VISIT ONLINE: T OMSCROLL.COM he VOLUME XLIII ISSUE IV OAKLAND MILLS HIGH SCHOOL MAY 16, 2018

BENEATH THE Recap of Class Activities HEADLINES... Scroll2017-2018 year of fun

FACEBOOK SCANDAL PAGE 2 Photo taken by LifeTouch years, it is a push into reality and we lost a very special member of matter how happy we are to leave Maggie Attridge a chance to make a mark on the our family. We have persevered hOMe on May 25th, 2018, there News Editor world. This year the Oakland through the many senior nights, will always be a small part of us Mills community grew stronger class night, senior breakfast, and wanting to go back to experience The end of the year is a cause than ever. We banded together to soon-to-be senior awards, and one more Friday night game, for celebration for many. But for say #NeverAgain and voice our ultimatley graduation. Each event screaming at the top of our lungs, the senior class leaving the place opinions on gun violence. We brought the sudden feeling of covered in orange paint. they have called home for four also held each other close when “this is actually happening.” No King of the Mill Never ceases to amaze SENIOR SUPERLATIVES PAGE 6-7

NBA PLAYOFFS PAGE 9

Photo taken by LifeTouch The competitors for this year’s phone, then Joel with his hilarious to leave remnants of how they The Scroll Cameron Vereen King of the Mill were: Nick Mill- edited video, Sam’s outstanding want to be remembered. At the INDEX Sports Editor er, Alika Gibson, Sam Chongo, singing and piano performance, end of the show, awards were an- NEWS: 1-2 John Stafford, Joel Bernstein, and then Nick solving a rubik’s cube nounced for “Best Talent,” “Most On the 26th of April, the Mill Toby Baldwin. The young men at blazing speed, and lastly John’s Romantic,” “Court Jester,” “Fan FEATURES: 3 hosted the annual King of the came out with a synchronized singing and guitar playing. Favorite,” “Lord of the Dance,” EDITORIALS: 4-5 Mill competition in which several dance routine that left the crowd In the second round, the con- and the ultimate award, “King of male seniors competed in various shocked and in laughter at the testants had to present a rose to the Mill. “ SUPERLATIVES: 6-7 events. These events included same time. their date in the most creative way The winner of “Best Talent” REFLECTIONS: 8 a group dance, their individual The first round was the “talent” possible; some swept the ladies was Sam Chongo, who had the display of talent, their creative round where the contestants had off their feet and left the crowd King SPORTS: 8 way of giving a girl a rose, and to show off their best talent. Alika in “oohs” and “ahhs.” Finally, for the legacy they are leaving behind started off with his dancing, fol- the last round, contestants had to continued at OM. lowed by Toby playing his saxo- “insert” their legacy into a box, on page 2 News Page 2 May 16, 2018 US Attack on Syria Did Syria attack its own people?

Photo Credit: Publicdomainpictures.net awoken by the sound of a bomb cated. According to BBC, President kills his people and enjoys it!” on his own people. The Ameri- Rachel Spione dropping at 6:30 am. By the time Bashar al-Assad went on to say that The same day as Trump’s tweet, can ambassador to the UN told Staff Writer he reached the scene, the people the chemical attack was a fabrica- the U.K. Prime Minister Theresa the security council “the United couldn’t move and their pupils tion that the US made up in order May ordered British submarines States is confident that we have On April 4, 2018, a chemical were constricted. to justify an airstrike on a syrian to move within missile range of crippled Syria’s chemical weap- attack was carried out on the town The attack killed over 80 airbase on April 7. Al-Assad also Syria. During the time of both ons program.” Some members of Khan Sheikhoun, a rebel-held people and though 541 survived, said the videos that captured the the U.S.’s move and the U.K.’s of the Trump administration still town in Northwestern Syria. The they suffered extreme symptoms attack might have been fabricated move, neither country made an think that Syria might continue first hint of an attack was a bomb from the nerve agent, like foam- and questioned whether the dead official decision on what to do. to research and develop chemi- dropped in the early morning, ing from the mouth, blue facial victims were actually dead. On Friday night, Trump cal weapons because the Syrian which, according to a fourteen skin and lips, severe shortness of On April 11, Donald Trump announced that an airstrike government still has access to year old witness, emitted yellow breath, and asphyxiation. tweeted “Russia vows to shoot was currently being carried out Sarin, chlorine, and weapons that gas. The residents of the one story Western Powers and opposi- down any and all missiles fired at over Syria at that moment. The were used for the chemical attack building had breathed in the yel- tion to Syria accused the Syrian Syria. Get ready Russia, because president said the airstrikes were on Khan Sheikhoun. low gas and died before anyone government of carrying out the they will be coming, nice as new meant as a type of punishment could help them. A photographer attack while the Syrian President and “smart!” You shouldn’t be part- for Al-Assad after he allegedly for the pro-opposition Edlib Me- Bashar al-Assad said it was fabri- ners with a Gas Killing Animal who carried out a chemical attack dia Center reported that he was King The winner of the final two continued awards, “Court Jester” and the Online Privacy? from page 1 ultimate “King of the Mill” title went to Nick Miller. With crowd in laughter and everyone an overall great performance Questions arise about internet security singing along with his remix of from start to finish, the judges various Lil Uzi songs. “Most Ro- awarded him with the top Jared Nguyen mantic” was Joel Bernstein, also prize. This year also contained having the crowd in laughter after a performance from the senior Staff Writer being “embarrassed” by his date dance company and a “Queen whom he was trying to give the of the Mill” award, which Julia In today’s world, with the bil- rose. He stole her heart in the end Pomerantz won after assisting lions of gigabytes of data being leaving the crowd swooning. The her partner Alika for two awards. made and shared around the world winner of “Lord of the Dance” All-in-all, it was another suc- every second, exposing the data and “Fan Favorite” was Alika cessful year of King of the Mill, is bound to happen at some point. Gibson with an outstanding dance and we’re looking forward to That is what happened a few weeks performance in the talent section what the guys will come up with ago to Facebook. An app named of the show, and his interaction next year! “This Is Your Digital Life” utilized with the crowd and other contes- users Facebook accounts to login. tants throughout. Customers would login and would allow the app to have access to their public information on their Face- book account (i.e. birthday). That app took the data they compiled and Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons sold it to the highest bidder, which sumers expect to have online so dominated by technology. In Thank you for everyone who in this case was the political con- privacy? The answer is yes and the end, social media is a blessing sulting firm Cambridge Analytica. no. Yes, because online privacy and a curse - a blessing in the fact participated in the king of the mill Many were concerned when they still exists today. Social media that it connects everyone together found out Cambridge Analytica experts have warned people to and allows for people to meet new competition! We hope to see more next bought their personal data because read all the fine print and to not people, but a curse since it comes year! the company specializes in using enter personal information to at the expense of your privacy. data to direct ads, and make politi- any third-party websites. No, cal campaigns especially designed because in this day and age it for their individual customers based is almost impossible to have on their data. In the future, can con- total privacy in a world that is Features May 16, 2018 Page 3 Beyonce at Cochella An Odd Duo Performance of a lifetime Cardi B and Bernie? real ‘Make America Great Again,’ Lloyanne Hamilton because if it wasn’t for him, old people wouldn’t even get Social Staff Writer Security.” The tweet isn’t Sanders’ Coachella invited Beyoncé first partnership or social network Knowles to perform, and her per- shoutout with a rap artist. formance made history. Beyoncé In a 2016 tweet, Sanders shared became the first black woman to a New York Times interview headline the festival. Beyonce with Jay-Z, writing “Jay Z is opened her performance with her right: we have to end the war on famous song “Crazy in Love,” Photo Credit: Wikipedia drugs.” Sanders was also joined and “Lift Every Voice and Sing:” on the trail during his presidential the black national anthem. Maria Ramsey campaign by rapper Killer Mike, Beyoncé’s appearance at Staff Writer who told CNN’s Brooke Baldwin Coachella has many people talk- in 2016 he shed tears when the ing about her and her extraordi- Vermont independent Sena- Vermont senator ended his presi- nary HBCU (historically black tor Bernie Sanders, shouted out dential campaign. colleges and universities) themed rapper Cardi B in a tweet on The Bronx-born rapper Cardi stage. She brought in a group of Photo Credit: Wikipedia April 18th for supporting his B, who is famed for her forthright talented college students from Grambling State University.” Destiny’s Child. Beyoncé topped ideas of a better America. Bernie “no filter approach,” recently said various HBCUs to perform with After Beyoncé’s performance, she it off when she brought her sister, quoted her stating, “Cardi B is she was a big fan of President her. According to The Grapevine, gave $25,000 scholarships to four Solange Knowles, out on stage right. If we are really going to Franklin D. Roosevelt and heaped “Beyoncé, through her BeyGood students to study any field. with her. make America great we need to praise on both his policies and initiative, is now partnering with Beyoncé had a spectacular Beyoncé’s performance strengthen Social Security so resilience. Senator Sanders, a keen Google to award scholarships performance that had many of itself was breathtaking, leav- that seniors are able to retire with advocate of welfare reform, has to even more HBCUs. Google her fans excited as she brought ing many fans and celebrities in the dignity they deserve.” Cardi long been a supporter of expand- will match Beyonce’s original guests onto the stage. She had awe. Beyoncé’s history-making B who is most known for her ing social welfare programs like $100,000 grant to benefit four many fans’ attention when she performance at Coachella will be famous song “Bodak Yellow,” Social Security and Medicare. We more HBCUs, namely Texas sang, “Deja Vu” with her husband talked about for years to come. It weighed in on Social Security see those money moves, Bernie. Southern University, Fisk Uni- Jay Z, and when she sang “Say will certainly be hard to top this during an interview with GQ tell- The only question now: Does versity, Morehouse College and My Name,” “Soldier,” and “Lose headliner next year. ing the magazine that President Cardi still feel the Bern? My Breath” with her old group, Franklin D. Roosevelt was “the Standardized Testing Do we need it? failed to improve this in students Leah Gaskins and continues to further explain Staff Writer this point, “After No Child Left Behind (NCLB) passed in 2002, Most households often have the U.S. slipped from 18th in the one or more children who’ve world in math on the Programme taken a standardized test. There for International Student As- are arguments supporting each sessment (PISA) to 31st place side, but before engaging with this in 2009, with a similar drop in subject, one must first under- science and no change in reading. stand what standardized tests are A National Research report from and why they are being used in May 26, 2011 found no evidence schools today. According to The test-based incentive programs are Glossary of Education Reform, working: “Despite using them for standardized tests are “any form several decades, policymakers of test that requires all test takers and educators do not yet know to answer the same questions, how to use test-based incentives or a selection of questions from to consistently generate positive common bank of questions, in the effects on achievement and to same way, and that is scored in improve education.” it elucidates. a ‘standard’ or consistent man- However, ProCon.org aren’t ner, which makes it possible to the only ones who provide insight compare the relative performance on the subject. Grade Power of individual students or groups of Learning provides additional students.” information on the disadvantages Knowing this, what are the of standardized tests. “It evaluates advantages and disadvantages of student’s performance without making students take them? considering external factors. How might standardized test- Standardized tests don’t consider ing help students? ProCon.org, factors like test anxiety, home a nonprofit nonpartisan public life, or the fact that some kids are charity, provides a small list extremely bright but just don’t composed of these advantages. test well.” it finishes. “93% of studies on student test- Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons There are both factual benefits ing, including the use of large- the Oct. 28, 2005, issue of the The list states that standardized dent and the educational system. and drawbacks to standardized scale and high-stakes standardized peer-reviewed Education Policy tests “Gives parents information But there are many who would testing, things that are very pres- tests, found a ‘positive effect’ on Analysis Archives, teachers in on how their child is perform- disagree with these arguments. ent in many of America’s school student achievement, according to four Minnesota school districts ing compared to students locally, One of which is also ProCon.org, systems today. Are they worth the a peer-reviewed, 100-year analysis said standardized testing had a provincially, and nationally, as who, like their listing of advan- drawbacks for their benefits, or of testing research completed in positive impact, improving the well as how their child’s school as tages of standardized testing, has are they too detrimental for what 2011 by testing scholar Richard P. quality of the curriculum while a whole compares to others,” the also provided a list of disadvan- they aim to achieve? Phelps,” it states. raising student achievement.” article lists. tages. According to Study.com, Along with these findings, the But ProCon.org isn’t the only one Also on their list, it states that student achievement is defined as same list mentions that standard- who sees the benefits of standard- testing “Gives governments infor- “the amount of academic content ized tests “are focusing it on ized testing. Oxford Learning, an mation on the education system a student learns in a determined important basic skills all students online tutoring service, provides in order to improve areas that are amount of time.” need to master,” in one of their some additional insight on the lacking.” Standardized testing has Understanding this, the list pros, “According to a study in topic with their own list of pros. several benefits for both the stu- states that standardized testing has Editorials May 16, 2018 Page 4 The opinions that appear in this section do not necessarily reflect the views of the staff of The Muslims in Media Scroll or the staff and administration of Oakland How Muslims are depicted in media Mills High School, but are merely an expression of views of a segment of the student populace. If you want your views to appear in The Scroll and be heard by the students, parents, and faculty, send letters to Ms. Katlyn Moore, advisor, or email to [email protected]. The Scroll is your news- paper and you ought to have a say in what goes into it. However, The Scroll reserves the right to edit any submitted letters to remove objection- able or offensive content and language. Due to space limitations, letters may not be printed for publication or they may appear in later issues. Oakland Mills High School 9410 Kilimanjaro Road Columbia, MD 21045 Volume XLIII Issue IV Staff Writers: Editor-in-Chief Bryan Adu Tanner Malinowski Kelli Andrade News Editor Maggie Attridge Blen Asres Editorals Editor Danielle Diguiseppe Kiya Kirkland Nick Fairbanks Features Editor Leah Gaskins Tommy Zhang Lloyanne Hamilton Sports Editors Jasmine Harrison Cameron Vereen Tanner Malinowski Melissa Johnson Photos Editor Jalen Knight Kyle Heflinger Sofeeyah Lloyd Online Editor Nancy Miranda Menendez Devonne Tourre Jared Nguyen Faculty Advisor Hareem Qureshi Katlyn Moore Photo Credit: Amazon.com in burkas wearily watch on in the ing a token. A token is when you Maria Ramsey Technical Advisors Katherine Florida Hareem Quershi background. I don’t want to be have a character of some minority Natalie Romero Randi Trzesinski Staff Writer educated on terrorism by Super- who either has no real relevance man. There is a time and place for Brynn Rhodes Ty Lawson to the plot or is a stereotypical If you’ve roamed the halls of everything, and there are ap- character. Look at Apu from “The Rachel Spione Principal Oakland Mills lately, chances propriate formats for every story. Simpsons.” Would he really be Maya Vereen Elaine Reid are you’ve seen people carrying Superhero comic books where the same character if he wasn’t copies of Persepolis, by Marjane men shoot lasers from their eyes Indian? His whole personality is Satrapi. The book is being read in isn’t the place. the fact that he’s Indian. I don’t my English class. This means that If we have room for stories even have much of a problem I, along with my whole class will where Superman fights off terror- with Apu’s character, it’s the fact 2017-2018 have to read it and learn from it. ists, then we have room for better that Apu is all I get in terms of Learn what from it? I don’t know stories too. We have room for sto- Indian representation on TV. A yet. I have a hunch I already ries where Muslim girls fight off white child watching TV does Yearbook know what’ll happen. I’ve read zombies, or stories where Muslim have Homer Simpson, a stereo- this story a million times, and girls solve murder mysteries, or typical middle-class dad, but I’ve watched it in movies as well. stories where girls just happen to they also get to look at characters On Sale Now! The story of the “Muslim” girl. be Muslim. A story where a girl’s like , Rick Grimes, Sam The girl who’s raised Muslim and religion doesn’t matter that much Winchester, etc. I don’t get to see There is still time to order your 2017- secretly hates it, or the girl who in the plot, and she can just be a many interesting, complex char- lives in some war-torn country. girl. Usually when a story set in acters that look like me, or come 2018 yearbook! The price is $75 (which That’s all the book really is to me America has a Muslim character, from a country similar to mine, or includes sales tax.) See Mr. Cutler in right now. Looking at the cover, they’re not even very accurate believe the same things I do. seeing a depressed young girl in a portrayals of the average Muslim. This is why it’s so hard for me room 403 for more information. hijab, it’s just another “Muslim” Most ‘nice’ Muslim characters to read something like Persepolis girl story. are Muslims that aren’t even that in English class. This year, I had I’ve known for a long time religious or practicing. It feels three books to read that featured that no one’s interested in telling like religious Muslims aren’t white male protagonists: Ender’s my story. The story of a normal capable of being relateable or fun Game, Macbeth, and Lord of The Scroll is online! girl with normal problems who characters. In An Abundance of the Flies. I got to see white men Check us out on our website: omscroll.com! just happens to be Muslim (and Katherines by John Green, there’s fight aliens in space, conspire even likes being Muslim, too!). a Muslim character named Has- against royalty, and try to survive No one wants to tell the story of san who drinks, kisses a girl, and alone on an island. But once I’m Follow us on Twitter and Instagram: OMSCROLL a Muslim unless they’re a victim gets very excited for Christmas; given a book that’s supposed to of extremism or an extremist and while there are those types of represent me, I’m given the same themselves. That’s why Batman Muslims out there, there’s also a thing I always see: an unhappy, v Superman starts with Superman lot more who drink lassi and get oppressed girl stuck in a hijab. in the Middle East dealing with excited for Eid, a Muslim holiday, But, hey, maybe I’m wrong about terrorists. That’s why I’ve seen instead. We can be nice too. Persepolis, and I will be pleas- Wonder Woman comics where When representing a minority antly surprised if I am. she’s in the Middle East fighting in a story, one needs to be careful terrorists while a sea of women to make sure they are not writ- Editorials May 16, 2018 Page 5 I Broke the Dress Code Brynn’s Bops: How to spark a conversation some officers may be more skilled will. In a society that is work- Sofeeyah Lloyd in the emotional part of the job ing towards mass inclusion and Senior Edition Staff Writer than others. diversity, it can be hard to see the Despite this truth, many people horrible pieces of our past reoc- Seniors, May I Have This Dance? It’s In March, I wore a shirt that in our country do not feel police cur. Many of us have to deal with some people found offensive and are totally fulfilling this respon- the pain and anguish of the past made them uncomfortable. Many sibility. The perception that some and face continuous ridicule no finally here: Prom, Graduation, and teachers have explained that read- Americans have of the police is matter what our race is. ing things that are uncomfortable, one of negativity and ignorance. Our society has propagated the beginning of our lives. Please, having uncomfortable conversa- From social media to daily con- stereotypes that keep all of us tions, and thinking about things versation, people have the idea held down and boxed in. Ignoring embrace being young, because we that make us uncomfortable are that police are out to get them or anyone’s individuality is harmful; not experiences to shy away someone they love. Social media stereotypes erase individuality. are growing up fairly quickly. Stay from but, rather, are experiences has constructed a view of the We have to enforce the impor- showing us that we have room for force that is not representative of tance of individuality and what growth. I guess I wanted to make them as a whole. One of the hard- makes us who we are. Our Home every once in a while, and people uncomfortable for the sake est things for Officer Harrison to progression begins with wanting of conversation, but I did not real- deal with is “the perception that to learn and moving in the right make sure you have the friends you ize people would feel personally the world has of him and his col- direction of love. attacked. The shirt implied that leagues.” The solution for this pain that will keep forever in your heart. This all police officers are inherently When the media shows in- we may all be experiencing is racist, which was a gross general stances of police officers com- communication. Officer Harrison is the day to enjoy the Little Won- statement on my part. It caused a mitting violence against citizens proposed: “Come out for commu- disruption, not only for the school and walking free from our justice nity events, engage, we are only environment, but personally system, it is understandable why police officers when we have this ders that high school brings you, the within myself and others as well. many Americans may not feel uniform on. We like to do other The disruption caused me to protected. Police officers across stuff like watch superhero movies warmth that your family brings, and reflect on my own opinions and the country have to “bear the and play sports, we are human feelings about this very contro- brunt” of other officers mistakes beings. There is more to us then the lifelong memories from Oakland versial topic. I wanted to take this and wrongdoings constantly. just a badge.” disruption and make it as positive “They don’t see police officers as In many ways I can relate to Mills. Good Riddance, Congratula- as possible for the community people, they see us as a govern- what Officer Harrison said, to the and for myself. I realized I had an ment entity or a tool,” Officer feeling of his not being human opportunity to learn a new per- Harrison stated. or his feelings about being more tions and remember: Bye Bye Miss spective, perhaps even one I had He continued; “Americans should than just a blue button up and a not considered before. Different view police as people, people who badge. And part of what made American Pie... perspectives surround us each and are good and bad, who have good his comment so relatable was the every day, and all we have to do is days and bad days.” As a person feelings seemed so similar to my talk to each other and ask in order who also has good days and bad experience as a Black woman. to understand one another. So I days, I understood what Harrison Black people have been fighting did. I sat down with Officer Kiron was saying, though officers with to be seen as human, to be seen as Harrison, Oakland Mills High bad days is a scary idea to me. more, for hundreds of years now. Title Artist Album School’s very own police officer. When asked if he felt if there was It is 2018 and we are still fight- May I Have This Francis and the May I Have This You have probably seen him a racial bias in the police force, ing, and we are tired. I wore that Dance (Remix) Lights Dance (Remix) - standing by the cafeteria check- Harrison agreed: “I believe there shirt because I am tired, just like [feat. Chance the Single ing passes and watching over our is a racial bias in our country, the officers that face ridicule each day-to-day activities, but you may period. Whether it be in the police day. I feel now that I was unfair Rapper] not know how he ended up here. force, in the medical field, etc. with my generalization and that Prom SZA Ctrl Officer Harrison has been on the Intrinsically, the laws that we is the issue that we have to break We Are Young Fun. Some Nights force for 16 years; he was a patrol have, have been on the books for through. In order to reach the officer for eight years, detec- 80-90 years, when segregation end goal of love and learning we Never Grow Up Taylor Swift Speak Now tive for six, and now he resides was legal. America is nowhere cannot place people into boxes. Little Wonders Rob Thomas Meet the Robin- as a school resource officer here near a post-racial era. The police The stereotypes that we have sons at The Mill. I thought Officer are a reflection of our society, like can lead to destruction in many Harrison might provide some many other things.” ways. We should move through The Climb Miley Cyrus Hannah Mon- interesting insight since he works The police as a reflection of life with open hearts and minds. tana: The Movie with so much diversity each and our society is a concept that I had There is something to learn from Home Edward Sharpe Up From Below every day. I wanted to know how never considered. It has always everything, always, no matter & the Magnetic he feels about current tensions felt like an “us” and “them” equa- the circumstances. As a senior with police. tion yet, the police ARE a piece prepared to take on the world, Zeros As a school-based officer, he of the community and we are one this lesson will serve as precious Closing Time Semisonic Feeling Strange- is a resource for us all. Officer together. We all want the same cargo for the rest of my journey. ly Fine Harrison said, “I can answer ques- things: safety, security, respect, I hope to keep asking for new tions about speeding tickets, cita- and peace. If we can agree that perspectives and learn something This Is the Day The The Soul Mining tions, or if someone’s in trouble the police are a reflection of our everyday while helping others to Graduation Vitamin C Vitamin C I can help as much as possible.” society, then we need to also learn as well. (Friends For- His job is to provide support and agree that the issues represented ever) reassurance for staff and students by tensions between officers and alike. Harrison offers an abun- the citizens they protect are a Good Riddance Green Day Nimrod dance of knowledge that can keep reflection of our society as well. (Time of Your us informed and out of trouble. “The people who were racist Life) The general job of the police is are still alive and they are still Congratulations MGMT Congratulations to protect. Police officers across going to be feeding this racism. It the nation work hard everyday to has been ingrained in our society American Pie Don Mclean American Pie keep their designated areas as safe for hundreds of years, we can’t and peaceful as possible. just erase it.” Officer Harrison They serve as “problem solv- added. This urged me to take a ers for the community,” as Officer step back and look at this nation Harrison stated. Contrary to for what it is. The huge grey area popular belief, police officers do between hate and love, that is not rush to crazy crime scenes day where we lie. We are left to deal in and day out. “Many times when with the overflow of hatred and police are on duty they are there it is difficult. The different kinds as mediators, social workers, and of turmoil that America has been psychologists,” Harrison said. through has shaped us and always They are meant to help, though, 2018 Senior Superlatives

BEST SMILE: KENDALL ADSON & NORA WIN BEST HAIR: JOEL BERNSTEIN & GRACE AVERY

MOST SPIRITED: PHIL CARROLL & MAGGIE ATTRIDGE

MOST ATHLETIC: DYNAMIC DUO: KELLY CLAXTON & GRACIE CHAVERINI CAMERON VEREEN & MARIA RAMSEY

BEST EYES: NICK MILLER & ADRIANNA RENEHAN FINE ARTS FANATIC: WILLIAM MAH & HELEN MANN 2018 Senior Superlatives

MOST LIKELY TO BECOME AN OM

RYAN PRESTONTEACHER: & ISABEL BOWEN

MOST CHANGED: PHIL CARROLL & MELISSA JOHNSON

MOST LIKELY TO SUCCEED: WILLIAM MAH & NOEMI GONZALEZ

BEST DRESSED: ALIKA GIBSON & BRYNN RHODES

CONGENIALITY: NICK MILLER & ASHARA WILSON

CUTEST COUPLE: CLASS CLOWN: RYAN PRESTON & REMI SIJUWADE ALIKA GIBSON & ANDREA ONUKWUGHA Reflections May 16, 2018 Page 8 An Ode to Journalism A four-year reflection

Devonne Tourre Former Editor-In-Chief

I am a student of words. Ever since I was a little boy, I’ve wanted to use those words in a creative way––my goal was to become an author. However, as I got older––and my mom talked some sense into me before entering high school––I had to slightly deviate from those dreamlike plans in order to go Photo Credit: wjmc.gmu.edu into something more feasible. Af- established our school newspaper graze through it with a razor-thin ter thinking about it for a little bit, on an online platform, boosting toothpick and how they dissect I decided to agree, and take my our presence not only schoolwide, word by word in order to under- high school journalism course. but now county and even world- stand our content. I love when Little did I know that this was wide. This was one of the major people do that, as it shows that only the beginning of a journey steps into my journalism career, words cannot taken for granted. that would last for a lifetime. as it took what I had already We worked hard for those words, What I eventually came to known about building websites toiling for hours on end and even- realize is that writing is the chan- and used that knowledge to aid tually coming up with a product. nel for my creativity. Journalism our newspaper. I became my own I am honored to have been one has taught me that words truly position that had never existed for of the very few African Ameri- matter, and how you use them our paper before: an online editor. can males to have an impact matters even more. When I was Not only was I having fun in our community through our assigned to write my first article doing what I loved––using words newspaper. The Scroll is proudly that would actually be in the in a creative way as well as being celebrated as one of the best school newspaper, I got a little more involved in journalism––but newspaper in the county, and I excited. And when I went through I knew that we were helping the believe it deserves to hold that the entire process––learning community get the news that they title. I’ve been more than happy about my topic, writing a compel- needed to know. With my role as to preserve that title for as long as ling story with a proper hook and online editor, I was only getting a I did, and I’m glad to pass it off conclusion––I began to become taste of this. to someone who I know will con- more and more infatuated about But now, as I’ve been in the tinue its legacy, both in print and my writing. Sure, it was more position of Editor-in-Chief for the in online editions. Oakland Mills formal than I would have liked, last two years of my high school High School has set the stage for but it was still fun nonetheless. career, I’ve gotten to experi- anyone to achieve their goals, and Over my four long years, I be- ence this sense of community at I was one of them who were given gan to move up the positions (and full force. I’ve been able to see the opportunity to do so. Thank even add a few) of my Journalism how many people pick up our you for being my hOMe. class. In my sophomore year, I newspaper, how many people Drawing by Nancy Miranda Menendez One Year Down Being a Transfer A recap on freshman year Student Joining OM Senior Year

Written by: Danielle Diguiseppe Joining Oakland Mills during my final year of high school was honestly kind of scary. Walk- ing in on my first day was even more terrifying.I knew no one and I had zero idea of where any- only focused on the sport you are had multiple fights, including thing was. I barely knew the layout of the school Maya Vereen playing. Another thing I learned with the usage of weapons. As (which I think we can all admit is pretty confus- Staff Writer is that one week is not a enough another freshman, the first few time to study for seven midterms. weeks were annoying and dif- ing), I was completely lost the entire time! The Our 2017-2018 year is winding Midterms are important because ficult for me. I would have upper- thing that really confused me was the ARL (Ap- down and my freshman year is it’s a big assessment to see what classmen come up to me and ask coming to an end. It’s been a year you have learned for the past two what was wrong with my class plied Research Lab). Having to take a separate to learn about keeping up with quarters each midterm is different. and comparing me to the other bus to a different building for another class was homework, classwork, practice, Taking advice from the upper- freshman. As the school year has games, and making time to study classmen isn’t a bad idea because gone along, there have been less completely new to me. That was not even an op- for midterms. Managing time is they have been through it more fights and myself and the other tion for my old school, unless you were taking an important factor in high school than us. As freshmen, we tend to freshman have matured since the college level classes. because you want to go attend be stubborn and act like we know start of the year.There are still sports games or be part of a team everything and ignore any ad- times when we are immature–– or club. However, you have to ditional advice. The advice I took but as we get older, the immature Over time I made some friends and started to make sure homework is done, from the upperclassmen was that behavior will be less common. tests are studied for, and meet- I should stop with the childish come out of my shell. Although I don’t see any of ings are being attended The first middle school act. For the rest of my friends outside of school, I tend not to be very thing every coach wants for you my classmates they didn’t seem to social. I got the layout of the building down, (well is to get your education and do change their behavior coming into well in school. Therefore, they high school. The first few weeks kind of). This building is still very confusing to expect that grades will stay up of the school year the freshman me, I tend to get lost kind of easily. and won’t drop because you’re Sports May 16, 2018 Page 9 2018 NBA Playoffs NBA Playoff First round brings enticing matchups Schedule Eastern Conference Finals (Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Boston Celtics): May 13~27

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons playoffs have been made final; the Wizards, the Boston Celtics tak- Western Conference Bryan Adjei-Adu best team in the Western Confer- ing on the Milwaukee Bucks, the ence was the Houston Rockets. Cleveland Cavaliers taking on the Staff Writer With the dynamic duo of James Indiana Pacers, and the Philadel- Finals Harden and Chris Paul, they led phia 76ers taking on the Miami Spring is usually known for the their team in the Western Confer- Heat. In the Western Conference (Golden State War- best time for memorable sports ence with a record of 65 wins and Playoffs, the Houston Rockets moments to happen. With events 17 losses (65-17). The team that play the Minnesota Timber- riors vs. Houston like March Madness, Opening led the Eastern Conference was wolves, while the Golden State Day in the Major Leagues, and the Toronto Raptors, who had Warriors play the San Antonio the NBA Playoffs, this time of the an outstanding regular season, Spurs. In addition, the Portland Rockets): May 14~28 year always excites sports fans. earning the top seed in the Eastern Trail Blazers will battle the New After a steady regular season in Conference Playoffs with a record Orleans Pelicans, and lastly the the NBA, it has officially come of 59-23. Oklahoma City Thunder will play to an end, and it’s time for the With the playoffs looming, the against the Utah Jazz. The Jazz NBA Finals: To Be playoffs. The National Basketball intensity of the game we deeply and Thunder series will feature Association is known for using love is about to heat up. With a matchup between the dynamic Announced the statement “where amazing enticing matchups, the first round Utah rookie Donovan Mitchell happens,” and they sure weren’t tends to be the highlight of the and 2016-17 MVP winner Rus- lying when it came to that state- playoffs. The Eastern Confer- sell Westbrook. The Playoffs are ment. ence Playoffs features the Raptors finally here! The teams who made the facing off against the Washington Ohtani’s Strong Start Ex-Japanese star takes MLB by storm Tanner Malinowski Editor-In-Chief

After struggling mightily with the Los Angeles Angels of Ana- heim throughout spring training, Shohei Ohtani has used the first month of the regular season to prove why he drew comparisons to baseball legend Babe Ruth while playing overseas in Japan. After beginning his career with Japan’s Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, Ohtani decided to leave his homeland and come to Ameri- ca to play Major League Baseball. Many teams were involved in the sweepstakes, primarily due to the fact that Ohtani was a rare talent; he was both a standout pitcher and hitter, but in December 2017 Ohtani decided to sign with the Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons Angels. concern that Ohtani was not go- starting lineup batting eighth and the Angels’ 6-0 loss at the hands Ohtani wasn’t finished, however, Expectations were sky-high ing to be able to handle baseball serving as the designated hitter. of the Cleveland Indians on April as the following day he homered as Ohtani and the Angels began in America, and as a result, was After singling on the first pitch he 2, Ohtani was back in the lineup for the third consecutive game as spring training. However, Ohtani going to fall short of the lofty saw, Ohtani grounded out three the following day, batting eighth the Angels defeated Oakland by a fell short on the mound and at the expectations placed upon him. times and struck out once, finish- in the lineup and serving as the score of 13-9. plate. As a pitcher he posted an Rumors began circulating left and ing the game with one hit in five designated hitter. With his team At the end of the month, alarmingly high 27.00 earned run right, some saying Ohtani was at-bats. already leading 3-2 in the bottom Ohtani’s batting stats were noth- average (ERA), giving up eight going to begin the season in the Ohtani’s first appearance on of the first inning, Ohtani stepped ing short of impressive, as he earned runs in only 2.2 innings minor leagues, others believing the mound came in the series fina- to the plate with two runners on finished April with a .359 batting pitched. Things weren’t any pret- Ohtani was only going to be used le on April 1. Facing the Oakland base and two outs, and proceeded average, 14 hits, 12 runs batted in, tier at the plate, as Ohtani finished as a hitter due to his poor pitching Athletics, Ohtani pitched six solid to hit his first career major league and 4 home runs. While his pitch- with a measly .125 batting aver- throughout spring training. innings, giving up only three hits home run. Two more hits follow- ing statistics weren’t as impres- age, collecting only four hits in 32 None of these rumors turned and three runs while striking out ing his memorable at-bat earned sive, Ohtani did improve when at-bats. out to be true, however, as on six batters. The Angels won 7-4, him a start the following day compared to spring training, as As the regular season neared, Opening Day, Angels manager giving Ohtani his first win in the where he managed to hit another he finished the month with a 4.33 many baseball analysts expressed Mike Scioscia had Ohtani in the major leagues. After sitting out on home run in another Angels win. earned run average in four starts. Summer 2018 May 16, 2018 Page 10 Things to do This Summer School Columbia offers plenty of fun Calender 5/16~22 - Senior Exams 5/17: Interim reports issued 5/18 - Three hour early dismissal 5/23 - Senior Awards Assembly (8:30am)

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons 5/23 - Senior Picnic (11:00 Sky Zone Trampoline Park (7175 in Savage, Maryland, which has Samy Bebee Oakland Mills Rd, Columbia, been turned into a complex of AM~2:00am) Staff Writer MD 21046): Sky Zone is a chain shops and restaurants. You can of indoor trampoline parks and find live music at Ram’s Head, With summer vacation right dodgeball. Go and enjoy being antiques at The Antique Center, 5/24 - No School for Seniors around the corner, many students a kid again with trampolines, and some Maryland history along are going to have more free time obstacle courses, and ball pits. the way. 5/25 - Graduation! than usual. Many will be traveling They open every day of the week, Blandair Park (5750 Oakland over the break, but for those who though times vary. Mills Rd, Columbia, MD 21045): (11:00am @ Merriweather Post Pa- are looking for local things to do, Autobahn Indoor Speedway & With multipurpose sports fields, here is a list of different activities Events (8251 Preston Ct, Jessup, Blandair a great place for any villion) in and around Columbia: MD 20794): Autobahn offers in- kind of athletic activity. The park African Art Museum (11711 E door tracks for driving high-speed had playgrounds, pavilions, walk- Market Pl #2, Fulton, MD 20759): go-karts at speeds exceeding 50 ing paths, and open fields for all 5/28 - Schools Closed (Memorial The museum is open from 10:00 miles per hour. Grab a friend and ages. am-3:00 pm throughout the week, race to victory! Day) and would be a great trip for Savage Mill (8600 Foundry St, people who enjoy African art and Savage, MD 20763): Savage Mill 6/11~14 - Final Exams culture. is a historic cotton mill complex Best Amusement Parks 6/15~19 - Three hour early dismissal Plenty of fun options close by 6/19 - Last Day of School!!! Top Dining in Ocean City, MD

Belly Busters Chan Brown 4408 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, Staff Writer MD 21842 The school year is ending and Simple, long-standing seasonal it is time to start planning for your OC fixture, serving crabs & other summer vacation! After gradu- seafood & subs. ating high school, many fami- lies like to take a trip to one of Fractured Prune Maryland’s most popular beaches 2808 Philadelphia Ave, Ocean known as Ocean City. Whenever City, MD 21842 I am on vacation, I like to try out Quirky source of create-your-own some new places to eat. Below is donuts offering a variety of glazes a list of top-rated restaurants to & toppings. visit while in Ocean City. So why Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons don’t you celebrate your gradua- Fish Tales The newest addition to the park coasters, the park is significantly tion and support local businesses 2107 Herring Way, Ocean City, Nick Fairbanks is “,” a 200 foot roller larger than other Six Flag parks. It in Ocean City, Maryland this MD 21842 Staff Writer coaster with an 80 degree drop. is home to the “Kingda-Ka,” the summer! Waterfront restaurant with Ameri- Amusement parks are a great Busch Gardens Williamsburg tallest in the world. can pub eats & seafood, plus a (Four hour drive from the Balti- It stands at a staggering 456 feet way to spend time with family Hobbit Restaurant dock area & playground on the more area) tall. The park also includes a full and/or friends, and enjoy a mini 121 81st St #101, Ocean City, sand. Busch Gardens Williamsburg is in-park zoo. vacation or day trip. The follow- MD 21842 by far one of the cleanest amuse- Kings Dominion (Two Hour drive Restaurant descriptions courtesy of ing is a list of amusement parks Sleek, seasonal nook offering ment parks;. the park is extremely from the Baltimore area) Google. that are within a day’s drive from creative American cuisine with a beautiful and very well main- Kings dominion is also a heavy the Baltimore area. All of the view of Assawoman Bay. parks listed are very reputable and tained. This is also a very large roller coaster park, with 13 full- appear as highly recommended. park, and each part of the park is scale roller coasters. The park is Hershey Park: (Two hour drive themed to an European country. also very well maintained, and is from the Baltimore area) The most popular ride in the park known for its Eiffel Tower that Hershey Park is one of the most is a roller coaster named “The stands in front of the park. Guests common vacation destinations Griffin.” It is a 200 foot dive can take a ride to the top of the around the Delmarva area. Not roller coaster, featuring two big tower and enjoy an exceptional only is it a full-scale amusement loops and a 90 degree drop. view. Standing at 305 feet tall, park, but it also has Hershey’s Great Adventure (Three “Intimidator 305” is one of Kings Chocolate World, where people hour drive from the Baltimore Dominion’s greatest rides. It is can take a tour through the history area) incredibly smooth, and provides of Hershey’s chocolate. The park Roller coaster lovers cannot get riders a thrill like no other. has outstanding rides for thrill enough of Six Flags Great Adven- seekers that love roller coasters. ture. Featuring 14 full-scale roller Graduation 2018 May 16, 2018 Page 11 You Know You’re at OM When... 1) “Good morning” is a acceptable greeting anytime of the day 2) The first thought when the fire alarm goes off is “what happened this time?” 3) The only acceptable response to someone saying “OOOOO” is to say “AHHHHH” 4) Microwaves give you PTSD 5) You know who Larry Cohen is by his voice, but have never seen his face 6)You change principals every year 7) Everyone says “Yeah dummy” 8) Standing on the wall is considered a status symbol 9) You think Hammond is the school rival and not Wilde Lake 10) You are losing the game but still have the loudest cheering section

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