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Covid vaccine Emmet’s social table By: Evelyn Ealey for 12-15 As Fort Mill continues to grow, so does its wide variety of restaurants and dining options. With everything from poke bowls to seafood shacks, Fort Mill seems to have it all, Teens across the US now receive the Pfizer so what could it be missing? Tapas may not be the answer one was expecting, but a new vaccine. This is a step towards lowering the restaurant in town is putting an American spin on this Spanish classic. Emmet’s Social Table spread of Covid-19 even more. is a brand new restaurant in town that is shaking things up a bit by serving fun, bite-sized Photo courtesy of Google Images platters and tapas. By: Laura Torres Emmet’s Social Table was originally founded in Waxhaw, NC in 2018 and recently Throughout the pandemic, hope for normalcy to return has prevailed through a found its way into Fort Mill. Emmet’s gives guests a unique dining experience in the form of vaccine for the virus. Initially, priority was placed on the elderly and people with health American style tapas, which they call their “small plates.” In Spanish, tapa means “cover,” conditions that could be worsened from COVID-19. By May, all adults became eligible and many speculate that in past decades, these small pieces of food were used to cover one’s to receive the vaccine. drink to prevent bugs from flying into cups. However, in recent years, tapas have become Vaccines were initially only available for those age 16 and up, but trials for increasingly popular in various parts of the world and many American chefs have begun to those 12-15 year olds from Pfizer and 12-17 for Moderna and Johnson & Johnson began put their own flare on the Spanish classic. Tapas at Emmet’s feature items such as fried as early as January. Results from Pfizer’s trials show that the immune reaction in teens green tomatoes, french onion dip, smoked mac and cheese and so much more. Junior Kate and children is the same as or greater than in adults with the same dosage. Hollis is one of the newest employees at Emmet’s, and she says, “Everyone there [Emmet’s] Progress came when the Pfizer shots were authorized by the FDA to be is very sweet, and the atmosphere is always welcoming and positive.” administered to adolescents. Distribution was expected to begin as soon as the CDC The eatery is located in the Old Center Theatre in downtown Fort Mill at 100 Main officially recommended the vaccine for the age group and, depending on one’s state and Street. Former home to Southern Sugar, the Center Theatre has had a hard time keeping its vaccination site, teens could get their first dose the next day. Freshman Willa Clarke residents. To solve this issue, Emmet’s is investing in a new sign for the side of the building would get the vaccine “immediately,” she says. “It’s not like it’s gonna hurt me and I’d in order to draw in business. To accompany its new signage, the restaurant will also have a like to be protected.” patio for open-air dining in addition to its indoor seating. The restaurant is open for business The new age group for the vaccine comes with mixed emotions, from both every Sunday through Thursday 11:00AM to 9:00 PM and Friday and Saturday from parents and kids. Hesitation and opposition comes from people unsure of how the vaccine 11:30AM-10:00 PM. Emmet’s Social Table has already received amazing reviews from the will affect someone long-term, but organizations like the CDC hope to dissolve this community and is a great option if one is looking to try something new and unique! hesitation with information, such as how vaccines work and why it is important to get Fort Mill is adding to its growing restaurant scene, with Emmet's them. On the cdc.gov website, there are many informative pages that one can visit either Social Table opening in downtown. The eatery brings before or after vaccination. American-style tapas to the streets of Fort Mill. Officials hope the vaccines can change environments in places like schools for Photo courtesy of Evelyn Ealey the better while still maintaining safety. The Bag Lady Chipotle coming soon By: Elle Richards With the surge of people being interested in all things spiritual, The Bag Lady is By: Allie Fowle the perfect place to go shopping for all of one's needs. Upon entering, one will be greeted Residents in the Fort Mill area have persistently complained about the lack of by the friendly and inclusive staff and accompanied by the calming scent of incense and Chipotle Mexican Grills in their area for years. Luckily, on Thursday May 6, the Warren sage. The energy inside the store could be described as calming. Even after leaving, the Norman Company announced the addition of a Chipotle on Highway 160. According to calming sensation is even more amplified, and it will linger on throughout the day. The the Warren Norman Company, the brand new Chipotle will be almost 2,500 square feet shop itself is a bit small, but one will be able to find all the basics. When Senior Morgan and will be built at the retail center located at 1852 SC-160. The Warren Norman Harder was asked about her favorite part of shopping at The Bag Lady, she said, “I like the Company is building this retail center straight across from Baxter Village, sandwiched atmosphere along with the wide range of not just crystals, but all things spiritual.” between Braden and Harris Teeter. As of right now, there is no estimated starting The Bag Lady has fair prices on its items. For crystals, the price varies from construction date or opening date. rock-to-rock based on size and type. The larger crystals in the store can cost upwards of a This brand new Chipotle will feature a “Chipotlane,” which is a pickup lane for thousand dollars. However, for more moderately sized crystals, prices start at mobile or window orders. According to restaurantbusinessonline.com, there are only approximately three dollars. The shop also features a book section, where books of many 100 chipotles that feature “Chipotlanes” in comparison to the total 2,772 Chipotles in different spiritual topics can be found, including educational books for beginners on how to the United States. In February of 2019, there were only 10 “Chipotlanes” in the United use crystals, pendulums, incense, sage and even how to read tarot cards properly. The Bag States. Stores with “Chipotlanes” require about 50% more workers than stores without Lady mentions on their website that they are especially proud of their children's books that this feature, so it is estimated that 10,000 new employees will be hired as they are built. have many empowering topics such as women's history, LGBTQ+ subject matters and even The mobile order function in the Chipotle app makes the experience much faster than books on energy wellness for pets! typical drive-throughs and takes “literally seconds.” Workers make one’s order a few Among the many trinkets that can be found while browsing at The Bag Lady, soap minutes before they are scheduled to arrive, so that one can drive up to the window and rocks are one of the most unique. Soap rocks are glycerin soap infused with natural leave just as fast. elements such as lavender, chamomile, almond oil, aloe and much more. After formation, According to the Warren these soap rocks could easily be mistaken for a naturally occurring crystal or gem, all while Norman Company, Chipotle is a quick retaining the normal functionality of soap. The Bag Lady's soaps are free from animal grill service that serves Mexican style products, making them a perfect gift for anyone. food. Chipotle only uses a total of 53 Like many other stores in the area, The Bag Lady has taken the precautions for ingredients for all the menu items, so all Covid-19 safety guidelines and states that masks must be worn at all times without food is made with fresh ingredients and exception to ensure everyone's safety while shopping. The stores mission statement says no added hormones in their meat. they celebrate, nurture, and affirm all regardless of age, size, sex, shape, color, religion or Chipotle is best known for Its burritos economic status. Everybody is welcome to spend time enjoying the aura and or shop at The and burrito bowls, which both have large Bag Lady. If interested in paying the store a visit, the store is located at 1516 E 4th St, serving sizes. Be sure to check out the Charlotte, NC 28204. For additional information visit the store’s eCom website, at new Chipotle when it opens and even try www.thebaglady.rocks. mobile ordering and picking up through The wait is over; Chipotle is coming to Fort Mill! the new “Chipotlane.” This new location will feature a "Chipotlane." Amethyst, clear quartz, smudge sticks and much more can be found at Photo courtesy of Allie Fowle The Bag Lady! Research is recommended before purchase.

All about Noda Photo courtesy of Elle Richards By: Reagan White The Queen City has a lot to offer: food, live music and shopping are among the favorites of Fort Mill residents during a trip to the big city. For those in the mood for a different vibe than the typical Charlotte experience, no neighborhood offers more than NoDa. The historic arts district, located around North Davidson Street, offers one-of-a-kind entertainment experiences. The region was formerly home to the city's textile district, but today NoDa is the center for all things art and culture. After a year spent indoors, the neighborhood is full of summertime activities for students and families alike. NoDa boasts an impressive 40 plus murals that adorn the sides of buildings throughout the neighborhood. Many paintings, including the Lotus Mural by Osiris Rain and the Salud Mural by Nico Amortegui, are popular photo op locations due to their bright colors and unique designs. The murals are not exclusively designed to be Instagram-worthy; in fact, the environment created by the art is central to the spirit of NoDa. With concerts up and running for the summertime, music lovers will feel right at home in the Neighborhood Theater, located at 511 E. 36th St. This location boasts both international and local artists. For those who prefer a more intimate setting, The Evening Muse (3227 N. Davidson St.) tends to host smaller, more localized artists. Tickets for upcoming concerts at both venues are on sale now on their respective websites. NoDa is one of Charlotte's most After a full day of sightseeing, art-enjoying and music-going, hungry visitors can find Guy Fieri-approved cuisine at interesting neighborhoods. With Cabo Fish Taco (3201 N. Davidson St.). The area is known for its hipster esque food as well as its art, and there are plenty of unusual places to dine, many places to eat. NoDa has several restaurants that cater to younger generations, including a Friends-themed coffee dance and shop, NoDa is undoubtedly a culture hub of the shop, the Smelly Cat Coffee House & Roastery. “I’ve been to NoDa a few times,” Fort Mill High School Senior Queen City. Esmie Fernandez said. “It’s very cool but a bit expensive for my taste.” Charlotte has lots of great opportunities for people of all ages this upcoming summer. For more information, Photo courtesy of Google Images visit the official Charlotte event planning website. 3 Columns 3 Let’s get Kraken: Vodník Unsolved: the Gardner By: Lily Margeson In the United States, you consume tea. In Soviet Russia, tea consumes you. Or, more specifically, a Museum heist creature from central European folklore known as Vodník (pron. vod-NEEK) would store your drowned soul in a By : Reagan White teapot. In the early hours of March 18, 1990, Gardner Museum Vodník—called Vodyanoy in Russia—is usually depicted as an old man with long hair, webbed hands, a security guard Rick Abeth buzzed two men through the security frog-like face and greenish skin. He frequents ponds and streams, partaking in such hobbies as playing cards with gate. This decision would lead to the largest-scale art robbery in passersby and drowning inexperienced swimmers. Sometimes he enslaves those he drowns for eternity; other history. In total, 13 pieces of art valued at $500 million were stolen. times, he simply opts to store their souls for his collection. Despite not being seen as a malevolent spirit, The two men in question were dressed as police officers fishermen and mill owners (a favorite structure of Vodník’s to destroy) made offerings to him as recently as the and told Abeth, a rather inexperienced guard, that they were acting 1800s, hoping to appease him before he wrecked his surroundings. on a disturbance call. St. Patrick’s Day festivities were occurring As is characteristic of frog-like creatures, Vodník is able to go on land for a few hours at a time; in one throughout the neighborhood surrounding the museum, so this collection of stories from 1547, he attended a festival and lured a maiden back to his river home. This tale later request might not have seemed too extreme. As soon as Abeth inspired a series of poems in the Romantic era, the period’s collective fascination with nature apparently allowed the pair to pass — an action that explicitly broke museum extending to algae-covered grandfather figures. He faded from public consciousness for a time; however, protocols — he realized his mistake. The two men quickly cuffed Vodník’s popularity surged in the 1970s when he was featured in many Soviet cartoons and a handful of films. him and bound him with duct tape. Letting the “police officers” into Most recently outside of Eurasia, he was included as a monster in The Witcher video game and as the main the lobby was far from Abeth’s first break of museum protocol. On antagonist of the horror movie Croaker. several prior occasions, Abeth had let non-staff members in. About Though he is mostly seen as a relic of the past, relegated to myth 10 minutes later, the second security guard returned from his break after centuries without a sighting, some still claim Vodník exists. He and was also restrained. Assuming the criminals were cops due to currently frequents the channels of Prague, or so Czechian tour guides say. their disguises, the second guard asked the reason for his arrest. One Myth, legend or reality, Vodník has certainly cemented his role as a piece of of the men replied, “you’re not being arrested, you’re being robbed.” Slavic history and cultural iconography. During the time of the robbery, the museum was updating its security system. Half an hour before the robbery began, around 1:00 AM, the fire alarm went off. Whether or not this was part of the robbery or just a coincidence is unknown. Once the two men finished subduing the guards, they made their first round of the museum by smashing the motion detectors and starting to take art. At 2:28 AM, the robbers made a second The Vodník, a humanoid trickster from central European folklore, is a mysterious creature who check of the museum and removed the security tapes recording inhabits bodies of water and drowns things that annoy him. He enjoys smoking and playing them. Witnesses later reported a red hatchback seen around the cards, and some still claim he frequents the waterways of Czechia. museum at this time. Among the 13 pieces stolen were three Photo courtesy of Ivan Bilibin precious Rembrandts and a Napoleonic gilded eagle. At 8:00 AM, the morning shift guards arrived on the scene and found both Abeth and Hestand still gagged and bound. The police were quickly This too shall pass: Mental contacted and arrived at 8:30 AM. Despite being questioned at length by the FBI, neither Abeth nor Hestand could recall much health Tips detail about the physical appearances of the men in question. This fact has led many to speculate that it might have been an inside job. By: Mo Serafin A few months later, the Gardner Museum received an anonymous Many have reached the point in their lives where they are forced to make some of the most important letter claiming to know the whereabouts of the art and expressing a decisions of their lives.. Reaching adulthood is not an easy journey, so it is important that individuals maintain willingness to return the works in exchange for $2.6 million. The a good state of mental health. museum received a second follow-up letter soon after expressing One of the most important aspects in maintaining good mental health is getting enough sleep. distrust for the local police involvement, but much to the Exhaustion can lead to stress, and stress can lead to depression. It is important to give your body and mind a disappointment of those involved, the middle-man did not follow up break after a long day. By doing so, the brain is ready for the next day’s challenges and activities. Exercise is again. also an important factor to consider in regards to mental health. Going outside and taking in sunlight is The Gardner Museum art heist remains the world's largest scientifically proven to increase the levels of endorphins, which in turn, improves one’s mood. Stress can make art heist. To this day, the whereabouts of the 13 stolen pieces remain someone not want to share experiences with others, so learning to openly talk about one’s feelings lessens the a mystery. emotional tension he/she may feel on a daily basis. The Gardner Something which I have come to realize about bettering myself is that attempting to do your best is Museum Heist often better than actually being the best. I would be up until three in the morning to reach my standards, which remains the were higher than necessary. In order to do so, I pushed myself further than I should have, sacrificing my own largest art mental health for a couple of extra points added to assignments. The point I am trying to make is that simply robbery in history. Of the 13 trying your best is enough. Mental health encompasses every aspect of one’s life, so as long as you are happy paintings stolen, and content with your efforts, success will follow. Vermeer's The Learning to accept yourself plays a large role in maintaining Concert is good mental health. Do not live life to please others, for it is your life estimated to be the most — not your parents’, friends’ or teachers’. It is okay if the path you expensive. choose to take is not the path others have taken. Money, fame and education do not guarantee happiness. We only live once, and to Photo courtesy of waste it doing something that does not make you happy is the Gardner Museum unfortunate. Failure and disappointment will come; it is inevitable. Perhaps one of the most important aspects of one's life is one’s mental health. By taking steps to The important thing to do when such things happen is to keep your improve one's mental health, one’s overall outlook goal ahead of you and keep striving to reach it. If you are going on life will change, and he/she will be happier. through a rough part in your life, remember that this too shall pass. Happiness will follow. Photo courtesy of teenlineonline.org The last of the... Lotus ICE cars By: Lola Wachtel Stock markets crash, laws are enacted and yet auto makers manage to keep up with it all. The fast-approaching electric age presents a new challenge for vehicle manufacturers, though. The pressure to design, produce and sell electric cars is high, and demand is even higher. For some companies, this means the end of an era. British carmaker Lotus, known for its sports cars and previous Formula One team, is taking the first step in redesigning its brand as a more eco-friendly manufacturer by announcing its last gas-powered car, the Emira. Lotus’s newest edition will be its final goodbye to internal-combustion engines (ICE). Replacing all other current models, the Emira has a lot to which to live up. It offers multiple engine and transmission options, allowing customers to purchase the car of their dreams. Not a lot of information has been officially released yet, but some suspected engine options include a Toyota V6 capable of over 400 horsepower and a 300-hp four-cylinder from an undisclosed manufacturer. The new Emira also shares some design cues with Lotus’s upcoming all-electric vehicle, the Evija, but will only be available as a coupe. Both cars are meant to usher in a new era of technology and financial success for the brand. Formerly coded-named Type 131, it is reported that the Emira’s name means “leader” in multiple languages. The new label also fits with the tradition of names starting with E for Lotus models. As for the price, the Emira will not be supercar expensive; it is expected to be placed in the $60,000-120,000 range. Despite its lower price, the Emira will have a comfortable interior featuring digital tools and safety systems. Lotus is also introducing four new platforms — Hypercar, Sports, Premium and E-sports — on which its future cars will be built. Out of the four, the Emira will use the Sports platform and have an aluminum frame. Lotus has announced the newest addition to its lineup, the Emira. Releasing this However popular in the past, Lotus is fully equipped to end its gas-powered days with July, it will be Lotus's last gas-powered a bang. The Emira is set to be released on July 6 and on sale by the end of this year. A few car. days after its launch, the Emira will make its performative debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in West Sussex, England. Photo courtesy of Google Images 4 The Hive 5 Saying goodbye to Ms.Williams What are your summer plans? By: Adriana Bubbico For the past 20 years, teacher Sarah Elizabeth Williams devoted her valued time to the students and faculty at Fort Mill High School as the theatre arts teacher. After her many years of hard work, Williams has finally decided to bring her teaching experience to an end and retire at the end of the 2020-2021 school year. Staff and students wish her well and would like to highlight the things she has done. Williams has been a teacher for 37 years. 20 were spent at Fort Mill High, one at Great Falls High, seven at the University of By: Madelyn Prickett Charlotte, and nine at Winthrop University. Her original intent career wise was never to be a high school theater teacher. “I wanted to be an actor. I received my MFA at the University of Georgia and made a living as a professional actor in Atlanta for 3 years before deciding to Last year, Fort Mill High School’s Studio E was set to perform teach college,” Williams states, “after 16 years of teaching on the college level, I decided to teach high school.” After so many years of Matilda the Musical, which was ultimately canceled due to COVID-19 teaching college students, why decide to teach high school students? Williams gives a heartwarming response to what inspired her seemingly regulations. The musical centers around precocious, telekinetic five-year-old sudden change in goals; “My life changed when an English teacher asked me to audition for a musical my junior year in high school...I Matilda, who must overcome family and school-related obstacles. Although wanted to have the same impact on someone.” the pandemic prevented the cast from performing the musical, they found a To merely say Williams worked hard at this school is an understatement. She has way to share their incredible talents. On May 13, 2021, the FMHS Cabaret been the theater arts teacher for varying levels for 20 years, and in addition to that, Williams took place, and performances from Matilda made an appearance. has directed around 30 shows on the Fort Mill High school stage. When asked which The theatre department was hoping to perform the musical in the fall and production is her favorite, her true pride and joy, Williams says, “I couldn't begin to then the spring, yet there was not enough time to put on the entire show. Instead, say...they all have had some effect on me and are important to me for different reasons, and ensemble numbers from the musical were incorporated into the cabaret. As many I'm not just saying that!” of the cast members graduated last year, the only two remaining roles were Working with so many students and coworkers was a liberating experience for Matilda and Ms. Trunchbull, played by Seniors Jenna Brown and Zach Hathway. Williams. To sum up the past two decades of being a high school teacher, Williams says, “I All other performers portrayed Matilda’s classmates. The original cast also had the would not trade this experience...this particular career for anything in the world.Teaching “I plan on trying out for tennis and option on whether or not to perform, so there was a limited number of high school has been my life for the last 20 years because I have loved it so!” Becoming “I’m going to go to the beach [...] and track, preparing for PSAT and actors/actresses. With only 13 students performing, there were no scenes, and the close and working alongside other teachers can be a fantastic experience. Williams says, hang out with friends.” relaxing.” cast presented only five songs from the show. “My favorite part was ‘Revolting “...collaboration is not always easy, but working with Ms. Hagen and Ms. Meyer has been an - Chase Cregger, Sophomore Williams is and forever will be a very loved member of the - Sanskruti Bhagat, Freshman Children’ because it was our hardest number and the most energetic number,” amazing ride. There is NO way I could have done any of the musicals without them!” Fort Mill High School faculty. Staff and students will Sophomore Anya Huggins states. It is not easy to leave a place in which one has been and loved so dearly for so long. treasure their experiences with her long after her “... I will really miss my kids and the productions!” Williams exclaims. It is certain that her retirement. The FMHS Cabaret not only provided a way for students to showcase their students and fellow teachers will miss her dearly, and everyone here at Fort Mill High wishes musical theatre abilities, but it provided a nice send-off for Ms. Williams. Williams has Photo courtesy of Adriana Bubbico her all the best! been a theatre teacher at Fort Mill for 20 years and is retiring this year. Her favorite part of teaching is her students because “they have given me so much energy and joy over the years.” Williams even surprised the audience and cast when she participated in the ribbon dance during the song, “The Hammer.” Due to COVID-19, Studio E was not able to perform any musicals this year. However, they were able to end on a happier note by participating in the FHMS Cabaret. It Track star and pilot?? is safe to write that the cabaret was a successful one, ending the year on a high note. Hopefully, Studio E and all of the singing, dancing and acting will be back in full action next year. By: Devyn Arnold Fort Mill High School Senior Oliver Jaeckli undeniably deserves a spotlight, not just his sports accomplishments, but for all of his Due to COVID-19, the cast of Matilda the daily well-doings. Since elementary school, Jaeckli has set high expectations for himself. Not only did he set high goals, but he attacked and Musical could not succeeded. Jaeckli is known as one of the most intelligent students at Fort Mill High School. The test scores and class rank to prove it. perform last year. Instead, Jack's hard work has ranked him ninth out of the entire highly-talented senior class. A prominent factor ensemble numbers from which has led him to his success is never getting below an A in any of his classes. With that being said, this the show were incorporated into the determination has led him to being a National Merit Scholar. He was accepted at the University of Colorado FMHS Cabaret. already as a sophomore due to his rigorous course load throughout his four year high school career. While attending Boulder, Jaeckli will be studying Aerospace Engineering, when going into that field it is helpful to Photo courtesy of Gales “Marching band and working a lot” know how to fly an aircraft considering he is spending his time working on them. For Jaeckli’s case, he is “Taking a gap year and taking online Scroggs - Bridget Holland, Junior already on top of it; he is five flights away from receiving his full pilot license to become an officially registered classes at USC Lancaster” pilot. Being a pilot is very time-consuming and requires a lot of travel time. Being a pilot it would be helpful to - Jai Patel, Senior know many different languages for all the places you are travelling to, and lucky for Jaeckli he knows four languages. Jaeckli is refined in Swiss, German, Spanish and English. Not only does his brain help him succeed, but his legs do too. Fort Mill High School has had a solid track team for years, and Jaeckli is one of the reasons why. When Oliver Jaeckli and his instructor asked about his most prized accomplishment he said, “holding the record in track and field for the 4x800 for Fort Dual Enrollment get ready for flight practice. Mill High School.” Along with that, he is top five in school history for the 800 meters and the 400 meters. With By: Evelyn Ealey Jaeckli gets his lessons from his hard work, he has been in the Beta Club and the Red Cross Club, which has led to many hours of community Fort Mill High School is known for its ability to provide its students with a multitude of trained professionals in Rock service. Along with helping Jamie Harrison's campaign for around 60 hours, Jaeckli has volunteered for over 100 Hill, SC. academic opportunities and has recently introduced a new type of class to continue its drive for academic hours for the City of Tega Cay. To top it all off, Jaeckli is a dedicated and hardworking server at the Famous success. In addition to its wide variety of Advanced Placement, Honors and College Prep classes, the Photo courtesy of Oliver Jaeckli Toastery in Fort Mill. He has worked there since the summer of his freshman year and has worked from a busboy Tic Tac Toe school has begun to offer dual credit courses. Dual credit classes have recently been offered at Fort Mill all the way to a server. All these accolades can show just how special one person can be. High School through the University of South Carolina at Lancaster and has been met with lots of interest from students and parents alike. Dual credit courses offered at the school include Spanish 121/122, French 121/122, Criminal Justice and Sociology 101 and Theatre 170 and 200. SpringSpring athletes athletes college college signing signing For interested students, there is a process in order to sign up for one of the classes. First, one By: Lily Margeson must indicate his/her interest during the IGP and course selection meeting with his/her guidance counselor For many seniors at Fort Mill attending college this fall, May 1—national college decision and meet the eligibility requirements. Eligibility is open to all junior and seniors who have at least a 3.0 day—was a breath of fresh air. A select few students, however, were looking forward to the weighted GPA and have completed the prerequisite classes for their desired course. Once those Kickin’ it with Camryn Goulet following week, which presented a unique opportunity to them: college signing day. Seven athletes requirements are met, the student has to apply into the USCL dual enrollment program on their website and complete a registration packet. Those who choose to take a foreign language course must also take a at Fort Mill representing five different sports will be taking their athletic careers to the collegiate By: Lola Wachtel level, which Fort Mill High aimed to celebrate. With all seven students officially signing on to their placement test to determine their level. A lot of attention is given to Fort Mill school athletes, rightfully so, but there are many other activities students are respective universities’ teams before an audience, the goal of the event was to “shine a light on our Dual credit is a great advantage for high school students because it allows one to obtain credit involved in outside of school. Take martial arts, for example. Fort Mill High School Sophomore Camryn Goulet has attended student athletes pursuing their dreams on the next level,” as Mr. Scroggs said. for college and high school simultaneously. The dual credit class that is chosen will be worked into a the local Tiger Kim's Tae Kwon Do for the past four years and has a lot to say about her experience. Keegan Brown and Blythe Barrington-Hughes will be playing golf at Spartanburg normal semester schedule and is weighted on a 6.0 AP scale. Unlike many AP classes, dual credit courses Starting at 12 years old, Goulet was drawn to the sport because she wanted to try something unique. “It wasn't Methodist College and St. Norbert College, respectively. Barrington-Hughes, who has been a only last one semester, and students who pass the class and exam will earn six college credit hours and offered at school and I didn't know anyone else who did martial arts," Goulet said. With limited knowledge of Taekwondo in Every year, a handful of Fort Mill athletes member of the Fort Mill ladies’ golf team for five years, will take the next step towards her calling two high school credit hours. come together to celebrate the next step in the beginning, practicing special kicks and breaking boards was especially exciting for Goulet. Nowadays, she looks forward away from home in De Pere, Wisconsin, but refuses to be deterred by distance. “The team dynamic Although dual credit is relatively new, many are eager to take these courses. Junior Luke Ruddy their sports careers by simultaneously signing to learning new sword and self-defense techniques. Other than her own curiosity, the instructors at Tiger Kim's helped Goulet on to their respective colleges. This year, seven is the same one I’ve been included in at Fort Mill, and I can’t wait to further my golf career,” she says, “I’m planning on taking [dual credit] Spanish because I want the college credit.” These courses are maintain motivation along her journey to a black belt. Receiving a black belt is the end goal for many martial artists, but for students signed to play a variety of sports at said. Brown will be significantly closer to home as a Pioneer in Spartanburg. one of the many ways for students to save money and time in college. The class is fairly inexpensive with Goulet, it was only a passing milestone. Currently employed at her local dojang, she now helps other students to achieve their colleges near and far at the collegiate level. Kameron Moyers will also remain in South Carolina, joining the football team’s defensive a registration fee of $10, and the student can get college elective and general education classes out of the own goals. lineup at Limestone University in Gaffney. Moyers was a two-time varsity player at Fort Mill stop way. More information can be found under the Parents and Students tab on the school website, and Photo courtesy of Lily Margeson A set of core values is emphasized in the lessons at Tiger Kim’s, including leadership and perseverance. Goulet being team captain this year, and was a wrestler in the off-season. Similarly, two-year varsity player guidance counselors can answer any questions that one may have. believes that demonstrating a combination of these two qualities enabled her to get a job as an instructor. She says teaching Dusty Sanderlin will soon be part of Florence-Darlington Technical College’s baseball team in kids has been an inspiring experience, and she loves seeing students grow and improve. Florence. Also playing baseball relatively close by, Brian Stapleton will be attending Methodist University in Fayetteville in the fall, Look for the Dual credit courses Due to Taekwondo’s origins in Korea, the culture plays a big role in the class. presumably pitching or playing first base. “Methodist is a great college,” Stapleton said. “I love their baseball program. It’s great and I’m hidden yellow offered at Fort Mill High Korean numbers and terminology are taught from the very beginning and most instructors excited to play for them.” School serve as a great jacket and report are fluent in the language. Goulet feels that participating in such a sport has helped expand Attending Appalachian State University in Boone, NC, Reagan Hodge has signed on to play not one but two sports: cross country course option for all its location to students. Information her view of the world. "It's really opened my eyes… and I've gotten to learn about the and track. “My mom and my aunt also ran [at App State], and my aunt’s actually in the hall of fame there, so I want to continue the legacy,” Mrs. Struve about these classes can be people around me,” Goulet comments. Hodge said. What events she will run are yet to be determined, but Hodge runs the 4x800 at Fort Mill. * Actual (B209) to be found under the Reflecting on her time at Tiger Kim’s, Goulet believes Taekwondo has equipped Last but not least, Natalie Grace Decker made school history as the first dancer from Fort Mill High to sign with a college. “It’s Parent/Student tab on the Size featured in the her with lifelong skills and a tight-knit community she considers family. really exciting [for dance] to be finally recognized as a sport, since it’s recognized as a club at Fort Mill,” she said. Decker will be attending school website. next edition of Sophomore Camryn Goulet poses for the camera. She is holding her Level 2 black belt certificate. the University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss, and competing on its dance team. Photo courtesy of Evelyn the the As these Jackets take the next step in their athletic careers, fellow students should congratulate these incredibly dedicated Ealey Loudspeaker! Photo courtesy of Camryn Goulet individuals. They may no longer be competing for Fort Mill, but they will always represent it at heart. 6 Opinions 6 Newsie out By: Caroline Wollenhaupt Half a year ago when I was taking Journalism class, I had no idea how greatly taking the course would impact my future. At the end of the 19-20 school year, I chose to take Journalism because it interested me, and I had heard from other students that Mrs. Struve was an outstanding teacher. Overall, it was very daunting at first; learning so many new things and writing articles every day, only to have to share it with the whole class was overwhelming to say the least. As someone who is very introverted and afraid of public speaking, the class ended up being very difficult for me, but something about it was still inviting. I just did not know what it was yet. At the end of the semester, I was planning on having a free fourth block and spending my last semester of high school happily getting out of school early. After spending a weekend thinking over it, I ultimately dropped my free block to take Newspaper instead. It was one of my biggest heartbreaks, losing my hour and a half of free time, but it also turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made. Now I look forward to coming to this class every day and speaking with people I am glad to call my friends. Taking Newspaper brought out a new creative side in me, and I learned about so many cool things by reading my peers’ articles. I have broken out of my shell, to some extent, and I am not afraid to speak up anymore. Then there is Mrs. Struve, who lived up to the expectations with which I started Journalism and exceeded them. I can honestly say she is the best teacher I ever had; her charisma and devotion to not only teaching but learning about the lives of her students is unmatched. I may have not known her as long as some of the other students in the class, but it feels as if I have known her forever. Now, here I am half a year later, graduating in a few weeks, going to University of South Carolina and minoring in Journalism. If it was not for the constant support of Mrs. Struve and my classmates in both Journalism and Newspaper, I do not think I would be pursuing Journalism as a potential career. I am not the best with due dates nor asking kids around the school for quotes, but I still take pride in my work. Photo courtesy of Caroline Wollenhaupt I look forward to the future, and hope I can be a part of my college's school newspaper someday. Working with the Loudspeaker here is easily one of my greatest accomplishments in life, and I wish I had taken the class earlier when I moved here two years ago. Looking back, I realize these classes have changed my life, from the people I met, to the many articles I wrote, and I would not want to give away a single second of it. To my classmates this semester, last semester and future semesters, good luck, because you will achieve great things taking this What I left class. behind Case closed By: Lily Margeson By: Reagan White I have spent every semester of high school except for one in B209, and As a dyslexic, hyperactive kid with a typing speed rivaling elementary schoolers, five of those semesters have been spent writing for the Loudspeaker. I have no writing has always been a struggle for me. That changed the fall of 2018, during which I took interest in pursuing a career in journalism, even though I love it, which begs the journalism on a whim. During the mentorship at the end of the class, I wrote an article about question: why have I spent so much time—720 hours of my life, if my math is the unsolved cold case of the Isdale women—a case I had seen on Buzzfeed Unsolved two correct—writing for the newspaper? Cheesy as it sounds, I chose to take this class years prior. The feedback I received on the article was unlike any praise I had received before; semester after semester because it feels like a family. for the first time in my life, I was good at writing. Despite their encouragement, as a The cast of characters rotates continuously as staff members graduate or sophomore, I had spent the entire semester slightly terrified of the upperclassmen on staff. need to take AP Psych or what have you, but with every first day comes an Writing skills were far from the only thing that drew me into the class. There was this automatic set of friends. We tease each other over article topics, collectively incredible sense of community between the staff that semester, and I desperately wanted to be abhor writing for The Hive and pitch included. In my mind, I was an outsider to these gifted, funny, charismatic students. Despite in to lay out a page when someone my internal feelings of inadequacy, the staff was beyond inclusive, ensuring that every student struggles. It truly feels like a crazy was involved in each inside joke. little household, with exaggerated As the semesters progressed, I became groans in response to chores and more comfortable with the other students, so-called “adventures” that are really largely thanks to the efforts of Struve. Between just trips around the building. We have her no-hate policy and designated journaling our ups and downs, but with Struve at time, a class that had the potential to be highly the center of it all, the world keeps technical with little room for fun quickly turning. Whether in B209 for one became my favorite part of the day. Instead of semester or seven, everyone matures sitting in silence, we listened to music, laughed, in Struve’s room. I first entered that and even played Uno if everyone was done room an unobtrusive freshman, working early. As cliche as it sounds, the people overwhelmed by the wall decorations in B209 became something of a family to me. and chatty classmates, but I will leave Although I’m sad that my time on the it with confidence not staff is drawing to a close, the Loudspeaker will just in my writing skills, but myself. Photo courtesy of Priscilla Vanartsdalen always hold a place in my heart. Through my Parents and older siblings are supposed to guide you as you mature, which is time here, I’ve discovered my love for writing precisely what Struve and upperclassmen did for me. In turn, when suddenly I was and forged some of the strongest bonds an upperclassman, I passed on the wisdom first taught to me—at least, I tried my throughout my entire high school career. best—and learned a thing or two from my newfound younger siblings. Photo courtesy of Reagan White No longer writing for the Loudspeaker will be bittersweet, especially knowing Struve will no longer be the one in charge of controlling the wonderful the Loudspeaker Staff Policy chaos, but I will always have the family I found in it, and ultimately, what else Any article, letter or editorial cartoon submitted to the Loudspeaker will be considered for publication only if the submission includes full name, grade matters? and phone number. Letters should address one idea and should not exceed 150 words. We reserve the right not to return any unpublished letters. Published letters are subject to verification and editing; submissions should be labeled the Loudspeaker and given to Mrs. Struve, room B209. the The end of an era Loudspeaker is a forum for the discussion of issues relevant to the students By: Angela Struve of Fort Mill High School. It informs the students through timely news stories and entertains them through responsible features and columns. the How do I even begin to sum up what the last 15 years as the Loudspeaker Loudspeaker encourages students, staff members and the public to voice their opinions on the current events and issues relating to FMHS through advisor have meant to me? When I was hired in 2006, my hope was to teach English, personal columns or signed letters to the editor. Columns and letters will exclusively. However, the job was for an English teacher and newspaper advisor. I be edited for clarity, length and grammar as well as libelous or inappropriate content. Any mistakes made by staff members are in the had no prior knowledge or experience in the field of journalism, but I knew I wanted to name of learning and will be corrected in a timely fashion. Please note teach at my alma mater, Fort Mill High School. I spent my first semester learning that opinions expressed in editorials or personal columns are not those of the Loudspeaker staff or FMHS administration, faculty and staff, but are alongside my students, creating a curriculum that made sense to me and ultimately those of the author who submitted the letter only. the Loudspeaker is composed and published in a classroom/laboratory setting at Fort Mill producing a tangible newspaper for the student body. Who knew that a means to an end High School. would turn out to be one of the greatest aspects of my life. As time went on, the Loudspeaker became the reason I came to work each the Loudspeaker day. The students who signed up for Journalism and Newspaper came from all walks Newspaper Advisor: Angela Struve Editors In Chief: Reagan White and Lily Margeson of life with different backgrounds, life experiences, fears and frustrations. The class Front Page Editor: Lily Margeson In the News Editor: Gracie Johnson, Allie Fowle, and Daniel Morillo became a family. Whether I had a student for one semester or seven, due to the nature Veras of the course, each one left a lasting impression on my life. I have watched students Columns Editor: Mo Serafin and Sophia Engler The Hive Editor: Madelyn Prickett, Devin Clegg, and Adriana Bubbico move on from my class and become journalists, broadcasters for ESPN, doctors, Opinions Editor: Caroline Wollenhaupt and Devyn Arnold Photo courtesy of Jevon Struve engineers, teachers, accountants, attorneys and even Miss USA in 2019. Health and Lifestyles Editor: Evelyn Ealey and Elle Richards Entertainment Editor: Reagan White, Lola Wachtel, and Laura Torres As much as I hope that I have been able to positively affect the lives of all the students who spent time in my classroom, I honestly believe that I have been affected the most. Through good times and bad, I knew that each day would end with a fourth block class filled with some of the most amazing, talented, selfless, creative, quirkiest, inclusive and hardworking students. The unconditional love and support that these students have shown to one another and me has been nothing short of incredible. While it is bittersweet to leave my alma mater and start a new adventure, I’m thankful for the experiences, opportunities and, most importantly, the relationships that have shaped who I am today. In the words of Winnie the Pooh, “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” Devyn Fellow graduating staff and Mo members: Arnold Serafin 7 Health and lifestyles 7 Planting party Captivating candles By: Caroline Wollenhaupt By: Madelyn Prickett Having indoor plants is a common aspect of society; it has been a part of Before electricity was discovered, candles and lanterns were the dominant home trends and aesthetics for decades now. In the early days, plants were brought way of generating light and heat. Nowadays, candles are primarily used for their into homes to reduce smells, and this became a sign of wealth and status later on. nice aroma and aesthetic effect. Besides these reasons for using candles, they also Now, over quarantine in 2020 plants residing in homes became a popular trend provide great benefits to one’s overall health. again. Through the use of aromatherapy, candles mostly provide benefits to With nothing else to do, many have opted to adopt animals, find new one’s mental health. According to psychotherapist Chryssa Chalkia, “The smell of hobbies and take care of cute little plants. Even now, as society slowly reintegrates the scented candles stimulates the part of your brain which is connected to memory into a non-COVID-19 life, having plants in homes is still all the rage, and for good and mood.” When stimulating this part, called the limbic system, serotonin and reason. dopamine are released. These neurotransmitters help to calm someone and regulate While plants do not do much to the naked eye besides grow and look his/her overall mood. Candles that have specific scents are created to help with beautiful, having an indoor plant can be very beneficial to the mind, body and even specific mental health issues. the house. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which is then used by Although one may have an urge to buy the nicest smelling or prettiest the human body. This helps take out any harmful toxins inside the house and candle, he/she should be aware of the dangers of particular candles’ scents. Many replaces them with fresh oxygen. In a research study done by NASA, they found candles with artificial fragrances or dyes can release formaldehyde, which can that indoor plants can remove up to 87% of harmful toxins in a house within 24 increase one’s risk of developing cancer. These candles can also negatively affect hours. those with severe allergies through increased sneezing and sinus blockage. Another Plants also reduce stress levels and boost productivity by 15 percent. These type of candle that one should be aware of are those made out of paraffin wax. changes were of utmost importance when people were stuck in homes during When burned, paraffin wax candles create benzene and toluene. Both of these are quarantine last year. Having a plant nearby a work desk or bed was essential for cancer-forming chemicals called carcinogens. Healthier choices include candles people who stayed in the house for long periods of time. Some plants tend to help that are made out of soybean wax, beeswax or coconut wax. One should also opt with allergies, which is especially important this time of year. These plants for candles using natural fragrances or essential oils. generally have larger leaves and need very little care. Especially during these times, one may be feeling If one is not looking at health benefits when buying a overly stressed, depressed or anxious. To help cope plant, it is because they are buying it for its beauty. “I have with these feelings, one should try using aromatherapy some outside for decoration,” Junior Alayne Sack said. “But I by lighting a candle. To help maintain a positive might buy some indoor ones if they are good for you.” Over outlook on COVID-19, one should try a citrus-scented the last year, indoor plants have become a staple in interior candle such as orange or lemon, because these scents design. From reed mats to hanging pots in the kitchen, most can boost one’s energy and positivity. Although Fort homes are bound to have something made of plants Mill High School Junior Lizzy Burke is afraid of somewhere. If they are not inside the house, then one will lighting candles, she “love[s] the different scents.” always find them outside. One can buy a candle online or from a local boutique. Plants in homes have many benefits for the Through aromatherapy, owner and the household. Resupplying oxygen, candles provide many reducing stress and boosting productivity are benefits to one's health. One just some of the benefits. can buy a candle online or from a local boutique. Photo courtesy of Caroline Wollenhaupt Photo courtesy of Madelyn Prickett Blue light blockers By: Evelyn Ealey In a world full of technology, there are many concerns with how much screen time one experiences and the effect it has on the body. Blue light has recently become a hot topic in the world of electronics due to the abundance of devices that emit it, including cell phones, computers, tablets and TVs. Eyewear specialists around the globe have been working to find an effective way to protect the eyes from these harmful light emissions and have recently found a stylish way to do it through the creation of blue light glasses. Although blue light is typically attributed to electronics, it is a naturally occurring light that is released by the sun. In smaller amounts, blue light is practically harmless, but in large amounts, blue light can decrease the body's natural production of melatonin. The lack of melatonin to the body can lead to sleep deprivation, which can leave one extremely tired, especially when the blue light is combined with the LED light from another device. Blue light glasses seek to solve this issue by coating the lenses of the glasses with a film that blocks out the damaging light, allowing a higher tolerance for the eyes. Blue light glasses are a stylish Blue light glasses can be worn anytime, but are most beneficial when working for multiple hours on a screen. The increased usage of computers during way to protect the eyes from harmful light emissions from a quarantine created a spike in blue light glasses sales due to more events, meetings and classes being held virtually. People who have worn the glasses during computer, phone, or even a TV. these times have seen many positive effects such as reduced retina damage, fewer headaches and improved sleep cycles. By wearing these glasses a few These glasses are a great hours before they go to bed, many students have found that they sleep better. Junior Evan Mucciarone is one of the many students who has invested in blue investment for students and are light glasses, and he says, “I wear mine at night when I’m doing homework. The bright blue light keeps your brain awake, and when it’s time to go to bed, it worth every penny! helps my brain rest sooner.” Photo courtesy of Evelyn Ealey As demand for the eyewear has increased, blue light glasses have become more accessible and easy to find. Amazon, Target and Walmart are just a few common carriers of blue light glasses that offer various styles, sizes and colors. Blue light glasses are also relatively inexpensive with prices starting as low as ten dollars. The use of technology will most likely not slow down anytime soon, so blue light glasses are definitely worth the investment. Snap, Crackle, Pop Why do we fidget? By: Gracie Johnson By: Laura Torres Many teens are more than experienced with the dreadful feeling of boredom, arguably Knuckle cracking is a common habit shared by many people. During one of the most persistently annoying burdens. To compensate for boredom, humans have a any quiet time, the pop of people’s joints has become a familiar sound. Cracking tendency to uneasily squirm around, or fidget within their desk space. Fidgeting does not joints can be a way to release stress, dissolve tension or create a satisfying sound. necessarily cure boredom, nor make time go by any faster, so what is the notion behind this “I get bored and feel like I have to move,” Freshman Cooper Ledford says. In impulsive movement? addition to knuckles, cracking necks, backs, knees and ankles can produce the Fidgeting occurs because the body has elevated levels of stress hormones, prepping same effect. your muscles for a sudden exertion. Fidgeting involving hormones, but is more commonly Despite the name, joints and bones do not actually crack, per se. The evoked in response to anxiety. When feelings of stress build up within muscles, one's body noise comes from gas bubbles within a fluid called the synovial fluid found needs a way to relieve all that energy. Therefore, individuals may begin to bite their nails, between joints to lubricate them. These bubbles quickly pop when pressure is bounce their legs or tap their fingers. Boredom fidgeting provides one's brain with something to placed on the joint, which gives the feeling of releasing tension. The bubbles take focus on, increasing concentration on a more entertaining activity. According to research around 20 minutes to reform, which is why people cannot crack the same joint conducted at the University of Hertfordshire, fidgeting improves performance in memory tests directly after. because it lowers the level of cortisol, a stress hormone that interferes with learning. Those who frequently crack their knuckles are Over the past few years, tiny mechanisms known as fidget toys often told that this will result in arthritis; however, have exploded in popularity. Fidgeting toys are known to increase focus, numerous studies have shown that cracking one’s knuckles reduce restlessness and manage anxiety through means of distraction. does not increase the risk of arthritis. One such study was Many students have reportedly found it easier to pay attention to lectures conducted by Donald Unger, in which he cracked the in class when they are able to click, squash or pinch things with their knuckles on his left hand every day for 60 years and left hands. “I fidget with my hands a lot in class,” Sophomore Loch McNeely his right hand alone. Upon examining both hands, there stated. “I either crack my knuckles, draw or play with my hair.” For those was no higher rate of arthritis in his left hand. Cracking with ADHD or Autism, fidgeting toys are extra essential, for they assist the joints is generally considered harmless if done correctly, Joint cracking is a Fidgeting is a individual in better focusing on his/her surroundings. As for shape, since most injuries come from using excessive force on the common habit in many. burdensome habit most students are guilty of. fidgeting toys come in all sizes, ranging from adjustable rubix cubes, joint. If it results in pain or inflammation, stop This produces a loud cracking noise. However, what if there fidget spinners or stress balls. immediately; if there is a pre-existing condition affecting was a physiological In certain cases, fidgeting can get eccentric and out of control. If joints or cartilage, knuckle cracking may still cause Photo courtesy of Google explanation behind the movements begin to become a disturbance, one may need to visit a damage and should not be done regularly. Images these repetitive movements? specialist to determine the incitement behind his/her actions. For most Overall, the most harm that cracking knuckles cases, however, fidgeting is actually a beneficial factor, one which can can do is be an annoyance to those around, and arthritis Photo courtesy of should not be a big concern in most people’s minds. Gracie Johnson assist in productivity and centralization. 8 Entertainment 8 By: Laura Torres Disney has made waves on the Internet with its continued live action remakes of classic New additions to the Tokyo Olympics By: Gracie Johnson movies. This time, Disney will release a prequel to an older movie, similar to Disney’s Maleficent. After last year's delay of the Tokyo Summer Olympics, the events are finally The prequel is called Cruella and focuses on scheduled to occur from July 23 to August 8 of 2021. This year's sporting events will be Cruella de Vil from 101 Dalmations. like no other, including a surplus of new regulations and new activities. As per usual, all of The official Twitter account for Cruella tweeted on February 16, announcing the best-known athletes and entertainers will be returning to provide a compelling series of that a trailer for Cruella would release the next day. A second trailer was dropped on athletic performances. April 7, 2021. The movie will follow Cruella de Vil, called Estelle in the film, before Many events will occur scattered across the Japanese capital, while others based the events of 101 Dalmatians. In the movie, De Vil matures as a designer and flaunts on environmental factors will occur along the coast or in the foothills of Mount Fuji. many new, interesting styles while her ambitions grow. Unlike Disney’s Maleficent, Favorable sports will once again be showcased on live television, including well-renewed which portrayed a villain in a new, sympathetic light, Cruella will show De Vil in all athletes such as gymnastic star Simone Biles and swimmers Caeleb Dressel and Katie her evil and how she got there. Freshman Peter Hoegy says, “I feel like it’s showing a Ledecky. What is not a returning factor is the newly-added sporting events. In an attempt different perspective of a villain.” Her story will include a new character called to seek out a younger audience, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) added Baroness von Hellman, described as “devastatingly chic and terrifyingly haute” by skateboarding, a world renowned street-sport. There will be two disciplines on display: Disney, who will serve as a catalyst for Cruella’s wicked behaviors. street and park courses. The street obstacles will feature a variety of different rails, stairs and ramps on which to perform tricks. The park course is one massive bowl that the Talk of a live-action movie based on skateboarders use to propel jumps. Cruella de Vil has been floating around since 2013, After a long controversial push that emerged over half a century ago, karate was but constant setbacks have pushed off a release. finally added to the Summer Olympics in 2016. However, 2021 will be the first debut Cruella will finally be released on May 28, 2021, appearance of this recently-adapted sport. Karate consists of two medal events: kumite, a and will be available in theaters or on Disney+ with tournament with three seperate weight classes, and kata, a performance judged on a series a subscription and an additional fee. Craig Gillespie Emma Stone plays Cruella in of movements and techniques. BMX freestyle is also a new addition to the events, will direct the film, and Cruella herself will be Disney's new movie. Cruella's showcasing cyclists performing tricks and jumps in an obstacle-loded park. “I think it is played by Emma Stone. The Baroness von Hellman release date is May 28. great to see other forms of BMX make an introduction in the Olympics,” Sophomore Bo will be played by Academy Award winner Emma Prater stated. “Freestyle is one of the less recognized forms of BMX, so it will be really Thompson. Photo courtesy of Google cool to see it get the publicity it deserves.” Fans wait in anticipation for the 28th to see In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, Tokyo Cruella’s evil portrayed on the big screen. Olympics officials declared that only Japanese spectators would be allowed, but had not yet deciphered the maximum capacity levels of the audience. Typically more than 11,000 athletes and 25,000 journalists flood the arenas of Olympic This year's summer Olympics held games, so obvious social distancing protocols are being put in Tokyo, Japan is making up for in place to reduce the spread of sickness. Many games will the loss by showcasing the most likely be cautioned a bit, but will still feature an abundance renowned athletes and new By: Evelyn Ealey sporting events. Lin-Manuel Miranda is one of the 21st century’s most infamous actors and of medals, national pride and victories. playwrights, who is most recognizable for his hit musical Hamilton. Although many Photo courtesy of Google Images associate Miranda with Hamilton, the first Broadway show he wrote and performed was In the Heights. After several reschedules, the movie adaptation of the Broadway musical is finally making its way to the big screen this summer. In the Heights tells the story of Miranda’s own beloved neighborhood of BTS: Spring Comeback Washington Heights, New York. He was inspired by his own experiences growing up, By: Reagan White and many of the aspects of In the Heights reflect his life. The show focuses on the BTS, the Korean-based seven-man band, is seemingly taking over the world. residents’ love for each other and their Hispanic and Latino heritage. Miranda first While many celebrities and social media figures grew distant from their fan bases during wrote the musical during his sophomore year of college and it was later picked up to 2020 (remember Gal Gadot's rendition of Imagine amidst the pandemic?), the boy band be on Broadway in 2008 because of its unique music style. The show was a huge hit, only grew closer to its international fanbase, nicknamed ARMY. Relations between the with the musical running from 2008-2011, and receiving four Tony Awards and a band and fans remained so close-knit that for the first half of 2020, BTS’s latest album, Grammy. Map of the Soul: 7, was the most-sold album in the United States, only being overtaken by After the success of his other projects, Miranda hoped to revive In the Heights the hugely successful Billie Eilish. After being named the 2020 TIME Entertainer of the in the form of a movie musical. The film will feature the same plot line and characters Year, the group only seems to be growing in popularity. as the original show. The story follows a Washington Heights bodega owner named After releasing its first single, No More Dream, in 2013, the band has been Usnavi who is struggling to make a decision about his business. When Usnavi finds producing music nonstop. Totaling 16 albums and three EPs over the last seven years, himself in possession of a large sum of money, he contemplates going back to his roots BTS’s discography is extensive. Despite the large volume of music the band has put out, it in the Dominican Republic, or staying in the heights to help support the community is not the only thing it focuses on; both quantity and quality are essential. Since that first that he loves. The cast tells the story of love, struggle and community through salsa, album's release in 2013, BTS has won 362 awards out of the 540 nominations received. rap and hip-hop style songs. Most recently, BTS has become the first Korean pop act to be nominated at the GRAMMY Anthony Ramos, most famous for playing Philip Hamilton and John Laurens Awards for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. Unlike many other prominent figures of the in Hamilton, will play Usnavi, and Lin-Manuel Miranda will portray Piraguero. The music industry, the members of BTS write almost all of their own music. first trailers of the musical were released last year, but a new trailer was recently With so much support behind them, it was no surprise when over 70,000 fans released on April 25. The new trailer is full of vibrant colors, lively musical numbers tuned into a Youtube livestream called “What’s melting?”, where their upcoming song and fiery songs that have theater fans eager to see the film. Junior Emma Caldwell “Butter” was first announced. “Butter” is BTS’s second-ever fully English single and is set says, “I am most excited to see yet another on stage musical be brought to the big to be released on May 21 at 1:00 PM KST/12:00 AM EST. “I'm really excited for the screen! I’m also really excited to see the representation of the culture in In the Heights upcoming song,” Serena Tregay, a senior at Fort Mill High School, said. “I hope they through the casting!” release a new album soon.” Miranda recently announced that the movie’s release date would be pushed up As the proposed date grows closer, the fanbase will likely only grow larger as a a week to June 11 and will be shown in movie theaters and via HBO Max for those result of the large marketing campaign. One can only watch in awe as BTS continues to who are not yet comfortable to see it in theaters. In the Heights is an iconic musical take over the music industry. For the latest updates about BTS, the fanbase is notoriously that is finally getting its time to shine on the big screen, and it is sure to be the next active on Twitter and confirmed information can be found on the official BTS website, summer blockbuster! www.Bighit.BTS.com.

After a year of anticipation, In the Heights is finally making its big screen debut this summer. The movie features bold sets, Boy-band fever continues to grip the world as the latest catchy songs and an amazing cast, and it is something one will not BTS comeback approaches. Although the date of the want to miss. comeback has not officially been announced, fans are still excited by the teasers that have been released. Photo courtesy of Google Images Photo courtesy of Evie Harris A Quiet Place Part II By: Sophie Engler The upcoming and long-awaited sequel starring John Krasinski and Emily Blunt, The Quiet Place 2 will be released on May 28. The horror/thriller film will follow a family that must survive a post-apocalypse world by never making a sound. Originally scheduled to be released last year, director John Krasinski pushed back the release date due to COVID-19 regulations, claiming “it needed to be seen on the big screen.” Following the first movie’s huge success, there are high hopes for the sequel. Krasinski was inspired to write the screenplay after he and his wife/co-star, Emily Blunt, had their second child, using the One of the biggest upcoming film as a metaphor to parenthood. The second film will follow the mother and three children, one of them being an infant, as they movies, The Quiet Place, is to try to survive as blind creatures with hyper hearing try to hunt them. In the first movie not only did they have to face the creatures, be released May 28, 2021. After the first movies huge hit, but they also had to face other survivors. Krasinski's character will make brief appearances at the beginning of the movie in John John Krasinski has flashback scenes, as well as new characters, including one played by Cillian Murphy. When asked about his thoughts on the second directed and produced the new movie, Sophomore Kirk Anderson said, “I plan on watching it; it seems like a good movie based on the trailers so far.” film. Originally supposed to be Krasinski has directed movies prior to The Quiet Place, including The Hollars and Promised Land. But “The Quiet Place” released much earlier, it was pushed back due to series has gone on to be one of his most successful project. Not only has he written movies, but Krasinski has had a successful COVID-19. career as an actor, appearing in projects such as The Office. The film had a budget of 17 million dollars and made 50.2 million dollars on the opening weekend, making 2x the amount they had estimated. The movie will feature many well-known names like Photo courtesy of Google Okieriete Onaodowan, who also starred in Hamilton, and Noah Jupe, who had a large role in the movie Wonder. Images