The Wolverine Volume XVI Issue 2

November 2014

Volume XVI | Issue 2

The Wolverine

Athlete of the Month: Haley Timbrook - Page 10

INSIDE snapshot | 2

lifestyle | 6-9, 11-12

news | 2-5, 12

sports | 10-11

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The Wolverine TWSWolverine.com

Welcome to The Wolverine.

Journalism Adviser Ms. Kaitlyn Ranney

2013-2014 Staff Editor-In-Chief: Alex Brack, ‘15 Layout Editor: Nicole Simon, ‘17 Assistant Editors: Ally Chebuhar, ‘17 Managing Editors: Connor Sudderth, ‘15 Stacey Agadoni, ‘15 Reporters: Alex Brack, ‘15 Allen Perez, ‘15 Brooke Warner, ‘15 Connor Sudderth, ‘15 Jonathan Hsu, ‘15 Stacey Agadoni, ‘15 Elizabeth Ouellette, ‘16 Ally Chebuhar, ‘17 Nicole Simon, ‘17

Snapshot: December

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

week of 12/1 Monday (12-1-14): ◊◊ Secret Shop (8:00 A.M to 8:00 P.M in the Coca Cola Auditorium) ◊◊ Mandarin Chinese (2:45 to 3:45) ◊◊ MS Girls Basketball A Team vs. North Cobb Christian (4:00 to 5:15) ◊◊ MS Girls Basketball B team at North Cobb Christian (4:00 to 5:15) ◊◊ MS Boys Basketball A Team vs. North Cobb Christian (5:15 to 6:30) ◊◊ MS Boys Basketball B Team at North Cobb Christian (5:15 to 6:30)

next week

◊◊ Varsity Girls Basketball vs. Whitefield (5:30 to 7:00) (12-9-14) ◊◊ Varsity Boys Basketball vs. Whitefield (7:00 to 8:30) (12-9-14) ◊◊ Varsity Wrestling at Mount Pisgah (4:30) (1210-14) ◊◊ Herff Jones Junior Class Ring Delivery (7:30 to 8:00 A.M) (12-10-14)

next month

◊◊ Beginning of Semester Two ◊◊ US Parent Council Meeting ◊◊ US Drama Set Construction ◊◊ Pre-College Planning Night

featured photo

All staff may be reached via email at firstname.lastname@thewalkerschool. org

Cover Photo

Dean of Students Ira Dawson helps High School students load thousands of cans to help feed those in need at the Salvation Army.

Photo: Elizabeth Ouellette

The canned food drive, dedicated to helping feed those in need, was a complete success with thousands of cans colPhoto Courtesy of The Wolverine offers free advertising to lected from all grades. They filled the pod up and sent it off.

Elizabeth Ouellette eligible businesses. For more informa- Thanks to everyone who brought cans in! tion, visit TWSWolverine.com/Advertising. he Wolverine, founded in 1999, is the newspaper of The Walker School. The Wol-

Advertising

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.

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verine 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.

Contact | E: wolverineemail@twswolverine.com | P: (770) 427-2689 ext. 8507 | W: TWSWolverine.com/contact

November 2014 3

Upper School Digs Powderpuff Volleyball

by Alex Brack editor-in-chief

by Brooke Warner reporter

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he Student Service Organization has amped up Relay for Life this year with a new event on Friday December 5 in Coles Gym to raise awareness and funds for cancer research: powderpuff volleyball.

As most know from Walker›s annual powderpuff football game, the term signifies that one gender plays a sport traditionally reserved for the other. Normal players of the sport become coaches and cheerleaders. For the first time ever, Walker‘s boys will step onto the volleyball court (sans spandex, of course) for an epic battle between the grades of serving, bumping, and spiking.

Each team is composed of eight to ten boys, with two coaches from the Varsity Volleyball team. The players were chosen on a first comefirst serve basis, or with tryouts if enough boys were interested.

The games will be best two out of three, with each set comprised of 20 points. The seniors play the freshman at 6 p.m. followed by the sophomores versus the juniors at 6:30 p.m., then the winners go head to head for the championship at 7 p.m. Senior coach Sasha Fazylov said,

The champions will then be challenged by a teacher team at 7:30 p.m., composed of teachers like Meghan Stauts, Katherine Harrison, Kaitlyn Ranney, Matt Eisenman, Rob Holman, Roger Merriam, Brian Surkan, Bryce Brickhouse, Jamie Rubens, and Will Forteith (maybe)

Tickets to the game are $3 for students and $5 for adults.

SSO is also selling purple t-shirts that picture a volleyball player on the back for $15. If you buy a t-shirt, you get into the event for free. There will be a concession stand open as well, run by volunteers and SSO officers and representatives, with items for sale like candy and drinks.

All proceeds from the shirts, tickets, and concessions go to the American Cancer Society. ”We‘re hoping to beat our record from last year of $3600,” said SSO faculty sponsor Malanda Murchison.

According to the American Cancer Society, more than one million people in the United States get cancer every year. Most people know or will know someone in their lifetime affected by the disease. Relay For Life is one of American Cancer Society›s most popular events, and it raises more than $400 million worldwide per year for research. Walker participates in the fight against cancer with the relay on May 2, and now with powderpuff volleyball. As SSO president Haley Timbrook said, ”Cancer is not our game.”

A Front (R) and Back (L) view of the Relay for life T-Shirt

Photo Courtesy of Haley Timebrook

“

I’m really excited to watch our boys kick some butt and smash some faces.” ‘

Guided Scientific Research Integrates Experiments into Walker Community

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hroughout the hallways of the Upper School, many students have witnessed the various studies being performed by the students of Guided Scientific Research.

Guided Scientific Research – or GSR – is a class headed by Upper School Science Department Chair, Emily Adams. In GSR, students spend a semester diligently working on a scientific experiment of their choice, which will eventually be entered into a national science competition.

Guided Scientific Research was started in 2010 by science teachers Denice Esterly and Adams. “Our goal was to provide an advanced research course to seniors who have an exceptional interest in the sciences and who have performed with distinction in their previous science classes,” said Adams.

On June 30, seven current Walker seniors graduated from a rigorous internship at the Centers for Disease Control. Among the interns were seniors Leigh Norsworthy, Easton Howard, Chantal Sharp, Brittain Pinkston, Reilly Johnson, Sarah Condon, and Courtney Lewis. During their month-long internship, the seniors worked in five various divisions of the CDC.

Howard worked in the Environmental Public Health Tracking Network, where he conducted research into the levels of carbon monoxide and the potential hazards that it holds. “I really enjoyed my time as an intern at the CDC and now as a student in GSR. As someone who want’s to someday enter the medical field, I have found GSR to be a great introduction into my future, ” said Howard.

Norsworthy and Pinkston worked at the Agent for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.

There the two seniors conducted and wrote Toxicological profiles in order to raise public awareness of the dangers of toxic substances and to provide proper instructions on safely measures.

Now, Norsworthy is researching to find a correlation between two mutations in the Filaggrin gene and the severity of eczema.

GSR and the CDC internship has provided Norsworthy with an experience she will never forget.

“I had an incredible time interning at the CDC. My mentor, Jona, was amazing. I had fun working with Brittain on a toxicology app that the CDC will be releasing soon,” said Norsworthy.

Condon‘s experiment also raised a lot of excitement among the Walker community. Condon had several students periodically rub a substance called GloGerm on their hands. Everyone saw as Condon and her helpers walked throughout the school with ultraviolet flashlights, examining the degree to which her substance had spread. This experiment was inspired by her time spent studying public health at the CDC.

“It is not easy, and requires patience, perseverance in the face of the failure of an experiment, comfort with the unknown, and a willingness to reach out to subject matter experts,” said Adams.

The Guided Scientific Research class is highly selective and will challenge students both inside and outside of the classroom.

However, GSR does a superior job of preparing students for scientific research in college and beyond. It is an experience like no other and will provide students with opportunities unique to The Walker School.

For more information, please contact Emily Adams.

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The Wolverine TWSWolverine.com

3D Printers Bring New Opportunities to the Technology Department

by Jonathan Hsu reporter

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D printers have been around for nearly three decades, but recently, people are taking notice as the printers become more affordable to the typical consumer. When it was first introduced, 3D printers had a substantial price tag, but now, the price can range from $100 to a couple thousand dollars for a fully functional 3D printer.

Walker has two 3D printers, and it is used in several technology classes such as Robotics and Technology in the Modern World. One of the printers was built by a former student, but currently, Junior Harris Duling is one of the few students who understand how to operate the machine, and he uses it to troubleshoot problems so it works properly when a class needs it. Duling said, “The 3D printer at Walker is the next step for engineering and computer classes to incorporate something from the digital world into the physical one.”

Currently, the printers are used for teaching purposes, but in the near future, they could be used to produce many objects useful in the classroom. Senior Ian Resmondo said, “The 3D printer has the potential to help the school in many ways because the machine can make almost everything.”

3D printing uses a process called additive manufacturing which uses successive layers of a material to produce a model.

This material is usually plastic since it is easier to model with, and it is cheaper than alternative

materials. The 3D design is typically made on a modeling software, and it is sent to the printer. The printer takes the design and slowly builds up one layer at a time from the bottomup. Each layer sticks together to form a solid object.

Senior Isaac Steinway said, “The 3D printer is a huge part of the age of technology.

It allows the average person to look online to find an object for his or her project and create it right there in their home with little cost and time.” The 3D printers at school can create relatively small items such as a part for a robot, but more expensive 3D printers can build items such as a bike, shoe, or car.

Either way, the process is slow, and it can take hours to days to finish a product. For example, a teacup takes about an hour to create, and the first 3D printed car took 44 hours to make. In comparison, an actual car takes around 17 hours to build around 5, 000 complex parts; the 3D printed car has 49 parts. 3D printers have not replaced mass production in factories. The 3D printer is still in developmental stages, and soon, it can become more efficient.

At the moment, people are fascinated by the technology because it will bring new opportunities. In the future, people can print anything in their home. For instance, if a door knob breaks, the 3D printer will build another door knob.

The ideas are endless, and the 3D printer has no limitations.

New Faculty Members Learn the Ropes

by Stacey Agadoni managing editor

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or the most part, students in the Upper School know the faculty members well, but what about the newest of the bunch? To allow the rest of us to get to know new teachers better, some of the faculty members who have joined this year commented on how they feel about their new environment and how well they have adjusted so far.

Rebecca Pierce is the school’s new College Counseling Coordinator, having spent the last ten years at The Weber School with English and college counseling positions.

Pierce describes her initial view of the Walker environment as being “fun, friendly, and festive,” and her feelings have stayed the same. “ I especially enjoy the conversations with the students and getting to know everyone,” she said. Although she is used to her new routine for the most part, Pierce said she is still “getting used to the ‘Hoopla’ atmosphere in the office on a daily basis.”

With experience in several different learning environments, one being a “school in Massachusetts that is very similar to Walker,” Upper School Learning Specialist Danielle Bartone is adjusting well to her new groove. “I love that I am able to work with Walker students in a one-onone setting,” she said. Although Bartone had a hard time with

Dr. Nate <Brady

Danielle Bartone>

Photo Courtesy of Jonathan Hsu

the rotating schedule at first, she said she sees its benefits now that she is used to it.

Additionally, Bartone said she is excited to continue meeting new students and to “get to know them and their families.”

Upper School Physics teacher Nate Brady came to Walker this year after six years of assistant teaching at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Brady said he felt from the beginning that Walker has a “great community,” and has enjoyed getting to know both students and other faculty members. Brady also likes that he has the “the opportunity to teach what [he loves] in a fun way to students excited about learning.” In terms of getting used to the new routine, Brady said he has adjusted “about 80 percent.”

Marion Kenny now teaches Social Studies in the Upper School after teaching at North Springs Charter High School. Upon her arrival at Walker, Kenny saw it as an “amazing school with a very supportive and welcoming faculty and staff.” Based on her experience for the last few months, Kenny said, “I love working in an environment where there is such a positive energy.” Like most who are new to the school, she said it took some time for her to get the hang of the rotating schedule, but she now enjoys it.

Marion <Kenny

Rebecca Pierce>

Photo Courtesy of Duane Stork Photography

November 2014 5 Freshmen Bring More Talent to the High School

by Nicole Simon layout editor

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he smart new group of freshmen brought some awesome, exciting new talents and hobbies to High School. These new faces bring not only their intelligence, but also other talents in which most people may not know.

Scuba diving, wakeboarding, Dubstep dancing, and rugby playing are some of the activities new to the Walker Upper School.

Elizabeth Olson has been scuba diving since she was 10 years old. She has gone to the Bahamas and swam with sharks, and dove in the Florida keys and other quarries. She said diving is exciting and that

she likes being in charge of her own safety from the moment she is the water, and being able to explore underwater is a great experience. Her brother and grandfather were the first ones in her family to decide to try scuba diving out, then all of her family joined in, and she has been diving ever since. She said, “I practice my skills at the dive shop on Sandy Plains Road,” and she said that it is not hard to find time to dive, because there is no required schedule to practice.

Jay Smalley brought awe and wonder during the freshmen Homecoming walkout dance as he showed his amazing talent of

break-dancing. He said, “I have always been fascinated in the art of dance, and I would just sit and wonder if I could pull that off.” Crowds, abandoned parks, and the gym are places where you can see him practicing. He discovered Dubstep dancing from watching videos by YouTuber Marquese Scott. Since then, he has been dancing and has stuck with it. He uses it as an emotional outlet, and as an escape from the world. He wants to become good enough to make his own music and dancing style.

Presley Nation, another freshman, is involved in rugby.

She started playing this tough

sport three years ago while at a summer camp. She has not stopped playing since and practices in her backyard.

Nation uses rugby as a way for her to relieve stress from a bad day.

Every single person in the Walker School has their own special talents, and we all hope to see them. All of the freshmen bring their own special talent to the Walker Upper School, and hopefully we will get to see them shine throughout their career in high school.

Walker Says Goodbye to Gary Blohm

by Allen Perez reporter

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hose who have never met Head Athletic Director Gary Blohm are really missing out. Coach Blohm is a staple of Walker’s tradition throughout the years, and has always been there for the students every step of the way.

The main news about Coach Blohm is that he is stepping down as the athletic director after this school year is over, but is not leaving the school for good. Coach Blohm is still going to be coaching the Varsity Boys Soccer team for years to come, and this is really what he wanted to do from the beginning. Coach Blohm said, “The athletic director position here at Walker has really evolved since the day I first got here, and it has become a lot more administrative than what it used to be.”

Coach Blohm also is a P.E coach and fitness teacher, and that is also something he

really seems to enjoy. Coach Blohm said, “My passion is really with the kids, and I don’t want to be confined to a small room when I could be out competing and interacting with those kids every day. These are the little things that I have come to value in life, and being with the kids makes me most happy.”

“

My passion is really with the kids, and I don’t want to be confined to a small room when I could be out competing and interacting with those kids every day.

These are the little things that I have come to value in life, and being with the kids makes me most happy.”

There is no doubt that the kids have really seemed to like Coach Blohm, and he makes a very positive impact every time

he steps foot on campus. Senior soccer and cross country star Parker Smith said, “I love Coach Blohm; he is a great coach, but he is also a really great person. I am glad he is not leaving because he really does mean a lot to the Walker Soccer program, but also the school in general.” Coach Blohm will be more involved with the students starting next year and he will start to enjoy what Walker really has to offer as both a school and a community.

No goodbye is necessary for Coach Blohm, and the students returning next year will definitely see Coach Blohm a good amount. For those who have not met Coach Blohm, reach out to him a little bit and just say hello. Coach Blohm has been at Walker for 33 years now, but many more years are yet to come. While it may be the end of one era, it is the beginning of another for the legend at Walker known as Coach Blohm.

Photo Courtesy of Elizabeth Ouellette

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The Wolverine TWSWolverine.com

Walkers Most Eligible......

Bachelor

by Elizabeth Ouellette reporter

Thomas Rath – 9th

River Smith – 10th

Spencer Palladino – 11th

Barrett Ohman – 12th

Watch out girls, because freshman football and soccer star, Thomas Rath is single.

Thomas is a Walker Lifer and is enjoying his first year in the Upper School. Thomas is a member of the football team at Walker and is eagerly waiting for soccer season to begin in the spring. His favorite thing about Walker is the amount of different class choices available to take.

Thomas has one brother and sister and is your ideal down-toearth, smart, athletic bachelor.

Girls, get excited because Thomas’s ideal first date would be taking you out on a date to Six Flags. If he could visit anywhere in the world, it would be Hawaii because he loves the beach – Aloha! One thing most of you may not know about Thomas – he wears glasses and is totally capable of rocking the “scholarly look.” Thomas is not very picky when it comes to girls; he is simply looking for a nice girl who is able to hold a conversation. Thomas Rath is definitely someone to keep your eye on!

Pets: Two Dogs Favorite TV Show: Modern Family College Plans: Undecided Celebrity Crush: Chanel West Coast

Sophomore River Smith is your ideal smart and athletic bachelor, ladies! As a Walker Lifer, he knows his way around the school pretty well. One of his favorite things about this school happens to be the soccer program. So if you’re looking for a soccer player, River might just be the one for you. He is an extremely talented player and plays for the soccer club, GA United. He has one older brother, Parker Smith, a senior at Walker. And girls, I hope you like roller coasters because River’s ideal first date includes taking a girl to Six Flags.

Something most of you may not know about him? He can do a cartwheel! Crazy, right? River is simply enjoying his sophomore year and focusing on school and soccer. River is looking for a girl with a wonderful personality and a good sense of humor, so if you can make him laugh you have a good shot at scoring this awesome bachelor!

Pets: Two dogs Ideal Vacation: England to watch soccer College Plans: Undecided Celebrity Crush: Kaley Cuoco

Ladies, better keep Spencer Palladino in mind, because this Vice President of the junior class, Homecoming Prince, and stellar athlete is single! Spencer has been at Walker since the 5th grade, and plays basketball, gold, and baseball. He is involved in Latin Club and student leadership here at Walker. Spencer’s favorite thing about Walker is the family environment it provides. Fun fact? All of Spencer’s clothes are black; you won’t catch him wearing any other colors.

Spencer is the middle child in the family; he has two brothers and a dad that looks like Tom Cruise. He enjoys San Diego to visit family and because of the perfect weather. He is on the lookout for a girl with good looks and who plays sports. His ideal first date includes going mini golfing. If you’re looking to be impressed, Spencer can spin a basketball on his fingers and play the trombone. Keep an eye out for Spencer in the halls, because you can always catch this bachelor with a smile!

Pets: Cat (Yogi) and One Dog Favorite TV Show: South Park College Plans: Northwestern to study Sports Broadcasting Celebrity Crush: Kate Upton

Senior Barrett Ohman your ideal bachelor with his laidback personality and great sense of humor. Barrett has been at Walker since freshman year; he previously attended Pine Mountain Middle School and is currently involved in weightlifting. He is the youngest of four (two brothers and one sister). Barrett’s favorite thing about Walker is free period so he can relax, get work done and on some days, go out to lunch with his friends.

One thing most of you may not know about Barrett is that he has six nieces and nephews and he loves being an uncle. When it comes to girls, he is looking for someone who is smart and has a good personality. His ideal date includes the classic dinner and a movie. For any of you who find that unexciting, Barrett’s charm is sure to make up for it.

Barrett’s dream vacation would be Mexico because of the great atmosphere. So girls, if you’re looking for a great guy to talk to, Barrett is definitely someone to have in mind.

Special Talents: Singing Favorite TV Show: Breaking Bad College Plans: Undecided, Major in Business Celebrity Crush: Angelina Jolie

Photos Courtesy of Elizabeth Ouellette

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November 2014 7 Walkers Most Eligible......

Bachelorette

by Elizabeth Ouellette reporter

Alex Rodriquez – 9th

Kendall Baker – 10th

Erin Green – 11th

Sofia Narvaez - 12th

Get ready boys because, freshman volleyball player, Alex Rodriguez is single again.

Alex has been at Walker since the 6th grade and plays on the Walker Varsity Volleyball team.

Alex has one brother and sister and is enjoying her first year in high school. Her favorite thing about Walker is going to the Friday night football games with her friends. If she could visit any place in the world she would go to Puerto Rico because she loves the beach. When it comes to boys, Alex looks for a guy who is not a serious person, can make her laugh, and plays football. If you’re looking to score a date with this bachelorette, her ideal first date is going to the fair or to Six Flags. One thing you may not know about Alex?

“I can’t roll my R’s, even though I am Puerto Rican.” Alex is sweet, athletic, and gorgeous; a perfect combination! So keep on the lookout in the hallways for her because she is single and ready to mingle!

Pets: 1 Dog, 2 Cats Favorite TV Show: Orange is the New Black College Plans: UGA to study Pediatrics Celebrity Crush: Zac Efron

Smart, talented, gorgeous, athletic, blonde, soccer player?

If that description interests you, sophomore Kendall Baker might be your dream bachelorette. Kendall is a lifer at Walker and is involved in soccer, Diversity Club and Latin Club. Kendall plays Region 3 Premier League and national League at the soccer club, NASA. She is a scholar in the classroom as well. Kendall has 2 siblings, one twin and a younger brother. Kendall loves her friends and they happen to be her favorite thing about Walker. Kendall isn’t looking for anything extravagant for a first date; she would simply enjoy a movie and a picnic. She looks for a guy with a great personality and good looks. Most of you may not know that Kendall hates odd numbers; she finds them very… odd.

If she could visit anywhere in the world it would Australia because she loves Australian accents and beaches. Kendall is your smart and athletic bachelorette, definitely a winning combo. Be on the lookout guys!

Pets: One Dog Special Talents: Soccer, Cartwheels College Plans: UGA Celebrity Crush: Channing Tatum

Boys, if you’re looking for a cheerleader with class, style, and beauty, Erin Green is the girl for you. She is single and looking for love. Erin has been at Walker since the 5th grade and is a football cheerleader. Erin is involved in French Club, so she can speak to you in a romance language if necessary. Erin is 16 and has one older sister who previously attended Walker as well. Erin’s favorite thing about Walker is the Sage cookies, so if you’re looking to impress her, sneak her an extra cookie at lunch. Once you have her attention, you can take her out on her ideal first date, go-carting and a nice dinner. Most of you may not know that Erin is really big into cop shows and she would like visit Tahiti someday because she loves the beach. When it comes to looking for love, Erin knows exactly what she’s looking for. She would prefer a guy who is funny, taller than her (at least 6-foot), witty, goodlooking, and an athlete (preferably football). Erin Green is definitely someone to keep on your radar!

Talents: “Does looking fabulous count?”

Pets: Two dogs College Pans: UGA to study Broadcast Journalism Celebrity Crush: Dave Franco

Boys, senior Sofia Narvaez is your classic funny, sweet and pretty bachelorette. Shenot only excels in the classroom, but also outside of school in sports and clubs. Sofia has been at Walker since the 8th grade and has played Volleyball since freshman year. She is involved in French Club, Mosaic and Medical club. She is the oldest sibling and has two younger step brothers. Her favorite thing about Walker is Senior Break because of the delicious food and time spent with her friends. Sophia looks for a guy who can make her laugh, make her feel comfortable and has a great personality and her ideal first date includes mini golfing. Something most of you may not know that she is obsessed with Enrique Iglesias because he is “so attractive.” If she could visit anywhere in the world she would visit the south of France because of the beautiful landscape and great weather. Boys, she is your ideal bachelorette, so make sure too keep her in mind if you’re looking for a great girl!

Pets: Two Dogs Favorite TV Show: Boys Meets World/90210 College Plans: University of Florida to study Public Relations Celebrity Crush: Brad Pitt and Micahel Ealy

Photos Courtesy of Elizabeth Ouellette

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The Wolverine TWSWolverine.com Dear Daisy

Dear Daisy,

Dear Daisy,

I have always loved the idea of romance and the idea of love but I am having trouble finding that connection or spark here. Where can I go to meet people and find that special someone? And if I find them, how do I know?

Signed, The Lonely Romantic

I am having trouble finding time to study when I spend 3 hours a day playing sports after school. Teachers are starting to send home lots of homework and assign lots of tests. I can’t find time to do my homework or study for tests and get enough sleep every night, so it is getting more tempting to cheat in class. Any advice on what I should do?

Signed, Exhausted Athlete

Dear Lonely Romantic,

Ah, young love. Many strive for it, but it’s not always easy to find. No need to worry, though; you have plenty of possibilities when it comes to finding that special someone. Try meeting people at the mall, sporting events at other schools, parties, concerts, or anywhere else you like to spend your time outside of school. You also might want to try joining an extracurricular activity or class where, bonus: you’ll find someone with a shared interest! And if all else fails, more and more people are having luck making connections online or through apps these days (just be careful!). But remember, just because you haven’t found that person here doesn’t mean you should give it up entirely. Love can pop up when you least expect it!

As for knowing if you’ve found the one, there’s not much I can tell you other than to trust your gut. Keep an open mind, but at the same time, don’t settle for someone who lacks an important quality. As cliché as it sounds, those butterflies in your stomach are huge giveaway for whether or not you’ve found your better half. Best of luck!

Dear Exhausted Athlete,

There are plenty of other students struggling with this dilemma, and I know how hard it is to keep up with so many important things at once. However, as tough as it may be, cheating is never the solution! If you have a study hall or free period during the day, take full advantage of it. The long lunch period is also a good time to catch up on homework; try to resist the urge to spend the whole time goofing around with your friends. When you do get around to studying, efficiency is key. Make sure you find a quiet, well-lit area to study, and rid yourself of any distractions (Twitter can wait!). It’s also important that you take breaks to keep your mind focused (we’re talking a five-minute snack break, though, not an hour-long Netflix session!). Hopefully, you’ll have everything done soon enough to give you that crucial and well-deserved good night’s sleep.

The most important thing for you to remember, however, is to not stress yourself out! That’s what causes students to snap from the pressure, which unfortunately makes them feel inclined to cheat. School is definitely overwhelming sometimes, but as long as you keep thinking positively and trusting yourself to succeed, you’ll get through those seemingly endless workloads much easier.

Faculty and Students Give Thanks for Traditions

by Nicole Simon layout editor

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hanksgiving is the season for being with your family and friends. You spend your day with the people closest to you and give thanks for everything you have; food, shelter, friends, family and everything else in your life. Most people love Thanksgiving, and look forward to spending their time with family, friends, eating turkey, watching football or the Macy’s day parade, and trying to do some exercise hoping the food won’t digest. Walker is not an exception.

Upper School English teacher Kate McConnaughey is going out to dinner for Thanksgiving this year. Middle School teacher Mike Mackey

said, “Our whole family does Black Friday. Traditionally the girls go their separate way and the guys go to guy places to shop. Then we meet somewhere for lunch.” Upper School Dean of Students Ira Dawson is excited to be going to Destin, Florida and will plan to get the same deep dish pizza he gets every year from the same pizzeria.

Middle School Spanish and German teacher Ayren Selzer is going up to Indiana to be with his family, while Middle School Administrative Assistant Terri Woods will be with her family.

Middle School Counselor Jennifer Vaughan said this year she and her parents will be going out for dinner this year,

because she does not cook, but for other past years she would join her sisters and their families for a nice Thanksgiving dinner.

Upper School Art teacher Bob Petersen will be going to Hilton Head to play flag football on the beach, and to do the early Turkey Trot, a 5k- 10k run or walk, to get ready for their turkey feast.

Upper School Registrar Newton McCurdy will get his son and daughter home from college, and they will all go down to Virginia Beach. Middle School Custodian Isaac Mitchell said he will “probably just go visit a friend.”

Upper School Sophomores Nick Robinson, Lawson Ashby, Aubrey

Izurietia, Nick LaDue, and Lorenzo Hernandez will all be watching the Thanksgiving football game while eating.

Jack Jones will be watching and playing football. Sophomores Ali and Hannah Manning will be baking and enjoying lots of pies. Senior Marika Papadopoulos said she will be enjoying a lot of Greek food with her huge Greek family.

Senior George Litchfield said he will be spending quality time in his family’s mountain house. Sophomore Elisa Farrell was happy to say she will be eating dinner with her cousin Bobby Straub and his family.

November 2014 9 A Day in the Life of a Lower Schooler

by Alex Brack editor-in-chief

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alking through the hallways of the Lower School is an experience which brings back many fond and simple memories. The Walker Lower School is a fun and colorful building. With student artwork hung along the hallways and a loving staff, it is no wonder that so many students are always smiling as they walk along to their next class.

A typical day in the Lower School is nothing short of exuberant. Throughout the course of the school day, students minds are challenged as they learn in a fun filled environment.

As many Upper School students remember, learning is the utmost of importance. Each grade offers different curriculum to students which usually varies upon

difficulty. This eliminates the typical cookie-cutter education that is found in public school. It offers students a unique and fun educational experience which will prepare them for the rigor of middle school.

Fifth grader Addison Wills said, “I am really excited about all the freedom that I will get in Middle School. I also look forward to having a schedule different from other people.”

However, Lower School is not all about studying. The teachers know that students will not accomplish anything unless they have time to burn off some energy. So, there are mental breaks like PE, recess, and snack-time.

A relatively new addition to the Lower School is the heavy integration of technology into both

the students curriculum and the classroom. To many Upper School students, the thought of first graders using iPads during class is shocking. Many Upper School students recall being stunned by the “awesome” pixilated graphics of the game Oregon Trail.

However, technology has grown significantly in the past few years alone. The teachers of the Lower School know that technology is becoming a very important part of everyday life. They know that the Lower Schoolers will have an edge on life if they are introduced to technology early on.

Additionally, the Lower School community makes sure to integrate themselves into life with the Middle and even Upper School.

The Middle School football team is

always happy to welcome Lower School students onto their roster.

The AB Calculus class headed by Upper School Math Department Chair Jean Bayer is always happy to spend a few days throughout the year to journey to the Lower School and tutor students in math.

Grades aside, all of the students in the Lower School experience an educational journey like no other. The warmhearted and dedicated faculty work hard to provide students with a quality education that prepares them for their future.

However, at the end of the day, the Lower School faculty only have one important goal: to make students excited to come to school every day.

Man on the Street Isabel Schmieta, ‘17

“A really nice, new laptop.”

Geoff Periard, Faculty

“Free stuff.”

Justin Koh, ‘16

What item would you trample someone for “A calculator and a on Black Friday?

Math Textbook“ Photos Courtesy of Alex Brack, Elizabeth Ouelette and Nicole Simon

Olivia Craig, ‘16

“I don’t know if I would trample anyone on Black Friday, but a TV would be nice.”

Lauren Brock, ‘16

“A new pair of cleats “

Mallory Schneiderman, ‘16

“A pair of Free Runs”

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The Wolverine TWSWolverine.com

The Real Twelfth Man: Athletic Trainers Keep Walker Athletes Safe

by Brooke Warner reporter

by Connor Sudderth managing editor with parents and teachers. State mandates that the athlete has to sit out until cleared. “If you send a child back too soon, effects can be devastating,” said Diop.

For other injuries, such as an ankle sprain, the athletic trainer will first evaluate the injury, determine whether or not to refer the athlete to another doctor, and suggest RICE, a common acronym for rest, ice, compress, elevate. “The beauty of Walker,” Diop added, “is that we can follow the injury from beginning to end.” Some athletes must go through rehabilitation.

This usually consists of exercises to increase range of motion and strength or reduce inflammation.

The trainers can be found on all athletic venues. As a gift from the Walker Backers, the program has recently received a golf cart to help transport equipment.

Student trainers also have the opportunity to join the athletic training crew. This year, senior Chantal Sharp has been helping out. “Since I want to go to medical school, the student trainer program has been a wonderful chance for me to get exposed to working with healthcare professionals and patients,” Sharp said. If you are interested in becoming a student trainer, you can visit Diop in her office at the bottom floor of the gym and discuss how to get started. If you meet all of the requirements, you can even get a Varsity letter for the job.

Photo Courtesy of Brooke Warner

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n any given day, there are students scattered around the athletic trainer’s room before they go off to practice or games. Their ailments range from a scrape to a fracture, but they all have one thing in common: they rely on Salina Diop, Lauren Brueck, and Robert Avila to address their injuries and get them back on the field.

Certified athletic trainer Salina Diop, ATC, MS, has been working at Walker for 13 years.

She graduated from Rowan University with a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Exercise Science, then went on to get a Master’s degree in Sports Medicine from Georgia State University.

Two others work with Diop: Robert Avila and Lauren Brueck. Avila came to Walker as a student trainer with Life University, a school in Marietta that provides the opportunity as an entry-level Masters degree program. He said that after working at Walker for several months, his favorite part is that the weeks are always eventful.

“We’re always seeing different players and different injuries.”

Brueck is a certified athletic trainer, working as a graduate assistant out of Georgia State University.

The most common injury the athletic trainers see?

Concussions. If an athlete comes in with a head injury, the best course of action is to monitor him/her and keep in contact

Athlete of the Month: Haley Timbrook

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alker Volleyball would not have been as successful this year without the leadership of senior Haley Timbrook. Timbrook helped lead Walker to a 28-7 record and a region title. She helped Walker win using her leadership skills and talent.

Timbrook believes that the key to success this season was a result from, “hard work and having fun attitudes.” Her favorite moment of the season came during the Mt. Paran region championship game. She had two key blocks that helped Walker rally and come back to beat their rivals. Timbrook said, “I was really in the moment and I just played to my fullest.

If there was one team that I hate the most, it’d be Mt. Paran. So when we were down, I never lost faith and we came back to beat Mt. Paran and win region.”

The team would go on to win the first round of state playoffs, beating Strong Rock. Their run toward state would come to an end however, losing to Calvary Day in the second round of playoffs. Timbrook, although not satisfied with the team’s end

result, believes that the season overall had been a success. She said, “Sure, we didn’t win it all, but we still accomplished some of our goal. We beat Mt. Paran, our rivals, and we were area champs. It was still a great season nonetheless.”

Senior Volleyball player Sofia Narvaez said, “Haley is a valuable player. She’s really talented and great teammate to have.” Timbrook believes that most of her success came from the support of the fans who showed up at the games. She said, “We really thrived when the football players came out to support us. It really helped a lot to see them cheering us on like we do for them during Friday nights.”

Walker Volleyball’s season was successful, and resulted from the hard work and leadership of Timbrook.

Her effort every game, and her attitude while playing makes her unlike any ordinary athlete.

Timbrook’s season is highlighted by many games, all of which she had a role in. Her dedication and commitment to the team has helped her be a major player for all of the years she has played Varsity Volleyball. The team will not only be losing a senior next year, but a fantastic player like Timbrook.

Photo Courtesy of Mike Mackey

November 2014 11

College Football’s First Year of Playoffs Draws Excitement

by Connor Sudderth managing editor

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s the end of the college football regular season draws near, the anticipation and excitement for the new playoff system is evident. Players, coaches, schools, and fans are all wondering how impactful the new system will be. With the BCS system now gone, a new era of college football has begun, changing the dynamics of the sport completely. Only four teams will make the playoffs, and every team is vying for one of these spots. But the speculation behind who these four teams will be still remains a question.

In order to get into the playoffs, teams cannot afford to make any costly mistakes

this late into the season. Even just one loss can take a team out of contention for the national championship, so every game matters. The fate of each team’s chances will ultimately be in the hands of the College Football Playoff Committee. Made up of 12 members, it is their job and responsibility to select the best four teams for the playoffs.

Senior Jonny Pfohl said, “It’s really an improvement from the BCS system because now instead just using statistics on computer, you actually get a actual answer from a real person.” Every Tuesday, the committee releases rankings for the playoffs up to that date.

As of November 11, Mississippi State, Florida State, Alabama, and Oregon are the four top teams, and the current frontrunners to be in the playoffs. While Florida State and Oregon are cited as having weak strength of schedules, Alabama and Mississippi State have two of the toughest schedules in the country. In an interview with ESPN, Playoff Committee Chairman and Arkansas Athletic Director Jeff Long believes that despite all the criticism Oregon has received, that they deserve the spot they have. Long said, “They have the Michigan State win, but they also, again, went on the road against UCLA and won, and a couple of wins that made their body of work, put

them a step ahead of (Alabama) at this point.” Senior Parker Smith said, “After last year’s national championship game, Florida State has shown that they can beat top SEC teams like Auburn. They deserve to be where they are, and I think they will absolutely make the playoffs.”

College football’s first season of playoffs looks to be both thrilling and dramatic. The intensity of the new playoffs adds to the current exciting football atmosphere and makes it better than before. The era of the new college football stars this year, and the impact of the new system still remains a major question.

Philips Arena, one will be sure to see many loyal fans considering Usher has a current residence in Atlanta. The concert will start with opening acts August Alsina and DJ Cassidy. Playing at Gwinnett Thursday December 11 is country artist Eric Church featuring Dwight Yoakam. Eric Church has released four records since signing with Capital records, and on his website, Church siad, “I really see this album as a game changer.”

It is changeling for Walker students to get homework and studying done on nights when they attend a concert. Hutchins said, “sometimes I don’t even do homework, but I usually plan ahead. I just went to a concert where I had two tests the next day and studied my flashcards in line.” Pop star Justin Timberlake will be at Gwinnett Center

Saturday December 20 at 8 pm, but finding inexpensive tickets will be nearly impossible. Of course, holiday concerts are also coming up in December. First is Star 94’s Jingle Jam at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre where, on Thursday December 8 at 7:30, The Script and Lindsay Stirling will be performing. Then Calvin Harris, T.I., Fall Out Boy, and Jessie J will be featured at the 96.1 Jingle Ball at Gwinnett Center.

The Concert Craze: What’s Next in Live Music for Atlanta

by Ally Chebuhar assistant editor

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ophomore concert-lover Lindsay Weinert has been to 14 concerts so far this year and has tickets for five more. Weinert said that it is “energizing to feel the bass in your chest.” Many fellow Walker high school students share her passion for concertgoing, and there are eight great concerts coming up in the month of December.

The Black Veil Brides will be at the Tabernacle Wednesday, December 3. They are an American rock band, formed in 2006, which will be on tour away from their home in Hollywood.

The group of five singers is led

by Andy Biersack. Hoodie Allen will also be at the Tabernacle but on December 5, with his “People Keep Talking” tour. In this independent rapper’s concert, Chiddy Bang and Taylor Bennett

will be featured. He is expected to be performing hit songs from the album like “Movie,” “People Keep Talking,” and “Dumb For You.” The Tabernacle offers general admission; sophomore Daryl Hutchins said, “I like the general admission concerts, standing and being in the mosh pit. Sometimes the singers will come out onto the crowd. It’s really cool and you’re able to dance more.”

Saturday December 6 at 7 pm Hunter Hayes, Dan and Shay, and The Railers will be at The Arena at Gwinnett Center in Duluth. Hayes is a 23-yearold country singer, songwriter, and heartthrob of teenage girls across the globe. Weinert said that “it’s fun to be with lot of people who like the same music.” At the Usher concert Tuesday December 9 at 7:30 in

For more information about concerts coming up in Atlanta, visit www.atlantaconcerts.net

Photo Courtesy of Daryl Hurtchins

November 2014 12 Netflix Changes Students’ Improved Middle Lives School Student Council

Takes Action

by Jonathan Hzu reporter

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Photo Courtesy of Google

etflix was founded in 1997 as a pay-per-rental model, and in 1999, it became a subscription-based program with 101, 000 subscribers paying $19.95/month. Today, the company has over 50 million subscribers using online streaming at a base price of $7.99/month.

At half the price of the original subscription, Netflix has become the corporation with the largest selection of TV shows and movies.

Therefore, a greater proportion of children and teenagers in school are able to spend money into the subscription.

Netflix may be a cheaper alternative to channels on Dish Network or DirecTV, and Netflix gives the viewers the control.

Senior Julia Alexander said, “I can watch Netflix whenever I want and wherever I want.” Instant streaming allows subscribers to watch episodes and movies through the internet without the additional process of shipping DVDs to a household. Streaming gives people access to all shows with a click of a button, and this type of accessibility can affect school and social life. Students may find themselves spending more time on Netflix than on homework.

Netflix gives you 15 seconds before the next episode begins, and during this time, people can either continue watching or wait till another time. A Netflix survey shows that 61% of their subscribers binge watch on a regular basis.

Binge-watching is defined as the practice of watching TV for an extended period of time, usually

between 2-6 episodes. This habit takes up a great deal of time, and binge-watching could potentially affect daily activities such as sleep and homework. Sophomore Lawson Ashby said, “Netflix is a way of life for some people, and many consider binge-watching a different experience from watching episodes individually.”

In many ways, Netflix, along with social media, removes “social” life.

Freshman Kyle Goldstein said, “You need to find the right balance between life and Netflix.”

Netflix has strived for convenience, and the easy accessibility has affected viewers in various ways. Some people watch Netflix in bed, and they “rest” while they watch. Studies have shown that Netflix cuts into the recommended eight hours of sleep, and this can affect a person physically, mentally, and emotionally. A lack of sleep typically leads to a lower performance in school and decreases energy to focus on tasks.

Inactivity combined with less sleep could increase obesity. Netflix has many negative consequences, but it can also be positive. Netflix provides stress relief for students after school, and it gives students a time to relax.

Netflix does not control subscribers to a limited amount of streaming, and thus, their customers are satisfied. Parents and teachers may not support Netflix, but ultimately, students decide what to do with their free time. Whether Netflix is positively or negatively viewed, the company has done its job correctly.

by Ally Chebuhar assistant editor

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The Middle School student council is updated and already making changes for the better around campus.

Prior to this year, teachers Cathy Hernandez and Jennifer Vaughn were the sponsors and teacher leaders of student council. But after Hernandez’s retirement, Brian Forshey, Rip Warren,

Photo Courtesy of Ally Chebuhar and Terri Woods have taken the reins. With Hank Manning as president and Peyton Ware as vice president, members of student council have become leaders in the Walker Middle School community.

Last year, student council did not run assemblies, but now student council has the job of planning and executing one assembly per month with fun activities. President Hank Manning said that student council is “trying to not give students a boring assembly, but a lively assembly that they can enjoy.” Student council’s goal, according to Manning, is to “make a student come out of assembly and think it was fun.” A typical assembly starts with the pledge and devotion, and if there is a community

service opportunity occurring at Walker, student council kicks it off. Student council promoted the canned food drive, one of their biggest projects, during the month of November. Coming up this December, they will start Toys for Tots.

Also started this year by Middle School student council is the sale of Bojangles’ biscuits at break. Manning said, “In student council this year, we are trying to be seen more often and be involved in more things and promote more school spirit. We are trying to get noticed and be the face of the Middle School.”

Student council representatives can be seen handing out both the chicken and Bo-Berry biscuits every other Tuesday. Vice President Ware said, “This year we are trying to be more visible so people can see what student council does.”

Now, instead of having two representatives, each advisory has one main representative and one alternate. If the representative cannot attend a meeting, the alternate will come in place of the rep and take notes for them.

The representatives in Middle School student council this year are Jessica Moore, Amelia Wetherington, Blair Elliot, Alyssa Anderson, Rania Washington, Kaileann Wetherington, Emma Womack, Sarahbeth McClure, Natalie Suto, Andrew Waibel, Willard Sussum, and Ahbi Piplani.

Vice President Ware said that this year “student council is more student-lead instead of the student council advisors. Its more of a group effort.” Manning and Ware are hopeful that more students will participate in events this year and continue to show enthusiasm and pride for their Middle School.