...

Too many individuals suffer from disorders causing a disturbed sense of self, and up to 20 percent of those with serious eating disorders end in death.

About 1 percent of female adolescents have anorexia. That means that about 1 out of every 100 young women between the ages of 10 and 20 are starving themselves, sometimes to death. Only to get the perfect body.

What is this ‘perfect’?

There is no such thing as perfection. Your body is good, when you

feel comfortable in it. But how are you supposed to be happy when from all sides people are telling you how to look better.

Cyber Mobbing and Body Shaming are especially present on social media. People are frequently called ‘too fat’ or ‘too skinny’ or ugly for example, on Instagram hundreds of pages tell how to eat well and lose weight. The Instagram page ‘Transformationfeed’ posts pictures of young women how they used to look and how their appearance ‘improved’.

This beauty mania on social media is often the reason why people have the desire to change something about their shape or use photoshop on themselves to look better.

Yes, everybody should have the freedom to express themselves on the Internet and post whatever they want as long as it is appropriate. But your body is not good when others like it but when you feel comfortable in it yourself and when you are healthy.

Body Shaming has the end because it is almost impossible to see oneself as beautiful as long as there is the idea of the perfect body.

Every body has its own quirks, but those are what makes us human.

You can’t wear that with your figure!

You look kinda sick.

Go eat a cheeseburger!

Real women have curves!

I wish I had the perfect body.

Your breasts are more like mosquito bites on your chest!

Why don’t you care about your body?

You could be so pretty if you were skinnier.

You should go work out!

Too skinny!

Fatass.

You look like a 12-years-old...

Do You really want to wear that?

Skinny girls have it so easy!

– Kathrin Alexander

Judging somebody by their appearance does not define them, it defines you.

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LGBT Rights

Elijah Brinn

Discrimination against the LGBT community is massive. People should stop the hate.

So why do people hate them, or why are they afraid of them?

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esbian, gay, bisexual, and disease and don’t allow them onto transgender people are the staff or team. It’s terrible. What the same as you and I; are they going to do? they are human.

If “God” really did hate people So why don’t they have who are attracted to the same sex the same rights? or identify as someone other than They don’t get the same rights what’s on their birth certificate, when it comes to housing in most then the label LGBT wouldn’t exist states. The Office of Fair Housing -- and nor would they. So why do and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) people hate them, or why are they is an agency within afraid of them? PeoSo what is the United States ple need to ask themDepartment of selves that question the point of Housing and Urban until they can come Development. The up with an answer of FHEO is responsible their own, not what all this for administering the media says, not and enforcing fair discrimination? what religion says, or federal housing what their best friend laws and establishing policies that says. make sure Americans have equal So what is the point of all this access to housing of their choice. discrimination? Humans really Housing discrimination is an issue enjoy hating and excluding others involving the landlord and possible who are not like themselves and and current tenants and is an issue who are outside of the social norm. for LGBT people because there They need something to hate and is no law against discrimination put all of their anger into. LGBT towards them in most states. They people aren’t the only ones on the are human too, so why can’t they receiving end of this flow of anger live like they are? What if it was the -- too often it is loved ones or close other way around and people were friends, the quiet kid in class, the discriminated against for being co-worker who has a different taste heterosexual? in fashion, and so on.

Employment is also an issue.

I’m not saying this discriminaPeople discriminate against LGBT tion is right, I’m saying it needs to people as if they were a terminal stop. Now.

LGBT Health Risks Almost 30% of LGBT students have attempted suicide

1.3 million students admitted to being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender, LGBT students

Over the last 15 years, lawmakers and school administrators

and teachers still lack protection against discrimination

have increasingly

against sexual

Elijah Brinn recognized

that

orientation and

LGBT students are

gender identity.

vulnerable.

Source: CDC

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DRESS CODE

Schools Sexist Towards Young Female Students

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Bianca Yurdock

chool districts need to language of their school dress codes improve their dress code unfairly targets them. Schools need regulations. Their expecto open their eyes and see what tations are unrealistic they are doing is wrong and disand outdated. American criminating towards young females. schools are telling students female At Nation Ford High School female bodies are distracting and need to students think the rules are sexist be covered up appropriately. It is as well. “It’s always based on girls,” unfair and sexist towards females.

Sophomore Kelci Adams said, “It’s According to Administrators, always about what the girls are Ripped jeans, wearing, never leggings, off the the guys.”

“It’s always based on girls, shoulder tops, Female and crops tops It’s always about what the students are are considered banned from girls are wearing, “too revealing and wearing shirts provocative.” that reveal their All over the country females are chest, back, and shoulders. Jeans getting shamed for their bodies and with holes above the knee are “too what they wear. “Nineteen percent revealing.” of the 7,800 students surveyed in “I don’t think ripped jeans and middle and high schools across the exposed shoulders are distracting,” country said they were prevented says junior Shaun Wilson. from wearing clothing deemed “inAs for shorts they must be 3 inches appropriate” based on their gender,” above the knee... Really? Teens according to the Gay, Lesbian and wear what clothing they find in Straight Education Network’s 2013 stores and malls; administrators are National School Climate Survey. banning the same popular clothing Some schools in the US students trends set for teens. are publicly shamed for violating The bottom line is: Schools are dress code by being forced to wear unfair towards females and need to “shame suits” or “shame tees.” make a change in their dress code Some high school girls say the regulations.

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Art by Kelci Adams

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W ax W orms

Shaun Wilson

Wax worms are crucial to the environment because they eat plastics in landfills. They should be in every home.

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ts 2017 and as the years go on there is more and more pollution on earth. One of the main pollutants is plastic.

The only way we have been trying to control plastic waste is by reusing it. But what if there was another way. Yes a better alternative to using old bottles and bags to make new bottles and bags. Well there is with the newly found plastic eating worms.

Worms that eat plastic sounds crazy, right? This idea is a better alternative.

Federica Bertocchini, who is a scientist at the Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology of Cantabria, Spain, saw the worms eating plastic at one of the beehives she keeps at home. They had chewed their way out of a plastic bag pretty fast. She confirmed the ecological use of the worms on plastic in an article in an April 24 issue of Current Biology.

Worldwide people get rid of 1 trillion plastic bags per year. Naturally polyurethan bags take 100 to 400 years

Fun Fact: After the worms digest the plastic they make a compound found in anti-freeze.

to degrade, but with the new Wax Worms that number can be greatly decreased. In 2014 another research team found evidence inside Wax Worms guts that they can digest the plastic within 2 months, but they have been digesting it a lot faster in recent observations. ut what if the worms weren’t eating the bags but just chewing through it and spitting it out? The research team ground up some worms and left the remains on plastic bags and soon after the plastic was gone. This experiment showed that there was a compound inside the worms that broke down the plastic, which means they were really eating it.

However after the Wax Worms broke down the plastic bags, they left behind ethylene glycol – one of the main ingredients in antifreeze – and the compound can be used in automobiles.

Worms are the better alternative to reusing and then reusing plastic again or leaving it in landfills to sit for 400 years or even more. All homes should eventually have wax worms.

B

“These creatures, the larvae of the greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella), can devour polyethylene, which along with the closely related polypropylene is the main type of plastic found in waste.”

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Natalie Sawyer

Mount Ranier National Park 2017

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The RED&BLACK is a publication of the Introduction to Journalism classes at Nation Ford High School, and the magazine is the culminating group project.

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