The Wolverine Volume XV Issue 6

May 2014

Volume XV | Issue 6

The Wolverine

Athlete of the Month: Molly Hardie - Page 11

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Visit us online at TWSWolverine.com!

INSIDE snapshot | 2

news | 3-8, 20

lifestyle | 13-17

sports | 18-19

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The Wolverine TWSWolverine.com

Snapshot: May

Welcome to The Wolverine.

Journalism Adviser Ms. Kaitlyn Ranney

2013-2014 Staff Editors-In-Chief: Travis King, ‘14 Mary Grace Walsh, ‘14 Sports Editor: Victoria Hudson, ‘14 Layout Editor Coleman Hedden, ‘14

Here’s a look at what’s coming up in the future.

today (5/2) ◊◊ e day ◊◊ last day of non-AP classes for seniors! ◊◊ college t-shirt day for seniors ◊◊ fifth grade greek museum in the lower school from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Assistant Editors: Victoria Hudson, ‘14 Alex Brack, ‘15

◊◊ monday through wednesday: senior exams in the auditorium ◊◊ monday: town hall meeting with mr. hall from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the auditorium ◊◊ tuesday: lower school field day ◊◊ saturday: groovin’ on the green at oakhurst in historic downtown marietta

◊◊ AP exams: May 5 to May 16 ◊◊ senior banquet at cobb galleria: Thursday, May 15 ◊◊ honors day/baccalaureate: Friday, May 16 ◊◊ graduation: Saturday, May 17 at 10:30 a.m.

featured photo Courtesy of Bryan Welchel

Reporters: Hensley Babb, ‘14 Claire Harper, ‘14 Myers Hines, ‘14 Bradley Moore, ‘14 Hunter Robertson, ‘14 Nehal Sanghi, ‘14 Stacey Agadoni, ‘15 Joe Reich, ‘15 Connor Sudderth, ‘15 Ally Chebuhar, ‘17 Ryan Louis, ‘17 Hannah Manning, ‘17 Nicole Simon, ‘17

next week this month

All staff may be reached via email at firstname.lastname@twswolverine. com.

Cover Photo

Senior Molly Hardie charges through a wall of defenders in a lacrosse game.

Photo: Mike Mackey

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Community Submissions

The Wolverine welcomes submissions from the Walker community, including students, faculty, and staff. For more information, guidelines, and to submit your piece, visit TWSWolverine.com/ Community.

Preschoolers enjoy tea and scones during the annual Preschool Tea Party. Held in the Preschool lobby, the Tea Party gives Preschoolers the chance to dress up and practice manners while enjoying treats with their parents.

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he Wolverine, founded in 1999, is the newspaper of The Walker School. The Wolverine is published seven times during the school year by the members of the student body. Content contained within these pages does not necessarily represent the opinions of The Walker School, its administration, or employees. Copyright authority to the material (articles, graphics, etc.) contained in this publication is strictly held under reserve by the Editorial Board. Any reproduction or alteration without written consent is strictly prohibited. The staff of The Wolverine is comprised of members of the Upper School Journalism Class, led by adviser Kaitlyn Ranney (‘03).

The Wolverine serves as a voice for the Walker Community.

3 May 2014 Senior Walk Evolves Walker Over Decades Announces Director

of Advancement

by Travis King editor-in-chief

L

ast month, Head of School Jack Hall named Walker alumna Shelly Manuel (a member of the class of 1996) as the first Director of Advancement.

Manuel, daughter of former Head of School Don Robertson, will lead both the Development and Communications offices in this newly created position in the core administration team.

As Director of Advancement, she will be directly responsible for the execution of the school’s upcoming capital campaign, a major fundraising drive with the goal of completely renovating the campus with the creation of new buildings, field space, and other additions.

Manuel is no stranger to the Walker community. Manuel said, “I often call the school ‘the 5th member of the Robertson family.’ I also will always cherish the lifelong friendships that I made as a student at Walker and also in my adult life.” After graduating from Walker, she went

“

I always wanted to return to Walker some day.”

on to attend Miami University of Ohio where she majored in speech communication. She then entered the corporate world, working for accounting giant Arthur Andersen as an account developer. After working for Arthur Andersen for several years, she made the leap to the world of independent schools, serving as the Annual Giving Coordinator at The Howard School, the Director of Development at both the High Meadows School and The Schenck School, and currently as the Director of Advancement at St. Martin’s Episcopal School in Atlanta.

Ever since she began working with independent schools, Manuel has dreamed of returning to her alma mater.

“I always wanted to return to Walker some day. Once I started in the field of independent school fundraising, working at Walker one day was my goal. When the opportunity became available, it was a no-brainer,” said Manuel.

When she begins at Walker in July, she intends to hit the ground running. Manuel said, “I’m most excited about coming home to a school that I love and that played such a huge role in making me the professional and woman that I am today. I also look forward to working with so many amazing people and being a member of a top-notch faculty and staff.”

Though according to Manuel, “there isn’t really a typical day in fundraising,” among her many responsibilities will be managing the Development and Communication offices, securing additional gifts to the school, moving forward with the campus master plan, and launching the upcoming capital campaign. However, she certainly doesn’t believe in all work and no play: “One thing that I try to have plenty of in every day is laughter and hard work. As much as I love the mechanics of what I do in the office, I will also be out making relationships within the school community.”

Outside of the office, she enjoys relaxing with family and friends and taking care of her two children. She said, “I have a five year old and two year old, so free time isn›t abundant in my life. I enjoy taking it easy and being around people that make me happy. I also love to hunt for a great bargain!”

by Nehal Sanghi reporter

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or many years, Senior Walk has been a highlyawaited event in a Walker student’s high school life. The walk signifies the arrival of graduation day. Senior Walk, one of Walker’s longest traditions, is when seniors are presented to the entire school with their parents. However, the presentday senior walk is noticeably different from a decade ago.

The biggest significant change in the event is the venue. Years ago, the senior walk would be held prior to the prom. The parents would come

“

It was terrible because parents came to prom and never left.”

to the prom with their children.

“It was terrible because parents came to prom and never left,” said Upper School Dean of Students Newton McCurdy.

“Everyone’s parents were there, and then the parents watched when the king and queen were announced,” said Upper School Counselor and Walker

Alumna Anna Kennedy. It was around 13 years ago when the senior walk became an oncampus event. The change in the venue of the event has pleased many Walker alumni.

The walk is quite popular in the Upper School yet only a small number of students know its purpose. It is a celebration to give recognition to the senior class, graduating at the end of year. All Walker students, parents and faculty members participate in this event.

Everyone dresses in professional clothes to honor seniors. “I like it, and the event doesn’t take a long time,” said McCurdy. In the past, the attendance at the walk was limited only to juniors and seniors, but now it has become a school-wide function.

Although the walk has seen major transformations in past decades, it still remains a highly anticipated event at Walker. This year the Senior Walk took place on April 17 in Coles Gymnasium.

To view photos from this year’s Senior Walk, visit thewalkerschool. smugmug.com.

Walker alumna Shelly Manuel (‘96) was named the new Director of Advancement.

Manuel, daughter of former Head of School Don Robertson, begins her new position in July.

Photo Courtesy of Shelly Manuel

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The Wolverine TWSWolverine.com SAT Changes for 2016

by Mary Grace Walsh editor-in-chief

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wo years from now, the SAT will take on a dramatic transformation in an effort to use more applicable vocabulary, and it will not penalize students for selecting an incorrect answer.

Most students can say they’ve walked out of the SAT wondering if they had seen any of that vocabulary prior to the test, or if they will ever use it again. The class of 2017 will be the first to take this new test.

Major changes include the use of more relevant vocabulary words, an “Evidence-Based Reading and Writing” section, an optional essay, and select locations will offer the test on a computer. Vocabulary words will be pulled from a passage, so students can use context clues to determine the meaning of the word. The words will be more widely used rather than some of the more obscure words the SAT has used in the past. Also, students will have to analyze and interpret what they have read from the passages.

The essay, now optional, will also be changed with the addition of a passage. After reading the passage, students will write about how the author builds their argument. Students will need to use evidence from the passage to support their claims. The College Board hopes this will be more similar to college writing assignments than the old essay section. The essay will be optional but may be required by some schools.

Students will also see a big change in the math section. It will focus on three essential areas of math: Problem Solving and Data Analysis, the Heart of Algebra, and Passport to Advanced Math.

Research shows that these areas of math contribute the most to a student’s readiness for college.

For more details about these changes, visit https://www. collegeboard.org/deliveringopportunity/sat/redesign.

According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, College

Controversy Over Drinking Age

by Hensley Babb reporter

Board President and CEO David Coleman said the SAT has become “far too disconnected from the work of our high schools.” He believes the SAT is not necessarily creating more college-ready students. Coleman said the new SAT will “measure the best of what students are working on in class -- the work that most prepares them for college and career success.”

Walker College Guidance Coordinator Robyn Johnson also doesn’t believe that the SAT is an accurate representation of how students will perform in college. “I think that’s why a lot of schools have become testoptional. Universities are also involved in the revamping of the SAT, because they don’t believe the [SAT] questions are relevant for college level work.”

Johnson said, “The vocabulary isn’t going to be just fill-in-the-blank anymore, it’s going to be about understanding what the word means in a particular context.

It’s supposedly going to be higher level thinking; again we only know about the new test conceptually. We haven’t actually seen the test yet.”

ÊÊ

No more guessing penalty ÊÊ Introduction of more relevant vocabulary ÊÊ Essay is now

optional and based

off of a passage ÊÊ Math focuses on

three essential sections For a complete list, visit collegeboard.org.

A

fter the National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 was passed, arguments over returning the drinking age to 18 surfaced.

Many argue that while 18 year olds are considered legal adults, allowed to leave the country without parental consent, purchase tobacco, get married and sign up for the armed forces, why can they not purchase alcohol.The Minimum Legal Drinking (MLDA) in the United States is 21. But why age 21? “The concept that a person becomes a full adult at age 21 dates back centuries in English common law; 21 was the age at which a person could, among other things, vote and become a knight. Since a person was an official adult at age 21, it seemed to make sense that they could drink then, too,” said journalist Ethan Trex. Contrary to popular belief, drinking age is in fact a state law that is nationwide. The federal government threatened to take away highway funding if the states did not cooperate, so everyone jumped on board.

Still, the controversy continues over the drinking age.

So, are there any pros to lowering the drinking age?

Of course. People argue that “18 is the age of adulthood in the United States, and adults should have the right to make their own decisions about alcohol consumption” (www. drinkingage.procon.org).

Another argument states that allowing 18 to 20 year-olds to drink alcohol in regulated environments with supervision

would decrease unsafe drinking activity. Some believe that teen drinking percentages would decrease if the legal drinking age was lowered to 18.

However, there are arguments for the other side of this issue as well. To some, lowering the drinking age would be considered medically irresponsible. Alcohol consumption can damage some lobes of the brain in young adults because the brain is not fully developed. Some argue that the drinking age is not a right. According to ProCon. org, “A US district court ruled on Dec. 22, 1978 that MLDA 21 is ‘reasonably related to a state objective of reducing highway crashes,’ and that MLDA 21 withstands a constitutional challenge on three key legal issues: (1) drinking alcohol is not a fundamental right guaranteed by the Constitution, (2) age is not inherently a suspect criteria for discrimination (in contrast to race or ethnicity, for example) and (3) using the drinking age to prevent highway crashes has a rational basis in available scientific evidence” (www. drinkingage.procon.org). These people believe that the right of consuming alcohol is not a Constitutional right and should not be lowered due to medical and societal reasons.

Will the drinking age ever be lowered back to 18? At this point, anything is possible.

For now, the drinking age will remain at 21, but the future of this issue is still being debated and continues to be uncertain.

A graphic displaying the previous minimum legal drinking ages in states across the country prior to the Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984.

Graphic Courtesy of Chicago Tribune

May 2014

5

Students To Participate in Relay for Life

by Hensley Babb reporter

F

or several years, the Walker community has participated in the charity event called “Relay for Life,” and this year is no exception.

With the event occurring on May 2 at Jim Miller Park in Marietta, many Walker students and faculty have signed up to show their support in cancer research and the journey to find a cure. The event kicks off with the “survivor lap” which is where those who have beaten cancer walk a lap to celebrate their triumph over the disease.

Throughout the event, each team sets up a booth with food, games, and other forms of entertainment. Each team is required to have at least one member on the track at all times.

Relay for Life is the American Cancer Society’s biggest fundraiser across the country. A simple donation can go a long way in fighting this terrible disease. Each year, Relay for Life raises over $400 million dollars and all the proceeds go towards funding cancer research and treatment. Upper School Math Teacher and Student Service Organization (SSO) sponsor Malanda Murchison said, “I relay for my father and grandmother who both passed away from lung cancer, and I have several former students who have survived cancer.”

This cause is very near and dear to the Walker community.

The experience of Relay for Life is enjoyed by many

Walker students. SSO President and Senior Kayla Hall has been a part of Relay for Life for her entire high school career. Hall said, “Relay is one of my favorite parts of the school year. It’s so cool to see so many different schools come together for a great cause.” Hall is responsible for rallying people to get involved with Relay and has been successful thus far. “Hopefully this year we will have the most people sign up so we can raise as much money possible. It would be the perfect way to end senior year,” Hall said.

When the sun sets, luminaria bags are transformed and illuminated. The bags are dedicated to those who have lost their lives to cancer or are

still battling the disease. “The candle lighting ceremony is my favorite, even though it is very sad. It is a time to reflect on those who have passed and time for you to think about appreciating time with everyone you have around you,” said Murchison of the experience. All of the

“

It’s so cool to see so many different schools come together for a great cause.

participants are touched in some sort of way and the community shows their support for all of those who have been affected by this disease.

If you are interested in signing up for Relay for Life, see Kayla Hall or Mrs. Murchison for more information.

Spring Sports Teams Fight for Scarce Playing Space

By Claire Harper reporter

W

ith spring sports well underway, the overscheduling of the small amount of field space Walker can provide has become a pressing issue. With Middle and Upper School boys and girls soccer, boys and girls lacrosse, and track, there has been an abundant amount of overpacked fields. Teams have been forced to share half fields with their “brother/sister” teams.

This year, coaches of all spring sports had a meeting to schedule practice and game times. Of course, all teams competed for as much time on the football field as they could get to ensure their practices were played on a real game field.

Several coaches were unable to attend this meeting which caused over-booking. The teams

are represented by ranking from “most important to least important,” based on how long the team has been around and what level it is, which helps to

“

Having to share fields with boys lacrosse makes it nearly impossible to play in gamelike situations, which doesn’t help us as a starter team.”

show coaches who has priority over the field. A few times teams have butted heads when both teams thought they got the football field. To solve this, the team of lesser ranking moved to whatever leftover space they could find on one of the three fields.

For beginning teams like the two lacrosse teams, playing on a field with lines is crucial for teaching the game. The problem

is, most of the teams either had only a half a field and couldn’t play a full field scrimmage, or were forced onto the practice fields where there weren’t sufficient lines for each sport.

Junior lacrosse player Emma Graham said, “Having to share fields with boys lacrosse makes it nearly impossible to play in game-like situations, which doesn’t help us as a starter team.”

Another issue teams have faced is how the football field has been lined. One field is designated to be lined for three different sports, which is confusing to players as well as parents and officials. While essentially ten teams are sharing two practice fields and one playing field, the tennis teams have eight courts for four teams.

Head of School Jack Hall explained the reason behind the new tennis courts. Although he wasn’t here when it happened, he said, “There probably wasn’t enough space to make a field.”

The plan in the future is to remove the tennis courts closest to the football field to allow for more parking and only have two sets of tennis courts.

In the near future, Hall said, “We are looking to add additional land to the school, ideally so we could have additional practice space.” This would allow for less confusion, over-booking, and over-lined fields. Hall also added that the school and Walker Backers hope to be able to build a track, which would alleviate one of the teams fighting for field space.

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The Wolverine TWSWolverine.com

New Year, New Faces, New Changes

by Joe Reich reporter

b r

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he start of the 2015 school year will be different from years past. Faculty changes will bring new faces to the school and also yield familiar faces in different positions.

Walker is hiring a new football coach as we say goodbye to Coach John East. Coach Matt Casper will be the Head Football Coach, along with teaching P.E..

Coach Casper joins us after teaching P.E. for ten years at Lovett and working as a coach for the running backs as well. He was noted as being “a top level coach in every way” by Lovett’s Head of School Billy Peebles. We look forward to seeing a new face on the sidelines.

Michael Arjona will be in a new position in 2015. Instead

By Hannah Manning reporter

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of being the Academic Dean for just the Upper School, he will now be the Advisor of Studies for all of Walker, ranging from Pre-K through grade 12. Grade level advisors will complete his past duties. Now, instead of one person heading all academics, one teacher will be appointed to head each grade level’s academics.

Also changing places in the office will be Jama Branham, who will take the position as Senior Dean. As Senior Dean, Branham will schedule and coordinate the Senior Walk, the early year senior barbecue, and Graduation.

Also switching roles will be our long time Dean of Students Newton McCurdy. McCurdy will be the Registrar, and will

be in charge of all PowerSchool updates and report cards. This will be the first position change for McCurdy. When asked about the new role, McCurdy said, “I’m very excited, as it a change of pace for me.” Ira Dawson will be the new Dean of Students.

Dawson has previously worked as the Director of Diversity in the Admissions Office for over ten years.

Shelly Manuel will join the staff as the first Director of Advancement in the Advancement Office starting in July. The new position opened this year, and will put Manuel in charge of growing and advancing the school in every way.

Not returning next year

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will be Middle School teacher Cathey Hernandez who has worked as a grammar teacher for almost 20 years in the Middle a School. Also leaving us is Peter j Sullivan who has worked both b in the College Office as well as f in the Lower School for almost a t decade at Walker. Upper School m Physics Teacher Joe Konieczny s will depart too, in order to head a the physics program at a charter school in Atlanta. After 26 years h of service as a teacher, advisor, l and Preschool Principal, Dr. Gail r Doss will leave and become an T adjunct professor at Kennesaw s State University. Stepping in for I her will be Liz Meadows who b has been the Assistant Principal b in the Lower School for the past several years.

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Lower School Spring Play Premieres in May

alker’s Lower School students have the opportunity to perform in class plays throughout the year, preparing them for the annual Lower School Spring Play. The Lower School Spring Play will be held on May 20, May 21, and May 22 in the Coca-Cola Auditorium from: 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. The Spring Play is a major production that includes all students in grades 1-5 and is an illustration of how Walker works to build confidence in their students from a very early age. Katie Arjona, current director and Fine Arts Department Chair, agrees that the spring play helps students to “come out of their shells,” and that it contributes to their confidence.

In past years, Fifth Grade

Teacher Holly Martin has written the Spring Play, but this year, Walker’s very own Thespian Troop has written the play. The opening scene takes place at the fifth grade lock-in in Coles Gym the night before Honors Day. Being the day before Honors Day, all the kids are excited and also scared about moving on from the Lower School to the Middle School. This sets the dramatic tone of excitement and fear of growing up that is present the rest of the play. However, there is a twist to the play this year; there are no leads.

Arjona said, “There are no leads in this year’s Spring Play because the Lower School Spring Play is to give every child the opportunity to have the fine arts experience.” In previous years students of the

fifth grade would audition for a few select roles, whereas this year every student in the fifth grade has a part. This gives every student the opportunity to shine and be in the spotlight.

“

The message is that everyone has been scared of change in their life, but we need to embrace change and welcome it because change is good.”

But the fifth graders aren’t the only ones who will be making their acting debut this year; all the fifth grade teachers will also be making appearances throughout the play.

Every grade level from first through fifth performs two songs during the play. Grades one through four perform in the first song using musical instruments and by dancing in

i s v a s c t w second song. The fifth grade B dances in both songs that they s perform. At the end of the play g every grade level participates in b a finale song. All grades dance and sing as one cohesive unit; t proving that Walker is one big w l family.

Katie Arjona said, w “Everyone should come see the c Spring Play. It’s certainly going C to be different than how it has g been in the past; but I think it’s w going to be the best one yet. s Also, this year’s Spring Play M delivers a message that applies a to everyone; even adults. The m message is that everyone has c been scared of change in their t life, but we need to embrace r change and welcome it because c a change is good.” w i

May 2014 Students Find Unique Summer Internships

by Claire Harper reporter

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ith summer just around the corner, most upperclassmen are in a hurry to find a summer job or internship. Whether it be serving food at a local fast food joint or folding clothes at the mall, having a job means making money, and even better, something to put on your college applications.

We hear over and over how boring jobs can be. Working long hours while you would rather be lounging at the pool.

This is far from the case for some Walker students, though.

Interning at unique places is bound to keep them from being bored.

Juniors Illicia Martin and Nicole Cook get to spend part of their summer interning at a sea turtle rehabilitation hospital in Topsail Island, N.C. Martin said, “Nicole and I both are very passionate about animals and I want to be a veterinarian, so this internship is a dream come true.” The girls got the job through Nicole’s grandmother who knows the owner, Karen Beasley. They will spend their summer helping injured turtles get strong enough to be released back into the ocean.

Senior Hyatt Mamoun is taking her job of directing the weekly news report to the big leagues for the second year and working at the Vail TV8 that covers both Summit and Eagle County in Colorado. Mamoun gets to spend her mornings working on TV8’s most popular segment, “Good Morning Vail!”

Mamoun was floor director and general assistant last year, meaning she was in charge of countdowns and switching live to each person. She even got to run around with an earpiece connected directly to the cast and crew so she knew exactly what would be coming up next in the segment. Mamoun said, “I

7

New Classes Added For 2014-2015 Year

by Nicole Simon reporter

even got the opportunity to run the cameras for a few segments, which was really interesting.”

She was a part of weather reports, real estate interviews, 4H interviews, and even interviews of chefs, artists, and major outdoorsmen. Mamoun said, “It was perfect for me because it married two of my favorite things; the outdoorsy lifestyle and film.” This summer Mamoun plans on learning even more about the broadcasting process.

Another senior, Kevin Bray has spent the past few summers working with a medical imaging department at Wellstar hospital. He was picked through a highly selective interview process and works two days a week for six hours on average. Bray said, “I learned a lot about how the hospital works and what it would be like having a medical profession and working in a hospital.” Bray is preparing to work his third summer at Wellstar starting as soon as school gets out.

ÊÊ Talk to busi ness owners or

managers in the

area you want to

intern in ÊÊ Look online at var ous job searching sites ÊÊ Check company

websites frequently ÊÊ Talk to teachers or

family friends For juniors, Walker offers the WISE Internship Program. Talk to Mr. Sullivan for more information.

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ext year, the Walker faculty and staff have decided that there will be five new classes: Ceramics, Set Design Theater Production, AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, and AP Physics C. The requirements for next year will not change because of these new classes,

stage, and what sound effects would be best in each scene.

The only prerequisite class is stagecraft, which will build the stage that Set Design creates the next semester. The stages will be for the upcoming plays, which means from the idea, to the creation, to the performance, it

New Classes For the 2014-2015 School Year 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Ceramics (taught by Bob Petersen) Set Design Theater Production (taught by Bill Schreiner) AP Physics 1 (teacher TBA) AP Physics 2 (teacher TBA) AP Physics C (teacher TBA)

however, these classes were added because of a “change in the College board program,” said Principal Bob Murphy, as well as by teacher requests.

Ceramics is a new art class requested by Upper School Art Teacher and avid potter Bob Petersen. His medium in pottery makes him excited to have this class. The art room may be adjusted a little to make more room, and the pottery room across the hall from the art room may be moved around as well.

There will only be one class of ceramics, “because of the way that the fine arts schedule is set up,” said Petersen. This class and the Set Design Theater Production will have only one class period available to students.

Upper School Stagecraft Teacher Bill Schreiner suggested Set Design Theater Production.

He wanted to have a class that was more into detailed set design, including the lighting that would work best, where things should be positioned on

will be almost entirely studentmade.

The three new science courses are technically only two new ones. Emily Adams said, “AP Physics 1 will replace our current Honors Physics class.”

She said this was in reply “to the College Board’s reconstruction of the AP Physics program.”

AP Physics C will be for an entire year, while AP Physics 2 will only be for a semester. AP Physics 2 will be for those who are planning to take AP Physics C or learn more about the topic before going into AP Physics C. Students may request any of these new classes during their scheduling meetings with their advisor, though some may require departmental approval.

Murphy said, “teachers are excited and looking forward to these new offerings.”

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The Wolverine TWSWolverine.com Game Review: Titanfall

by Ally Chebuhar reporter

by Connor Sudderth reporter

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French President Proposes Ban on Homework

ince its release on March 11th for the Xbox One, Titanfall has become one of the most widely played games in the world.

Titanfall combines the elements of such big hits like Call of Duty and Battlefield with the futuristic aspects of Transformer-like robots.

The graphics and mechanics in the game are just a few of the things that separate Titanfall from any

or Titans.

Many players have praised Titanfall as the best game on the next generation consoles. Junior Alex Tidwell said, “I like Titanfall better than Call of Duty Ghosts or Battlefield Four because of its multiplayer.” In an interview with Techradar, Microsoft executive Phil Spencer said, “It isn’t so much whether Titanfall did its job to

other game. With the combination of great multiplayer, graphics, and gameplay, Titanfall is the one game worth buying.

Exclusive to the Xbox One, Titanfall sales skyrocketed in the first two months since its release. Over 1.45 million copies of the game sold worldwide, and is expected to sell even more copies after it releases for the Xbox 360. The game has doubled the sales of the PS4’s exclusive game Infamous: Second Son. Titanfall sales show how next generation consoles are becoming more and more worthing buying.

The multiplayer is the biggest reason for buying the game. The parkour aspect as a soldier allows players to run up walls, leap from buildings, and maneuver their way around the map. As a first-person shooter, users must kill enemy players in order to get points for their team, and to call in their Titans.

The Titans are giant robots that drop down from the sky, and can be controlled by the player who called them in, making them a dangerous player to combat.

Strategy is key when controlling Titans, because although they make seem unstoppable, they are not invulnerable to enemy soldiers

help boost Xbox sales, but rather if gamers were entertained.”

Titanfall is not only noted for its appealing gameplay, but also as a advance to help boost sales of next generation consoles. In an interview with CNBC, Michael Pachter of Wedbush Securities said, “We expect the release of EA’s ‘Titanfall’ in March to help revive sales for both current and next generation software, and think that a string of easy comparisons over the next six months will drive software sales into positive territory.”

At a price of $59.99, Titanfall is worth spending money on. Titanfall’s game mechanics, graphics, and multiplayer make it the perfect game to play and will give gamers a gaming experience like no other. The combination of the aspects of futuristic Transformerlike robots and the elements of Call of Duty and Battlefield are what separate it from any other game. This combination is all the more reason why Titanfall is one of the most widely played games in the world.

Get It:

$59.99 at Gamestop

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here have been countless debates on how much homework should be given, or if it should even be allowed. Finally an influential head of power, French President François Hollande, is recognizing the negative effects of homework on young adults and teens in school.

While speaking at Paris’s Sorbonne University, President Hollande recently said, “Work should be done at school, rather than at home.” He believes that homework gives an unfair advantage to the wealthy whose parents can help them with their work and are able to have an appropriate time and space to complete homework.

“When it comes to homework, the President said it should be done during school hours rather than at home, in order to establish equal opportunities,” said a French Embassy Official.

He also proposes for children to go to school for nine half-days a week and promise over the next five years to add 60,000 teaching jobs in France. The President’s overall goal is to reform the French education system.

According to developmental psychologist Janine Bempechat, who studies motivation for achievement in minors, “American studies report the amount of homework being set for younger students has been doubling over the past twenty-five years,” and that “five year olds are expected to do an hour a week, increasing to three hours a week at 11 and ten hours or more a week at 16.” Homework limits the time students have to be active in sports, clubs, community service, and to relax and just be a kid!

Also, homework causes stress and anxiety that is unhealthy and grading homework takes time away for teacher’s time that could be more efficiently used to create lesson plans. Walker

Middle School history teacher Brian Surkan believes that there should never be busy work and that homework should only be assignments that must be done individually and require quite time and reflection.

The VanDamme Academy, a K-8 school in Aliso Viejo, California has a no-homework policy. Their reasoning: it’s pointless, makes children stressed, takes away from special family time and extra-curricular activities, and parents cannot help their children because they themselves don’t remember the material. A parent of a student who attends The VanDamme Academy said to founder Lisa VanDamme with tears in his eyes, “You have given us back our family life.” According to their website, “Our students shine because we make efficient use of the school day, focusing on those subjects which are most essential to the cognitive development of the child.”

Of course, homework helps to reinforce individual work and the concepts being discussed in class. Another aspect of the debate is if teachers have enough time in class to cover all the necessary material without homework.

However, more homework is being piled on to students as time goes by and President Hollande is determined to stop this never-ending cycle.

On Debatewise.com, a website where anyone with a strong opinion can post a statement, a user wrote, “Homework has little educational worth and adds nothing to the time spent in school. Some schools and some countries don’t bother with homework at all, and their results do not seem to suffer from it.”

Class of 2014

Volume XV

The Wolverine

inside Senior ABCs

Top Trends of High School

Parting Words of Wisdom

A Wolverine tradition, the Senior ABCs showcase the highlights of senior year through the alphabet.

Take a trip down memory lane through a list of the most unforgettable fads of 2011-2014.

The Class of 2014 has been through a lot.

Three members of the Senior Class offer up advice to their younger counterparts.

Page 10

Page 11

Page 12

10

A:

All for One and 1 4 All Our senior t-shirts that we received early in the school year have these words printed on them. Along with being a catchy motto, these words have proved to be true in our efforts to unify our class. Not only during homecoming, but through the rest of the year, we have been supportive of one another.

B:

Bless Whether it’s “Bless Dr. Schafer for letting us use our notecards on this quiz,” or “Bless my mom for letting me leave school early,” we have all found a way to be thankful for the good things in life using this “blessed” word. This word was derived and created by Kayla Hall if you have questions about the usage.

C:

Cougars Some have called it “the plague,” but others see it as a positive relationship that has formed between the senior girls and the junior and sophomore boys. Whatever it is, it seems to be spreading, and even I have been a victim. (A lucky victim, shout out to Trey Tumlin)

D:

Despicable Me Minions The senior class dressed up as minions on “Character Day” during homecoming week. It’s safe to say that we bought up all the overalls at every thrift store in Cobb County.

Matt Zibanejadrad, also known as Gru, led us in our minion takeover.

E:

Easy Senior Year?

If you’ve ever heard that senior year is the easiest and least stressful year, that’s probably not true. Of course, it is what you make it to be. But with college planning on top of schoolwork and a social life, this year has been exciting, but not “easy.”

F:

Filming on Campus The Walker News Network, or WNN, has been an exciting addition to campus.

Anchors Jesse and Nissa have done an outstanding job, and Karmin never fails to give us accurate weather updates.

Hopefully the WNN will continue in the future.

G:

Grease is the Word With multiple sold out shows, incredible dance numbers, and a complex set, Grease was phenomenal this year. It was performed at Walker ten years ago, and many of the cast members returned to see this recent production.

H:

Hawaiian Day The day before Spring Break, the senior class decided to dress up in their favorite tropical attire, despite the rainy, overcast weather. It definitely helped to start off the break right, and we hope we started a new tradition.

I:

Icy Roads Remember when it took everyone upwards of six hours to get home when the roads iced over? Apart from being a very stressful day, SnowJam 2014 gave us a chance to see the kindness in strangers as we all struggled to get home after school or work.

J:

Jenny Hawk Who has organized major events for our class every year? Jenny Hawk. Who unified our group of 84 high school seniors? Jenny Hawk. Who has led our class to two victories in homecoming walk outs? Jenny Hawk. I rest my case.

K:

Kian Runs Away Flashback to Senior Walk: Kian calmly walks up for his picture and poses with his dad.

After the picture is taken, Kian begins to run across the basketball court to his friends, leaving his father behind. This was probably the funniest mo-

ment of the ceremony.

L:

Let Me Take a Selfie A song about taking a selfie? Only in America…

M:

Mass Exodus to the “Prom”ise Land After the upperclassmen learned that school would be held on prom day, questions were raised as to whether we could leave early for appointments. We were allowed to check out at 12:30 p.m. with permission from a parent, but the ridiculously long line that formed outside the Upper School office made it impossible to leave on time. Luckily, we all made it to the dance.

N O:

: Nah…

Obsolete: The status of the dress code. Every day is a t-shirt day at The Walker School! The ever-changing dress code is one of the Wonders of Walker so enjoy this phase while it lasts!

P:

“Please…”

“Please move out of the middle of the hallway,” the frustrated senior said to the oblivious freshman. They have so much to learn...

U:

UAB: Unverified Absence It’s no secret that seniors give zero bothers about attendance, but personal days and sleeping in can really add up, especially when it comes time to exempt exams.

V:

Vineyard Vines Vineyard Vines has taken the school by storm. As a favorite brand on campus, especially with the senior class, Vineyard Vines attire became quite prevalent. Unfortunately, Vineyard Vines t-shirts are not dress code approved, but it’s already been established that the dress code is no longer in existence.

W:

Where’s Abi???

It’s like “Where’s Waldo,” but everyone is looking for Abisola Ologunja. She was last seen hunting for bae during one of her various free periods.

If found, please return to the senior squad.

X: Y:

XOXO, Seniors You know you love us.

Quizlet Quizlet saved so many lives in AP Psych. Senioritis makes it impossible to actually write out all those vocab words.

You’re Welcome Whether it was helping an underclassman with scheduling, college planning, or where to park in the parking lot, the seniors were happy to hand out free advice on how to survive the rest of high school, and help prepare the younger grades for what’s to come.

We are happy we could help.

You’re welcome.

R:

Z:

Q:

Riiiiip Verb. To bless someone to rest in peace when their next calculus test might be the last time they are seen alive. Origin: unknown.

S:

Snowpocalypse 2.0 and 2.0B Did we even go to school in February?

T

: Time’s Up!

Zibanejadrad (Zee-baane-shad-rod) Matt Z has made quite a name for himself with his carefree personality and always kind words. His performance as Danny in the musical Grease earned him school-wide notoriety, and his last name is perfect for these ABC’s.

By Mary Grace Walsh and Victoria Hudson

11 Valedictorian and Salutatorian Annabelle Mathis and Hannah Uher

I

t was a tight race this year in calculating the class of 2014’s valedictorian and salutatorian. After hours of hard work, Annabelle Mathis earns the title of valedictorian and Hannah Uher the salutatorian. Not only do both of these students excel academically but are also widely involved in other aspects of the school, making them very well-rounded individuals. or this upcoming fall semester, Annabelle Mathis will be attending the Georgia Institute of Technology with an intended major in aerospace engineering. Of all the classes she has taken throughout her Walker career, AP Physics would have to be her favorite. On top of 10 academic medals so far, she is a part of Mu Alpha Theta, History Honor Society, Parkhurst Honor Society, Latin Honor Society, and National Honor Society and she will be graduating Summa Cum Laude. Mathis attributes her academic achievement to one key thing. Mathis said, “I spell ‘dog’ d-o-g not d-a-w-g.” While still maintaining an incredible GPA, she makes time for other activities aside from academics. She has been a part of several athletic teams at

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F

Walker including track, cross country, and basketball. FCA and Latin club are also on her list of extracurricular activities. Of her favorite memory at Walker Mathis said, “I won the Yellow Slicker Award in 5th grade in recognition of my natural talent in opening car doors!” Her dream job is to one day be a taste-tester for Ghirardelli. Annabelle Mathis has clearly made her mark on Walker in more ways than one. annah Uher takes the title of salutatorian for the class of 2014. She will be attending Brandeis University in Massachusetts. She plans to be a Theatre Arts major. She is a part of Tri-M Music Honor Society, National Honor Society, the International Thespian Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Delta Epsilon Phi, and Walker’s History and Social Science Honor Society. Being so involved in the drama department and so academically gifted, she has two favorite classes at Walker. “First would be Mrs. Arjona’s Directing Seminar. It was great to learn about the whole process of being a director and see the final product on stage. As far academic classes go, I’d say AP Micro and Macroeconomics, because it

H

is unlike any other class I have taken so far and has many real world applications.” Of her academic success, she said, “I don’t really have one secret or special thing I do to be successful. I work hard, like so many of my classmates, but I work until I’m proud of what I’ve done so I can put my best foot forward.” her has many beloved memories at Walker but the one’s she holds dearest are the ones she had in the Drama Department. She loved going everyday to work with a magnificent group of talented people who never failed to make her smile.

Uher does incredible work for the Drama Department backstage as Stage Manager.

Although the audience might not see her during the performance, her hard work on costumes, set, and other aspects shine on stage. She also enjoys being a part of the women’s a cappella group, the Barrettes, and show choir. She hopes to see herself one day working professionally as a stage manager in theatre or possibly on TV. Walker will miss her greatly in the Drama Department as well as in the classroom.

U

By Hensley Babb

Top Trends of 2014 and Before

ollowing fads and wanting to be accepted by others is a normal part of life. As the current seniors were just entering high school, there were plenty of fads and popular things that they should now be proud or ashamed of. In 2010, there were a few phenomena that swept the young crowd. These include Angry Birds and the ever so trendy “selfie.” With the release of the iPhone 4 in 2010 with the new front-facing camera, it made the selfie a very easy and acceptable thing to take. Its popularity is still rising and according to Ben Zigterman at BGR, a mobile and tech news site, it is estimated that there will be a total of 1 trillion selfies taken in 2014. Angry Birds is an app created by Rovio that was released on December 11, 2009. This app took over 2010 and made everyone into gamers. This app created games for different platforms, comics, television shows and even a movie. With all of those combined, there have been 2 billion copies sold.

2011

brought a sudden fascination with physical fads, like “planking” and “owling.” To those of you who are not familiar with planking, it is when you lie flat like a board in any place possible, like a field or against something abstract. When asked to comment, senior Logan Breton said, “I planked on a statue once, only to be told that it was sacred by a priest. Of course I am embarrassed to be a part of this fad because looking back, it was pointless.” Owling is when you get into a crouching position, get on something tall, and act like an owl. There’s not much to it. saw the rise of Instagram and the phrase “YOLO.” Instagram is a transformative photo and video sharing social network, but it’s also a place for people to put up pictures of their semi-interesting food choices. It was released in 2010, but it gained popularity by snagging over 100 million users as of April 2012. The phrase “YOLO,” standing for You Only Live Once, was

2012

brought on by the singer Drake in the Song “The Motto,” which was released in November of 2009. The phrase rapidly took over 2012, and one couldn’t go a few hours without someone yelling that phrase. It was inescapable. It meant that one should live life to its fullest, but it was misinterpreted as an excuse to do something stupid. , the final year of the fads in high school for the seniors (excluding 2014): A massive celebrity followed in 2013 was Miley Cyrus. Her drastic change was so appealing to us, that it made her into an even a bigger celebrity. Of course, with her she brought the famed twerking into the younger population, which is a hip thrusting, low squatting, and sexually provocative dance. Probably the most annoying and childish fad of 2013 was the song “The Fox” by Ylvis.

2013

By Hunter Robertson

12 Parting Words of Wisdom

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he end of the school year is approaching quickly, and the Class of 2014 is about to start an entirely new chapter in their lives. The senior class will be attending a variety of colleges throughout the United States. Despite the seniors’ different college choices, it is clear that they are all very excited. Graduating from high school is something that everyone will eventually have to face.

Even Walker’s current pre-school class of 2027 will have to face graduation some day. With that being said, here are a few parting words of wisdom from a few of the current seniors.

“Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way, it has the potential to change your life. I found my career path in taking up class office: event planning,” said Jenny Hawk, one of eight lifers at Walker. In her fourteen year career at Walker, Hawk has become widely known around the community for her extensive school involvement and all-around friendly nature. Next year, Hawk will be attending Virginia Tech.

“I guess my best advice on getting through high school would be to make sure you have something that relaxes you and helps clear your mind. Once you’ve found that, do your best to make a little time to do the activity everyday. It does wonders for your overall mood, stress level, and concentration. As you can probably guess, my activity is running,” said Luke Lammert, a textbook Walker student. Apart from his impressive academics, Lammert is a gifted runner and a positive, friendly member of the Walker family. Next year, Lammert will be attending the University of Georgia Honors College.

“Be a leader on your team even if you don’t have the title of “captain,” people respond well to anybody that works hard. Being a leader doesn’t mean being the loudest, lead by example by showing up to practice on time and being a coachable player. And if you think you may want to play collegiate sports, dedicate yourself to everything you do to the next level. Dedicate yourself to the weight room especially, you could be a collegiate volleyball player or golfer but by having a good foundation of strength training, you are already miles ahead of many other athletes. Last thing is, surround yourself with supportive people and coaches, and never hesitate to ask anybody about any questions you have.” Michael Berk is a proud member of the Walker Community. Berk has shown a lot of school spirit throughout his Walker career, especially for the athletics. During his high school football career, Berk worked very hard both on and off the field to achieve the honor of playing college football. Next year, Berk will be attending Blinn College in Texas to play collegiate football.

By Alex Brack

Senior Tribute: Travis King

S

oon, we will say goodbye to the Class of 2014. This will be no easy task, especially when someone that you care about is going away. Every senior has contributed to Walker in their own way whether it’s in athletics or on the academic team; and every senior is going to be greatly missed. But, there is one senior who always puts forth one hundred percent in everything that he does, and that person is Travis King.

Travis is not only intelligent, incredibly dependable, and hardworking, but he’s also devoted. Whenever Travis’s name comes up, all anyone thinks is, “What are we going to do without him next year?” Travis contributes a great deal at Walker. Travis helps out with The Wolverine, and also with the Development Office, Communications Office, and the Fine Arts Department. When the heads of these departments were asked about Travis, they all had kind words to say.

Travis is one of the Editors-in-Chief of The Wolverine. This job requires a great deal of work. The Editors-in-Chief are in charge of evaluating each article written; as well as handling the layout and design of each issue. According to Kaitlyn Ranney, Journalism Advisor, Travis has helped The Wolverine make great strides this past year, by singled-handedly launching the online version of the newspaper at twswolverine.com. “Travis, keep doing great work. You’ve got an excellent head on your shoulders; so keep listening to it, striving for the best, and being you! We will all miss you so much, but are excited for the awesome things you’re going to do in life,” said Ranney.

Travis’s presence will be greatly missed not only in Journalism, but also in the Development Office. In the Development Office, Travis’s main job is to help with special events for parents and alumni. For these events he did everything from setup to advertising with online software. Director of Development Cathy LaClaire said, “Travis came during the summer and asked if he could intern with us, and I’m so glad we said yes. He did everything that we asked and he did such an amazing job that we asked him to stay after the summer was over. He has an incredible work ethic. He did whatever we needed him to, without question. He’s the type of person who comes in early and stays late. We have come to rely on him and we depend on him. He is capable of a lot more than we have given to him. And we will miss him dearly,” said LaClaire.

In the Fine Arts Department, Travis is the House Manger, which means he is in charge of selling of tickets, ushering patrons in front-of-house areas, and the maintenance and management of the theatre building itself. Travis also came up with the idea of online ticketing. On his own, Travis found Ticketleap and created a whole system for Walker.

“Travis is a polite, hardworking, and devoted student,” said Arjona.

“When I said yes, he instantly started looking for ways to make my job easier.

Every time I needed something done I would turn around to ask Travis and he would already be doing it; he was always one step ahead,” said Arjona.

Arjona never had to worry about the job getting done because Travis is good at communicating. Arjona said, “Parents were surprised that it was a senior in high school helping them whenever they had a problem with tickets.

This is because Travis is really good at customer service; he never made anyone feel like a problem was unsolvable.” Ajona’s parting advice for Travis is, “Never stop looking at how you can make things better, whether it is in your job, personal life, or college.”

Travis will attend Georgia Tech in the fall and plans to major in business with a minor in engineering. He aims to work in the airline industry after college.

By Hannah Manning

T

he Walker School has a strong student body ranging from pre-kindergarten to twelfth grade, but only a select few have faced the adventure of spending all 14 years at Walker. These students are called Lifers. This year’s graduating class has nine lifer students.

Each of them possesses a unique experience from their time at Walker.

Nine Seniors have spent 14 years of their lives at Walker, and they have several words of wisdom for underclassmen.

by Nehal Sanghi

O

nly a few Walker students knew about the Walker campus fourteen years ago. However, senior Lifers can precisely talk about what changes have happened in the years since. Senior Amitha Muthiah said, “The buildings have changed a lot since I first got here. Also just the size of the school in general has gotten a lot bigger.” The growth of Walker in past decade can accurately be expressed by Lifers.

“There’s a more diverse group of people now at Walker,” said another Lifer, senior Madison Prince. Apart from the campus expansion, the Lifers have involved themselves in every little change here at Walker. For all of them, Walker was an entirely different place than it is today.

A

ll these Lifers are regarded as notable students, experiencing the best of the Wonders Of Walker. Senior Jenny Hawk feels the best thing about Walker is “all of the traditions we have here and getting to experience them all one by one.” As they walk through the campus, each place holds a special memory for them. When asked about their favorite phase at Walker, individually everyone said high school. These Lifers cherish all the days spent here on campus.

W

ith these Lifers’ journey soon coming to an end, each gives advice to the juniors from their Walker experience. Senior Yeoryia Papadopoulos said, “Juniors: love high school while you are here.” Prince advises all Walker students that, “Grades are the most important aspect, they will come back to bite you.” “The best advice I have for juniors is to make sure you have fun, school isn’t everything and life will go on,” said Muthiah. The guidance from Senior Lifers to other students is valuable.

Their presence at Walker will be missed after their graduation. Their lifelong dedication towards the school cannot be forgotten, and the community wishes them all the luck for their upcoming college life.

L: Lifestyle chicken battles:

D

eeply rooted in any Southern-born child’s mind is a love for fried chicken, and nobody does it better then both Zaxby’s and Chick-fil-A. With Zaxby’s introduction of the ever-famous Zax sauce, and Chick-fil-A’s famous chicken nuggets, it’s hard to determine who really is the best. ipping sauce is the most important thing outside of the chicken itself.

It can turn any old piece of cardboard into something that everybody can sink their teeth into and enjoy. Almost every chicken restaurant has the usual sauces like ketchup, honey mustard, and ranch, but the speciality ones are what set them apart. Chick-fil-A sauce, described by junior Connor Sudderth as “a sauce that has a unique taste and makes anything melt in your mouth,” has a taste that appeals to almost everyone. Though Chickfil-A’s attempt is well noticed, Zaxby’s Zax sauce reigns supreme. With people willing to sacrifice 25 cents for an ounce of orange goodness, its easy to see why the sweet and succulent sauce is the

D

by Joe Reich

vs. best. It offers a taste that no other chain is close to duplicating, and has only become more popular as word has gotten out. ealth is important, and any person counting calories knows that the overall healthiness of certain restaurants is more essential then ever. The average chicken finger meal at Zaxby’s is about 1,990 calories, which includes fries, cole slaw, Texas Toast, and Zax sauce, though just one chicken finger alone runs close to 90 calories. Probably surprising to most, Chick-fil-A’s four piece chicken strip meal has 1,040 calories, including fries and a drink, though each chicken strip is about 110 calories each. oth restaurants also feature salads for a healthier choice. Chick-fil-A’s cobb salad, which includes fried chicken, several choices of dressings, cheese, tomatoes, corn, purple cabbage, egg, and carrots only comes in at 430 calories (count varies with dressing), but it does not include fries and a drink. Zaxby’s main salad, The Cobb, comes in at 875

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B

calories (not including dressing), though it features Texas Toast, bacon, egg, fried onions, tomatoes, cucumber, cheddar cheese and four chicken fingers. If the calorie count looks high, it can easily be lowered by getting grilled chicken and taking off extras like cheese, bacon, and the fried onions. he overall number of menu choices between both Chick-fil-A and Zaxby’s is trumped by many other fast food restaurants such as McDonald’s, Wendy’s and Arby’s, as those places offer both chicken as well as other type ofw meats. Chick-fil-A does offer other meatsT such as sausage, but only during break-y fast and only six days a week. Chick-fil-Ar also has many side items like soup ands bagels, and some lesser known sides likeT t carrots and raisins. u h The Verdict t

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Breakfast:

Lunch/Dinner: Overall Winner:

getting to know walker’s custodians Isaac Mitchell US Custodian

Q: How many years have you been at Walker?

A: Seven.

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: The Batman Series.

Q: What character trait do you value most in someone?

A: Being sociable.

Q: Where are you originally from?

A: South Carolina.

Q: Favorite kind of weather?

A: Sunny and 75.

Q: What destination is on your bucket list?

A: Miami, Florida.

Q: How many years have you been at Walker?

A: Seven years.

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: Rush Hour.

Q: Where do you want to retire?

A: Savannah, Georgia.

Q: Where are you originally from?

A: Woodstock, Georgia.

Q: Favorite kind of weather?

A: Summer!

Q: What destination is on your bucket list?

A: Las Vegas!

by Joe Reich

Angela Strickland PS Custodian

teachers’ funniest memories Malanda Murchison

Kitty Drew

“

MS English

“

Peter Sullivan

Scott Smoot

US Math

This past week, I had a student who speaks English as a second language and did not understand what ‘pile’ meant in a word problem. I asked her to look it up in the translator app on her phone, but she still didn’t comprehend the term. Therefore, I enlisted the assistance of students to help, so another young lady began drawing a picture of a pile of clothes on the board and tried explaining that a pile is like have a big pile of “sh**” in your room. I am sure that she meant shirt, but it was pretty funny. Luckily, we did not have to explain the other term.”

US College Counseling

“

Mr. Richardson used to throw me in trashcans when I was a student in the upper school...eventually he just opened the trash lid and told me to get in on my own; and I did. Good times.”

Some boys dared Josh Miller to tie his hoodie completely shut convinced so he was sightless, and let his friends ‘guide’ him to the gym. Josh trusted his friends, so he took exactly the number of steps they told him and opened the door when they said to open the door and walked completely blind to the gym. Of course they led him, by direction, right into the girls’ locker room.

Josh opened the door not knowing he was walking into the girls locker room right as the girls were changing for P.E. Naturally, every girl screamed bloody murder, but Josh wasn’t able to see anything because his hoodie was still tied shut. But, the problem was his friends pushed him through the door so Josh had no idea how to get out. Meanwhile, all the girls are half naked and have no idea on how to help him, so Josh stumbled around and ran into things until he finally found the door.”

MS Drama

“

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On a Monday at the end of Christmas break some years ago, I drove to school around 8:30 to do some early preparation for Tuesday, first day of the new term. Didn’t bother shaving; dressed in ripped jeans and tennis shoes. Saw from the full parking lot that I wasn’t the only teacher coming in for some early prep. But there were twenty, eighth graders sitting in my class waiting for me, Ms. Vaughan doing a song and dance to keep them occupied. The calendar had been changed, and I’d been using the old version. But, this year made up for it, though. I prepared all night for the new term, woke late, rushed to school worried about class, and pulled into the Walker lot: I was the only person who didn’t get the snow day announcement.”

by Nicole Simon

dear daisy

Q: A:

Dear Daisy, My dad thinks I’m gay but I’m not... What should I do to prove to him I’m not?

Sincerely, Troubled

Dear Troubled, I hate that your dad would come to those conclusions without reason. Parents should accept and support their child for who they are and who they want to be.

That being said, I know you want to prove your personal sexuality to him. There’s really no way to “prove” who you are to someone, other than by being yourself.

This is a tough question because it’s hard to change someone’s mind once it’s made up. Be proud of who you are and ignore his comments if they are hurtful. I hope that one day he will know the true you.

B

May 2014

Q:

Dear Daisy, I have a teacher who pushes their students too far and expects us to do work that is way too hard. They don’t answer questions and are never helpful. I don’t think talking to them about would do anything because it hasn’t in the past. What should I do?

Sincerely, Stressed Without Help Dear SWH,

A:

I’ve been in a similar situation before, and it’s not easy. Luckily, Walker has multiple teachers per department, and you can take advantage of this.

For example, the math department has a few teachers who could help you. Even if they aren’t your teacher, I’m sure they will be willing to work with you. This is the same for almost all of the core subjects at Walker. In addition to this, the internet is a great resource. I personally watch videos for my science class all the time. If these ideas still don’t help, go to your teacher again and try to explain your situation and what you’ve done in an attempt to be successful in their class. Hopefully they will understand that you’re willing to put in the effort if they will work with you. Good luck!

iscuit attles

Q:

15

Dear Daisy, It seems like no matter what; I can’t get over the thought of my ex-girlfriend. It’s been two and a half months since she left me and she already found somebody new. And that tore me apart. I can’t seem to approach any new girls because it’s like she took my self-confidence and self-esteem when she left. How can I move on?

Sincerely, Stuck On Her

A:

Dear SOH, Moving on is a difficult task, but with the right attitude I know you can do it. Why let someone take your self-confidence and selfesteem? Just because things didn’t work out between the two of you doesn’t mean it won’t work out with someone else. Don’t blame yourself for the breakup or consider yourself unworthy just because things ended. There are a few steps you can take to move on. First, don’t dwell on the past.

Don’t catch yourself wondering what it would be like if you were still together.

Second, accept the idea of her being with someone else. It may not be easy if you have to see them every day, but in time this acceptance will be a positive thing.

Last but not least, have a positive attitude.

Confidence is key if you want to find someone else. Beating yourself up over the past is not worth your time. You can do it!

Upon looking for a place to stop for breakfast on your way to school, you wouldn’t always think to stop at any hole-in-the-wall places, but with Mountain Biscuits, Red Eyed Mule, and Stilesboro Biscuits all within miles of campus, you shouldn’t think twice about stopping. All three places offer a unique setting with mouth savory biscuits, but there is one that stood out the most.

by Bradley Moore

Stilesboro Biscuits

Mountain Biscuits

Red Eyed Mule

Driving up Stilesboro Road past Mars Hill Road there’s a small shack with a porch out front.

This small southern style place is Stilesboro Biscuits. With friendly faces and homemade southern style biscuits, you don’t want to drop a crumb of this delicious food. They even have bluegrass bands every Saturday! There’s no fake eggs and fatty bacon you get at the fast food drive thru, it’s applewood smoked bacon and fresh cooked eggs. Even better, along with their biscuits they sell homemade cinnamon rolls that people stand in line for hours just to get. The one downside to Stilesboro Biscuits is its long lines and difficult parking. The entire vicinity including additional parking allows for only 15 cars. This becomes an issue with the restaurant’s increasing popularity. Lines can normally be seen out the door or wrapped around the building, and with hours only from 7:00 a.m. to 11:30a.m. it becomes difficult to find a time to drop by and grab a quick bite to eat.

Right next to Kennesaw Mountain is a newer biscuit place, Mountain Biscuits. Opened just a few years ago, Mountain Biscuits has earned increasing popularity. The joint is another quaint looking shack with places for sitting out front. Their biscuits are homemade and huge, and I mean huge. The biscuits are always cooked to perfection along with anything you get on your biscuit like eggs, bacon and cheese. Along with biscuits in the mornings, they also serve lunch every day their open. This restaurant offers a very versatile menu, and a friendly environment.

The biscuits can sometimes seem too big however.

On our last stop on a trip through Marietta, there is a small biscuit place called Red Eyed Mule right next to Come n’ Get It. This is the least popular of the three places, but by far the best tasting and best environment. The restaurant is a small brick place with a colorful scenery on the inside. The walls are decorated with old pictures and collectables. The biscuits are the perfect portion and aren’t heavy at all. Their chicken biscuits put Chickfil-A to shame. The biscuits can even be seen being prepared with the open kitchen. Make sure when you go to Red Eyed Mule to order the “mule chips” (hash browns) – they’re probably my favorite item on the menu.

With three great options to stop at on your way to school, there’s no way you’ll get to school hungry. While all are good choices, I recommend trying Red Eyed Mule for some life changing biscuits.

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May 2014 Top Five Songs of the Summer

5. “Summer” by Calvin Harris

4. “Sing” by Ed Sheeran

3. “Latch” by Disclosure

With the release of his 2012 full-length “18 Months,” Calvin Harris transformed from a United Kingdom DJ into a fullfledged international superstar, with four Top 20 hits in the US. Songs like the Rihanna hit “We Found Love,” Ne-Yo duet “Let’s Go” and his irresistible Florence Welch collaboration “Sweet Nothing,” allowed Calvin Harris to spearhead the merge of electronic dance music to more traditional vocal pop performances. With “Summer,” Harris continues with what made him successful, bridging the techno beat with a soothing vocal to surely be climbing the charts all summer!

British acoustic singer songwriter Ed Sheeran’s material, to date, has ranged from super-earnest (“The A-Team,” “Everything Has Changed,” his collaboration with Taylor Swift along with a myriad of others) to strong and passionate like “Give Me Love.”

The first single from his upcoming sophomore album “x,” “Sing” fits the times nicely with Sheeran’s rubbery falsetto, plus some of Robin Thicke’s ubiquitous “Blurred Lines” in the percussion. But Sheeran’s really got his heavy-breathing, hyper-flirtatious sights on a woman with the opening verse saying “Ignoring everybody here/We wish they would disappear/So maybe we could get down now.” Whether you are fan of Ed Sheeran or not, no one can deny his talents in writing, singing, and performing.

A lot of songs are written about lust and the immediate rush of falling head over heels in love with someone, but few seem to sum these up as sweetly as “Latch,” the latest single from brothers Guy and Howard Lawrence, aka Disclosure. Featuring full-bodied vocals from newcomer Sam Smith, it’s a slowly unravelling ode to the thrill of wanting to figuratively (and possibly literally) latch on to someone else: “Now I’ve got you in my space, I won’t let go of you/I’ve got you shackled in my embrace, I’m latching on to you.” While the video may leave you feeling violated, the vocals are too spot on to pass up!

2. “Raging Fire” by Phillip Phillips

1. “Marilyn Monroe” by Pharrell

Where past competitors have failed, “American Idol’s” Phillip Phillips has succeeded bigtime, having proved initial naysayers wrong right out of the gate upon the release and subsequent Olympics-based promotion of his first single, “Home.” “Home” went 5x platinum and became the most downloaded “American Idol” single to date. Now, good ol’ Phillip Phillips has got himself a new future best-seller on his hands in the form of “Raging Fire.” Not straying too far from his first two singles, “Raging Fire” at its lyrical core is a love song, and Phillips delivers an upbeat, hopeful vocal that highlights the free-to-live, free-to-love nature of the single. Instrumentally, the song is infectiously booming in its delivery, featuring a chorus of strings, full-on drums, and rhythmic acoustic guitar work that is bound to get listeners up on their feet!

From coming off of a smash hit year with producing Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” to having vocals on Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky” to having the biggest song of the year thus far with “Happy,” Pharrell is riding a success train that doesn’t appear to be slowing down anytime soon. Having recently released his first album since 2006, “G I R L” starts off with the sexy “Marilyn Monroe.” The first sound on the album is an extended orchestral beginning performed by a 30-piece orchestra, welcoming listeners in movie style. “Marilyn Monroe” then pivots into a “Thriller”-esque dance floor jam, complete with an appeal of “let’s all dance and elevate each other.” While this song may not reach the level of success of “Happy,” “Blurred Lines,” or “Get Lucky,” “Marilyn Monroe” is a catchy tune that has a potential to run the world!

by Myers Hines

Cafeteria Hacks: Innovative Ways to Mix Up Lunch

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ired of eating the same thing every day for lunch? There is no need to take the time and money to pack a lunch at home. From cheeseburger potatoes to peanut butter ice cream, there are so many tasty options to try, so start being innovative and having fun at lunch.

Toasted PB and J Make you standard peanut butter and jelly sandwich and place it in the Panini grill for one minute. Top it with vanilla ice cream or even cream cheese!

Double Chocolate Cookie Sandwich What you need: cookies and cream ice cream cup, two chocolate chip cookies. Put the ice cream between two cookies and enjoy! Freshman Holland Martin said, “That looks so good!”

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Cheeseburger Baked Potato Add shredded cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, butter, and salt, to a baked potato. Mix it all together inside the potato skin. “Baked potatoes are something that you can eat everything except the tin foil it comes in! I even love to eat the skin for lunch with Katsup,” said freshman Savannah Ware.

Italian Hero Stack up cheese, salami, turkey, iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, mustard and mayonnaise on a split hoagie roll (inspiration from bonappetit.com).

Peanut butter ice cream Hate it when the cafeteria runs out of chocolate or strawberry ice cream? Stir a packet of peanut butter into a cup of vanilla ice cream for a new twist!

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Spicy Grilled Cheese Add tomato, salami, and pepper to inside your traditional grilled cheese.

Southwestern Salad Put your favorite salad basics of greens, vegetables, and cheese together, and top with corn and hot sauce for dressing!

Ranch Pizza Drizzle ranch dressing over a slice of cheese pizza and sprinkle parmesan on top.

Sherbet Sugar Cookies On sugar cookie days, Director of Technology Kerry Bossak makes a sandwich of sherbet and cookies!

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by Ally Chebuhar

The Wolverine TWSWolverine.com Two Beloved Teachers Retiring After Fifty Combined Years of Teaching 16

by Nicole Simon reporter

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orld Language Department Chair Janet Ward and Middle School Language Arts Teacher Cathey Hernandez are retiring this year. Although we will truly miss seeing them everyday, they promised that they will come back and visit more than just once. The students, faculty and staff have made it hard for them to make the decision of retirement, but have agreed it is their time.

“I have loved every second of being part of The Walker School,” said Ward.

After 30 years of teaching at Walker and Walker alone, Ward explained that she will miss the general presence of the students and the faculty and staff most.

Even in retirement, she plans on learning more about teaching methods, and the French and Italian language in general.

Ward built the entire German division at Walker and helped it flourish. As this year has gone by, she states that she gets sad realizing when a special activity occurs, such as the 12 Days of Christmas song, that it is her last time participating. Lastly, she explains that she taught at only Walker in America, and her sons only went to Walker because of the “friendly welcoming atmosphere.”

Hernandez has spent 20 years teaching; some spent at other schools, but has left her mark on Walker. She states that it is fulfilling to plan the yearly

Talent Show, Spelling Bee, Toys for Tots, and the Salvation Army Food Drive because it shows “how much the Walker community cares.” She says the thing she will miss most about teaching is, “when I see the lights turn on when a student ‘gets it.’” When Hernandez tells people she works at Walker, they have a new level of respect for her because of how great the faculty and staff is. She will be moving to Florida to be closer to family, but also says that she has already arranged to come back and visit.

We appreciate the years that these wonderful teachers have devoted to Walker and the new ideas and methods of teaching they have brought with

them. Even though they are gone, it will be a pleasure to see them again and their new ideas.

We will miss them dearly, and will look forward to their visits.

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Faculty and Staff Not Returning George Bevington Kathy Chapman Gail Doss Jeanne East John East Cathey Hernandez Gabrielle Hope Chris Johnson Joe Konieczny Bethany Stoll Peter Sullivan Melissa Tulloch Janet Ward David Yarborough

Artist of the Month: Ansley Carr

by Alex Brack assistant editor

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ighth grader Ansley Carr has been dancing since she was two and a half years old. Since then, she has become one of the most well known and acclaimed dancers among the Walker community. If you can name the dance, it is likely that Carr has performed it at some point in her lifetime. Some claim that Carr has an inherent talent for dance, while others believe her skill is a result of years of rigorous practice. Regardless of where Carr’s talent comes from, it is clear that students and faculty from all parts of Walker enjoy watching Carr perform.

Carr’s dancing career began in August of 2002. “My mom put me in dance classes because I loved music and danced around the house all the time,” said Carr. Carr was a very outgoing child at the time, which is why she believes she

fell in love with being on stage at such a young age. Through her years as a dancer, Carr has competed in many different forms of dance, including: jazz, tap, hip-hop, ballet, lyrical, and contemporary dance. Unlike many dancers, Carr does not specialize in one specific form of dance. Instead, she tries to be a “well-rounded” dancer in order to best prepared for any future job opportunities or auditions.

Currently, Carr dances at Powerhouse Dance Studio in Kennesaw. After many years of difficult practice, Carr finds herself still enjoying every aspect of dancing. However, to Carr dancing means much more than going through the routinely practiced motions. Dancing has affected many personal aspects of Carr’s life. “Being surrounded by mirrors everyday at the dance studio was intimidating at first,

but another perspective is that it has given me confidence,” said Carr. Carr also finds that dance has taught her how to use constructive criticism to her advantage - both on and off the stage.

Carr is an extremely well rounded student and a perfect example of what differentiates Walker students from other schools.

Carr has been a member of the Walker community for 8 years. Carr is a member of the Walker Middle School Cheerleading team and track team. Outside of school, Carr enjoys hanging out with friends, watching

movies, riding bikes, shopping, and being an active member of Macland Presbyterian Church.

The hallways of Walker are packed with students who have unique talents. Whether it is on the football field, in the AP art studio, or in a drama performance, Walker Upper School students spare no expense when it comes to expressing what they love.

Carr’s final words of advice are, “Always do what you love. Sometimes eight hour long practices aren’t too enjoyable but it always pays off.”

May 2014 Random Acts of Kindness Club Starts Spreading Joy

by Stacey Agadoni assistant editor

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hen Junior Nicolette Paglioni heard a e radio segment about e .strangers performing acts of dbenevolence for those in need, she was inspired to give students the chance to do the same thing.

Paglioni is now the leader of the Random Acts of Kindness Club, which was a new addition for the 2013-2014 school year.

Before students get involved with the club, they should first understand what truly defines a “random act of kindness.”

According to Paglioni, it is best described as anything you do for someone else that’s not for your own benefit. Outside of school, this could include deeds such as paying a bill for someone, writing post-its with positive messages, or buying a coffee for the person behind you in line. Paglioni also said “You don’t do a random act of kindness to get something out of it. You do it to make someone else feel good, whether ‘good,’ means important, or loved, or special.”

So far, the Random Acts of Kindness Club’s actions have garnered a positive response from Upper School students.

Although the club is just getting started, they have already gained attention from deeds such as placing inspirational quotes on lockers and offering help with students’ “promposals” during prom season. Their most popular

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NFL Draft Preview

by Connor Sudderth reporter

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Colts General Manager Bill Polian said, “It’s a guy who can make all the throws, can win under pressure, operate the offense at an exceptionally high level, lead you back when it looks hopeless and win games you have no business winning.” With many other top quarterbacks in the draft, the ideal choice for the Jaguars is Bridgewater. His size and ability as a pocket passer give Bridge the edge over the other quarterbacks in the draft.

Bridgewater throws the most accurate passes out of any the quarterbacks, and his strong arm adds to his list of great Houston Texans: Jadeveon quarterback qualities.

Clowney, Defensive End, Cleveland Browns: Johnny University of South Carolina Manziel.

Quarterback, Sure, the quarterback situation in Houston right now is Texas A&M University troubling, but the combination Cleveland has talented receivers of Jadeveon Clowney and on offense, but all they are their star defensive end J.J. lacking is a playmaker at the Watt would be unstoppable quarterback position. Manziel’s for opposing offensive lines to quickness and elusiveness make block against. Espn NFL Analyst him a dangerous threat on to Todd McShay said, “Clowney’s be reckoned with on offense. production dipped this season Seattle Seahawks coach Pete and his motor ran hot and cold as Carroll praises Manziel for his the season went on, but he is the ability as a quarterback, despite Members of the Random Acts of Kindness Club most talented player in this class his lack of height. He said “Not man the club’s Compliand possesses a rare blend of everybody who is 5-11½ can ment Booth in the plaza. play quarterback. You’ve got to size, strength and athleticism.”

The Compliment Booth be a great football player.” allows students to line up St. Louis Rams: Greg and receive compliments Oakland Raiders: Blake from members of the Robinson, Offensive club. The Compliment Bortles, Quarterback, Tackle, Auburn University Booth appears several Offensive line was a major University of Central Florida times each semester durstruggle for the Rams this past The Raiders have suffered the ing First and Second season. With no protection last decade due to the lack of a Lunches. for their quarterback, it’s no good quarterback. If Manziel surprise that the Rams could and Bridgewater are both taken Photo Courtesy of Stacey Agadoni not score. The addition of Greg before Oakland picks, expect Robinson would give the Rams the Raiders to take Bortles. His to, ‘What do you need, what do better protection and allow the toughness and strong arm allow you need, what do you need?’” offense to drive down the field him to complete passes and score most drives.

The club has already shown and score more often. itself to be a great opportunity to lift the spirits of all students.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Students who are interested in Teddy Bridgewater, becoming involved with the Quarterback, University of Random Acts of Kindness Club Louisville can contact Nicolette Paglioni The Jaguars struggled last for information about future year, mainly at the quarterback meetings and events. position. Former Indianapolis act of kindness, however, has been the “compliment booth.”

During lunch, club members will offer words of admiration to students at no charge, which has proven to be an uplifting process to both the givers and receivers of the compliments.

Paglioni said that a Free Hug Day is also a possibility for the club’s future, so students should prepare themselves for even more warmth and positivity.

While some might view a club that performs small, positive gestures as somewhat unimportant, those involved would argue that it is quite the opposite. Sophomore and Vice President Conor Merriam said that the club “really emphasizes getting out there, doing something nice for someone, and not expecting a reward.” Paglioni agrees, and said that, “I think Random Acts of Kindness is important in reminding people that there’s more to life than, ‘What do I want, what do I want, what do I want?’ I want to change that

his year, the NFL draft will feature some of the best college players from the last decade. Many teams are vying to pick one of the best players in the draft, believing that they could make it to the Super Bowl with the addition of one of the exceptional players in the draft. With great defensive and offensive players in the draft, the first round will surely be a surprising one, due to the fact that no pick is guaranteed.

The first five picks in the draft are speculated to play out like this:

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S: Sports Athlete of the Month: Gaines LaHue

Braves Update

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Athlete of the Month: coming Molly Hardie today

by Victoria Hudson sports editor

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ww varsity girls track competes in the state meet (hugh mills stadium in albany, ga - events begin at different times)

next week

ww wednesday: varsity girls soccer at 1st round of state tournament (robertson field - 7:00 p.m.) ww thursday: varsity boys track at state championship (jefferson, ga - may 8-10)

this weekend

ww no events – enjoy your weekend!

Walker Abides By GHSA Recruiting Policy

by Bradley Moore reporter

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ecruiting for sports is a hot topic in the Upper School amongst students and faculty alike.

One of the most common complaints from Walker students is that it is the only school that does not recruit for its high school sports.

However, Walker is one of all of the high schools who are a part of the Georgia High School Association that do not recruit for sports.

The Georgia High School Association strictly prohibits coaches, staff, or any members of the faculty to reach out independently to a student for athletic purposes. The GHSA states that “members of the school’s Booster Club; alumni; par-

ents; guardians; or relatives of a student or former student; financial donors; or donors of time and effort” are prohibited from reaching out or recruiting any student-athlete. Although we, as the student body, see other private schools in our area with new athletes, the schools do not recruit at the high school level. Head Football Coach John East said, “There are deep and thorough investigations that the GHSA holds when questions are raised.” High school coaches do not take the risk of getting hit with recruiting allegations due to the harsh punishments to both the school and the coach.

Senior Justin Delbrook said, “I have played against several athletes that just somehow appear in the ninth grade.” Some schools get around GHSA policy by using feeder programs at the middle school level to talk to individual athletes that may have slight interest in a school. Parents or other members of the school may convince the middle school student to attend their high school on the basis of academic or athletic prestige.

The GHSA does not deal with anything below the ninth grade level, so students below the ninth grade are fair game.

featured photo Courtesy of Mike Mackey

enior Molly Hardie has participated in athletics all four years of her high school career. Currently, she is finding success with the JV Girls Lacrosse team and Varsity Track and Field. She has also been involved in Varsity Softball all four years and Varsity Girls Basketball in her freshman through junior years.

Hardie plays in the midfield for the Walker Lacrosse team and is regarded as one of the team’s top players. She regularly scores and is a key defensive asset. Her natural talent led Hardie to seek out a club level team outside of school. She is a member of the Hotlanta Travel Select Club that travels around the country, playing other select teams in a more competitive environment. Hardie’s success at Walker and with Hotlanta gained her the attention of college coaches. She has decided to attend Capital University in Bexley, Ohio just outside of Columbus.

Although she plans to play lacrosse in college, lacrosse is not the only sport in which Hardie has succeeded. She served as a starter on the Varsity Softball team all four years of high school and also started on the Varsity Girls Basketball team. She was a member of the Track and Field’s successful Women’s 4x1 team and throws shot put and discus. Clearly, Hardie has made her mark on Walker Athletics.

It is no wonder why she was voted “most athletic” in the senior class, something she says is a “huge honor.” She will graduate with 12 varsity letters. Hardie said, “Graduating with 12 letters is a big accomplishment and I’m proud of that.”

Off the court, track, and field, Hardie is a diligent student. Maintaining a grade point average of 90% or above for three years of high school and thus earning a spot on the Dean’s List for those three years is no small feat. She was also one of 18 Walker seniors selected to represent Walker as a scholar athlete for the Marietta Daily Journal. The criteria for this honor is to maintain an unadjusted grade point average of 3.5 or higher and letter in at least two varsity sports during one’s senior year. Hardie and 16 other seniors will be photographed on May 4 at the MDJ offices and recognized in an issue of the MDJ.

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The seniors on the Girls and Boys soccer teams pose with their banner on Senior Night.

The Wolverine TWSWolverine.com Athlete of the Month: Gaines LaHue

by Ryan Louis reporter

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hen it comes to sports at Walker, senior Gaines LaHue is usually a key player. LaHue has been at Walker since kindergarten. This year, LaHue won “Most Athletic” for his senior superlative, which fits well with his success as an athlete over the years.

Playing sports is in LaHue’s blood. LaHue is a four sport athlete, competing in basketball, football, baseball, and track at Walker. LaHue has been playing sports since he was four. It all started with baseball, then basketball, then football, and finally track. Out of all these sports, LaHue’s favorite is baseball. “I’ve played it the longest and I compete in it the best out of all the other sports” said LaHue.

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Braves Current Season Update

by Nicole Simon reporter

“Playing with Gaines on the varsity baseball team is great. He’s an amazing player and a natural born athlete,” said freshman Paul Grazzini.

It’s hard to play four sports and keep good grades, but LaHue has successfully juggled both. No matter what sport it is, Gaines can excel at it. “Gaines is an incredible athlete with a positive attitude.

Although he does not say much, he does his talking with his actions. He leads others by his example, as he is focused and serious about athletics.

He shows respect to authority and excels in the classroom. “I never have to worry that Gaines is doing the right thing,” said Varsity Baseball Head Coach Mike Brady.

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ith 139 games left in the season, the Braves currently have 13 wins and 7 losses. Their best batter for the season so far is first baseman Freddie Freeman with five homeruns and a batting average of .351. He has 12 strikeouts out of 75 total at bats. His on base percentage is .453 making him the most valuable player on the team. Staying in the middle is Second baseman Ramiro Pena with a .235 batting average. He, Freeman, and catcher Gerald Laird are the only ones to have been intentionally walked this season. Pitcher Alex Wood is currently the worst batter. His batting average is .000 and a .083 on base percentage.

So far the Braves have beaten the Brewers once and lost to them twice. The Mets

have beaten them three times out of the five. Both the Phillies and the Marlins have lost to the Braves once. Against the Nationals, the Braves lost all but their last game 1 to 2. When they played the Nationals again, they won all three games. The next time the Braves will be playing the Mets is on June 30.

Upcoming Games

»» Tonight vs. the San Francisco Giants (7:35 PM) »» Tomorrow vs. the San Francisco Giants (7:10 PM) »» Sunday vs. the San Francisco Giants (1:35 PM)

MLB Agrees on New Instant Replay System

by Connor Sudderth reporter

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nstant replay has been one of the most heavily debated topics in Major League Baseball during the last decade. Many MLB clubs have pushed for instant replay to expanded, collaborating with league officials and other teams to settle the pressing issue.

Owners and players have been petitioning for the instant replay system to be improved for many years and now their pleas have been answered. After months of discussion, Major League Baseball Players Association and the World Umpires Association have finally agreed on a new expanded instant replay system, which will be used during the 2014 season.

The new system of instant replay will allow for more play types to be reviewable.

Some instances that be will be reviewable now are home runs, ground rule doubles, and

fan interference. In addition, managers will also be allowed to use one challenge per game, as well as a second challenge if their first one overturned the umpires initial ruling.

This concept was adapted from the NFL and many other notions were also adapted from other major American sports. Atlanta Braves President John Schuerholz is a member of the replay committee that worked effortlessly to help get the new system passed.

Schuerholz said, “We believe this will be very impactful and very, very meaningful and useful for all sides. Managers will have a new tool that they’ll have to learn how to use.”

One of the most significant additions to the new MLB instant replay system is video replay in stadiums. Before, ballparks were not allowed to show instant replay of any play, regardless of whether or not it was reviewable or not. This former injunction

was unpopular by almost all MLB fans, including junior Allen P e re z .

Perez said, “I hated seeing a great play happen, and not being able to see the replay of it until I got home.”

The new system will now allow stadiums to be permitted to show replays of all plays, regardless of whether or not it was a reviewable call.

Junior Matt Wheeler said, “This will make going to games a better experience for fans like me.”

Baseball’s new instant replay will have a major impact on the sport, not just for the teams, but for the fans as well. Umpires’ rulings will

now be subject to review, allowing questionable calls to

ESPN be overturned or confirmed.

Months of discussion and collaboration will finally pay off, now that the MLB Players Association and the World Umpires Association agreed on the new expanded instant replay system.

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The Wolverine TWSWolverine.com

Senior Jimmy Busch Aims Sky High

Powderpuff Game Proves to be Far From Dainty

by Mary Grace Walsh editor-in-chief

by Stacey Agadoni reporter

alker seniors have rent the airplane and pay a set been known to attend fee for it, and if I need to buy fuel certain colleges due to I pay for it with my credit card their interest in playing a sport and they reimburse me. Some or being involved in the arts, places have a system where but senior Jimmy Busch will be you pay a cheaper amount for on his way to North Dakota for the plane and pay for your own their flight training program. fuel.”

Busch has travelled to Busch started working with planes about eight years ago, places all over the country. “I’ve taking after his uncle, a Delta been to Albuquerque, Denver, pilot. Busch said, “I went to North Dakota, Evansville, Hilton Head, Panama flight school for City, Nashville, a lesson and I’ve Memphis, been flying there Knoxville, and ever since.” most of the Busch cities around attends Superior our area,” Flight School, Busch said. His one of the best flights can last flight schools in up to four and a the Atlanta area. half hours, and “It’s big enough he admits that to support me they get boring in getting all without movies the licenses I or music. He’ll want to have,” usually listen Busch said. to movies he’s Although Busch downloaded has had his Courtesy of Jimmy Busch during his time pilot’s license since September 2013, there in the air. He prefers to fly out are different levels for pilots’ of airports with control towers licenses, and he wants to when he goes on longer crosscontinue moving up from country flights, but he can where he is now. Tests for technically fly in or out of any obtaining these licenses are very domestic airport. He usually flies extensive. Busch recently got his out of McCollum in Kennesaw. instrument rating that allows He has never used the Hartsfieldhim to fly through bad weather. Jackson airport because of its After this, he can obtain a license large size. Smaller airplanes can for flying privately for others, often mess up the scheduling of and from there he can obtain commercial flights. “It’s kind of the highest level of license for an unspoken rule that you don’t commercial flying, which could do that,” Busch said when asked take up to five years of training. about flying his small plane into

Busch would love to have Hartsfield-Jackson.

Next year, Busch will be his own plane, but, as anyone could imagine, they are very traveling all the way to North expensive. A basic, single engine Dakota for one of the best flight airplane costs about $350,000. programs in the country (UND This kind of plane would Aerospace). He said, “They’ve typically have four seats, but got more airplanes than anyone taking four people on even a full else and the best instructors.” tank of fuel would be impossible Busch admitted, “My dream is due to the maximum weight to be flying the biggest airplane limit. Busch said, “I technically I can fly.”

n April 25th, the Walker Upper School hosted its second “powderpuff” football game, which swapped the traditional gender roles of football and made for an inevitably entertaining night.

Each grade level hosted a team of girls who competed

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women would form their own football teams to make up for the loss of the traditional game.

During breaks, players would often fix their makeup using a powder puff, bringing forth the use of “powderpuff” to describe any traditionally male athletic event that is played by women.

Courtesy of Glenn Strother

against other grades in a flag football game at Robertson Field. To fit the spirit of the game, the cheer squads were made up of boisterous boys from each grade that provided the halftime entertainment.

The senior girls kicked off the game by beating the freshman with a score of 7-0, followed by another 7-0 victory of the juniors over the sophomores. The final match between the seniors and the juniors ended with the junior girls’ triumphant win, defeating the seniors 7-0. The seniors’ cheerleading team, however, took the top prize in the spirit contest thanks to their lively dance moves and added special effects. To finish off the evening, students were treated to a showing of “The Avengers” on the football field to incorporate the Upper School’s yearly “Screen on the Green.”

The powderpuff tradition began around the 1930s or 1940s at various colleges. In some cases, the schools had cancelled homecoming activities due to World War II, so groups of

Sophomore Barrett Kulik, member of the Student Activities Union, said that his favorite aspects of the event are the “competition between the students and the excitement of the whole day, from the carnival to powderpuff to Screen on the Green,” along with the fact that “both parents and students loved it.” Junior Shannon Keegan, a past participant in the event, said that she enjoyed the opportunity to “hang out with some awesome girls and work as a team with them” in the 2013 game. Keegan also commended the team building factor of powderpuff, saying that it “clearly affected the way we played, as we consistently worked together.” Junior Erin Leavell, who also played in last year’s game, said “the rivalry between the grades was a really fun thing to be a part of.”