The Eagle Angle Issue 3 Volume 35 by The Eagle Angle

EA Allen High School Issue 3 Volume 35 February 2018

Senior sweethearts

Ann and Donald Frey tell their 65-year love story | page 4

Hard hats and hardcovers

Allen High School library set to undergo extensive renovations | page 6

Tokened

How to overcome being a token minority| page 18

TO BELIEVE OR NOT TO BELIEVE As Allen continues to grow, the religious diversity of the city continues to widen and expand, and its role does the same. | page 8

The Eagle Angle distributes 1,000 copies of each issue on campus to faculty and students. Contents may be viewed online at theeagleangle. com. Businesses who wish to advertise should contact Matthew MacVeigh, newspaper adviser, at 469-319-6258. The Eagle Angle reserves the right to deny publication of advertisements. Advertisements are not necessarily endorsed by the staff or administration. All editorials reflect the views of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the staff, adviser or administration. The Eagle Angle is a member of Quill and Scroll, the Interscholastic League Press Conference and JEA/ NSPA.

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Staff

Editors-in-chief | Divya Jagadeesh* Felix Kalvesmaki* Sr. Managing Editor | Julia Zaksek*

NEWS/FEATURE

News Editor | Christian Hinton*

Briefly speaking.......................................................... 2 Q&A with Rep. Jeff Leach.........................................3 Integral to students.....................................................4 Senior Sweethearts ......................................................5 A hard hat for hardcovers..........................................6 10 years and running...................................................7

Features Editor | Caroline Tucker

COVER STORY

Jr. Managing Editor | Maya Morriswala*

Commentary Editor | Audrey Vieira Sports Editor | Parker Primrose Assistant Sports Editor | Erik Young Online Editor | Natalie McMahon Photo Editor | Tate Peterson Staff writers | Brooke Adams, Brandon Barton, Jasmine Davis, Sophia Forrester, Alyssa Holloway, Kaitlyn Ingram, Tea McGilvray, Christine Odwesso, Morgan Pryor, Francis Salazar, Stephanie Scarano, Maria Solis, Jenna Sturgeon Adviser | Matthew MacVeigh *denotes members of the Editorial Board

Cover by | Divya Jagadeesh Photo by | Tate Peterson

Table of Contents

To believe or not to believe...............................8-13 As Allen continues to grow, the religious diversity of the city continues to widen and expand, and its role does the same. Turn to page 8 to read about different religions represented at Allen High School, and how they influence the surrounding community.

SPORTS

Bouncing back............................................................14 A sizzling start...........................................................15

PHOTO ESSAY

Making a difference..............................................16-17

COMMENTARY

Tokened.......................................................................18 Staff editorial..............................................................19 Artists of Allen: Sarah Anderson.............................19 The Oscars, as decided by Allen............................. 20 Review: ‘Man in the Woods’.....................................21 Review: ‘Winchester’.................................................21

Letter to the Reader

ndividuality is an important idea. Allen prides itself on its individuality. From our $60 million football stadium that’s become a subject of imitation and envy since its construction, to our laundry list of award-winning and state-title-bearing programs and teams housed on our campus, we like to make ourselves stand out. In this issue, we feature an interview with an elderly couple who’ve faced their entire lives together. We also talked to Rep. Jeff Leach who spoke on the importance of changing the state of Texas for the better. We’re running a personal column on tokenization and how it’s impacted one of our writers. We’re focusing not on the individual, but on what the individual can speak to, and what they’ve experienced as they’ve grown into their current selves. It’s easy to forget there are hundreds and hundreds of people inside these walls that have a very different story to tell than you. For our cover story, we spoke to Christians of different denominations to understand where they divert and intersect. We spoke to students that practice Judaism, Baha’i and Wicca, to consider and understand perspectives from those who do not follow Allen’s predominant religion. We wanted to understand how different faiths have found their niches in our community. Religion is meant to bring people together. Sometimes, ironically, it divides us. It becomes the subject of heated conversation, of hateful rhetoric, of vicious violence. We want to push you towards the alternative. Approach different faiths with an open mind. Approach different people with an open mind, with a smile on your face and only love on your lips. People are people, no matter who they pray to — or who they don’t. Individuality is an important idea. But we, as a society, have to ensure that our self-preservation does not malign into exclusionism. We have to ensure that the people who surround us, our neighbors, classmates and co-workers, are able to believe what they do without persecution. We have to ensure that no matter who you are, where you’ve been, or how you pray, you have a home in Allen. Sincerely,

Letter to the Reader | 1

Briefly Speaking

Compiled by | Maya Morriswala

State of the Union

2018 Winter Olympics

Washington, D.C. | President Trump gave his first State of the Union address, calling for bipartisanship and celebrated his achievements over his first year in office. Massachusetts Rep. Joseph P. Kennedy III, a member of the political Kennedy family, presented the official Democratic response.

Pyeongchang, South Korea | This year, the Winter Olympics took place from Feb. 9 to Feb. 25. After not competing at the last Winter Olympics, North Koreans were allowed to compete alongside the South Korean team. Russia was not allowed to compete due to a doping scandal, though some Russian athletes were allowed to compete under a neutral flag.

Putting on the Hits Talent Show

Philadelphia wins the Super Bowl

Earthquake kills six, traps dozens

Allen, Texas | On Feb. 9, the PALS put on their annual talent show at the Performing Arts Center. The event will feature 20 acts, including last year’s winning act by Josh Santos, “Napoleon Dynamite.”

Minneapolis, MN | The Philadelphia Eagles beat the New England Patriots to win their first Super Bowl title. This was the second time they have played each other in a Super Bowl final. Justin Timberlake performed at halftime, and advertising by companies such as Tide and Amazon trended on Twitter.

Taiwan | A magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck 13 miles northeast of Hualien on Feb. 6. The earthquake caused several buildings to cave in and dangerously tilt, requiring rescuers to save those who were trapped.

Allen ISD Love Week Recipient Allen, Texas | This year, benefits from the annual Love Week fundraiser will help third grade teacher Katie Pownell. Pownell recently underwent surgery to help a brain tumor, and all donations will help alleviate her medical costs.

2 | News and Features

& QA with rep. JEFF LEACH

The Eagle Angle’s feature editor Caroline Tucker sat down with Collin County state representative Jeff Leach to talk about his politics, family and what he’s learned from his experience.

What inspired you to become a state rep? Looking back at my life, I’ve always felt a pull to public service, government, politics in this area. My life experiences have led me here. I worked in the White House in 2004. The Lord called me at a very young age to this. I’ve always felt a stirring in my heart to be in public service. So Becky, my wife, and I decided, we were about five years into our marriage with about two kids, when we decided to run for this office. And we won. I got elected, got selected to be on these committees and have been serving ever since. The cool thing about what I’m doing here is that I am one of the only state representatives in the entire state that represents their hometown, the town in which they were born and raised. I was born in Plano, raised in Plano, graduated high school from Plano Senior High. I love that I am one of the only ones that is actively representing the place where they come from. This is home.

how do you manage time between work and family time?

WHAT ARE SOME qualities YOU WOULD FIND IN A successful state rep? I think the thing I focus on most in order to be a successful state representative is service. I want to be a servant leader. My job is to serve you, to serve your family, to serve 180,000 other people in house district 87. [Approximately] 180,000 people are depending on me to advocate for them, to roll up my sleeves and work for them. It doesn’t mean we agree on every issue, but they know that I’m going to listen to them, I’m going to work hard for them, that I want to serve them. For me, the most important quality is to listen. Scripture tells us to be quick to listen and slow to speak, and I take it that we have two years and one mouth for a reason. Politicians generally love to talk, politicians love to speak what we believe in, and it is important for you to know what we believe. I will happily to talk about what I believe in, but more importantly than that, one of the most important parts of my job is to sit down and to listen. To listen to families, business owners, school leaders, teachers, everyday Texans; to listen to them and for them to tell me what they think, what is important to them and what I can do for them. Leaders that do not listen will never be effective, and I have learned that over the years.

what do you feel is the most important thing you have learned? The most valuable lesson that I’ve learned is how blessed we are to live in the state of Texas. We are blessed with a strong economy, with great natural resources, awesome people. Other states are really struggling. If you look at our county, we have a lot of people moving here from other states, and they are moving here by the thousands. There’s a reason that they are leaving their states to come here because we are so blessed here. It is not by accident that this is happening. We have limited government, we’re free, we have low taxes and faith and family are important factors in the state. I knew that when I was running for State Rep. We were blessed, but I really seen and experienced it with this job.

That’s the hardest part of the job. The political side of the job, the nasty politics, that can be difficult. I have developed a pretty thick skin over the years. The hardest part of my job is being away from my family; I have to go to Austin a lot. When we’re in session, I’m always in Austin, and I can only come home on the weekends. I’m away from my kids and Becky, so that’s the hardest part. The second hardest part is the time management. We have a very important job and a role to serve and vote in Austin and fulfill the policy part, but here in the district just meeting with constituents, neighbors, being available to do my job and do it well is very demanding and high maintenance at times. But I have a great staff; an awesome staff that helps me do my job effectively, scheduling and managing time so it just works. You make it work. The cool thing about it though is everything is different every week. For example, last week, we helped several families with CPS cases, Medicaid, a ton of everyday people call and say they need help with certain situations. This past month, I was able to work in Allen on this big power project that is coming through this town. Every week is different and I love that. It keeps me going. Photo by | Caroline Tucker

News and Features | 3

Integral to students: Patricia Doyle Math teacher greatly impacts Allen High School students Story and photo by | Tate Peterson

P Calculus BC is infamous among high schoolers as the ultimate, final math class that tests students in as many ways as possible. Two college credits checked off by a one-year class is not an easy task, but Patricia Doyle has been teaching at Allen since August of 1999 and has shown the possibilities that BC Calculus presents to the students that have embarked on this academic journey for the past five years. “I’ve been teaching since this building was brand new,” Doyle said. “I came in to interview, and they said, ‘we need math teachers desperately’ a week before the school opened. We didn’t even have carpeting on the ground. They made sure to to tell me that I didn’t have to bother dressing up for my interview, and if I could breathe, they’d hire me.” Doyle wasn’t someone who was intent on teaching math as her future career early in life. Her initial aspirations were quite the opposite of what would be expected of her now, but this was how Doyle found her place as a teacher. “I ended up being a math major in college,” Doyle said. “I went to be a nurse, and they said, ‘You’re not nursing material.’ I didn’t have a health or biology background, or any of the required courses. They said, ‘I see a teacher on the paper, I don’t see a nurse.’ Plus you know, I would be a mean nurse. They’d have to empty their own bedpan.” Doyle is able to constantly bring back fond memories and enjoys discussing them with students, introducing a dynamic within her classroom that all students feel comfortable laughing and relaxing in. She’s most proud of her previous experience in the Navy, as that was her major commitment before teaching. “[The Navy] was like math in the sky,” Doyle said. “That was it, it was a chart, a ruler and we measured everything out. Everything we did was on the fly. There wasn’t any satellites. If we were off, the

plane might not have gas to get back, ya know? We had to make sure people were getting to the right place.” Fitting content from two semesters of college calculus into a one-year high school class requires plenty of attention to detail, but the dedication and attention required to make it through the class has its payoffs in the end. “Our enrollment has, in BC, doubled in the last five years, and our scores have doubled,” Doyle said. “Our average score on the exam went from like 2.4 to 4.7. We’re nailing it. Even the AP people were questioning our math coordinator at the district place, and they were asking him:‘What is going on?’” It isn’t just Doyle’s ability to teach calculus itself that makes her students so successful; it has a lot to do with the way that Doyle is as a person. The energy in a normal class with Doyle is incredibly impactful on the way in which most people view math, and her competitive spirit keeps students engaged throughout the entirety of her lessons. “I really like the whole competition involved,” Doyle said. “When I go in the summers to meet with the McKinney teachers, I teach this little course with a teacher from McKinney to pre-AP teachers, and they seem to always say that they like the way they do things, and I just have to say ‘Okay. That’s fine, whatever. Don’t listen to me.’ I like asking them what their scores are, and they go, ‘Oh they were great;

they were like a 3.5,’ and I say, ‘We got 4.7. Don’t listen to me though.’” Doyle makes sure that she keeps her students busy, but she does so with an open mind and keeps her students’ feelings in mind. While it is an extremely challenging class by definition, it’s a class developed to set students on a pathway to success after a year of incredibly hard work. “I really like the idea that kids are gonna get something out of this,” Doyle said. “There’s a goal for us, I love that. We got a goal, we got a test that I don’t write to beat, and I got people in other districts to like, cream into the dirt. I’m serious. I wanna smash them into the dirt and make them look dumb.”

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4 | News and Features

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Senior sweethearts Ann and Donald Frey tell their 65-year love story Story and photo by | Natalie McMahon

Ann and Donald Frey have been married for just over 65 years.

nn Frey was crossing the street with her cousin to catch the bus home when they got stopped at the stoplight in the middle of the street by a group of guys. One of which, Donald Frey, told his friend the next day that she was going to be his future wife. “I thought she was a pretty girl,” Donald said. “She was the only one for me.” Ann says they went on a double date, and they went to the high school to take photos. Later, they traveled to Gasolina, N.C. “He took me across the state line on the first date, so he’s already in trouble,” Ann said. “We were late coming in, and we had a flat tire.” Donald said that on the Fourth of July, when she was just 17 and him 20, he got down on one knee and proposed in the living room. “He called me and wanted me to come to Biloxi, Miss., and marry him,” Ann said. “My mother and daddy said ‘you can get married in December if you want to, but [Ann] is staying home until she graduates,’ and that’s what I did.” They were later married on Dec. 23 in 1952, all while Ann was still in high school.

Last December, they celebrated their 65th anniversary. “We really feel like God put us together,” Ann said. “We’ve just grown closer and closer with each year.” She said she was dating a boy before she met Donald. That same boy stopped her at the bus stop when she was leaving to meet Donald in Mississippi and begged her not to go. “I dumped him just like that when I met [Donald],” Ann said. “He had told me before, if he didn’t marry me he was going to marry someone in my family and he did. A far distant cousin.” Donald served in the Air Force for 20 years and traveled from country to country. He says they called each other at least once a week. “He’s never been very far away from me,” Ann said. ¨I knew that the military would be sending him back, and I just waited for him.” They lived in many different places, according to Ann, when he was out on missions. She says he brought her back jewelry from everywhere he visited. “My kids tell me I’m rotten,” she said. “From day one, he has spoiled me. All his

life he has done that and still does.” Donald said they have many fond memories together spread out across their lifetime. They both scoured the Bible lands in Greece, been canoeing, and visited parks while he was a preacher. “I love him more today than I did when I married him,” she said. “We’ve been through many things together.” The key to a successful marriage is communication. There are going to be hard times but it’s important to talk it out and never go to bed mad, Donald said. “It’s love that makes you think is that what you want,” he said. “If we have any problems we talk it out.” Ann says that she has been in and out of the hospital, having procedure after procedure done, and Donald has been diagnosed with dementia. “We promised to take care of each other and love each other,” Ann said. “It’s just those things that draw you closer and closer together.” Ann advice: when the right one comes, it’ll stick out at you. “We just feel like it was a match made in heaven,” Ann said. “I would say if there is [soulmates], we are.”

News and Features | 5

Hard hats and hardcovers Allen High School library set to undergo extensive renovations Story by | Parker Primrose

he Allen High School library will be undergoing several renovations near the beginning of spring break. The renovations represent phase three of a four-phase renovation plan for the high school. “The big focus for us in these renovations is to create the most flexible learning environment possible,” principal Jason Johnston said. “We’ll have to relocate some folks, but I’m excited about what we’re going to be doing.” The renovations include adding another floor to the library, with the addition of a staircase in the center of the library that will reach a new quiet area as well as the testing center. “When you want a quiet place, when you need to get ready for that exam and need quiet, you can go upstairs,” librarian Jana Dorough said. “When you’re studying with your group, with your friends, you’re downstairs.” Also included in the project is the addition of several study rooms that can be used by small groups of students. The rooms will be located where the Cyber Cave computer labs currently are. “We’re going to have what we’re calling ‘huddle rooms.’ They’re places where, if you want to do collaborative learning, you and a group of kids could reserve the huddle space and go in there,” Dorough said. “Hopefully we’ll have a flat screen on the wall, to where whatever you’re doing you could throw it up there and see it and use it, such as when you’re creating your PowerPoint or creating your Google Slides.” The redmodeled library will also include a makerspace open to the students, including tools like a 3D printer and sewing

machines. “Makerspace is kind of a new concept that’s sweeping schools,” Dorough said. “It’s kind of like a mini STEAM center here in our library, where we’re going to have different things you can come in and use to make and create.” With the modern classroom continuing to make a greater use of technology, the library will also be adapting to meet technological needs. “We’re actually going to have a computer lab that can be accessed by classrooms from outside of the library. We’ll also create a little bit of an inset by the library that’ll be a bring-your-own-device area where you can plug into a juice bar [to charge your device], whether it’s an iPhone or your computer,” Johnston said. “You’ll really see an increase in mobile devices, of laptops and Chromebooks and that kind of stuff, to where you can use your trust card to check those things out and then sit anywhere in those two floors of the library and use your technology.” Johnston says he feels that the renovations reflect a school-wide initiative of enabling students to customize their own learning experience. “With everything that we’re trying to do, whether it’s with the privilege periods, with arena scheduling, with the library redesigns, even the building of the freshman center and the STEAM center, is to create this personalized learning platform to where it can really be about each individual student and what their needs are,” Johnston said. “For that to happen, you have to have extreme flexibility in your facilities, in your learning environment, and in the materials

that you use. So we’re trying to create these environments that allow students to get what they need for their learning.” The expanded flexibility of the library would help facilitate group projects and allow for increased discussion among peers in the library, according to senior Augustine Nguyen. “I like that idea because you can go wherever you want, to where you’re comfortable,” Nguyen said. “For me, I would have a place where I could converse with my friends loudly or just some place to be by myself in a quiet area.” While the library is closed from the beginning of spring break until the end of the school year, a satellite library will be set up in the art gallery on the second floor outside of the PAC. “We’re going to take our best books [and] best collections, and we’ll still have book orders coming in,” Dorough said. “Just remember that if you can’t get to the library to get a book, we always have online resources. Overdrive [the school ebook library] is a great way to get a library book to read. If you don’t see what you want there, email me. I can look into purchasing it.” The renovations also include new bathrooms near the cafeteria. The construction is expected to be completed before the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year. “The goal of [beginning construction] early is to get [the library] back a few days before the first day of school,” Johnston said. “We’re hoping by the end of July we can get back in the building and that’ll give us a few weeks to set up.” Photo by | Parker Primrose

Ten Years and Running

Eagle Run celebrates a decade of annual 5K Story by | Julia Zaksek

ach February since 2008, the Foundation for Allen Schools, in partnership with the Allen Parent Teacher Association, holds a 5K race attended by families and faculty of Allen ISD and participants across North Texas. The event serves as both a fundraiser and an awareness campaign for students across the district. “A big reason why we hold [the Eagle Run] is because it’s a very successful fundraiser, but we also do it because it’s a great event for our Allen ISD families and staff,” event organizer Regina Taylor said. “There’s a lot of emphasis in the district on student health and making kids more aware of being active, what they’re eating, and being active with their families.” The run began with 600 participants running a course in downtown Allen. It has changed over the years––once even including a run through the newly built stadium––before settling on the current path around the high school. “The runners like [the current course] a lot,” Taylor said. “It’s flat, and it’s well maintained, so we get great feedback from people who are serious runners and are

looking for a 5K.” This February, Taylor and race director Julie Gaines are striving to beat last year’s record of 3,600 runners, and add to the activities the event holds outside the high school before and after the run. “The biggest change is definitely the numbers,” Taylor said. “The bigger [the run] has gotten, the more complicated and the more of everything you have.” Before and after the race, participants and families can now browse among the tents of numerous vendors, including those of local chiropractors, the Marines and FC Dallas. Parents can receive a sample massage, high schoolers can attempt a pull up, and kids can play a game of soccer. “Every year we look for and add more [activities] that are fun for people to do in addition to visiting the vendor booths,” Gaines said. “Most of our vendors and organizations hold games and giveaways. We’ve also added activities that kids can do.” The Eagle Run, while changing over the decade, still holds to traditions, such as the running of the mascots.

Photo Courtesy of | Regina Taylor “We always line the school mascots and some of the business mascots up,” Taylor said. “I love to see them run in our little ‘mascot dash’ before the races start.” Gaines and Taylor say the best part of the Eagle Run is the impact it has on the community. “I really enjoy just being at the event and just seeing all the smiles on the kids’ faces from the fun day that they’ve had,” Gaines said. “It’s just neat to see the community kind of come together.” Hundreds gather at the starting line, filling Eagle Stadium, some in group costume or outfitted in neon as they wait for their wave to hear the sounding shot. “One of my favorite things every year is before the races start, just standing there and looking at this mass of people,” Taylor said. “It’s just incredible that there’s all these people and they’re all having a great time.” The Eagle Run will be held on March 3, at 8 a.m. outside the Eagle Stadium. Register today at allenisd.org.

News and Features | 7

To believe or not to believe Senior Romi Gilat says that until recently, she has always tried to be “a part of the crowd,” and to not openly practice her Jewish faith. Conversely, when senior Traeton Janssens was 11 years old, he realized that he didn’t believe in a god, and he was scared to admit that because, according to him, that wasn’t something he said he felt he could do in his home country. Both Gilat and Janssens are, admittedly, in the minority of the religious landscape at Allen High School. However, they agree that there seems to be more acceptance and visibility of minority religions. As Allen continues to grow, the religious diversity of the city continues to widen and expand, and its role does the same. At the high school, there are multiple religious organizations such as Daughters of Our Living Lord and Savior (DOLLS) and the Muslim Student Association (MSA) created to give students of those faiths a place where they can conglomerate and practice their beliefs. Religion impacts each student in a different way — from a feeling of absence like for Janssens, or renewal like for Gilat. As this city continues to grow in population and in diversity, The Eagle Angle decided to take this issue to explore how Allen worships — or in some cases, how they do not. 8 | News and Features

Major religions religions in in Graphic by | Divya Jagadeesh Major the United United States States Information courtesy of | Pew Forum the UnafďŹ liated Other 22%

Buddhism 71%

2% 1%

Islam Hinduism Judaism Christianity News and Features | 9

Cross your heart Story by | Caroline Tucker

llen High School is a hot spot for diversity, but one of the biggest religions students follow is Christianity. Junior Hanna Tinsio describes how Christianity impacts her life and has made her who she is today. “I believe that God created the whole world, created humans and he made it perfect, but as humans, we decided we didn’t want the perfect world God made for us and chose to sin,” Tinsio said. “It completely destroyed the relationship between God and humans because God is perfect, and he can’t be with sin. So, since God loved us so much, he sacrificed his son, Jesus, on the cross for us to bear God’s wrath, so we could have reconciliation with God.” Tinsio explained that religion has provided a way for her to stay connected in her community and has offered a way for her to have a place in the diverse city of Allen. As

secretary of DOLLS, she helps spread Christianity’s influence to students every week.

“Being a leader for DOLLS is really such an honor,” Tinsio said. “God is using me to help spread his message in this large school campus. The organization has really helped me by surrounding me with wonderful ladies who share the same faith as me, and

they encourage me, it’s awesome. They believe in me, and support me. It’s a great place to come back to.” Tinsio believes that even with all the different religions that are here, they all have the similarity of providing a place for people to come together and connect. “Allen has a ton of churches, we have so many organizations to promote religion. I think it’s helped create a positive environment, for the most part,” Tinsio said.” It’s provided a place for us to have a place in this school where we can be accepted.” Tinsio defined her religion as a way of life and a religion she will continue to follow through the the years. “My religion is a way to have a relationship with Jesus, it defines my life,” Tinsio said. “It’s what I try to follow, it’s the meaning of my life. My religion is something that is a part of my everyday life, it’s the very center of who I am.”

Moral compass Story by | Caroline Tucker

mong the many religions in Allen, Baha’i might be one of the lesser known. Junior Arya Rahmanian defined what it means to be a follower of the Baha’i faith. “There are different principles of the Baha’i faith,” Rahmanian said. “One is equality between men and women, another is harmony between science and religion [and] independent investigation of the truth. When you turn 15, you have the choice to become an official Baha’i, but they encourage us to investigate other religions before making our final decision.” Even though there aren’t any Baha’i organizations in the high school, Rahmanian says that his religion gives him a place to connect with people who he wouldn’t have met without the religion. “The community is very accepting and open to all people and ideas,”

10 | News and Features

Rahmanian said. “Everyone is invited to be a part of it, no one splits into groups, we all are there for the same reason and everyone knows that, so all of the people are very close.”

During his life as a high schooler, Rahmanian claims that he still finds ways to include his beliefs in his everyday life. “I structure my morality based on the rules of the Baha’i faith,” Rahmanian said. “Being kind to everyone, having an open heart, always offering help are important things for me to follow.” Rahmanian explains how he integrates his faith and everyday life, as well as what his daily routine is like as a Baha’i follower. “I think that most of Allen depends on the morality rules of religion, but even with Christian dominance, no religion is unwelcome,” Rahmanian said. “I feel accepted, my religion is accepted, it’s a very open environment.”

By the book Story by | Christian Hinton

he Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the official name used by the religious group commonly known as “Mormons” in America. With almost 16 million members, Latter-day Saints have been present in America since the religion’s conception in the early 1800s. Junior Madison Maloney is one Allen student who practices this religion. “Something that people might not realize is that Mormons are first and foremost Christian, and the actual name of our church is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” Maloney said. “We believe in God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost, but we also believe that they’re three separate beings.” A key belief of Mormonism is belief in The Book of Mormon. It’s a book similar to the Bible that Mormons claim to be an account of early Americans, and a second account of Jesus Christ visiting North America.

“I’ve grown up Mormon. As a child I went to church: I said my prayers, I read scriptures; but there came a point where I wanted to know for myself if the things that my parents had taught me were what I really wanted to be doing,” Maloney said. “I put a lot of time and effort reading my scriptures praying about it and

doing some soul searching about whether I really believed that the church I belonged to was true. I found for myself that I really do believe that there is a God and Jesus Christ, and that the teachings of the church I belonged to were true.” Mormons are also well-known for their missionaries. When a male turns 18, or a female turns 19, they can choose to serve a full-time mission. Missionaries are assigned to a location in the world chosen by a religious authority, where they will proselyte for from 18 months to 2 years. As of 2018, there are 70,946 active Mormon missionaries serving around the world. “It’s definitely been a learning experience for me, being able to be at school and practice my religion,” Maloney said. “It’s helped to strengthen my belief, and stand up for what I know is right.”

Lacking faith Story by | Divya Jagadeesh

enior Traeton Janssens was 11 years old when he said he stopped believing in any god, and since sixth grade, Janssens has identified as an atheist: someone with an absence of belief in any deity. According to Janssens, the only atheist he knew was his father, and everyone else he knew at that point was religious to some extent. “I don’t really care for it, but culturally, it has a lot of interesting things with it,” Janssens said. “It’s never had a direct impact on my life.” Janssens says that he is an atheist because there isn’t any proof to point toward the existence of a god. He says that despite going to church with his grandmother when he was younger, religion has never personally influenced him. “The only thing I’ve been interested in, religiously, is the cultural and historical significance

of how religion has impacted things,” Janssens said.

While he says that he was originally afraid to talk about his beliefs, Janssens says that researching about various religions and talking to his dad helped him to be open about them. “I don’t know anything about

getting up early on Sundays, I don’t do any of that stuff,” Janssens said. “[I] don’t participate in it. It’s just an absence of religion.” Janssens said that while some places are better or worse for atheists, he said he feels being irreligious is still considered unusual in Allen and the United States. “It doesn’t flow well with people, not being religious,” Janssens said. “If you’re an atheist, I guess America really isn’t the best place for you.” However, Janssens says that there is acceptance for a lot of the different religious communities in Allen, and that there is a place to worship for anyone. “I don’t think there’s really any strain,” Janssens said. “I mean, I’m sure there are people that are prejudiced against other [religions], but it seems pretty accepting for the most part.”

News and Features | 11

Private practice Story by | Christian Hinton

lesser-known religion, Wicca draws on a set of diverse ancient pagan beliefs. It has no central authority, but is instead made up of autonomous followers across the world. Senior Olivia May, a follower of Wicca, emphasizes the religion’s custom of individuality. “We have what’s our mantra, or our golden rule, that’s basically that you can do anything you want as long as you’re not hurting someone,” May said. “That’s definitely really big in my life. I don’t want to hurt anybody, I just want to be my best self on my own, independent, let everyone else grow and do their own thing.” According to May, Wicca is more philosophical than religious, and it is individualized and personalized for each person. “Something about Wicca, is that it’s ever-changing and that does make it timeless, and I think that more

people are going to start converting to it,” May said. “It’s not a globalizing religion. It’s not something you’re born into. It’s something you can come into yourself.”

May said that due to the pagan aspects of her religion, she sometimes gets called a witch. “I think the one that kind of hurts

the most is when people call you a witch because it’s just so incorrect and I think they just don’t know what they’re talking about,” May said. “Wicca itself is not just about witchcraft, and neither is any other religion. Witchcraft is not a religious thing, it’s just something that you can do.” May primarily practices through prayer, crystal healing, aromatherapy and observation of Wiccan holidays. “I did a lot of research before converting to Wicca. There were lots of religions I was looking at, and I would not have chosen it if I had thought this were something sketchy or weird,” May said. “The biggest part of Wicca that we’re all our own person, we all need to do what we need to do to be happy, but you shouldn’t step on anyone else to be happy.”

Holy ground Story by | Divya Jagadeesh

hile United States is home to the second-largest Jewish population in the world — behind only Israel — only 0.6 percent of the people in Texas identify as Jewish. Senior Romi Gilat says that despite the small population, she has found a renewed sense of faith in her religion and culture. Gilat says that she grew up around Judaism, and though she says she distanced herself from it after moving to Allen, she began to value her faith more, and become more involved in the local community. “I know it’s not a very popular religion, but I was born in the Holy Land, and I was born in some place where I truly saw the value in Judaism,” Gilat said. “I really saw it in action, and it really made me treasure it a little bit more.” Gilat says that being part of the small Jewish community in Allen has made her feel special, and influenced

12 | News and Features

how she views other mindsets. “Because Judaism is so small that I had to be accepting, and I had to learn to accept other ways of thinking, because if not, it’s one against a million,” Gilat said.

Gilat says she loves the culture’s involvement, and the different events and holidays that are part of her religion. However, she also says

it’s hard for her to fully follow the guidelines of her religion because of school and of other students. “It’s hard to keep up with it, because you want to be accepted by everyone,” Gilat said. “It’s only been in the last couple of years that I’ve really started being more involved in the Jewish community because I realized how much I missed it and how much I value it.” Gilat says she doesn’t think that Judaism will grow in Texas because of the state’s strong roots in Christianity, but she does want to keep practicing her religion and be part of the culture. “I want to keep some part of it because it is a piece of me,” Gilat said. “I grew up in Israel; I grew up as a Jew, and I know that within the law of Judaism, my children will be Jewish. I want to give them something, even if I’m not the best at it.”

“There’s truth in all religions of love and peace, so I don’t label myself as a Christian or a Pagan or a Buddhist, I just practice all of them.”

“Religion is kinda like a safety net for me. As you have something you believe in, you’ll always be okay.” — Courtenay Moore, 12th

“I think religion allows us to be diverse and have our own identities.” — Rhea Zachariah, 11th

— Ty Potter, 10th

“I don’t think religion impacts Allen that much. They don’t bring it into the classroom and it’s not really talked about.” — Irene Mwangi, 11th

“I think it helps people’s lives as a way for people to have someone to rely on. Everyone has fairground in Allen with religion.” — Somi Matthews, 10th

Singing praises Students discuss religion’s role with them and their community

“We’re really diverse, and I think we’re all generally open minded so we all get along. Allen is definitely open to all religions.” — Abby Hardwood, 11th

Compiled by | Tea McGilvray, Christine Odwesso, Francis Salazar, Stephanie Scarano and Caroline Tucker

“I don’t think that religion is represented appropriately in our education system.”

“I see how [religion] affects other people, and I respect other people’s religions. I take things from every religion to coin to my own beliefs.” — Bailey Vitch, 12th

— Abbie Smith, 10th

News and Features | 13

Eyes on the prize Boys basketball team prepares for playoff run

Story by | Erik Young Photos by | Tate Peterson

earing the end of the 2017-2018 season, the Allen Eagle boys varsity basketball team is looking for a better season than before, as they compete in their final regular season games in preparation for for the playoffs. With a record of 27-5, the basketball team is led by a starting five that includes seniors Jaylen Walker, Brenton Mills, Jaylon Scott and Jerritt Dixon, as well as junior Isaiah Stevens. “The season has gone really well so far, with the exception of a couple of close losses,” Walker said. “We have a team that loves playing with one another and wants to see their teammates succeed.” The team has battled through injuries to key players and games against some of the top ranked teams in the state. In district, the team holds a record of 10-3 and is sitting in second place behind Denton Guyer, as Guyer holds a record of 12-0. “The team is definitely cherishing each practice more and more because we know this is the last couple of practices we have with each other,” Walker said. ‘It’s kind of weird because we’ve been playing together for so long.” The team made a statement to their critics in their 14th game of the season, knocking down the then-number one ranked team in Texas -- DeSoto High School -- by a score of 68-45. Allen also has a record of 16-2 in non district matchups this season. “It really boosted our confidence from that moment on,” Mills said. “We stayed focused on trying to improve and get better as the season went along.”

“We stayed focused on trying to improve and get better as the season went along.” -Senior Brenton Mills A group of 10 seniors make up the majority of the team, many of whom have played in Allen most of their career. Last year’s squad ended their season with an overall record of 29-7 but still manages to stay consistent this year despite losing two seniors due to graduation. “We have a lot of players that have

14 | Sports

Senior Brenton Mills passes the ball to a teammate in a game against McKinney on Jan. 30.

been written off and overlooked,” Stevens said. “Those same guys work hard every day and give it all they have on the floor every night.”

“We have a team that all loves playing with one another and want to see their teammates succeed.” - Senior Jaylen Walker

Last year, the boys had a strong run in the playoffs, beating their first round opponent Lewisville with a score of 63 to 36. Through the next two games they managed to rack up a total of 147 points and allowed 128 points. However, the Eagles were beat in the fourth round by Keller, 69 to 61. “The loss against Keller last year really hurt and we had a lot of returners this year that lead the way, so a lot of us still feel that pain,” Stevens said. “None of us want to have that feeling again, so we work hard every day knowing what we have the ability to accomplish, and we play with a chip on our shoulders every night.” When preparing for an opponent, the team doesn’t only practice. They manage to put in a lot of time watching film and finding strengths and weaknesses of the opposing team. “We have a scouting report each game of the team we are about to face with some

keys to victory,” Mills said, “and other certain areas we need to focus on to be successful in that game.” Having a team isn’t only about wins and losses, but about how each player has a love and passion for the game and sport. “We have a team that all loves playing with one another and want to see their teammates succeed.” Walker said. With playoffs around the corner, Stevens says the team has lofty expectations. “[We want] to win the first state championship in Allen basketball history,” Stevens said.

All information in the article is accurate as of Feb. 10.

Junior Isaiah Stevens dribbles around a defender in a game against McKinney on Jan. 30.

A sizzling start Allen girls soccer team kicks off new season

Story by | Brooke Adams Photos by | Tate Peterson

he Allen High School varsity girls’ soccer team is starting off their season as strong as they can this year. The team consists of mostly upperclassmen who are ready to lead the five sophomores and three freshmen. One month into the season, the team has an overall record of 11-1-1 with eight games to go. Pre-season brought five wins, one tie and one loss. The team was only defeated by the 5A state and national champions, Highland Park High School. However, they plan to remain undefeated throughout the rest of the season. “I plan to push our players on and off the field in both soccer and in school,” senior Natalie Wodka said. “I want our girls to be well-rounded student-athletes. As a captain, alongside Ally Jackson and Emily Russell, we are keeping our team on track and keeping state in the back of our mindset. We need to keep positive attitudes, but also make sure everyone is doing their job.”

“Our coaches have seen many glimpses of greatness and they keep repeating how special this year’s group really is.” -Senior Ally Jackson

The team is adjusting well to losing the five seniors from last year’s 2017 season and still have a strong bond that has not wavered, despite the changes the team has gone through this year. “I do think as a team we will work really well together,” sophomore Haylee Spray said. “We all have good, close relationships with each other and know each other’s strengths and weaknesses.” The team now has 18 upperclassmen and having those more experienced players should benefit the team in their attempts to win state. “I think because most of the team last year was young, we now have an advantage because most of us are now experienced and know what to expect at this level,” senior Ally Jackson said.

So far this season, the varsity team has won all six of their district games, defeating McKinney Boyd, Plano West, Plano Senior, McKinney, Wylie and Denton Guyer high schools. This year, the girls said they plan on breaking the two year “curse” of not being able to make it to the third round of playoffs, and hopefully make it all the way to a state championship Junior Andrea Ridgely dribbles downfield against Denton Guyer on Feb. 2. title. “Our coaches have seen many glimpses to getting closer with all of my teammates of greatness and they keep repeating how and soaking in all of my last moments on special this year’s group really is,” Jackson and off the field of being an Allen Eagle soccer player,” Jackson said. said. “[The coaches] expect great things.” With a strong team that has great Despite high hopes for this season, Wodka says the girls are still fine tuning chemistry, the girls are prepared for a their play and assessing the weaknesses that successful season. “Honestly, this year my fellow captains could keep them from making it to state. “Our biggest weakness currently is and I won’t need too much to get this always starting the game off slow and group of girls to really want to make it not being 100 percent ready to compete to playoffs,” Jackson said. “We will give for the first couple minutes,” Wodka said. our best advice and pointers from past “We have been working on this and it has experiences, but overall, most of us are just waiting for playoffs and to get the chance progressively gotten better.” Sophomore Melanie Guillermo says to play for the state title.” that many of the girls plan on continuing to play soccer in college, with already 10 girls All information in the article is accurate as of Feb. 10. who have verbally committed. “This season, I’m most looking forward

Junior Jordan Colbert moves by four defenders against Denton Guyer on Feb. 2.

Sports | 15

Making A Difference

Allen students participate in the American Red Cross blood drive Photos by | Christian Hinton

Top to bottom, left to right: Blood Drive volunteers prepare their workspace.

A volunteer prepares necessary supplies.

Senior Brianna Woodard waits to get her blood drawn.

Senior Thomas Gauna and Jessica Perez socialize in the midst of the blood drawing process.

Students and blood drive sponsor Laura Reams pose for a final picture.

Supplies branded with the American Red Cross logo were disperesed across the entrance to the basketball courts.

A volunteer brings testing material to processing equipment.

Tokened

How to overcome being a token minority Story by | Kaitlyn Ingram

Tokened { toh-kuh n} an item, idea, person, etc., representing a group; a part as representing the whole; sample; indication.

hen seen in movies, the token minority is usually only there for comedic relief or to push the plot along. They hide among the shadows of the main cast. Everyone knows that they are only there to sprinkle in a mix of diversity — faux diversity. What makes it false is that it seems forced, and it is forced, ironically, with no effort at all to properly represent that minority group. Personally, I have a theory that there’s a general rule of thumb in Hollywood: if there’s at least one underrepresented group, there is no need for another. This is proven evident in almost every single rom-com from the late ‘80s until the mid-2000s .This issue is shown in even greater detail in the raunchy early 2000s comedy, “Not Another Teen Movie.” The knee slap and slightly explicit comedy “ Not Another Teen Movie” pokes fun at literally every single teen rom-com to exist. Throughout the film, there is a running joke about the only black person who says more than three words in the film — Malik. Throughout the film, the only time the other characters acknowledge Malik is when he cracks open a can of cheesy punchlines. But when he says anything logical that could resolve the plot’s conflict, they ignore him. Towards the end of the movie, Malik encounters another minority character at a party who is supposed to be the tokened minority in another plot line. The two characters then have a duel of who can be the most stereotypical to determine who has the right to be the token minority of the overall film. Although it is easy to laugh at and take notice of the problem when it’s parodied, the problem usually goes unnoticed when it occurs in a critically-acclaimed film. Even though I personally found “Not Another Teen Movie” completely comical, I couldn’t help but to relate to Malik. When opening my mouth to speak, I constantly feel like a moderator. Rehearsing

18 | Commentary

everything that I say before I say it, as if I’m at the mercy of a live audience on stage. I crack a joke, wait for the applause, then bow back into the shadows. My personal motto in life is to be as least controversial as possible, keeping those around me with smiles that reach their eyes, though they seldom do. But it becomes difficult to remain neutral when you’re often the “Google” to everyone’s controversial questions. Some days, very uneventful, usually unsatisfying and normal days, I’m yanked by a very imaginary — yet also very physical — force out of my comfort zone, by a mere question. Three words; five syllables. “Is that offensive?” A question that has now made me hypocritical to my own life motto. As I look into my good friends’ eyes, there were no signs of malice. All that I could see was curiosity, hopes of receiving an ounce of unbiased truth that I just couldn’t give her. Could white girls wear dreadlocks? A simple yes or no probably could have sufficed, but it wouldn’t for me. Honestly, at the time, all I could do was stare, giving only blinks as a sign of comprehension. All that I could think to do was shrug my shoulders, whip out my phone and ask Google. Why me? Why was I suddenly designated as my minority group’s team captain? I couldn’t tell them if the afro-centric braids flowing down the girl’s ivory skin on the screen was offensive more than I could tell them if the dress was white and gold or blue and black. It wasn’t that I was afraid to tell her my opinion on the matter, it was that I was terrified of my opinion being the consensus of the entire black community. I could tell her what I thought, but I couldn’t tell her what anyone else would think of it. As I looked around at my friends, I was circled by inquisitive eyes, waiting for my opinion before they gave their own. I tried my hardest to flesh out my answers, giving “what

Graphic by | Felix Kalvesmaki

if” and “only if” scenarios for when a given situation would be offensive, but I could already feel them running off with my “maybe” before my lips could contradict with a “maybe not.” In that moment I began to feel like Malik. I felt like a prop, only being there to answer question without room to give my own insight. It seems like being the tokened minority holds you at a higher standard of responsibility. Whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community, a racial minority, or a religious minority, you’re often seen as somewhat of spokesperson for your community. But there’s not a weekly meeting where everyone makes a conclusive decision on what to say awwnd how to say it, or in my case, what’s offensive and what’s not. You’re forced to tango around those abrasive questions, answering for every point of view and not just your own. I am constantly faced with the fear of leading people astray with my opinions instead of being helpful. But I’ve come to realize there is no right answer. In writing this article, it’s dawned on me that there is no practical way to explain this issue to those who don’t directly relate. In no way am I telling anyone not to educate themselves, but to listen fully when they are given answers. So with that being said, get to know more than one person that is not like yourself, and dive into their perspective.

Staff Editorial: Should religious institutions be tax-exempt?

eparation of church and state plays a big role in our society. However, religion impacts our government through taxes. As of now, religious institutions do not pay tax for their buildings or places of worship. Though this seems reasonable due to the charitable nature of some religions, the Editorial Board believes religious groups should not be tax-exempt because it is a clear infringement on church and state remaining separate. It is true that many religious groups depend on donations for funding, and do not profit. Some argue that because they don’t profit, they cannot be taxed. However, this masks a larger issue: how do we define religion? The Internal Revenue Service (IRS), is forced to answer to this question

when even the greatest scholars cannot. For instance, the Church of Scientology, despite profiting off their believers, was granted tax-exemption. Another big issue with this is that religion has a greater impact in the politics, a clear violation of the separation of church and state. Since religious institutions may not remain strictly charitable, any money gained can be used to fund politicians. While this is prohibited under the Johnson Amendment, it does not stop organizations from influencing policy. Also, that law is not widely enforced, so no organizations have been punished and none have lost their exemption status. Of course, this is not because they have done no wrong, it is because they haven’t been caught since

the IRS refrains from enforcing the law. So, as of now, religious institutions do not pay taxes, can influence political elections and are not punished for wrongly using their money. Therefore, by giving religious groups tax exemptions, the government is allowing religion to be too involved. While the limitations placed on tax-exempt groups by the IRS should, in theory, prevent intermingling of religion and politics, the limits are not enforced, and worse, it is unclear what distinguishes a charitable religion from a scam. For these reasons, religious institutions should pay taxes, not just for our economy, but also for our crucial separation of church and state.

Artists of Allen: Sarah anderson

Compiled by | Sophia Forrester

ophomore Sarah Anderson loves to dance and twirl. Except, her paintbrush does the dancing. She’s an artist who paints and sketches regularly. Her main genre of art is abstract, and her favorite medium is oil paints.

q: How did you start making art?

I’ve always been into art because of my parents were both taking art classes when I was little, and so I would always watch them draw and make their “masterpieces,” so my parents kind of influenced me to start. When I’m overwhelmed with my emotions, I let it out through drawing and painting. It’s an outlet to release any internal feelings.

Commentary | 19

The Oscars, as decided by Allen

The Eagle Angle’s Audrey Vieira and Brooke Adams asked the students of Allen to weigh in on who they think will win on Oscar night. The 90th Academy Awards will take place March 4, 2018.

Best Picture “Call Me By Your Name” “Darkest Hour” “Dunkirk”

✓ “Get Out”

Best Director Christopher Nolan, “Dunkirk”

✓ Jordan Peele, “Get Out”

Greta Gerwig, “Lady Bird” Paul Thomas Anderson, “Phantom

“Lady Bird”

Thread”

“Phantom Thread”

Guillermo del Toro, “The Shape of Water”

“The Post” “The Shape of Water” “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri”

Best Actor Timothée Chalamet, “Call Me by Your Name” Daniel Day-Lewis, “Phantom Thread”

✓ Daniel Kaluuya, “Get Out”

Gary Oldman, “Darkest Hour”

Denzel Washington, “Roman J. Israel, Esq.”

Best Supporting Actor

Sally Hawkins, “The Shape of Water” Frances McDormand, “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri”

✓ Margot Robbie, “I, Tonya” Saoirse Ronan, “Lady Bird” Meryl Streep, “The Post”

“The Boss Baby” “The Breadwinner”

✓ “Coco”

“Ferdinand” “Loving Vincent”

20 | Commentary

“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” “Kong: Skull Island”

✓ “Star Wars: The Last Jedi”

“War for the Planet of the Apes”

Best Costume Design

and the Beast,” Jacqueline ✓ “Beauty Durran “Darkest Hour,” Jacqueline Durran

Woody Harrelson, “Three Billboards

“Phantom Thread,” Mark Bridges

Outside Ebbing, Missouri”

✓ Richard Jenkins, “The Shape of Water”

Christopher Plummer, “All the Money in the World” Sam Rockwell, “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri”

Best Supporting Actress Allison Janney, “I, Tonya” Lesley Manville, “Phantom Thread” Laurie Metcalf, “Lady Bird”

✓ Octavia Spencer, “The Shape of Water”

Best Original Score “Dunkirk,” Hans Zimmer “Phantom Thread,” Jonny Greenwood

Best Animated Feature

“Blade Runner 2049”

Willem Dafoe, “The Florida Project”

Mary J. Blige, “Mudbound”

Best Actress

Best Visual Effects

“The Shape of Water,” Alexandre Desplat

✓ “Star Wars: The Last Jedi,” John Williams

“Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” Carter Burwell

“The Shape of Water,” Luis Sequeira “Victoria and Abdul,” Consolata Boyle

Best Original Song “Mighty River” from “Mudbound,” Mary J. Blige

✓ “Mystery of Love” from “Call Me By Your Name,” Sufjan Stevens

“Remember Me” from “Coco,” Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Robert Lopez “Stand Up for Something” from “Marshall,” Diane Warren, Common “This Is Me” from “The Greatest Showman,” Benj Pasek, Justin Paul

Review: Man in the Woods Review by | Felix Kalvesmaki

ustin Timberlake is a performer. The caliber of performer is subjective — and everyone in the United States has an opinion after that Super Bowl halftime show — but he’s a performer before he’s an artist. Nothing showcases that more effectively than “Man in the Woods.” His new album is a half-hearted attempt to blend Americana with modern electronic production that, when combined with skin-deep lyricism and disenchanting songwriting, falls flat at best and furiously vexes at worst. The lead single, “Filthy,” is named accordingly. It’s disgusting. It’s Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You” multiplied by a thousand. It made me a little nauseous, both in its overblown, dizzying production and its almost aggressively smooth lyrics. This is the theme song for every entitled man that can’t take a hint. In fact, this entire album really can’t take a hint. Another track, “Supplies,” is almost painfully unaware of its own absurdity. This cut is probably one of the best examples of how “Man of the

C-

Woods” fails. This record tries to present itself as folksy and woodsy, but it is undermined by on-the-nose trap beats and an excessive amount of polished charisma. No one could believe Timberlake is a mountain man. We’re only led to believe he’s a Hollywood caricature of one. And, yes, I know he grew up in the South. However, I’ve come to the conclusion that he’s lost touch with his roots. Despite its shortcomings, not all hope is lost for this album. “Morning Light” is a daybreak of quality on this album, with its sweet and tender melodies and a warm, soft instrumental bringing a touch of serenity and chivalry to the rest of the harsh, overbearing and otherwise brash tracklist. The same goes for “Flannel,” the most traditionally Americana song and the only one that Timberlake comes close to pulling the whole theme off on. It’s a good track until the melodramatic spoken-word cut-in. The blunt push of a forced, shoddy

Review: Winchester Review by | Alyssa Holloway

his movie that was “based off a true story” should’ve just stayed in the past and crumbled with the 1906 earthquake of San Jose. Directors Michael and Peter Spierig’s newest movie, “Winchester,” left me just confused and frustrated. Based on the life of Sarah Winchester (Helen Mirren) during the late 19th century, this PG-13 horror shares the experiences of psychiatric doctor Eric Price (Jason Clarke) as he joins Sarah in her house with the occasionally vengeful spirits of people killed by the Winchester gun, a popular gun used at the time for military and commercial use. The spirits haunt the rooms Sarah builds for them, and when Sarah feels the presence of a new, more powerful spirit and creates a room for it, she soon realizes that it does not want peace — it wants blood. Dr. Eric Price, originally hired to evaluate Sarah’s sanity, begins to experience strange occurrences and starts to believe there’s more to the Winchester curse than anyone’s letting on. A story with a plot

concept ruins an otherwise nice, slow jam. Overall, “Man of the Woods” tries but doesn’t succeed. There are diamonds in the rough, but let me emphasize: there’s a lot of rough to be found in these 16 songs. “Man of the Woods” earns a C-. Whatever backwoods Timberlake has entered, let’s hope he finds his way out of them soon.

full of potential falls short toward the end of the movie and leaves many questions unanswered. The visuals of the movie were brilliant, and the portrayal of Sarah’s house and the late 19th century was beautiful. But major plot holes and occasionally cringe-worthy acting rendered the story unsatisfyingly dull, lacking the horror aspect that myself and other fans of the genre crave. With only a few jumpscares and hardly any suspense, the viewer is hardly surprised or intimidated by the time the final plot twist is announced. Additionally, the audio of “Winchester” was cheap, and jumpscares were given away by the stereotypical music track seemingly used in every horror movie. With no noticeable soundtrack or unique noises, it only adds to the bland conclusion by leaving viewers having to rely on sight instead of engaging their auditory senses too. This ruined the experience for me and left me wondering when the film was going to end.

“Winchester” was an opportunity to shed new light on an unusual real ghost story that sadly fell short with massive plot holes and disheartening audio. I’d give this movie a solid C with it’s only reviving factors being the beautiful visuals and camera usage, but the confusing story plot and overall poor execution ruined this movie for me.

Commentary | 21

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