The InvestiGator

investigator

the

Vol. 30, Issue 1 October 2020

RISE UP Generation reacts to social movements across U.S. see pages 10-12

Green Valley High School 460 Arroyo Grande Henderson, NV 89014

October 2020 Volume 30 Issue 1 Co Editors-in-Chief: Kristel Alfaro Borbon Tyler Bonnette Vivien Liebhardt Editors: News: Liliana Burke Feature: Cherie Franklin & Shaelyn Gamiao Sports: Zachery Schauer & Sebastian Villamil A&E: Malia Deramus & Violet LaMela Opinion: Brenna Knight CAMERAS ON- Foreign language teacher Amanda Ruth holds a Google Meet during her Spanish I class on the morning of Oct. 1. The school year began on-line as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in teachers and students being forced to adjust to a new way of teaching and learning.

Eric Johnston

Editors’ Note

ON THE COVER

investigator

the

Vol. 30, Issue 1 October 2020

Social Media Manager: Alexis Lane Adviser: Eric Johnston

The phrase “What a year!” does not seem to do enough justice for the absolute mess of a year that 2020 has been so far. It seems as though every month has had something new to bring to the table as we all get adapted to this new, chaotic life. Traditionally, this issue of The InvestiGator would have brought up topics like Homecoming, Spirit Weeks, Assemblies, and the upcoming holiday season. With many of our favorite events being put on the back burner for the year, however, the school year may seem bleak to all of us staying indoors and attending school through our computers. Regardless, there is still plenty going on in the world to be covered, both in and out of school.

Our first issue looks into some of the biggest controversies that this year has brought up - particularly, the social uprisings and protests that have shaken the nation. We delve into both sides, as well as the experiences of some of our Gators who have experienced them firsthand.

In the wake of the difficulties of this year, we look into the unique cultures of our generation and how we’ve managed to express ourselves despite being stuck indoors. There is also the new market of custom facemasks as well as the ever present social media platforms, Tik Tok and Instagram. It hasn’t been all positive, though, as seen by the “Cancel Culture” that has taken hold in social media.

Athletes have also been doing their best to stay active, and club sports are filling the void left by sports being cancelled. COVID-19 hasn’t been the only reason sports have been changing lately, as the protests have also made their way to the major sporting events around the country.

Having the resources to do well in school has been no cakewalk for anyone, from students to teachers and even the InvestiGator staff. Accommodations were necessary to make sure that everything was doable, even though all of us were stuck at home. But, like everybody else, we did our best to adapt, and ensure a great school year.

In Downtown Las Vegas, murals line the backside of a building in the Arts District. The area saw an influx of street art over the summer due to several social movements, including Black Lives Matter.

Copy Editor: Neyta Flores Esquer

Green Valley High School 460 Arroyo Grande Henderson, NV 89014

Reporters: Jeremy Anderson Selenne Arroyo-Martinez Jamine Gomokla Brook Gray-Vanderbur Simona Grigonis Nathan Paet McKenzie Shelton-Lott Adrian Sifuentes Taylor Theel Emma Trifonova Reilly Weatherford The InvestiGator is a student-run and operated news magazine. All opinions and views expressed within are those of the author and not of the student body or staff of Green Valley High School.

Letters to the editors or staff may be delievered to room 825 to Mr. Johnston or emailed to him at johnsem1@nv.ccsd.net.

Green Valley High School 460 Arroyo Grande Henderson, NV 89014 702-799-0950 x4060 The InvestiGator is a member of the NSPA, JEA, CSPA & Quill & Scroll Society.

Sebastian Villamil

RISE UP Generation reacts to social movements across U.S. see pages 10-12

the

Inside

ssue

News

5

On-line school changes

6

Wildfires affect Nevada

Feature

10-12

New civil rights movement erupts

14-15

A teen’s battle against COVID-19

Sports

16

College sports canceled

17

Professional athletes boycott games

A&E

20 21

Students assemble new businesses Cultural Tik Tok trends aim to educate

Opinion

25 26-27

Gen Z confronts daily life Pros and cons of virtual learning

• News •

On-line across the board

How COVID-19 affects schedules, schools, lives for everyone

By McKenzie Shelton-Lott

I

t is very apparent that 2020 has been a unique year.

COVID-19 has, in some way or another, changed everyone’s lives in a matter of months. Every single person has been put in a completely different position from where they started.

Millions of people are working from home, hospitals are overcrowded, and hundreds of businesses are shut down. Students are getting used to school being online as virtual learning becomes commonplace in CCSD. The school originally planned to switch from a six-class schedule to an eight-class block schedule for the 2020-21 school year. Although the new block schedule was implemented as planned, the administration had to incorporate distance learning into the curriculum. Students are receiving their work through programs such as Canvas and Google Classroom, and are meeting with teachers via Google Meet.

Mitzi Tolzin, a teacher in the English department, has run into some of the biggest struggles about acclimating to distance learning.

“Obviously, we’re having major issues with the grading component and it’s really frustrating. It’s frustrating for students, for me as a teacher, and for me as a parent,” Tolzin said.

While Tolzin sees issues with the online system, she also points out what she finds to be positive.

“People are being pretty patient and pretty understanding, and actually probably nicer to teachers now than maybe in the past,” Tolzin said.

“They’re like ‘Oh my gosh this is tough!’”

While school was changed thanks to COVID-19, there were plenty of changes in everyone’s day-to-day lives.

“We’re much more isolated in general. Almost every summer we travel to South Dakota to spend time with our family, so that trip didn’t get to happen. We also like to take a lot of smaller trips, and those aren’t happening either,” Tolzin said.

The Coronavirus has changed a lot of people’s lives, but others, like junior Israel Andrews-Trotter, feel that the virus hasn’t affected them deeply.

“Staying home has its positives and its negatives. I like staying home but I miss my friends. I got a little lazy but I am really just adjusting,” Andrews-Trotter said.

Although COVID has affected how teachers and students attend school, it has also dramatically affected the city.

The tourist hotspots that had to be shut down were the main thing that drove the Las Vegas economy.

COVID-19 continues to change the daily lives of everyone greatly, and has made the school year drastically unusual.

Liliana Burke

Liliana Burke

October 2020

• News•

The new classroom Distance learning impacts students in variety of ways

G

By Alexis Lane

oogle meets, Canvas and Infinite Campus: on-line schooling has greatly impacted everyone. Students, parents and teachers must deal with changes and new teaching styles. All three groups have dealt with different obstacles. With on-line learning, Green Valley’s block schedule began this year with classes one, three, five and seven on “A days” and two, four, six and eight on “B days.” Teachers have to find new ways to teach their curriculum, which varies from each teacher.

Hands-on teachers are currently finding new methods to teach their students in the new learning environment since pen and paper do not cut it for some classes. For some teachers, some hands-on activities are essential to learning the material such as labs in Chemistry, or making a birdhouse in wood-shop. Teachers have been finding ways to help students obtain the materials they need by setting up times and days to come to the back of the school to pick it up.

“I’m used to doing a lot of handson activities in class, and trying to figure out how I can get that through the computer. I’m constantly always trying to figure out how to do different activities and stuff,” AP psychology and history of pop music teacher Tanya Rasmussen said.

Students have a variety of opinions on distance learning. Many are not in favor of it, but these students respect it to keep everyone and themselves safe and healthy. They are still learning to adapt to their new learning environment and how they will succeed. A majority of students do not like distance learning because it can be out of the ordinary for them, or they lack motivation because of how the last school year ended. On the other hand, students are given more time to finish their weekly work and are able to have a more flexible schedule with their jobs or home lives.

Most work is due at 11:59 on a Sunday.

“Keeping students safe, especially those that are at a higher risk of suffering from COVID, is really important, however I really wish school was in person. It was better for me both academically and mentally,” senior Ly Huynh said.

The social aspect of school is missed by more social students and students who were more involved on campus. Clubs and electives such as Gator Pride have been celebrating typical school events like First Friday through social media. Student Council created a virtual welcome back assembly for the beginning of the year.

“With those issues, I have also missed seeing people everyday. I miss going to school physically and seeing all of my friends and teachers. Learning is much different on-line than it

Alexis Lane

Random survey of GVHS students conducted in October 2020

is in person,” sophomore Nicole Reid said. “The social aspect of school is definitely missed greatly. I wish we could go back to normal and be able to make new friends and see our current ones too. Some of the connections with my friends are not as strong not being in school so I want to be able to grow those bonds again.”

Students have been facing similar challenges as the teachers, mainly technological. On the first day of school, both Canvas and Infinite Campus crashed early in the morning.

Canvas is the new primary learning platform for both students and teach-

Eric Johnston

VIRTUAL LEARNING- Math teacher Steven Reeves teaches a class using Google Meet. Math teachers often post videos of the lessons just in case someone needs extra time.

•5•

ers instead of Google Classroom for the year. Infinite Campus has continued as the primary grade book for students to check their grades and where teachers input the grades. Canvas has become the desired learning platform over Google Classroom because Canvas automatically transfers the grades instantly into Infinite Campus, saving the teachers a lot of time when it comes to grading. Although that is one of the primary purposes of Canvas, some students and teachers have had issues already with the grade book.

Google Meet is the most commonly used app by teachers to set up their virtual classroom for their hours. The app allows them to present their screen to teach students, have discussions and allows students to directly ask teachers a question.

Chrome extensions are used as teaching tools to hand out and submit homework such as Kami. The schedule for the school year will remain the same for the most part including changes in block schedule. ‘A’ days occur on Mondays and Wednesdays, and ‘B’ days occur on Tuesdays and Thursdays. On ‘C’ days, students attend all eight classes and can set up appointments to get extra help. With all of the new changes, teachers, administrators and the school district are constantly looking for ways to improve with the school year. Everyone is still learning, including parents and teachers to make the school year better for themselves and the students. It is still unknown when or if students will be returning to school this year. Everyone’s priority is to keep everyone safe while still having an efficient learning environment.

“We are all in this together,” Rasmussen said.

• News •

Logged on

Clubs, classes use social media to stay in touch with students

By Brook Gray-Vanderbur

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VHS clubs are staying in touch through many ways. A big challenge is how to run meets and what to do. Though many clubs are inactive, some clubs such as Student Council and Gator pride are working on many fronts to keep school spirits high.

“We are using social media and word of mouth. We also try and let teachers know about activities so they can tell their students. However, most is done through Instagram and I encourage students to follow us,” student body president and senior Marisa Boyce said.

Social media is the main way for clubs to connect. Staff and students are encouraged to do the virtual spirit weeks and activities. However, not all students are attending clubs and not everyone has access to the Internet.

The Black Student Union is one club pushing through. Meetings have been going on for weeks now allowing the club to get ahead from others just

getting started. They hold meetings once a week.

“Overall on-line has been quite easy to get used to, other than some people having the occasional technical difficulties,” senior Ariyon Comer, who is the Black Student Union (BSU) president, said.

Along with many clubs, the student body, which is led by Boyce, is also adjusting to going virtual.

“I mean of course we’d prefer to be in person, but we are making the best of it. It is tricky at times since we have 60 students in the class,” Boyce said.

Being on-line has made it difficult for clubs to find new members and get information out to everyone who wants to join. Getting newcomers to join a club can be a challenge, but BSU has a strategy to deal with that.

“We started by finding as many people as we could and posted on our social media and had all of our friends do the same. From there, the people who showed up we told to bring at least five friends to the next meeting,” Comer said.

“I miss being able to connect with

people in person and having the ability to shake hands to meet new members and being able to hug everyone once we all become friends,” Comer said.

Even with this new way of holding classes, clubs are finding ways to keep students engaged and connected through spirit days and activities.

Vivien Liebhardt

Fires continue to ravage West Coast

California fires become widespread resulting in haze, smoke throughout Vegas

By Sebastian Villamil

R

Lexi Burke

SUMMER HAZE- As the sun sets in early Sept., Vegas skies are filled with a visible haze. The distorted view was a result of wildfires burning for weeks in California.

aging fires are displacing thousands while firefighters try to tame the flames. People who are prone to getting sick from the unhealthy air quality have noticed that they are now more susceptible to respiratory viruses, including COVID-19.

The fires have grown so big that the smoke has traveled well into the pacific ocean and the smoke could be seen from the International Space Station.

“You can tell the fires are a big deal when people from outer space can see them, and span thousands of miles across the pacific ocean,” senior Alexa Mansur said.

On Labor Day, a fire from Bishop,CA was big enough that the smoke traveled to Las Vegas. The smoke created a haze with a scent of burnt wood stretching all over the valley.

“Labor day smelled like if everybody threw fireworks all day, which is

October 2020

not surprising considering it is 2020,” Senior William West said.

This smoke provides a problem for people with respiratory issues, especially athletes.

“I believe that if these students get exposed to this bad air quality, they can be more exposed to the virus, which can harm them severely,” Mansur said.

Many believe that the big problem in the picture is the correlation with climate change. California seems to be getting hotter and drier, and it does not help that natural disasters are only going to become stronger.

“It is sad to hear what is happening in California, but it shows you the lack of care and respect for our wilderness,” senior Jaden Carrizo said.

More than 14,000 firefighters are trying to control the fires chewing up bone dry California.

Overall, the west coast has a lot to handle; however, firefighters are working around the clock to tame the blaze.

• Feature •

Strategies for virtual success A guide on tackling distance learning challenges

By Emma Trifonova

T

he corona virus radically changed everyone’s lives in March 2020, which completely reformed the way students all across the country attend school. Transitioning to online school is not easy for many students, but some on-line school and study tips might help with this new change.

Some students are doing a mixture of on-line school, as well as in-school. This may be easier than doing strictly on-line school, but can still be pretty tricky for students since not everyone is used to having such a big chunk of their education done online. There is a wide range of variety that can help students manage this transition and facilitate going to on-line school.

“It was difficult in the first week, but eventually, I got used to it. Once I got my schedule and system in place, I wasn’t as overwhelmed,” sophomore Kayla Belisario said.

Taking time out of your day to assure yourself that you will make it through the school year can ease the stress off of yourself. Reassuring yourself that it is not the end of the world when things get tough can help with the stress. Instead of procrastinating and

stressing yourself, go start on homework, study for that test or even create a schedule for so you know when to do these things.

“The best tip I have for handling on-line school is to always make a schedule for yourself, and stick to it,” Belisario said. “Know what you’ll get done in the

“

Once I got my schedule and system in place, I wasn’t overwhelmed.

Kayla Belisario morning, afternoon, and night, and how much time you’ll spend on school.”

Organizing your time is an effective way to not only survive but excel in this school year. On-line school adds extra flexibility and time between classes, so you can start working on classwork and homework between classes, instead of waiting until after

school. Writing a daily routine down and seeing it on paper will also motivate you to do what you need to do and complete the tasks on the list. This can help a lot when learning a foreign language, it makes time to orally practice the new language as well as learning the language grammatically.

The on-line study application has study sets on almost every topic that can help in further understanding a topic you are learning in class. From Biology to World History, if you want it, Quizlet has got it. The website even has information on AP subjects for students taking college-level courses.

Many teachers also use Quizlet to teach their students, especially during on-line school. Some teachers make review study sets to go over doing asynchronous sessions from topics learned in synchronous sessions. Synchronous sessions are when you attend a virtual meeting with your classmates and teachers, which is when the teacher will teach you stuff. An asynchronous session is the time you have after that class, where you do classwork or homework for the subject on your own.

With these tips, on-line school can be much easier for students, but possibly strenuous, nonetheless.

This may not be easy, but utilizing the tools you have at your disposal can mellow down the difficulty of on-line school.

Shaelyn Gamiao

•7•

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• Feature•

B-rad broadcasts live Sophomore spins way towards future career

By Violet LaMela

M

any students spend most of their high school and college days searching for the job they would like to do for the rest of their lives. For sophomore Bradley Geiger, that has never been a problem.

“Ten years from now I can still see myself doing this, definitely,” Bradley Geiger said. “Being able to make an income doing what I love for as long as possible, that’s the goal.”

Before he could even walk, music had always been a huge part of his life.

Geiger’s mother, Karen Geiger, noticed his infatuation with creating music when he was still a small child.

“He has always loved music,” Karen said. “When he was little I can remember him going into the kitchen and using the pots and pans to make

“

I was basically being a human iPod. Bradley Geiger sounds and form music.”

Many students are influenced by their parents’ tastes in music, food and hobbies. As an only child, Geiger was molded by all of the time that he spent with his parents while he was growing up.

“It was my mom really, every morning she would go on runs with me in the stroller and let me listen to her iPod,” Geiger said. “Her music taste was a lot of electronic musicians like Deadmau5 and Daft Punk, that’s kind of what sparked my interest in that particular style.”

After spending the majority of his mornings following the same routine, Geiger decided to look into the music he was beginning to enjoy. It was not long before he began pulling apart songs and reinventing them in his head.

“I really liked the way the electronic music sounded,” Geiger said.

“That’s when I started researching it and through that I discovered deejaying and stuff like that. Since then I just knew it was something I wanted

to pursue.”

Once he decided that this was something he wanted to do, Geiger brought the idea to his parent’s attention and discussed the best way to make this dream happen. They decided that the first step would be to come up with a deejay name and start a social media account.

“It’s B-rad because you know, my name is Bradley,” Geiger said. “I’m pretty sure it was my mom’s idea though, I think she might’ve seen it somewhere or something. She used that when she made the Instagram account and it kind of just stuck with me I guess.”

As his parents started working on the business aspect, he began saving money to help cover the costly equipment that was needed.

“Just for the minimum amount of equipment I needed, I had to save up for about a year or so,” Geiger said.

“Once I had everything and had the chance to mess around with it, my mom got me my first gig with one of her friends.”

Geiger’s first gig was quick to prepare him for the reality of what was soon to become the majority of his Saturday nights. The upcoming weekends would consist of standing for long periods of time, non-stop song requests, blinding lights and watching people have the time of their lives.

“At the birthday party, I was standing for about five hours straight, basically being a human iPod,” Geiger said. “It was pretty rough, but for my first time I’d say it was fine. Everyone there had a good time and that’s what matters.”

While adapting to the deejay norm was a difficult task at first, Geiger was determined to follow through with his musical passion. After several gigs of playing non-stop requests, Geiger began to develop new methods to help adjust to his newly found lifestyle.

“A lot of it now is basically reading the crowd, you have to see which songs they’re reacting to you know? See what they’re feeling and enjoying,” Geiger said. “Everyone kind of decides on what songs get played, but for the most part it’s really up to my discretion.”

Although Geiger’s music taste mostly consists of modern rap, he always is sure to make his song choices based on the people he is playing it for.

However, oftentimes it is hard to tell what the crowd enjoys without knowing them personally so having a select few “go-to’s” is always necessary.

“A song that gets used a lot is the

Cupid Shuffle and other group dances in general,” Geiger said. “And now that Tik Tok is becoming a big thing, I’m assuming I could probably do some popular Tik Tok songs.”

In recent years the city that never sleeps has been embracing its longlived reputation of non-stop partying, thus, living up to its given name. With constant parties there is more than likely going to be a need for constant music and that opens up many potential opportunities for people similar to Geiger.

“Over the course of the last few years I would say I have probably done about 500 parties and weddings,” Geiger said. “It gets to the point where I’m doing it two or three times every weekend.”

Along with working at many parties comes many intriguing and suspenseful stories. There are often many tall tales to be told after a party, this is due to the fact that many party goers are usually too busy having fun to really be involved in what is happening. For Geiger many party stories are easily recalled because they had all been witnessed while reading the crowd.

“There was this one time at a father daughter dance where we had brought a smoke machine and it ended up setting off the fire alarms,” Geiger said.

•9•

“Another time the building we were at had reached its maximum capacity and they had to start fanning people out because there were so many people dancing and jumping.”

Even though Geiger was growing excited to be taking the next steps into building his career, there were still many uprising concerns. His father, Marc Geiger, was uneasy about the idea of his son being at parties so often, this is because he is still very young.

“I was worried at first you know,” Marc said. “I figured him being at parties would end up with him getting in some type of trouble.”

Despite all the worry, Geiger’s parents never failed to show him the endless love and guidance he needed to keep moving forward.

“My parents are my biggest supporters,” Geiger said. “It’s always a good feeling knowing that they are there to help me no matter what.”

As Geiger continues to dedicate his time to learning about music production, he also remains focused about the person he is determined to become.

“Deejaying is my passion and quite truthfully the career I want for the rest of my life,” Geiger said. “I want to be able to change people’s lives with my music.”

courtesy of Bradley Geiger

THE PARTY NEVER STOPS- Sophomore Bradley Geiger sets up his gear while attending a Harry Potter themed party. Geiger dee-jays up to three events a week.

TIRED of WAITING Social justice becomes pivotal issue for Generation Z

Sayde Alejandra

BE HEARD- Sophmore Iris Bontrager takes action at a BLM protest in Goshen, Ind. on Aug. 15, 2020 outside of Embassy Coffee. Bontrager decided to protest as a result of events that took place around the nation that involved the deaths of Black citizens and their interactions with police.

By Vivien Liebhardt & Kristel Alfaro Borbon tay home. Wear a mask. Keep six feet apart. All logical advice while the country continues to deal with a pandemic that has killed over 1 million people around the world.

But logic can take a backseat to emotion at times, and social unrest erupted over the summer as a result of several incidents involving white police officers and Black citizens.

Students found themselves on the front lines of a social uprising. A movement that not even a pandemic could control. With people out of work and tensions rising already, police shootings set off a chain of events that could define a generation.

Current generations will likely be the ones to suffer the greatest economic hardships from the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic could rob them from career-defining education and employment opportunities and set them back several years financially. However, their stance in the streets and on social media are not for the sole purpose of reopening the economy, but for demonstrating their commitment to civil rights for Black Americans and other cultural, ethnic and racial movements.

“In order to make change you must show that there are consequences to killing our brothers and sisters. It’s still freedom by any means necessary, every Martin needs a Malcolm,” senior Adam Zechariah Johnson said.

American citizens of all ages have been seen marching the streets while celebrities, corporations, students, teachers and members of the LGBT community continue fighting for the simple right of fair treatment.

“The protest I went to was in a small town in Indiana, mainly conservative town. There weren’t many people on the BLM side and quite a few people on the ALM side,” sophomore Iris Bontrager said. “Our signs said ‘BLM’ and ‘Justice for Breanna Taylor’ while others held signs saying, ‘Trump 2020’ and ‘All Lives Matter.’ They had AR-15s and other guns, sang [religious] songs, called us communists, but a few came over and had a fairly respectful debate with us about the BLM movement, immigration policies, COVID-19 and gun laws.”

Many protesters have taken to the streets as a result of the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The death was caught on video as Floyd was restrained by a white police officer who pinned him to the ground with his knee pressed against his neck. Others said that they sensed that there is not an organized plan to address racism in the United States.

“I attended the protest because I’m tired of being scared for my best friend’s life, my boyfriend’s life, and

S

• Feature •

the lives of many young Black children. If we don’t make change now then it will just become a cycle of anger, violence, racism, and fear. Our government and our police force need change now. It’s corrupt and they can’t keep ignoring us,” Bontrager said. “It’s upsetting to hear my boyfriend say he couldn’t serve a woman at his work because he was Black. I’m sick of people saying ‘All Lives Matter,’ because if all lives did matter then ‘Black Lives Matter’ wouldn’t be an issue. Police have gotten away with killing people, no matter if they are innocent or guilty.

Absolutely no one should die at the hands of another.”

After Floyd’s death, other videos and stories began to surface, such as the death of Breonna Taylor, a 26 year old from Kentucky. Taylor was shot in her apartment while she was sleeping.

“After George Floyd it was kind of like finally people are listening to us, they’re seeing that this is an issue. It shouldn’t have to have been televised for it to be seen like an issue, but unfortunately it did,” junior Cayla Thames said. “For me it was just a no brainer because I am a part of the community that is being affected. I need to advocate for myself, my family, the

CLOSE-UP - Artwork relating to social movments is found throughout downtown Las Vegas. Many pieces of art are tucked away on side streets and in alleyways.

Sebastian Villamil

“

I was scared for my own life. I’m a 5’2” girl and I don’t have much strength. I was afraid that someone was going to physically harm me for protesting.

Iris Bontrager people I love and for my community and Black people in general.”

Citizens have become more willing to speak up for what they see as injustices for minorities across the country.

They also are aware of the dangers of attending protests and the risks that come with taking part in them.

“The protests were peaceful but threatening, especially with people having guns. We didn’t have any weapons and we weren’t posing a threat.

We held our signs and talked amongst ourselves. We told them if they wanted to get their point across they shouldn’t hold guns and wear armor. We told them they were hypocritical,” Bontrager said.

Students also took notice of the roller coaster of emotions that they felt when they took part in standing up for what they believe is right.

“You get this kind of overwhelming feeling that just says make them listen to you. If this is how they’re going to listen to you, then make them listen to you. I felt so much desperation, I wanted people to understand and to say please stop doing this to me and

my community,” Thames said. “Any fear goes out of the window because you are so desperate to be heard, that’s literally all it is, just a mix of desperation.”

The entire nation has been exposed to the BLM protests, whether it be on television, social media, or in person.

Some protests have become violent while others remained peaceful.

“I was scared for my own life.

I’m a 5’2” girl and I don’t have much strength. I was afraid that someone was going to physically harm me for protesting,” Bontrager said. “What kept me going was knowing I was part of something I can be proud of and standing up for something I believe in.”

Many protesters think that their voices are still not being heard and have taken to posting on social media.

Some also feel like they have not fully accomplished their goal of finding justice for the Black community.

“When I left the protests, I was angry. I wasn’t as angry as walking in, but it was just a different kind of anger, like just how dare you,” Thames said. “Ev-

• 11 •

ery time that I got home I would be exhausted. I was walking five miles a day for 16 days, so it was an overwhelming feeling of exhaustion, but you’re just so determined and so motivated that it outweighs that exhaustion.”

Some African-Americans claim that protesting and supporting Black Lives Matter is not up for debate, and they have to stand by their community.

“For me not going to a protest was not an option because I am Black, and I have Black family. As someone with that demographic it’s not a choice because it is affecting my life and my family’s life. It’s more of a survival type thing rather than, ‘Oh I’m going to support,’” Thames said.

COVID-19 created more challenges as social distancing was not always possible and some protesters chose not to wear masks. Hand sanitizer, water and other first aid items were plentiful according to participants.

“I’m just glad I got to voice my opinion,” sophomore Anylah Evans said. “I made sure I was safe and took precautions such as wearing a mask regardless of the heat. I would say most

people were wearing a mask, even though they would rather not wear it.”

The most impactful aspect of many of the protests around the country has been how the media coverage affects viewers emotionally. Social media and news coverage depicting violence have some citizens feeling uncomfortable.

“It’s heartbreaking. I watch videos of people getting pushed, shoved, shot with rubber bullets...for what? Expressing their freedom of speech and freedom to protest? That’s sick,” Bontrager said. “The riots and the burning of buildings isn’t okay at all, but it’s happening because people are angry.

People feel the need to be heard because the government isn’t listening.”

Feelings about social movements are not contained to individuals of color. Many White citizens share the frustration that is present in the Black community and are aware of how racism creeps into their everyday lives. For social studies teacher Harmony Mazzone, who has two adopted Black children, the road to change is not simple.

“My 4 year old son is too young to understand the current events happening. But my daughter and I have open discussions about things that are happening in our country surrounding racism. We read the newspaper and watch the news,” Mazzone said. “As a mom, I am constantly worried about my kiddos and the world we are raising them in. But I believe education is the great equalizer. The more they know, the more they can be effective as citizens and leaders themselves.

We just have to keep talking. Things are not going to happen overnight.”

Some citizens believe that elements of continued mistreatment of minorities can be traced back to the current government administration’s altering of programs that were said to benefit younger families of color, immigrant children and provide other

• Feature •

social safety nets for Blacks and Hispanics. One specific cut was the elimination of low-income assistance programs which caused an increase in the number of Americans who lack health coverage. This was argued to cause an increase in poverty, a widening of the income gap between whites and minorities and other racial disparities.

“Racial discrimination isn’t just about blatant racism, the system is still set up for Black and Brown kids

“We are dealing with the effects of systemic racism, and some of us don’t even realize how deep rooted racism has been instilled in this country. This goes back as recently to the 80’s and 90’s, America never stood by us. They will continue to stand against us until we change it from the inside,” Johnson said. “The way to bring change is by voting and getting more involved in politics, doing research, and to not be close minded to democratic, republican,

t o day to fail.

If we don’t fix the system, nothing will change,” Johnson said.

Another topic that has made its way to the forefront is the issue of systematic racism. Many people are concerned that it has a commonplace in the world today.

or independent ideologies. Once a party knows they will always have your guaranteed vote they will forget about our community and we will become forgotten.”

Generation Z is trying to persuade an entire country to provide everyone equal rights. Some argue that it is not a

normal situation to face such divisive, life changing issues while kids should be enjoying themselves.

“I don’t think this is fair at all. I don’t think I should be growing up worried about my future, my children’s future, my siblings’ future. I don’t think that it’s fair that little kids have to grow up in an environment like this,” Evans said.

For those not able to protest, social media events such as “Black Out Tuesday” which was on June 2, have allowed everyone to voice their opinions and share their experiences. While there remains to be multiple opinions on BLM and other social movements, students believe that while social media helps, it will not be the deciding factor in obtaining equal rights.

“I think that the biggest issue is that people are not educating themselves, and if they are they’re too scared to show that they’re not ignorant. People can post all day long if they want, but the actual act comes from telling people that you care,” Thames said. “Of course there’s people that post about Black Lives Matter but still make racist jokes or a racial slur. To be a better person they need to acknowledge that there is something wrong.”

It can also be said that many teenagers are perceived as less knowledgeable as a result of their youth. This creates a situation where it can become tough for them to break through and get their points across. Many people think that their next step should be to become more involved in politics so that their voice has a better chance of being heard.

“We see change in communities on the local, state, and national levels when minorities are in charge,” Mazzone said. “It’s time to make that shift.

I believe you can be both a supporter of police and outraged at the systematic racism we still see in our country.”

WALK INTO ACTUALITY- Seniors Brezian Kane and Anthony Nevarez (page center) go for a walk in downtown Las Vegas. Downtown is filled with many murals symbolizing Black Lives Matter. A mural symbolizing the Civil Rights Act of 1962 is shown above.

Kristel Alfaro Borbon

www.americanprogress.org & www.dosomething.org

Sebastian Villamil

• Feature •

Time for a change Senior produces comical music

By Malia Deramus

M

usic surrounds lives everywhere.

From apps such as SoundCloud and Spotify, many young artists find themselves dreaming of hitting big and becoming famous for their music.

Starting in choir, working his way up to Green NV and playing lead roles in musicals, senior Brendan Stephens is taking a step up and releasing his first music album.

Stephens has a YouTube channel featuring “T-O-Tally R-A-D”, one of his songs from his unreleased album.

Stephens adds a plot line to his music video by adding humorous situations ,along with a load of satirical comments creating a video full of humor to get a laugh from the audience.

“I like making music and eventually it got to the point where I wanted to put in words to actually make a song, but I couldn’t think of an actual idea. I know I wanted to make something funny because I usually like making funny videos,” Stephens said.

Stephens created the alter-ego “Brasma” that is featured on his YouTube channel. It is the pseudonym he uses to make his music, as well as the character he plays in his music videos.

“In simple terms, it’s just a combination of Brendan and plasma, but the more complicated version I like to think of is that I’m always specific with the things I do. The way I think is a lot more different than what people usually think,” Stephens said. “You think of how there’s solids, liquids, and gases but there’s technically a fourth.

There’s also plasma, but no one really ever mentioned plasma; it’s usually just the three kinds of categories of matter. I saw this as fun little clown words of a unique factor.”

The album name is Lessons in Awesomeness, which will have nine songs once it is released. It will eventually be streaming on multiple platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music.

“I’ve been working on it for quarantine. That’s decently a long time, if not a little longer than people usually take making songs or albums,” Stephens said.

He first got into music in fourth grade, which progressed as he continued to pursue choir as an elective.

“I’ve been in choir since the fourth grade so it just kind of became a club I would do in elementary school and then an elective I would do in middle school. And I got so involved with it that singing became such a big part of my life over the years,” Stephens said.

Last year, he was a lead in both Into the Woods and 17 Again: A New Musi-

already made a big impact on his personality.

“I joined theater only last year, but at the same time it taught me to express myself and completely just go all out there even more than I had done before,” Stephens said.

Brendan has gained an immense amount of support from his friends

“

I like making music, and eventually it got to the point where I wanted to put in words to actually make a song.

Brendan Stephens cal, both put on by the GVHS Theatre program.

“Getting placed as the lead role in those definitely forced me to get used to being in the spotlight of the stage,” Stephens said.

Theater may not have been in Stephens’ life for that long, but it has

and family. His father, Adrian Stephens, has always encouraged Brendan’s musical career.

“Probably a toddler, maybe one year old, I just remember anytime there was music on he would dance. I have pictures and videos of him where he was dancing in a diaper. He just always

seemed to be grooving to whatever music was going on.” Adrian said.

Both of Brendan’s parents are extremely encouraging, and even help him film and record for music videos and songs.

“I’ll tell you, I love everything he does. I mean, I try to be a supportive dad, but I actually just truly enjoy the stuff he does. I feel like he’s got a real creative sense and he understands how to put something out that is musically enjoyable.” Adrian said.

As Stephens branches outside of high school, his plans are focused less on his music career and more on his acting.

“I’m personally going into acting.

I’m going to really like that but music is always going to be a part of my life. If I end up doing things involving music producing or all that I wouldn’t mind but I do want to go into acting,” Stephens said.

Although Stephens’ primary goal is not directly music production, it is still an enjoyable hobby that he does to pass time and hopes to continue in the future.

T-O-TALLY RAD!- Senior Brendan Stephens poses for a colorful shot in his first music video. This was the first song and first music video that he released from his album.

courtesty Brendan Stephens

• 13 •

A Name Behind the Number

L.E. Baskow

Senior details her battle against COVID-19 after contracting virus

By Cherie Franklin

“I

t was something so unexplainable.

It was like an out of body experience.”

Green Valley senior Kaydee Asher had spent the first months of the pandemic taking the usual precautions. She stayed home for the most part and wore a mask when in public. However, Asher would find out in late June that she had tested positive for COVID-19.

“That day [June 20], I had been out in the sun more than usual. With allergies, a faint runny nose was not new to me. I thought nothing of it,” Asher said.

After an hour or two of being home from going out to see a friend the previous day, the symptoms that had vanished for a short period of time came back much stronger.

“I felt terrible and had gained a very sore throat,” Asher said. “Sunday night my symptom list was growing and only getting worse. I woke up on Monday with a bad sore throat, muscle aches all over, and very bad fatigue, as well as chills,” Asher said.

Asher was tested that day. Waiting for the test results, which take anywhere from 3 to 8 days to come back, she continued to stay in quarantine and distance herself.

“I tried to take it easy in my bed but my symptoms were only getting worse than before. Tuesday I lost my sense of smell completely. While getting breakfast that morning, I realized the milk

was about to expire. I put it in a cup, smelled to see if the milk smelled bad and could not smell anything. I did not think much until taking whiffs of Tabasco, smelling absolutely nothing yet feeling my nose burning,” Asher said.

“I woke up Wednesday morning to very hard breathing and called my mom while she was at work complaining of a tight chest and having extreme difficulty breathing,” Asher said. “She came home and took me to the hospital immediately.”

“

My body constantly felt the weakest it’s ever been in my life.

Kaydee Asher Kaydee’s mother, Sandra Asher, who works in the medical field, was surprised at her normally healthy daughter’s condition. Kaydee, prior to getting the virus, had not been sick for almost two years.

“I never thought that my teenager would be so ill. Even in my line of work, you hear that it is mostly the elderly or people with autoimmune disorders who get so ill,” Sandra said.

Kaydee was so nervous, the doctor had to give her a sedative to calm her down.

“The sedative helped because when you feel like you cannot breathe, you’re like “Oh my god I can’t breathe” which makes it even worse,” Kaydee said.

The first hospital visit went smoothly. She spent a total of about 10 hours in St. Rose Dominican Hospital’s emergency room.

“They did a nasal COVID test which would come back within 1-2 hours. My chest X Rays showed mild inflammation but overall each test came back alright and there were no signs of blood clots in my lungs. I was put on breathing treatments to try and help the pain,” Kaydee said.

At this point, Kaydee’s test had come back positive, and she was sent home with medication.

“I took my medication and slept a lot, but still felt a lot of pressure in my chest while breathing,” Kaydee said. “Especially trying to sleep on my side or sitting up in bed. I had no energy. I constantly felt winded.”

Asher’s growing list of symptoms and the first visit of two to the ICU took a toll on her mental state. After all, she had done everything right and still gotten the virus.

“I told a few people about what was going on, I felt embarrassed that I had gotten COVID although I had done my best to stay safe,” Kaydee said. “I figured COVID-19 was a painful and bad sickness, but it was way worse than I had pictured.”

October 2020

Staying safe was a primary concern for the Asher family; they continued to distance within the home and wear masks. Although staying safe had now become an increasingly important concern, it was not a new one. Kaydee and her mother both took the virus very seriously, and had been limiting contact with others and staying home since about mid-March.

“We were sent home to quarantine, and that was not that difficult because she did her thing. She had her mask on and I had mine on. Nothing there really changed there,” Sandra said.

Even though she was receiving regular medication to combat the virus, Asher’s situation gradually worsened.

“I have never felt that much pain in my chest, ever. The breathing treatments gave immediate relief but never lasted long in helping the pain in my chest,” Kaydee said.

Three days later, she said her head felt like “a hot air balloon about to pop,” and like there were massive weights on her chest.

“She called me crying saying, ‘I don’t think I can breathe right. I know I’m breathing but I don’t feel like I can get the air out,’” Sandra said.

Another hospital visit was imminent. Upon being admitted, Kaydee was rushed to the ICU. “I was able to control my anxiety and breathing, but the pain was far worse than my first trip to the emergency room,” Kaydee said.

With little to no inspection from the doctor, Asher was informed there

was no way she was not going to the ICU. She needed to stay at the hospital.

“I was the first St. Rose Pediatric COVID positive patient to be bad enough to get admitted to the ICU. I was surprised because of how big the hospital was, how could I be the first?

I was told I was in the “red zone” for having COVID and needed to be monitored overnight,” Kaydee said.

“

As a mom, there is nothing you would not do for your child.

Sandra Asher While in the hospital for a second time, Asher’s pain continued to drain her energy to near exhaustion and take a toll on her body, so much to the point where she had to be helped doing even the most basic of tasks, including using the restroom.

“My body constantly felt the weakest it has ever been in my life. I could not sit up in bed without feeling winded and out of the air, my whole body shook trying to move, my chest felt so terrible and weak all the time,” Kaydee said. “The only time the pain felt better was when I was asleep and completely still.”

This experience was tremendously

• Feature •

impactful for Kaydee’s mother as well.

She stayed by her side throughout the entire journey, and seeing her daughter in such a state drained her emotionally.

“By the time we got to the hospital and she was severely ill, my concern was much more for her own health than my own,” Sandra said.

Being close with her daughter meant much more to her than getting sick.

And, even with her mask on and sitting in an isolation room, she realized that there was such an uncertainty concerning her daughter’s recovery that she could not just sit there and watch.

“I do remember saying “I really wish I could give you a hug right now,” and she said, “I wish you could too.” As a mom, there is nothing you would not do for your child. You just forget about everything else and that is when I decided I just needed to give her a hug,” Sandra said.

After ten days spent painfully recovering in St. Rose’s ICU, Asher was cleared to go home. But her journey was far from over. During her recovery as well as her time in the hospital, Kaydee shared her experience on Twitter; the series of threads describing her story in detail shows her journey through the hospital visits as well as her recovery. Her first tweet about her experience drew over 70,000 likes and 40,000 retweets.

“I can not run away from this and act like it never happened. All I can do is take my anger and frustration and turn it into awareness,” Kaydee said.

Asher’s story gained traction on

INSIDE LOOKING OUT- Asher takes a look outside while in quarantine after returning from the hospital after being treated for COVID-19. She was the first pediatric COVID patient at St. Rose Dominican Hospital.

L.E. Baskow

ROAD TO RECOVERY- Senior Kaydee Asher receives medical attention after having severe breathing difficulties at St. Rose Hospital. After 10 days, Kaydee was sent home with medication and told to monitor specific aspects of her health.

courtesy of Sandra Asher

Twitter, but also on many local news stations. In addition to her interview with the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Kaydee was featured on Good Morning America and made the cover of Las Vegas Weekly’s July 16 issue.

“When I originally posted my story, I thought it would just be seen by people from my school and show that if your school can get it, so can you,” Kaydee said.

Asher’s mother was also surprised at the response from multiple news outlets, as well as how fast the story grew and how far it reached.

“My phone started blowing up from multiple news agencies and it was just really bizarre,” Sandra said.

“So I asked her, ‘Is this okay with you?’ and when she said yes, that is when we started to do interviews.”

Asher expressed her sentiments about the fact that no matter how much you do right, you can still get the virus.

Nonetheless, she stressed the importance of being as cautious as possible.

“I feel like I am educating others but getting educated myself,” Kaydee said.

“That is all I could really ask for, because I could be doing better, too. Everyone can probably be doing better.”

After numerous interviews, photo shoots, and an exclusive, Kaydee began to realize that her message had been conveyed. Regardless of how many precautions people take, contracting COVID-19 is still very much a possibility. She realized she needed to recover in peace.

Months after her encounter with the virus, both Kaydee and her mother say that they treat the virus just

• 15 •

as seriously as they had before she had contracted it. However, they gained a new understanding of just how dangerous the virus is, even to someone who is perfectly healthy.

“Something I want the younger generation to know is that you may get COVID-19 and you walk through it just fine. But that does not mean your parents are going to live through it if you take it home. We can be asymptomatic, but we are giving it to our grandparents, or maybe a family member whose immune system is not equipped nearly as well as ours,” Sandra said.

Her mother also expressed her ever growing concern about going out in large groups without face coverings or social distancing, and many peoples’ blatant disregard for ignoring to take any sort of precaution whatsoever.

“We can’t actually put any blame anywhere. We can always speculate, but that’s it,” Sandra said. “Selfish people will only think of themselves and that is it.”

Kaydee’s experience with COVID-19 is one of millions. For her and her mother, it is no longer a question of looking on the news and seeing the case numbers spike. It is no longer the question of going out simply because they “are not affected by it”. They believe that now is the time that people must put their own opinions aside and realize that what everyone does now will affect anyone and everyone around them, regardless of whether they like it or not “It’s not just ourselves that we’re thinking of anymore,” Kaydee said. “We have to take care of each other too.”

• Sports •

College fall sports canceled Majority of fall sports postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic

By Zachery Schauer

T

hroughout 2020, life feels like a constant roller coaster.

Schools, jobs and any normal activities have been halted because of the deadly respiratory virus, COVID-19. Just as 2020 could not possibly get any worse, college fall sports were announced to be canceled.

Since COVID is still around, most college fall sports have been postponed to the spring of 2021. Many college championships have been canceled, for example the NCAA Division III fall championships were canceled, and the NCAA Division III fall sports championships have been canceled for the 2020-21 season.

Additionally, as of now the Big Ten and Pac-12 will be joining the ACC, Big 12 and SEC in playing college football.

Also the American Conference, USA Conference, MAC, MWC and the Sun Belt Conference will be playing this fall. The Big Ten and Pac-12 will start playing very soon. the Big Ten will start playing late October and Pac-12 will begin to play in November. With many opting out and choosing not to play, there are is still a fanbase watching like everything is normal.

“I like college football because of the intensity. You watch every starter on the field try their hardest to impress scouts yet still work as a single unit with the goal to win,” senior Zachery Stevens said.

With the Mountain West Conference coming back that means the UNLV football team will start playing once again, and they will now be playing most of their games in the new Allegiant Stadium.

“My favorite thing about playing college football were the lifelong relationships that were built with my teammates over the years,” GVHS counselor Max Johnson said. “Playing Division 1 football [at UNLV] was definitely a grind physically and mentally, but the camaraderie I was able to experience is something I will always be grateful for. That’s the beautiful thing about sports.”

Another sport that will be in the fall is men’s and women’s basketball which are scheduled to play since the end of their season got canceled back in March. Teams missed out on March Madness, which is the most important tournament for college basketball. The NCAA has come out and said there will be no fans in attendance unless they make the venues smaller, meaning there will be less people.

Furthermore, the NCAA stated on Wednesday Sept. 16 that “The COVID-19 pandemic and related administrative and financial challenges.”

The NCAA will have to cut coaches’ salaries due to the lack of income from sporting events. Smaller sports programs could possibly be in financial trouble in the coming year because of the impact of COVID-19.

Scouts for college fall sports are having a rough time doing their job because of the virus. Their normal routines have changed. The NCAA has postponed in-person recruiting as well as restricting the amount of time college teams can spend on virtually recruiting athletes for their programs.

This could have an impact on students pursuing their dream to earn a scholarship. With the absence of fans attending college football games this season, this impacts the funding of other athletic programs on campus.

College football generates revenue based on ticket sales, concessions and being broadcast on national television.

That revenue is used to support smaller athletic programs on campus that are not as lucrative as college football.

“Another issue is the NCAA announced that the student athletes’ eligibility will not be impacted from the loss of their season, meaning they will

Shaelyn Gamiao

October 2020

be granted another year to compete,” Johnson said. “Now from a coach’s perspective, it’s difficult to offer X amount of scholarships to recruits when you are not entirely sure how

“

I like college football because of the intensity. You watch every starter on the field try their hardest to impress scouts yet still work as a single unit with the goal to win.

Zachery Stevens many scholarships are even available.”

Scouting is very important to the team since athletes will leave for the professional leagues, so they could get scouted and drafted. For high schoolers it’s tough since they would usually have to visit the campus during this time.

Another challenge for high school athletes is gaining scholarships due to the lack of in person visits which can determine whether or not a college will offer a scholarship. While many top tier athletes are still receiving scholarships, many fringe high school athletes are no longer getting opportunities to earn their place among the ranks of collegiate athletes.

For those high school athletes who do have the talent to play at the collegiate level, they could face an uphill battle for recognition. They might face adversity with trying to learn their team’s playbook and develop chemistry with their teammates during an abbreviated offseason and preseason “With limited attendance at the games it should improve the players performance seeing as they do not have fans to distract them from the play which lets them play like practice,” Stevens said.

With only college football, soccer and basketball being able to play this fall, the spring season will be packed with various sports all happening at the same time or close to each other.

• Sports •

Athletes’ boycotts make history Professional athletes show unified response against police brutality

Dylan Liebhardt

By Jeremy Anderson

I

n response to the police shooting of Jacob Blake, a black man from Kenosha, Wis., the Milwaukee Bucks of the NBA boycotted their playoff matchup against the Orlando Magic.

Starting on Aug. 26, this was the first domino in a series of boycotts that took place across major sports. This caused many people around the country to question what effect the boycotts would have on the issue of how the African-American community is treated by police departments across the United States.

In reality, ratings have dropped for various sports, in which the NBA’s conference finals have one of the lowest viewership ratings since 2003, and a similar trend for the NHL, due to a multitude of reasons, including less interest in the product.

“I thought it was a good idea and smart because a lot of people watch the NBA,” junior Dominic Washington, part of the varsity basketball team, said. “Maybe this can help get the word out to more people who watch it than the protests could.”

No matter the aforementioned ratings, after the Bucks took a stand, the rest of the NBA followed. Then many other sports halted; the NHL delayed

the four playoff series scheduled in their two separate “bubbles,” in Edmonton and Toronto. The scheduled games of the MLB, including that of the Milwaukee Brewers were postponed for a later date. Alongside this, some NFL teams, such as the Green Bay Packers and Washington Football Team canceled practices. These were conducted in a show of solidarity in the fight against both police brutality and systemic racism. This also marked the first time in history that all four major sports boycotted their games on the same day.

“I wasn’t surprised at all the sports that took part in the boycotts. Actually, I think more sports should have recognized it,” Washington said. “Like the NFL, all the teams should have canceled practice, not just a few.”

Surprising or not, these boycotts were quickly met with harsh criticism.

Many spoke out against the idea of athletes being involved in any politics at all. To those against politics in sports, they only see entertainment from the athletes and only watch the sport for that reason, but they do not see a normal person outside of the sport.

“I think that people shouldn’t decide someone else’s opinions or choices, including what athletes do in politics,” sophomore Alexander Cipili said.

“So if someone doesn’t agree with an athlete politically that’s their problem

and the athlete should not get punished for having an opinion.”

Many fans of the various sports agreed, to which over half support athletes continuing to speak out, be it on or off the field/court.

Such criticism is questioned by some, and backed by others. It is a subject that draws a line at times within these fan bases, and continued through these boycotts.

“Over the years nothing has changed, we want change, that’s what

ter,” “Hear Us,” “Respect Us,” “I Can’t Breathe” and “Say Her Name.” These messages refer to the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, respectively, and are also a part of the 29 messages that were granted at the beginning of the resumed season of the NBA at the end of July. The NFL also did a similar thing with allowing the players to put their own message they want to put on the back of their helmets in which they will have on during the games. The next step of boycotting fan-less playoff games led to more possible impact than expected, which leads people to recognize the possibility of more measures and gestures.

“More action needs to be taken, this is just the beginning,” Washington said.

The NBA playoffs were up in the air. One night, all 30 teams met to discuss the possibility of ending their season, in which two teams voted for such, the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers. With Lebron James, the face of the league, voting to end it, seemed like a matter of when they would be permanently stopped. However, given that a majority of the teams (28) voted for continuing the playoffs, the two that did not see little choice but to resume play. With that now the NBA season is now over, with the Los Angeles Lakers wining the finals over the Miami Heat.

As all these sports eventually returned to playing games, they are leaving strong messages behind, and want to take more action in the future. The Milwaukee Bucks, the team that took the first step in the boycotts, are taking the first steps in real action, setting up meetings with Wisconsin government

“

I think that people shouldn’t decide someone else’s opinions or choices, including what athletes do in politics.

Alexander Cipili these athletes want,” Washington said.

“People aren’t familiar or comfortable with change, and I think that’s why there was criticism, too.”

But for others, this seems to be another step in the right direction for sports in being a part of social justice.

The first step was putting various messages on the back of their jerseys.

These ranged from “Black Lives Mat-

• 17 •

officials (the state in which Blake was shot) on how police brutality can be addressed.

The Bucks, playing inside a “bubble” in Orlando, Fla., sent shock waves throughout sports, and the country, making both history and impact in more ways than one, all for standing up for no social justice and police brutality around the world.

• Sports •

The games must go on

Student athletes move to club teams because of NIAA cancellations courtesy of Nikita McCrimon

LINE EM’ UP- McCrimon sprints his way down the field, working on his speed. He has played varsity football since his sophomore year.

TO THE HOUSE- Junior Nikita McCrimon works his way to the end zone during club practice. McCrimon plays wide receiver and cornerback.

By Selenne Arroyo-Martinez

W

ith all high school sports on hold until at least January 2021, athletes from Green Valley have been making the jump to local club teams in order to continue playing while furthering their goals of playing at the next level.

“COVID has definitely set everything back a few months, allowing every athlete not to be able to get as much better as they could if they were on a team. I was not able to play National Youth Sports because they canceled the season right before it even started,” junior Ariana Stewart said, a member of GV’s JV volleyball team.

Athletes have been furthering their goals of playing their sports by training as much as they can to continue to expand their skills.

“Although I have been playing on my own at the park so I have been playing on my own at the park so I have been able to grow a little,” junior Ariana Stewart said, a member of GV’s JV volleyball team,” Stewart said.

Athletes out there have realized how sports really mean to them as a result of the postponement. What was once a way to keep busy when they were younger has now become an important aspect of their life.

“I love the feeling of performing. I love the feeling of winning and competing. I love to be on a team and have

something to look forward to, I used to play volleyball for fun but now I would like to get recruited by a college,” Stewart said.

Not only has COVID prevented athletes from participating in school sports, but it has cause students to crave playing again.

“I understand that sports being postponed by CCSD is for our safety and required by the mayor and government, but I miss it. I want to play again,” Stewart said.

Many student-athletes are making sure they do not lose any skills. Not even the pandemic can hold them back from doing what they do. In an effort to continue improving at their respective sports, athletes such as junior Nikita McCrimon are joining club teams like the football team ‘AAP Sin City’ to continue playing football and further their skills.

School has greatly impacted student’s love for sports since they get to play with not only their teammates, but friends that they have created memories with.

“Club sports are nothing like school sports. Playing club sports is more like an outside pickup game with many unknown kids. School is more organized and a lot better since you’re friends with many people,” McCrimon said.

Being able to play on club teams has helped to harness the disappointment that many athletes had when sports were postponed.

courtesy of Nikita McCrimon

“The good thing about playing club is that everything is out of state. Everyone loves traveling for games and there’s also more competition playing club. There are more opportunities for

“

School is more organized and a lot better since you’re friends with so many people.

Nikita McCrimon scholarships,” McCrimon said.

Nevada has closed down some teams due to the pandemic, which left student-athletes nowhere to go.

This has left athletes who are craving to play again, no other choice but to search for clubs outside of the state.

Junior Angelina Ortega, a member of GV’s varsity softball team, plays for a softball team called Southern Thunder Elite.

October 2020

Student athletes have different perspectives on playing their sports, but they do whatever it takes to play it, no matter how many obstacles get in the way.

“I moved to this team about a month ago so I can still play softball since Nevada is not able to,” Ortega said.

To ensure that they are remaining safe, students in sport clubs are taking precautions. Not only are they keeping themselves safe, but are keeping the other teams safe as well.

“There are rules in my team where we don’t interact with the other teams.

We can only interact with our team.

Prior to coming, we had to sign a form that lets my coaches know that we are COVID free. If it comes back that we are actually positive and we were faking it, we would owe everyone the trip back and the tournament fees,” Ortega said.

GV sports in January 2021 will be different then it was before due to the pandemic but, as always, it’s best to stay optimistic and have a positive outlook. Students are staying as hopeful as they can.

“Postponing sports is really just allowing athletes to practice more and prepare more for the season,” Stewart said.

• Sports•

No time for downtime

Athletes continue to work hard in their own space

By Reilly Weatherford

D

uring the 2020-2021 school year, things have taken a turn.

In March of 2020, a global pandemic hit causing many lives to change. This pandemic was called “COVID-19” which spread like wildfire and caused countries to shut down. As things progressively get back to normal, Green Valley students started to prepare for the upcoming sports seasons by staying in shape at home and focusing on their goals.

Junior Enjoli DePhillipo plays softball and flag football for the school.

Currently, she has been working out in her free time and mainly watching what she puts in her body while trying to change her eating habits.

“I want to be better in all aspects, especially sports and making the highest level team. Being able to play is a really big motivation,” DePhillipo said.

Eating a low carb diet which includes vegetables, meats, fish, and dairy products has helped Dephillipo in her weight loss journey.

Having this mindset has helped her stay on top of her long/short term goals. Along with inspiring others to stay motivated and continue their aspirations outside of school.

“Long term, I would like to go to college for a sport I play. I also want my career to be in sports medicine.

Short term goal is to make myself better,” DePhillipo said.

Sophomore Lily Durham is an athlete that participates in volleyball and swimming. Since the pandemic she has been working out daily on her own. She has coped with the loss of school sports by looking for a club team to join in order to stay in shape and continue her athletics. Similar to Dephillipo this has allowed her to stay mentally positive.

A club sport would help strengthen skills required for the sport. Instead of going all summer not doing anything, a club sport keeps you active and constantly teaching you new ways to improve and shows you new sets of skills that put you ahead of other athletes.

“I enjoy the excitement, I love going to the games of others and playing with my team,” Durham said. “Athletics has definitely helped boost my confidence of making friends and I made some really good bonds with people that I played with. It definitely helps you build character as a person and to

be a team player/leader.”

Another student, junior Leila Casillan, plays flag football and was a member of the track and field team. She has created a little routine to be able to better herself and make more progress before the season starts.

“I have been going running every other day, and when I have time I go to the park, run a couple laps, do my footwork with ladders & cones, then

“

I want to be better in all aspects. Being able to play is a really big motivation.

Enjoli DePhillipo I sprint back and forth on the field to condition myself. I do this for about 1 hour,” Casillan said.

Some activities at home help keep you in shape and ready for the next sports season. Going on runs, at home workout videos you can find on YouTube, going to the gym and practicing drills that are the basics in your sport are all some examples.

Casillan loves the idea of becoming more aggressive and bettering herself.

She stated that It has opened more

doors to what talents and skills she has and loves the team and bonds she gets to build.

“A long term goal I have is to keep a good mindset and to keep positive when things aren’t going so well, like losing a game, and a short term goal I have is to become a faster running back,” Casillan said.

These goals she has set for herself have helped her fight harder to get better and keep a good mentality even though sports have been ripped away from the school’s current group of athletes.

All these students are great examples of a positive mindset during devastating times. They’ve found ways to continue activity participating in their sports out of school, which anyone could do if they so wish.

Evan Sproul is junior who is on the swimming team. During the COVID outbreak, Sproul has been continuing his journey in swimming. Even though pools were shut down, Sproul has still found ways to stay in shape and prepare for getting back in the water by doing dry-land exercises.

Some examples of dry-land workouts include; running, cycling, abs and stretch cords.

“It was a struggle mentally while I could not swim, but I’ve become mentally tougher and more willing to go after each swim practice with the right mindset,” Sproul said.

Being discouraged by COVID did not stop Evan Sproul from moving forward and pushing his limits.

“I had my first open water meet a couple weeks ago. I swam a 5K. I have

one in October where I also swim another 5K. In open water meets, you swim in a lake or ocean, racing a bunch

“

I enjoy the excitement, I love going to the games of others and playing with my team.

Lily Durham of people, and you swim a 5K, 10K, 15K, or 25K,” Sproul said.

“I like to compete. I am very competitive. I also like the prospect of getting some sort of scholarship to a good college. Then of course the benefits of a sport are worth it as well. Sports provide me with an opportunity to grow and to set goals and improve,” Sproul said.

Some other goals that Sproul has set for himself include wanting to get a Junior National Cup by the end of this year and a short term goal is to get a scholarship, with swim and school, to a high Division One college.

All these students are trying to use a positive mindset during challenging times. They are doing their best to find ways to continue to stay active, even though they are not at school.

Sebastian Villamil

• 19 •

• A&E•

Open for business

Students explore entrepreneurship through small businesses

T

By Taylor Theel

here is no doubt that in this time high school has its difficulties, ranging from homework to extracurriculars to life outside a student’s education. Several students have been able to not only juggle these difficulties, but a successful business on the side as well.

Sophomore Nina Ompok dates her love for baking all the way back to when she was three years old. Her grandmother on her father’s side taught her how to bake, and they have been baking together ever since.

“I originally just started selling cookies in the beginning of quarantine to save up for a car, but people started asking what else I can make, and I

“

Take your time and follow your dreams.

Ashtyn Peta decided to expand it into selling other baked goods,” Ompok said.

Throughout quarantine Ompok has been able to include not just cookies but regular cakes, bundt cakes, macaroons, and cake pops. She not only puts together her items, but she customizes each box as well.

“I do in fact package them and include my own handwritten tag and notes,” said Ompok Before July hit, Ompok had made deliveries to her customers in whatever way was easiest for them. She would stop by their house and approach the customer, or she would leave it at the door to accommodate her buyers safety. Towards the end of the month, COVID had caused her to make a change in these delivery procedures.

“I stopped doing deliveries and started doing pickup only in July, but even when I did deliveries, I would always do whatever was easiest for the customers. If they wanted me to wear my mask when bringing their order I would, and some even requested just to leave it at the door,” said Ompok.

In addition to keeping this business going throughout high school, Ompok

stated that she would love to continue after graduation as well. She has a strong connection to her market, and would hate to part with it as it is becoming more successful each day.

“I want to keep this after high school because it is something I am very passionate about and I love seeing people’s reactions when trying my food. It makes me so joyful and it makes me feel like I am doing something I was meant to do,” Ompok said.

With all of the experiences that Ompok has collected she believes the best advice to follow is going for it. It is a great idea to put yourself out there and take that extra step.

“If you want to begin your own business, do it. Go out and get out of your comfort zone. Starting your own business can be scary sometimes, but you don’t even realize how many people will be interested and are willing to support you. You’ll never know how successful you’ll be if you don’t try,” Ompok said.

Other students have found a way to start a business on their own as well, such as senior Ashtyn Peta. Her inspiration came from her father who thought it would be a good idea if Peta started an arts and crafts business.

“My dad told me I should make my own business, so I got my true inspiration from him, but for the artwork itself, it either comes to mind or from Pinterest,” said Peta.

Peta began her business back in July of this year. She originally wanted to get a job, but with the recent pandemic she decided it would be best for her to start her own business and work from home.

“Since my website isn’t official I do not ship yet. Right now I’m just doing pickup, where they come to my house and I give it to them. I sanitize before they come and after,” Peta said.

After high school Peta does plan on going to college and in her spare time she plans on continuing her arts and crafts. Peta loves her business as of right now and she would enjoy pursuing it further even while struggling with the adjustment to college life.

“I plan on keeping my business after high school, so I can continue to grow it in my spare time while attending college,” Peta said.

Peta over time has been able to gain much knowledge on the young entrepreneur life, and believes the best advice for starting a business would be to come up with original ideas.

“Take your time and follow your dreams, a business doesn’t just happen overnight. Also, make sure you’re in the right state of mind when working on your projects,” Peta said.

Alike to Peta, another young rising entrepreneur has also decided to create her own arts and crafts business.

“Essentially it’s an art business. I sell prints of my art, take commissions, design logos and recently I’ve decided to invest in making and selling stickers,” said sophomore Alexis De Asis.

The whole idea of a business had only been a thought for De Asis but got up and running in early March. Three years ago she always promoted her art, but never thought she could make money from it.

“My art, I have been posting and broadcasting it since around 2017, but I wasn’t skilled enough to where I thought I’d be able to profit from it.

The actual art business did not start until this March,” De Asis said.

De Asis has always had a strong passion for art and it always brought her joy when she could make others happy with her crafts. She considers this feeling to be the main inspiration for her start and continuation of this business.

“Art has always been one of my passions, and it has always brought a smile

October 2020

to people’s faces, especially because I draw it all with my mouth. So if I could provide some happiness and help other people’s visions come to life, that is what I’d like to do,” said De Asis.

Due to De Asis’s arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, a disability that causes her to have a lack of muscle in her body, she works on her art with her mouth. A variety of tools are used to allow her to manipulate a pen, pencil, paint brush or other objects.

“When packaging and such, I used to use my lips/mouth along with tools that I use in my mouth to move stuff around. Though, because of COVID, I stopped actually touching things with my lips/mouth and have learned to manipulate things better with my hand/ tools,” De Asis said.

Advice that De Asis always wishes to share is that a business will not always be fun and easy. There will be times you want to quit because of how stressful and overwhelming it can be.

“Running a business is fun, but not all of the time. There will be times where you just want to quit, you want to give up, because it’s so overwhelming,” Des Asis said. “I’m not saying any of this to scare anybody away from running a business. I’m saying it to let you know that there will be hard times and I want you to stick through it.”

SAY CHEESE- Senior Ashtyn Peta poses with a piece of art that she created. The acrylic poured, fluid painting was inspired by ‘Spooky Season.’

courtesy of Ashtyn Peta

• Feature •

Cultural expression takes a lead Media apps introduce clothing trend in attempt to educate users

By Shaelyn Gamiao

N

ormalizing cultural appreciation has become one of the latest trends on Tik Tok. New trends that show cultural clothes and food have taken over the app.

Tik Tok is a major source of change among generation Z. This platform has allowed their users to proudly represent their heritage in traditional clothing.

“Media was made to share and inspire,” junior Kirsten Scott said. “So this trend is just another way for people to do so.”

In essence, creators are shown walking into the frame wearing “normal” attire, with another set of clothing laid out on a chair behind them. In the next

“

Cultural representation can bring people together from different cultures, or it can simply educate those uninformed.

resentation through clothing such as Japanese kimonos, Scottish kilts or accessories such as the Jewish kippah.

“I like to know where people originate from and what they believe. I love knowing the beauty standards, art and clothing of other cultures,” Stewart said. “It is like exploring a new world. I already know so much about my own culture, that I would like to compare and contrast it to others.”

Rejection and disapproval is enough to sway certain people out of joining in or participating on a current trend. In some cases, it even brings about feelings of shame and embarrassment over such things as culture.

“I do not think anyone should be ashamed of their culture. We all have different beliefs and that’s okay,” Stewart said. “One shouldn’t be ashamed of dressing the way they want to dress or believing what they want to believe. Every culture should be accepted because every person matters.”

Gen Z has greater access to a vast amount of information, via the Internet and social media, than any generation prior. With the implementation of Tik Tok, trends have allowed users to shed light on their different backgrounds more efficiently and effectively.

“Cultural representation can bring people together from different cultures, or it can simply educate those uninformed,” Scott said. “As a generation, we

“

I don’t think anyone should be ashamed of their culture.

Ariana Stewart can grow and form a sense of respect for everyone.”

Albeit, this is not the only challenge involving heritage that Tik Tok users have come up with. There are countless others with the sole intention of uniting cultural groups.

“There should be many trends representing anything someone is proud of, whether that is their race, religion, sexuality, culture, et cetera,” Stewart said.

“Viewers should learn why people do what they do, why they dress the way they do, why they eat what they eat.”

Tik Tok has become home to a community big on acceptance. Users on the app devote their time into creating videos that display who they are. They are also able to express their passion for the things they love.

Kirsten Scott clip, they fall back into the chair and transition into their traditional apparel.

“People wanted to do this trend to show and represent the beauty of the clothing in their culture.

They want people to educate themselves, especially on the traditional clothing that is worn,” junior Ariana Stewart said.

As simplistic as this trend may seem, there is a reason why some individuals are reluctant to participate. Of course, basking in the praise and admiration you could potentially receive is an upside, but there is also the negative criticism that follows closely behind.

“Nowadays, there are some people that will disagree with your views and bash your culture for having different practices, events, fashion, et cetera. But I am still publicly open about my beliefs because it is something I strongly believe in,” Scott said. “When I get positive feedback, I feel more comfortable about sharing my beliefs. Media is open to anyone and everyone, so everyone has a right to share their culture openly without getting insulted or rejected.”

There are negative and positive aspects of every situation, and in this case, creators would be taking the good with the bad. The main focus is cultural rep-

IN VOGUE- Milan Mathew struts into frame wearing normal attire. Mathew has over 552,000 followers on Tik Tok.

• 21 •

FASHION FORWARD- Milan Mathew sits back into a chair and transitions into her traditional apparel. Mathew collected over 2 million likes on Tik Tok for showing her cultural clothing.

• Opinion •

Summer Lovin’ Drive-In popularity returns to campus

By Jasmine Gomolka

E

ver since the start of quarantine, there have been many changes to society’s new “normal”, one of them being movie theater experiences.

The drive-ins have made a comeback since Covid-19 had caused the casinos to shut down. Drive-ins also offer a safe distance from others while still enjoying the comfort and fun of going to the movies.

At the drive-ins you can pick if you would like to be inside or outside of the car. Most people at this point in time sit inside of the car to protect themselves from the virus. If you are in the car you can turn the radio station on to the specific station that the movies are playing on. Some drive-ins have speakers outside of the car as well so if you would like to be outside you could be.

“I like the difference in how you can just stay in your own space and you do not have to be around other people you do not know, and it is just more personal. People are farther back from each other’s cars,” sophomore Kaleigh Downing said.

The drive-ins offer productive activities to do outside of the house and give everyone a good time and are welcoming to any age. Since Covid-19 has limited people to hangout with others, the drive-ins are providing the option for people to finally hangout and spend time with each other again.

“Especially in the time of Covid-19 I think it is a lot easier in that sense to where you know you are going to be safe. You do not have to worry about all these different factors that could play into you contracting this disease,” sophomore Brandon Anderson said.

The drive-ins also produce more airflow than movie theaters since it is either outside or inside the car and since there are not hundreds of people compressed into one place. This helps with preventing the spread of Covid-19 and makes people feel more safe and comfortable in this specific public setting.

“It was not that crowded there. It was like you had your own privacy so it was more personal, comfortable and homey like. I could not tell you how many cars there were but there was plenty of space. The parking lot would only be crowded if there were like 30

or more cars, but there were not even that many,” senior Haley King said.

Drive-ins became popular in the 1950’s and 1960’s. They were a big deal to the people right after World War II. They offered cheap entertainment for

is very convenient for many. There are also concession stands, so you would be able to get out of the car and get food and beverages before the movie.

“It was a more cost effective way for people to spend time, and was not

“

I like the difference in how you can just stay in your own space and you do not have to be around other people you do not know, and it is just more personal. People are farther back from each other’s cars.

Kaleigh Downing families, date nights and time spent with others. People could bring their kids, sit in the car enjoy a movie so the drive-ins were more flexible for them. They became less popular in the 1970’s. The rate of people going declined when the mall society and convenience stores became a big “night out” idea which caused the drive-ins to get pushed away. Movie goers’ are allowed to bring their own snacks which

expensive at all. You are allowed to bring your own snacks, but they have a concession stand you can go to. You can buy your own stuff there but you can also bring your own snacks,” King said.

Depending on where you go the prices can range from $8 per person to $20 per car. The drive-ins have a variety of different movies; they play new and old movies for all different types

Malia Deramus

• 23 •

of viewers. At the West Wind Drive-Ins 4 year olds and under are always free, 5-11 year olds are $2 per child. There are family nights and other exciting activity-based nights to gain more customers as well.

“Well I think the prices are good given the circumstances. It is actually less expensive to go to a drive-in movie, that beats not going at all,” Anderson said.

At the West Wind Drive-Ins customers can host their own events at their locations. Also, there are customer appreciation nights where all movies are free. They have a large number of events such as pajama parties, rocky horror picture shows, car shows and special screenings. The locations have parks, public markets, live music, and they also celebrate every holiday with big events and a bunch of fun activities for the kids. The only location for the West Wind Drive-ins located in Nevada is on the northern side of Las Vegas on Carey Ave. They are also diverse with different genres of movies from other eras. With COVID-19 still being in place, finding alternative activities could be hectic and drive-in movies should definitely become a consideration to some.

• Opinion •

From unconventional to trendy New styles take spotlight amongst teens

By Simona Grigonis

F

rom indie to alt, Tik Tok has influenced teens to spice up their life by switching up their style and exploring new music. For years, the indie and alt community has been known for their unconventional and independent style based on the idea of standing apart from mainstream music and fashion. During the tedious quarantine and the rise of Tik Tok, teens spent their time experimenting with new fashion and music inspired by indie and alt. This created a newfound popularity and many changes for the seemingly unique styles.

Indie has always been related to music, meaning that an artist produced and released a song by themself rather than through a famous and well known record label or producer.

However, in recent years it has taken on a whole new meaning. People now highly associate it with fashion and even hobbies. Thrift shopping, mom jeans, skateboarding, and beanies is what people may think of when hearing “Indie.”

Similarly for Alt, as more people start broadening their style and music, the less specific the meaning to be alt has become. Alt is short for “Alternative”, a community that has been around for years signifying their rebellion from mainstream fashion and beliefs. It has gone through many changes from 1920 - now, starting with the “flapper” movement all the way to goths and punks.

“When I think of Alt, I think of all the subsets like trad goth, riot grrrl, emo, scene,” sophomore Aliza Ingalls said.

People who joined the Alt community in the past year may have a different idea of it. An idea similar to that of current indie, one that does not include the emo and goth aesthetics. It has become more inclusive of varying styles, yet has dialed down the preexisting styles within alt fashion.

“

I don’t feel like people strived for being indie and alt until recently.

Hannah Herbes With this change in the meanings, the indie and alt communities are seeing more acceptance for their creative and diverse style.

“It does have its perks of being so popular now, people are more accepting and open minded,” Ingalls said. “I love teaching people about it.”

In the past, alt styles have not always been very accepted. With dark, intense makeup and eye catching outfits. People within the alt subsets such as goth and scene may have been seen as rebels or misfits. However, as peo-

ple are becoming more open minded, more people are seeking to express themselves without being judged.

With the new rise of indie too, people are more open to be creative and different with their style.

Even with all the positives seen in the new indie and alt communities, people who have been in the community for a longer period of time feel that the new ideas are driving away from the true meanings of indie and alt.

“I don’t feel like people strived for being indie and alt until recently,” junior Hannah Herbes said. “Indie and alt are overused labels at this point, nobody knows what the words actually mean anymore.”

Nowadays, alt can be seen as anything that constitutes as edgy. Things such as dark clothing, lots of jewelry, and dyed hair. However, being alt and indie is not just linked with style. Music, beliefs, and culture play a huge part too. The whole idea of alt and indie is to stray away from the normal. The history of alt has a lot to do with politics and rebelling against conservative and mainstream beliefs. Although the newfound inclusivity of all belief systems and cultures may be a good thing, many people believe that it distracts from the original point of alt and indie.

Many wonder how Indie and Alt changed so much over the past few years. Some credit social media, while others claim that current events and the rise of inclusivity resulted in their meteoric rise to popularity.

“I did not really have anyone introduce me to new music and fashion

until Tik Tok came around,” senior Dane Ouellette said. “It has definitely become more popular because of Tik Tok.” Tik Tok has been one of the most popular social media platforms in recent years. People from all over the world come together and share their comedy, cooking, experiences, music, and fashion in the form of 60 second videos. With everyone being so invested in Tik Tok, it has created a space where people can showcase their styles and music without that feeling of being judged; it instead provides a feeling of being protected behind the screen.

Tik Tok has also played a large role in popularizing indie and alt music amongst others. With the ability to add whatever song you would like to your video and the chance of that video going viral has created a cycle of indie and alt music gaining popularity from Tik Tok. Artists such as Arctic Monkeys, Homeshake, Men I Trust, Girl in Red, and The Cure have been known for a while but not until recently have they been so popular amongst others outside of indie or alt or those new to it.

The new popularity of styles that are creative and individual has made it a trend to be unique, getting rid of the idea that different is bad.

“Everybody has their own unique way of expressing themselves,” Ouellette said. “And since alternative or indie fashion and music has become popular, people are using that to express themselves instead of keeping with the norm.”

Brenna Knight rollingstone.com

October 2020

• Opinion •

Generation of wildcards

Teenagers struggle with social anxiety, even amid social uprisings

By Tyler Bonnette

I

f this past year has proven anything, it is the fact that Generation Z is one of the most chaotic and unruly generations yet. Hundreds have been taking to the streets, getting in arguments on-line, and making their voices heard - and yet, the very same people who have been outspoken for the past year struggle to make small talk with a clerk at a gas station.

Each generation has left some sort of mark on the world, and today’s youth is no exception. Born into a time of conflict and constant civil strife, Generation Z quickly became desensitized by the world around them. They learned to have an opinion even when they were told to keep quiet, and speak out against injustice in any manner than they could. However, the social skills displayed and expected by their elders seem to be a lacking feature.

Social anxiety has become a sort of shared quality among modern teenagers and young adults, to a point where nearly everyone can relate to. Being openly and wildly opinionated, yet struggling to have a normal interaction with a clerk at a convenience store.

Being able to speak out about pressing matters both on social media and through protests, but finding it difficult to think of a personal fun fact on the first day of school.

There are plenty of reasons to blame for the rising levels of anxiety in the younger generations, like the pressure of growing up in the modern era. Trying to move forward in a seemingly rigged economy and a poor housing market is stressful, especially when buying a home and having a family seems near impossible. There is no doubt, however, that social media has almost certainly contributed as well.

The impact that social media has had on teenagers and young adults is likely to be a leading factor of this.

Access to things such as Instagram, Snapchat, and various other ways of chatting has opened up the ability to interact with one another, while also reducing the need for personal interactions. This has had both good and bad effects, but there is no denying that it is one of the reasons so many teenagers can hardly ask for extra ketchup at a fast food restaurant.

There have been a few studies that have taken a closer look at this matter.

One particular example was a survey

Harvard Business Review

Tyler Bonnette

done by the Harvard Business Review, which determined that both Millennials as well as Generation Z have been far more prone to feeling anxious in social situations.

Despite this fact, this generation has also seen some of the most social interaction of all, even if it does tend to be mostly on-line. The ability to say anything at all on-line has given teen-

way that they can. The social anxiety that we’ve developed seems to disappear when in a group situation.

It could have something to do with the fact that teenagers can find common ground with one another. After all, being able to share that feeling of social anxiety helps with feeling comfortable in one’s own skin. When in a group, either on-line or in crowds, the

“

Born into a time of conflict and constant civil strife, Generation Z quickly became desensitized by the world around them. agers an outlet for everything, from personal drama to political arguments.

Not to mention, there have been few other instances in the past of teenagers and young adults who are so eager to get out into the world and speak their minds. This year’s seemingly endless protests are all the proof needed - when faced with something they find unfair, Generation Z won’t hesitate to let the world know in any

feeling of anxiety fades. People can open up to one another while feeling less uncomfortable.

The effect that social media has had on this generation has been very telling. It has allowed people to stay connected with one another far easier, especially during this past year, where human interaction has been limited.

Still, it may have to do with why Generation Z has found it difficult to par-

• 25 •

take in basic human interactions. The fact that nearly every teenager you ask will agree on having a hard time asking the teacher if they can use the restroom, for example.

That might also be the reason that so many adults look down on today’s youth for their usage of cell phones and social media. Everyone has seen the obnoxious political cartoons mocking teenagers for burying their faces in their phone, but it is certainly something that should be addressed.

As much as the age of smartphones and social media has allowed us to chat with friends more and keep in touch, it has also affected the way we act as people.

Social anxiety is something that practically everyone can relate to, and it almost definitely stems from the extensive amounts of social media in the lives of every individual. This is coupled with the sort of mob mentality that this generation has - while we find it hard to put ourselves on the spot, we find it incredibly easy to call out injustice any time we can.

In a way, though, that might be just what the world needs right about now. With all the civil strife, political disputes, and general injustice, maybe the attitude of Generation Z is what’s necessary to bring about change. The world is going through a lot right now, and the opinionated and stubborn nature of the generation might be exactly what’s needed.

Not to say that today’s youth is the first to go out and speak their mind, of course. Just about every generation has had protests of their own, from civil rights to the Vietnam War to the War on Drugs. However, with social media becoming a major part of everyone’s life, people are able to spread their ideas and find people they agree with on major issues. This has also come with the unfortunate side effect of teenagers finding it difficult to be social in person.

Regardless of the social abilities of the generation, it cannot be denied that the teenagers and young adults of today are not letting down, and they have demonstrated it throughout the span of this year and the years prior.

Social media has allowed for the generation to speak their mind, but has also had a somewhat negative effect on their ability to speak up in class or order food without stuttering or feeling self conscious. Maybe, however, the world needs less small talk and more outcry to bring about change.

28 pro/con

• Opinion•

Class is now

Should we just let everyo

Awards boost morale, add On-line school value tobrings beingeducation involved to new level

By Liliana Burke

EL

By Vivien Liebhardt

et us arlier be realistic; life, we do thisin fall when not always win. In fact, failing school first started, is often when we learn the most about ourwselves and what need instead of wegetting in order to move forward. Kids need ready andhowdriving these lessons too, but does los-to ing shape school, their self-esteem?

Giving students and children a reward for their efforts staff woke up and gotit ready to walk is great, because shows them the value desks. of being The present, working hard, over to their way education and contributing to a team. Rather occurs changed this due to the than teaching kidsyear a black-and-white dynamicthreat of winning vs. losing, par-to global health of COVID-19 ticipation trophies can help show kids make it safer for everyone and to prethat trying new things, even if you vent the spread might notof be the gooddisease. at them, can teach you far more than only doing things “Given the fact that we don’t want you know you can win. to induce more ofanCOVID, The mainspread purpose of award be- I ing given to celebrate a student’s think on-line wasis the best choice, but achievement and to motivate them there have been too many issues with to continue on their path.

No matter the place, every player contributes to the execution,” sophomore Kalynn their team winning. Even the benchCasanovawarmer said. contributes “ I think tothat these theirif team.

issues were solved we would be able to work quickly and not have to worry about technical difficulties disabling us from finishing assignments, we’d be able to get a lot more assignments done than we would on campus in the same amount of time.”

Though many students may opt. to go back to in-person schooling, there are many benefits to distance education. One of these reasons is that this gives students to learn important life skills such as time management and fitting learning schedules around home life. These skills can be a challenge for some students to learn through dis-

The InvestiGator t GVHS

Kylee Brahma

tance education. Time management is

is now a possibility since school can be

mathematical skills which are consid-

coach. Rewarding kids only for the “Participation trophies would help They get a front row seat on the field doneAlmost from every essentially anywhere. important students who need work ered to be important for the future and outcome of their actions rather than everyone feel included. or court and get afor different perspecthe process thatdoes got them can sport has club leagues apart from tivejobs than and the active players, who can provide for the family as well “I think distance learning andthereadvancements. lead them to cut corners in the future. school teams. Athletes that particibe more focused on individual perdoesn’t allow for more flexibility beas gain an education.

Many athletes or students cheat when“One advantage is that students pate in these club leagues have a clear formance than what is going on with theyon feela like can not benefit over those whoI’m onlystill par- stuck the team as a whole.

Watching other, Since everything is doneadvantage on-line cause set they schedule can work at their own pace and at a themselves naturally and need an adticipate in high school sports, and so more skilled players will push a teamwhereserve I need to bevantage. at class a certain students to hardbe more time that is convenient for them and But at cheating is not affecting theflexible participation awards to help mate to set new are goalsable and work right? tend high school enjoy sport goanyone er in achieving It also allows time, sotheI can’t out to theWrong! beachAthletes or their with work,them. schedules and could earnathletes family,” math teacher Denise to cheat try to justify their dishonesty more,” sophomore Katie Kucik said. them to see what parts of the game more help them pay for fees and something, does allow themselves me to dothey were Pico said. “Another advantage is that convincing Admit it. We have all cheatedbut at it by went well, money ultimatelytomaking stillthe good,time they just needed that extra one point in our more lives. If tasks there were a better and allowing them Another to during between helpplayer support families. benesince I’m doing all my notes by video advantage. This is not the case and rewards for only the best of students contribute more to the team. fit thatdefinitely moneyare could be saved sincenaturalclasses, like not clean you or will babysit,” Casanonot benefit since you arethis not year, students can re-watch the and their ability were Yes,isthere players learning your mistakes. enough, they are more likely to cheat whostudents, are better than others and va said. parents andreally teachers do not videos or go back and look at a specific Most Americans and other counthemselves to the top instead of putstand out, but if you only reward the with ana easier way havethere to worry for gas part tries have general perspective on if they didn’t understand someting in theas consistent Along hard work.

On having winners, will comeabout a point paying when the educational system as a large the other hand if to there were more awards classes, onlymuch one ordue twoto children will show from less commute home take students also thing.”

Darwinian competition that only to acknowledge a variety of places up for practice. Participation awards have an easier way to get work done to school and vice versa.

With students having to use comrewards the most intelligent indistudents would be more motivated to acknowledges everyone bodies work viduals.

Finland the second puters best in normal Typically inhas regular “The amount on gas is forward a lot up that all the time, computer profimove scale sinceclasses. they and contribution even if spent they were educational system in the world after may receive acknowledgment for on the sidelines. Pressuring children schooling, the teacher teaches while ciency has been improved in many less because I haven’t beenstill required South Korea. Finland believes that their work even if it was not the greatto perform and only praise talent, not goyou on make campus everychild singleest. day,” “Real winners do not compete” and YouCahave probably heard your onlytowill a talented this is one reason they don’t have any coach sayon “If you cheat, you are only afraid to lose,said. but you will only also put sanova “The times I go private schools; Finland has undercheating yourself.” I know I definitely undue stress on an average child and campus are to pick up supplies ora drop stood the concept that competition have million times in the pool by my inhibit his opportunity to participate. between schools doesn’t get kids as off assignments.” far as cooperation between schools.

Brooke Meyer Having more flexibility also allows Same goes for students, competition between them will just enhance chilfor students to take classes that they dren to push each other down to be might not have been able to take beon top, instead of working together to really make a difference and somefore due to not being able to have the thing even better since, as the saying time or means of transportation to said “two minds are better than one.”

Clearly we can see with Finland as an take those classes. Being able to have example that equality and rewardan easier way to take these classes ing everyone instead of motivating students to be better than on another allows for students to earn more rewill create a better, healthier atmoquired credit. Underclassmen and sphere that will allow for more development and advancement. juniors can earn more credits earlier Rewarding kids for their efforts at on and leave more space for electives the students are rushing tocan copy students over the world. Having these a young age havedown lasting, positive effects However, on their development. for the future. Seniors who need to get notes and examples. with Little skills are important for kids growing things such as participation awards, credit for certain classes to graduate on-line classes the teacherreally canthatsave up to live in a technology based society or anything helps a child now have an easier way to get these time and post a video feel involved can content make an outstandon the where computer science is the future. difference. Not only, as I have credits through on-line learning. This for the students ing to watch.

This also Students can learn about computers stated before lead to a confidence gives the studentsboost, to learn atwill theirkeep own more when they need a way to troublebut it them away from needed bad habits such alas cheating pace and pause when which shoot any technological problems they their way to success. Participation lows for better comprehension. may awards shows that every amount of have such as WiFi problems, iseffort you put in paysbeing off, and as sues they turning in assignments due to file “I can see on-line learning start to receive higher and more sighelpful for people whoawards work nificant they best will learntype the or size, unresponsive pages, etc. importance hard work when given material to ofread, andpaying off“I have become more computer rather than just having a strict idea of many times a teacher literate since I’ve figured out how to being the will best orassign nothing. a

“

Given the fact that we don’t want to induce COVID, I think on-line is the best choice.

Kalynn Casanova

video to take notes off of rather than a live session,” Casanova said. “This would make it easier to extract more information from the lesson because you can pause and unpause whenever you’d like.”

A report on distance learning found at nber.org showed results of improved skills and effective learning due to students’ progress of working at one’s own pace, especially in math. In this report, there was evidence that it improved mathematical scores greatly.

In this group’s research, they found 29 studies of CAL ( Computer and Learning) programs. Of these studies, only eight out of 29 presented no effect on learning, and only one presented negative results. To contrast, 15 of these studies showed positive improvements in learning. A majority of these studies were focused on improving

October 2020

navigate more things on Canvas, “ Casanova said. “I’ve also had to find different solutions to why my WiFi cuts out.”

A study showed that e-learning has the ability to improve cognitive skills in students. One cognitive skill that can be learned during this difficult and changing time is problem-solving.

Many challenges are presented each day to students and teachers as they are on-line. Some of these problems could be printers not working, the Google Meet kicking people out, sound is gone and so on. When these problems are seen, students and teachers have to find a way around it and solve the problem.

Overall on-line school is a very effective way to learn. This form of education lets students work at their own pace, and gives them more freedom.

• Opinion•

in session

noc/orp 82

oyreve tel tsuj ew dluohS

dda ,elarom tsoob sdrawA Virtual learning damaging devlovni gstudents’ nieb ot euoverall lav lives

By Neyta Flores Esquer

eht rof ylno sdik gnidraweR .hcaoc pleh dluow seihport noitapicitraP“ dlefi eht no taes wor tnorf a teg yehT tdrahbeiL neiviV yB naht rehtar snoitca rieht fo emoctuo yreve tsomlA .dedulcni leef enoyreve -cepsrep tnereffid a teg dna truoc ro nac ereht meht tog taht ssecorp eht morf trapa seugael bulc sah trops od ew ,efil ni ;citsilaer eb su te nac ohw ,sreyalp evitca eht naht evit s all students have.erutuf eht ni srenroc tuc ot meht dael -icitrap taht setelhtA .smaet loohcs -rep laudividni no desucof erom eb gniliaf ,tcaf nI .niw syawla ton raelc a evah seugael bulc eseht ni etap tsom eht nrael ew nehw netfo si htiw no gniog si tahw naht ecnamrof learned that do-ntfieehnwebtaethonc stnnaecduyteshrto esektiel lhleteafynyaeM ht -rap ylno ohw esoht revo egatnavda deen ew tahw dna sevleswruo tuoba ,rehto gnihctaW .elohw a sa maet eht ing on-line school-da na deen dna yllarutan sevlesmeht os dna ,strops loohcs hgih ni etapicit -maet a hsup lliw sreyalp delliks erom deen sdiK .drawrof evom ot redro ni ehc tuB .egatnav pleh ot evres sdrawa noitapicitrap eht -sol seod woh tub ,oot snossel eseht -drah krow dna slaog wen tes ot etam has been quite thegdnniettcesffeatetlohntAsi!ggnnoitraW ?thgir enoyna trops eht yojne setelhta loohcs hgih gniviG ?meetse-fles rieht epahs gni swolla osla tI .meht gniveihca ni re challenge. Studentsytsenohsid rieht yfitsuj ot yrt taehc ot .dias kicuK eitaK eromohpos ”,erom stroffe rieht rof drawer a nerdlihc emag eht fo strap tahw ees ot meht e r e w y e h t s e v l e s m e h t g n i c n i v n o c y b t a d e t a e h c l l a e v a h e W . t i t i m d A e m e h t g n i k a m y l e t a m i t l u , l l e w t n e w went from getting up extra early ev-artxe taht dedeen tsuj yeht ,doog llits erew ereht fI .sevil ruo ni tniop eno ot meht gniwolla dna reyalp retteb a ,dhrtahmgenhitkrsowwoh,tsnetiseerspuganceiebb,ftoaeeruglasvi ery morning to get ready for school,dna esac eht ton si sihT .egatnavda stneduts fo tseb eht ylno rof sdrawer rehtaR .maet a ot gnitubirtnoc dna .maet eht ot erom etubirtnoc etihw-dna-kcalb a sdik gnihcaet naht to simply waking up and turning on aton era uoy ecnis tfieneb ton lliw uoy ton erew ytiliba larutan rieht dna sreyalp era yletinfied ereht ,seY .sekatsim ruoy gninrael taehc ot ylekil erom era yeht ,hguone -rap ,gnisol .sv gninniw fo cimanyd yllaer dna srehto naht retteb era ohw computer. Many plans, ideas, events-nuoc rehto dna snaciremA tsoM -tup fo daetsni pot eht ot sevlesmeht sdik wohs pleh nac seihport noitapicit eht drawer ylno uoy fi tub ,tuo dnats and celebrations went on a completeno evitcepsrep lareneg a evah seirt nO .krow drah tnetsisnoc eht ni gnit nehw tniop a emoc lliw ereht ,srenniw uoy fi neve ,sgniht wen gniyrt taht egral a sa metsys lanoitacude eht sdrawa erew ereht fi dnah rehto eht hcaet nac ,meht ta doog eb ton thgim wohs lliw nerdlihc owt ro eno ylno 180, and now life is 10 times more dif-ylno taht noititepmoc nainiwraD secalp fo yteirav a egdelwonkca ot sdrawa noitapicitraP .ecitcarp rof pu sgniht gniod ylno naht erom raf uoy -idni tnegilletni tsom eht sdrawer ot detavitom erom eb dluow stneduts .niw nac uoy wonk uoy krow seidob enoyreve segdelwonkca ficult. tseb dnoces eht sah dnalniF .slaudiv yeht ecnis elacs taht pu drawrof evom -eb drawa na fo esoprup niam ehT erew yeht fi neve noitubirtnoc dna Regular school is obviouslyretfa dlrow eht ni metsys lanoitacude rof tnemgdelwonkca eviecer yam llits nerdlihc gnirusserP .seniledis eht no s’tneduts a etarbelec ot si nevig gni time-consuming, and everyone hastaht seveileb dnalniF .aeroK htuoS -taerg eht ton saw ti fi neve krow rieht ton ,tnelat esiarp ylno dna mrofrep ot meht etavitom ot dna tnemeveihca dna ”etepmoc ton od srenniw laeR“ ruoy draeh ylbaborp evah uoY .tse rettam oN .htap rieht no eunitnoc ot dlihc detnelat a ekam uoy lliw ylno had to base their life around it foryna evah t’nod yeht nosaer eno si siht ylno era uoy ,taehc uoy fI“ yas hcaoc tup osla lliw uoy tub ,esol ot diarfa ot setubirtnoc reyalp yreve ,ecalp eht years. Even though school was never-rednu sah dnalniF ;sloohcs etavirp yletinfied I wonk I ”.flesruoy gnitaehc dna dlihc egareva na no sserts eudnu -hcneb eht nevE .gninniw maet rieht a “fun activity,” it was such a routine.snaoistidtiekpmteogc t’tnashetodtpselconoohccsehnteedwotoetbs ym yb loop eht ni semit noillim a evah .etapicitrap ot ytinutroppo sih tibihni .maet rieht ot setubirtnoc remraw reyeM ekoorB Now that in-person school is not in ef-.sloohcs neewteb noitarepooc sa raf fect any longer, something feels wrong-nloihitciteecpnmahocne,sttsnuejdlulitws rmofehsteongeeewmtaeSb eb ot nwod rehto hcae hsup ot nerd and out of place. htegot gnikrow fo daetsni ,pot no “In-person school is less over--reem os dna ecnereffid a ekam yllaer ot whelming because you feel orga-gniyas eht sa ,ecnis retteb neve gniht ” . e n owt“ dias nized, productive and present,” juniorna soa dnnahaltnrieFtthetbiwereaessdnnaicmew ylraelC Mahtab Zagari said. “Now it just feels-drawer dna ytilauqe taht elpmaxe like we have more assignments, duegnitavitom fo daetsni enoyreve gni rehtona no naht retteb eb ot stneduts dates, and less motivation.”

Alexis De Asis -omta reihtlaeh ,retteb a etaerc lliw School was an escape for most-leved erom rof wolla lliw taht erehps .tnemecnavda dna tnempo events, assemblies, etc, that let stuknow everyday. When all of that is takstudents, even if they did not enjoyta strosince ffe riehtthey rof sdiare k gninew. draweRAlong with freshp ,gnitsfeeling al evah nastressed c ega gnuoy aand falling bedents forget about school for just a en away, it can lead to a very dull sense learning. It is constant, you wake upevitisoman elttiL .tnempoleved rieht no stceffe second and enjoy themselves. With of self. This is not all about missing five out of the seven days of the week,,sdrawhind, a noitapother icitrap sgrades a hcus sgare niht as having the a spleh issues taht yllaeas r gwell, nihtynaeven ro seniors. The this, the seniors feel especially isolatout on an “experience,” or missing the see others, socialize, learn in-person,dlihc same -dnatstuo na ekam nac devlovni leef ed because they were planning many school because being stuck at home is be a part of extracurricular activitiesevah assignments I sa ,ylno toN .eare cneregiven ffid gnito students alfinoc a as ot if daethere l erofebis dnothing etats else to do things for their last year. boring, this is about how it is making and go to school events. Now, that isecnedmost meht peek lliw ti tub ,tsoob school; however, have other “I feel wrong for complaining bean impact on people’s health. not even a thought in mind. Studentsyganwitaaebut hc sa hcus stibah dab mothey rf As other people may love onstay at home, stare at a screen all day,noitapicitraP .sseccus ot yaw rieht a yreve taht swohs sdrawa line school, the effects of staring at a with no sorts of real-life socialization,fyoehttnsuaom dna ,ffo syap ni tup uoy troffe screen all day without any actual social attempt to learn and somehow manage-gis erom dna rehgih eviecer ot trats eht nrael lliw yeht sdrawa tnacfiin interactions (along with being inside to stay on track. ffo gniyap krow drah fo ecnatropmi the entire school day) can cause many Through the use of common sense,fo aedi tcirts a gnivah tsuj naht rehtar .gnihton ro tseb eht gnieb people’s mental health to plummet. It one would assume that learning in per-

L

A

son, through others along with a teacher, with attentiveness in the classroom, would make it a lot easier to focus and succeed. On the other hand, one would assume that being at home, in a dull environment, staring at a screen nearly all day, would cause students to slowly slip up.

“Everything feels harder. I knew that after middle school, high school would be more work, but now I truly do not know how everything actually works because of on-line school,” freshman Heather Ward said. “It’s a lot to work on and learn, and I feel super unorganized.”

Freshmen entering high school for the first time cannot fully comprehend what high school education is like without any help or experience from others; it becomes easier for them to fall back and lose track of their work

“

It feels almost as if teachers are giving us loads of work because they think we do not have anything else to do in our lives, but some of us are not just at our computer all day doing work.

Trinidad Melendez

lives, such as jobs or sports.

“It feels almost as if teachers are giving us loads of work because they think we do not have anything else to do in our lives, but some of us are not just at our computer all day doing work. I have a job, a life and I feel like I am drowning in schoolwork,” junior Trinidad Melendez said.

In-person school, aside from being an easier learning environment, allows students to socialize. Every year there are football games, banquets, dances,

cause safety precautions are being taken; however, being a senior, I feel like I am missing out on the experience as a whole,” senior Jessica Carrigan said. “I miss being able to socialize everyday, get my things done, and feel responsible and productive doing so.”

Now, the most important thing about on-line school, mental health.

Obviously, school participation and activities are a blast. Not only students, but teachers, look forward to being present and seeing people they

• 27 •

VG t roresearchers taGitsevnI ehT and is known, acrossSHmany statistics, that human connection is vital, especially to teenagers. Isolation can lead to drug or alcohol use, depression, anxiety,and in turn suicide. With this, screen time can lead to obesity, eye strains, blurry vision, less sleep and frustration.

Overall, in-person school is better education wise. In-person learning allows for that continuous routine, making it easier to keep track of assignments, events and sports. Life at school, although stressful, feels lighter and more joyful when there are events to balance everything out. At home, students stare at a screen, sleep and go out if they are lucky (for work, sports, etc). Even if COVID-19 did not allow events, sports or dances, being in person would be such a helpful improvement.

• Opinion •

Time to cut the cable (TV) Television providers become unpopular due to rise of streaming services

By Adrian Sifuentes

C

able TV, we all still use it...don’t we? As time passes and new trends replace the old ones, the world continues to get itself involved in social media. As we all know today, social media is a huge supporter of streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu.

These platforms have increased in popularity and the demand for new and inventive content increases along with it. So, what does this mean for cable TV? For one thing, lots of people today usually end up choosing the convenience of streaming services thanks to its affordability. Most cable companies charge a price ranging from $20 to $80 per month depending on the type of plan you decide is best for yourself or your family. On the other hand, Netflix charges only $8 to $9 on their basic plan. Their premium plan is also available for the low price of $15 at most. Not only that, but streaming services are far more convenient when it comes to being used anytime and anywhere. Unless you have been living under a rock this past decade, you will find yourself scrolling through the app store from time to time on pretty much any mobile device. Surely you have come across Netflix, Hulu, Disney +, and even HBO NOW. The saddening part about all this is that cable companies do not really seem to fight back. If you are among the few who have cable, you’ll notice the amount of times a certain channel will stream reruns of old shows just to fill in the time gap. A popular show by the name of “Ridiculousness” that often premieres on MTV filled up 113 hours of screen time out of MTV’s 168 hour line-up in late June as of 2020.

Streaming services have learned to provide easily accessible content suitable for all ages. Netflix has adapted to their younger audience when they added “Netflix Kids” and even free platforms like YouTube have achieved the same. It’s incredible how easy, efficient and quick it is to have multiple entertaining videos, shows, and movies right at our fingertips.

Not only that, but these streaming services plan to expand their selection of already great movies and shows! Services like Hulu, Netflix, Disney +, and Amazon Prime are adding a wide variety of new shows and movies including the Twilight Series (Hulu), Back

to the Future (Netflix), Wolverine and Mulan (Disney +), and The Boys (Amazon Prime). Each service has its own selection of original titles to choose from. These streaming services tend to target a demographic of teenagers and young adults, since that is where most of their views come from. If a teen were to be watching something, be it a video on-line or a TV show or movie, it is almost guaranteed to be on one of these platforms. Many teens have also been finding themselves watching old shows like “Friends”, “Full House”, and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”.

These 90’s sitcoms have a new-found growing popularity among teenagers today because of their retro and angsty appeal, which brings in great profit for streaming services. A great strategy on their part.

Another great thing to point out when it comes to releasing popular shows on streaming services is that it usually all comes out at once. Netflix has become very popular for this, as they release shows for people to “binge-watch” leaving them hungry for more and wanting to see how the series will eventually turn out. They like to offer a variety of genres such as Action and Adventure, Comedy, Romance, Documentary, Horror, Drama, Action Thriller, Anime, and even Indie!

Not everybody likes each and every one of these genres, but it is undeniable that shows from all of them have sparked a large amount of interest. The waiting periods for shows tend to last a while but Netflix likes to make up for

it by offering an amazing selection of other shows and movies to keep you entertained, from old classic to their own originals.

This certainly seems to be the case for junior David Nasry, who loves to binge watch shows, movies, and videos on the Internet.

“Streaming services provide a wide variety of movies that you can watch at

“

The ads on TV’s programming really lower my opinion on if it’s better than streaming services.

David Nasry any time and usually without ads, you are able to binge shows and re-watch shows easier,” Nasry said. “Those services also get updated with new shows as well, not making it stale. Media apps like YouTube also provide lots of free content with less ad times than on TV.” Nasry goes on to suggest his personal preference to viewers in order to give a bit of insight as to why he chooses streaming services rather than aging cable.

“If I had to choose a media platform, like YouTube, or cable TV I might lean more towards YouTube.

The only reason I wouldn’t choose YouTube would be because of the lack of professional content. Regardless, streaming services turn the tide for me because it pertains to my appeal.”

Nasry also noted that the reliance on advertising on cable television can really hurt the viewing experience.

“To be more clear, the ads on TV’s programming really lower my opinion on if it’s better than streaming services, so not just the streaming services easy accessibility but also it having no ads, on most services. With the increase of technological popularity over the years, media platforms also seem to be attracting the appeal of younger viewers as well,” Nasry said.

In the case of today’s time frame, Television ratings are sure to have skyrocketed due to COVID-19 keeping people inside. This has been especially true for streaming services, which have a much larger audience. Now that mandatory stay at home orders retract our ability to interact the way we used to, streaming content gives us the boost that we all need to push through the day. Now more than ever, is the time for you to catch up on your favorite show or even start one that you have been interested in. Watching great shows with the people you love is an excellent pass time and can keep you occupied for hours. So please, if you are one of those people who prefers cable TV over streaming services, consider what might be cost effective and provide you with a better viewing experience overall.

cablecompare.com

Brenna Knight

October 2020

• Opinion •

The new and necessary trend

Behind the scenes of the mask hype

Shaelyn Gamiao

By Nathan Paet

W

hen safety and fashion experimentation come together to accidentally form a trend born out of necessity, masks are the result. Something that not many people would think of being the new norm a few months ago, are now blooming in terms of its daily use. In terms of fashion, the trend derived from the recent pandemic is a new and fun twist on masks is an advent of modernity.

When you first scan your surroundings, masks are meant to conceal and cover you, almost like a muzzle. However, the reality is that when you take a step out of your comfort zone, you are able to see the relentless amount of possibilities that are achievable, if you just take a brief glance around your everyday surroundings.

Everywhere you look you see a new take that someone has on their own personal mask. Different colors to compliment someone’s newly bought flannel, a pattern to match someone’s pinstripe coat, a see through window that allows the wearer to still have their smile visible. Innovation and design is a major factor when it comes to making something unique.

Homemade masks are also being brought out into the limelight. For example, you are able to make your own temporary mask out of just a sock. All you have to do is get some scissors and a sock. Essentially, you just cut two holes for the ears, then just like that you made your own mask at home at practically no cost at all.

Masks are also sold from home. Many people ever since masks were mandated have taken this opportunity as a business venture and create masks their own way for people to wear. It’s large array allows for you

to have your own pleasure when creating or choosing the mask that fits you best.

“I feel masks are a good accessory because it allows people to stay safe from a pandemic,” sophomore Santiago Vera said. “It also is a fun thing for people to do in order to find their own style and taste.”

Celebrities and well-known brands have also taken a dive into the growing mask market. Big household names have a heavy influence as to what is considered trendy. During the Video Music Awards (VMA), a widely broadcasted music awards show, featured artists such as Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande integrating their masks into their several outfits on the red carpet and during performances.

Designer brands also started to create their own masks with their own signature touch. This contributes to the hype culture and its major influence on what is considered trendy. For many, factors like designer brands and a-list celebrities showing off their mask drive people to want to partake in the trend as well because of the amount of amusement that they see others receive.

Social media is also a known trend setter. On TikTok, videos containing the hashtag #mask amassed up to 4.7 billion views. Instagram using the same exact hashtag contained 13.3 million posts. On both platforms, the #mask hashtag featured many people sharing their very own unique take on the new mask trend.

Given the growth of the hashtag, those that participated and posted using the hashtag have seen a massive influx in popularity. This is because countless numbers of people view these hashtags in order to find new ideas or just see everyone elses take on the mask trend.

“I feel that with these social media trends, it makes others want to join in on the trend also,” Vera

• 29 •

said.

Masks have also been seen amidst the social movements occurring globally, they have been used as a voice for the voiceless. Broadcasting messages and slogans to the world for everyone to see. Slogans and symbols like “Black Lives Matter” and the “Raised Fist” symbol commonly associated with

“

It is also a fun thing for people to do in order to find their own style and taste.

Santiago Vera black pride, and the countless names in memoriam of those lost due to police brutality.

This includes the many protestors during the social injustice protests that happened throughout the summer, national sports leagues like the NFL and NBA. Even some food chain restaurants allowing company employees to wear masks with these political slogans on it.

Masks give people the opportunity to be creative while simultaneously looking as stylish as they can, brings along social media trends that many people may not have thought of and presents itself as a formidable platform that grants people’s voices to be heard without being actually said. Embrace it, live it and have fun with it.

• Opinion •

This title was canceled Society feels impact of social media call outs

Random survey conducted Oct. 12, 2020

Brenna Knight

By Brenna Knight

C

ancel culture. A topic that carries many controversies and drama. The term ‘canceled’ is defined as a person losing support for something they have said or done, whether it be in the past or present.

Recently, social media has become extremely harsh, as platforms such as Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, etc. make it easy for others to slander each other anonymously. When the media creates a claim against someone, the majority of people bandwagon without looking at both sides of the story, as the media seems to only show one side. It is especially hard for people to speak their own opinions or defend their way of thinking as people have already made the decision on which side they stand on. They stand against those being canceled because it has already been decided by the majority.

It is just a bandwagon because it is the popular opinion.

“I do not like how the media thinks nowadays because a lot of people seem to follow others opinions, people do not get to have their own opinion on the opposite side of the topic because they will get dragged for it,” junior Ariana Stewart said.

With the media showing one side, it is hard to differentiate what is real and what is not. On the popular platform YouTube, a conflict between two beauty influencers arose when one of them became upset after the other promoted a hair vitamin company and not their own. These two influencers

called themselves practically family, but to make the situation worse, the dissatisfied influencer made up allegations that had no relevance to the original problem just for personal gain.

This did work for the bitter influencer as they did gain millions of followers, and the latter lost millions making a new record for the most followers lost it a 24 hour period. A lot of the motivation the media has to cancel these influencers is because more popular influencers give them reasons to.

“Influencers should not rely on the downfall of others to succeed,” Stewart said.

These influencers who are making up lies and get away with it are normalizing deceitful actions that do not come with any consequences.

“I do not think it should be so normally accepted because it can potentially ruin a person’s life based off of a single mistake they made,” junior Sara Levitt said.

The lies and allegations that are being created only become more believable by who is creating them. The more popular they are, the more credible they are and the more authority they have on social media. Again, it is just a bandwagon.

“The media puts out only things that are bad about a certain influencer,” Stewart said. “Why? Because for one, politics. Some of these candidates pay millions to put fake news out there. To make themselves look better.

Two, because people like drama, people love to gossip.”

This type of behavior is producing a society full of dishonesty and paranoia.

It creates a fear among the people, as

whatever you say or do, whether it be in the past or present, it can be used against you.

“I do not believe people should have to be judged off of their past mistakes because as humans we are always changing and learning from our own experiences,” Leavitt said.

The people being canceled are often put into a negative spotlight, where the media does not consider helping them and giving them a chance to improve themselves.

Not only is this teaching society

“

Influencers should not rely on the downfall of others to succeed.

Ariana Stewart that dishonesty is okay, but it is influencing everyone to think that holding grudges is somehow healthy, when in fact the opposite holds more truth.

Improving yourself and knowing that forgiveness can be a virtue of healing, may be beneficial to your well being.

With every action, there are consequences. Canceling people can have an endless amount of negative effects that could even ruin someone’s life completely.

“The people doing all the canceling most of the time are not famous or well known so they never have to deal with the consequences of being

October 2020

canceled,” sophomore Rayne Robinson said.

When being canceled, it is very difficult to deal with, as getting shamed by a large group of people is not easy to bear. Having people cancel someone without considering how that person feels is one of the biggest problems with it as a whole, and makes it even more stressful for the person being targeted. Getting back to where one was after being knocked down to their starting point is a struggle and may feel at times that it is not worth it as their reputation is ruined.

In the art community on Instagram, a person was being mobbed by thousands of people because of a post they had made a couple years ago. The post did not have bad intentions, but the audience misunderstood and slandered the artist. A week after, another artist made an attempt to defend the other but the same mob attacked the defending artist. The negative attention took a toll on the artist’s business, but they were successful enough to bring it back to life by making fun of cancel culture and what comes along with it.

“When someone gets canceled it is challenging for them to restart their “fame” and re-brand themselves, but no one thinks about that because canceling does not seem like a big deal,” Robinson said.

Cancel culture has always been around, but with technology improving at a faster rate than ever, this ‘trend’ has surfaced, whether the intentions are good or not.

“It has become more popular as the media is becoming a main source for information nowadays. Words spread much faster and you can hear more people’s opinions quicker,” Leavitt said.

Although, this process of canceling can be used for good. When facts are absolutely known and true, canceling someone or a company for something that is sensitive and should not be disrespected can be useful.

“When canceling, say a company, I think it can be good,” Robinson said.

“If a company continuously supported anti LGBTQ organizations, then yes, the company should be canceled.”

This toxic trend has become a big part of our generation, and might not ever go away. ‘Cancel culture’ is something that should not be used selfishly, but for the benefit of everyone as there are times where there needs to be a change.

• Editorial •

2020 reaches its boiling point By the InvestiGator Staff

W

ith each passing day, it seems that the world has been getting more and more chaotic as we approach the upcoming election and the Holiday Season. And yet, despite all of the chaos, the school year for us has been almost entirely uneventful. With everything in the world going crazy, it only makes sense that students get the short end of the stick. Attending school from home has definitely been an acquired taste for all of us, and makes every day seem to drag on as we meet with teachers from the comfort of our own homes.

There’s no denying that it is hard to get used to. Even the little things, like meeting for group projects, or having your questions answered without the hassle of pressing a mute button - it’s the little things that made school enjoyable. It was an incredibly jarring experience for me to be placed in a group with a couple of other students for a project, making a group chat to assign roles, and finishing everything on time

- all without once seeing each other face to face.

Regardless of that, though, 2020 has been a year full of confusion with some new wild card being played each month. Maybe it is best for school to be a bit more calm and “boring” as everything else remains loud and chaotic.

ping point, and the protests that have been spreading across the nation are showing no signs of stopping. Make no mistake - change is certainly coming.

And yes, some of the changes may not be for the better, and some of the changes might not even be permanent.

Hopefully, there will be a point in

“

We as a generation have the chance to prove ourselves, to bring about necessary changes in a world of discrimination and injustice.

The main theme of this year so far seems to be “change” more than anything. There have been plenty of notable changes in our daily lives, from school to social distancing to quarantine. Ignoring that, though, it seems that there are many more big picture changes on the horizon as hundreds take to the streets to make their voices heard. The outrage has reached a tip-

the future where all of us gators can return to campus and go back to normal. Performances can start up again, teachers can be face-to-face with their students, and everything will be much less impersonal.

And, hopefully, there will be a time when the caution tape around playgrounds come down, dine-in restaurants are booming again, and we’ll be

Student Speak

“How do you feel about the BLM protests that began in June?”

“After so many have died due to police brutality this year, it’s starting to shed a bright light on the corruption in our government and our society overall.”

“When people are getting stepped on repeatedly and they don’t see any change, they act because there’s nothing else they can do.”

Juliana Shephard, senior

“I think it is very brave and inspiring that so many people are coming together and fighting for the equality that everyone deserves.”

AJ Guerrero, sophomore

able to leave the masks at home.

Judging by the tenacity of this generation, however, it seems that there will in fact be some permanent changes coming quite soon.

The world seemingly reached a boiling point in June, and has only continued to get hotter. No matter which way you look at it, it can’t be denied that it is incredibly noble - we as a generation have the chance to prove ourselves, to bring about necessary changes in a world of discrimination and injustice. Today’s youth has already proven that they aren’t shy of speaking their minds, as we continue to speak out about the issues of racism and police brutality day after day.

In the meantime, though, we have to take life one step at a time, and keep a level head from the confines of our own home. It’s a difficult change for everybody to endure, but these are the sacrifices that we’ve been burdened with. We’ve shown our resilience through the months of protesting and demanding change. The challenges posed by virtual learning may seem overwhelming, but then again, so have the last 10 months of 2020.

Jacob Drum, junior

“They matter. To be blunt. People like to argue that all lives matter, yet there’s so much systemic racism against Black people.”

Ayloni Killebrew, freshman

• 32 •

• Gallery •

photo by Tyler Bonnette

A tractor uproots a section of the football field on the morning of Oct. 10. All CCSD football fields are currently undergoing the transition to turf as a way to become more environmentally sustainable.

TURF TIME