Letters to the Editor

There are Letters to the Editor in every issue of the magazine, however in order to be more timely (and extensive), we have also implemented an online version of this section. Letters can be emailed to us at editors@odysseynewsmagazine.net or entered in this form, which can also be found on our homepage. A list of rules for submissions can be found on our Policies page.

Volume 22, Issue 1

The ODYSSEY’s Our Take article on Clarke County School District classrooms personally resonated with me. As a ‘Gifted’ first-generation Hispanic student, I’ve seen firsthand the educational disparities the piece highlights that often go unnoticed by many. I would like to see more of these articles because they highlight crucial issues and motivate the CCSD community to strive for equity and diversity in schools, which will extend into society as a whole. This piece has deepened my appreciation for The ODYSSEY, as it not only upholds their ‘Diversity and Representation’ statement but also fosters effective journalism.

—Kevin Capcha, CCHS senior on Our Take by Staff

The article “New AP Offerings” focuses on the new AP African American studies class that is coming to CCHS, and all the opportunities it will give students. As a student who strives to take AP classes, seeing what this new opportunity has in store is so exciting. I felt like this article showed how much this class will be a step forward at Central. I liked hearing a few opinions about the class and its impact.

—Scarlett Alston, CCHS freshman on New AP Offerings by Samaya Ellis
I really enjoyed the Quest for Athens’ Best: Cold Treat Clash because it is always able to give me good recommendations on where to eat and shop in Athens. The reviews are always well thought-out and are detailed enough to give you a good idea on what the place is about. The graphics are super simple to help not overwhelm you with too much information.

—Finn Sleppy, CCHS sophomore on Quest for Athens’ Best by the Variety Staff

Your story covering La’kyla was wonderful. You put together an amazing article. You captured her perfectly whilst highlighting last year’s shows. La’kyla was one of my best actors and we are feeling her absence. This article was a great positive moment to hold on to and remember.

—Kayla Griffin, CCHS fine arts department teacher on A Vanishing Act by Isabella Westrich

The ever-evolving financial landscape of college athletics has inevitably trickled down to the high school level and has certainly rocked the boat in the process. While name, image and likeness does pose a unique set of issues that athletes, parents, coaches, and administrators alike are having to navigate, continuing to artificially restrict the rights of athletes to profit from their skills is not only immoral–it is, and always has been, patently illegal.

—Tyler Graves, CCHS social studies department teacher on Making Money Moves by Cadence Schapker

Volume 21, Issue 4

Although I don’t have a personal need for period products, l was drawn to Amya’s story on the absence of them at Clarke Central because I’ve heard about how big of a problem this is. Even though there are period product stations on each floor, many students do not have proper access to them, which can cause students to feel humiliated or embarrassed when attaining items since they are not exactly placed in private areas. Amya does a great job of highlighting this issue and providing solutions to the problem in her editorial, and I found the outside input from a custodian and teacher very insightful and considerate.

–Miles Lawrence, CCHS junior on Absent period products by Amya Hopkins

For one, I really enjoy cooking and I have been very interested in this class, so reading about it gave me a better idea of what to expect or see when you are in the class. Two, the article really delves into the students and staff’s perspective of how this program works and how the people work together during it.

– Will Ridley, CCHS sophomore on Cooking up a storm by Isabella Westrich

I found this article to be not only informational but also enjoyable. I’ve always been interested in different types of business or organizations in Athens, so reading this article was very enjoyable for me. I found this article to be inspiring and it was a good reminder to stay positive and to always try and better myself.

– Elizabeth McArthur, CCHS freshman on As Diva Does by Maggie Monk

Prior to reading this, I knew nothing of Percy Eberhart. Despite this, I was touched by his inspiring story and the legacy he left behind. The story really created a connection towards me as a reader due to his early life in Athens. His tragic passing, which is also acknowledged by the story, is not left in a bittersweet regard but instead is embodied as a symbol of inspiration and hope for basketball. Overall, this captivating story gives the Athens legend Percy Eberhart his much-deserved spotlight and respect.

– Luci Prelipceanu, CCHS junior on The impossible dream by Wyatt Meyer

Volume 21, Issue 3

The name of this story was what drew me to it, as hair is a large part of my own self-expression, especially as a Black girl. How I feel about my hair is what honestly dictates my mood and how I feel about myself as a whole. This story, to me, best summarized my thoughts on hair, as I feel like it’s very looked over in the conversation of self expression. Whether it’s a haircut or a wild hairstyle, I feel my best when I like my hair.

– Havona Jean-Phillippe, CCHS junior on Rethinking hair by Abigail Holloway

This article really stood out to me because a lot of people don’t get to experience what it’s like living in a split household for one, as well as having to commute or wait for days and months to be able to spend time with your other parent. Despite the common misconceptions on how “fun” it is living in a split household, it makes me happy that there are people like (author) Samaya Ellis who have gone through similar experiences and are able to write about (their experience and shed a light that others are blind to.

– Michael Obi-Okoye, CCHS senior on Split holidays by Samaya Ellis

This article does an excellent job on highlighting and giving spottights to our schools’ hidden heroes, the people I would say don’t get as much recognition as I think they deserve. I think that students constantly forget about important staff members, such as the graduation coach or the front desk secretary or even the nurse, who is arguably the most important person in the school. I think one of the many things that (authors) Wyatt Meyer and Merren Hines did well is to bring out how important each of the roles of these hidden heroes are and show now, without them, students and teachers wouldn’t have a clean place to work.

– Duc “Steve” Tran, CCHS senior on Hidden Heroes by Merren Hines and Wyatt Meyer

Volume 21, Issue 2

This one is extremely easy to read and I knew who was talking at all times. The articles made it seem like it was a teachers vs. students argument, it would probably be more interesting if you got teachers and students on both sides. Some statistical evidence would be interesting, like how many teachers think it is better compared to worse, or no difference.

– Lesly Emiliano-Perez, CCHS junior on My word vs. yours by Ma’Kiyah Thrasher and Sam Harwell

“Moving Up,” by Angel Jara prompts the reader to develop a greater appreciation for the CCHS Assistant Principle Nealy, and all he does to help students. The reflective nature of the article, detailing Assistant Principle Nealy’s past including his high school experience and his journey as an educator really prompts the reader to relate to him. This article shows students that even if school doesn’t feel like the right place for them, they can still succeed, using Nealy as a real life example. Our assistant principal is definitely an inspiration.

– Forest Miller, CCHS senior on Moving Up by Angel Jara

I think that this article does a good job of bringing much needed attention to the publicized teenage standards, which most teenagers don’t fit into. Modern day shows are constantly portraying unrealistic scenarios, which lead teenagers to believe that it’s the norm. One good thing the author, Peter Atchley, stated was for the media executives to put more thought into their characters and actors to know the effect they have in popular media. Another idea is to have more realistic shows, even reality TV shows, highlight more good than bad. I’ve never really thought about the effect of TV shows, so I’m glad to be enlightened by this article.

– Cortni Veasley, CCHS sophomore on Actually Atchley by Peter Atchley

I think that the story, “Making Mother Lode” provides a very well-detailed background of how Mother Lode came to be. After reading this extensive narrative on the Mother Lode, I now appreciate the effort that (Mother Lode owner) Lindsay Short went through to make it such a welcoming place. I think the time and effort put in to make Mother Lode have such a beautiful selection of pieces for young teenagers to take inspiration from is astonishing.

– Aiden Bair, CCHS freshman on Making Mother Lode by Abigail Holloway

I absolutely love the way you write. Each sentence is short and concise, and gets straight to the point when it comes to information and doesn’t sugarcoat it with big words or make it too short to gather the context. My only issue is the quote on the first page of the article, it sorta makes it difficult to navigate, and in my opinion is sort of a weird placement. Either way, very good!

– Aesa Bentron, CCHS senior on CMS Owls take flight by Cadence Schapker

This article was well written and the subject matter is something that needs to be talked about more often. As a Black woman who has a career in teaching/coaching I find it still discouraging to see a lack of minorities throughout the area of coaching. I was the 1st Black Head Coach at East Jackson High School in any sport within their school’s history. I believe people look at the past and think about the adversity and the struggles minorities have withstood and endured, but the mission isn’t over with. I really enjoyed reading this article and the author did an amazing job at analyzing each level of athletics; from high school to professional sports. Thank you for the shout out!

– Chernelle Pass, CCHS physical education department teacher on Tell me, Wy by Wyatt Meyer

I think that this is a very well-written and professional article! I enjoyed reading it and I think you’re addressing a very important topic. The only suggestion I have is to include a few more of the benefits of diversifying coaching (e.g., students/athletes see themselves represented, larger pool of knowledge on coaching staff, social justice, etc.) for those who may read this article and ask, “but why?”. You definitely have plenty of evidence in the article that coaching isn’t currently very diverse, but to reach the naysayers as well, I think there could be a bit more evidence for why that fact needs to change. All in all, (author Wyatt Meyer) wrote a great piece, and I wouldn’t change much!

– Sam Garner, CCHS world languages department teacher on Tell me, Wy by Wyatt Meyer

Volume 21, Issue 1

The intimacy Clement provides in her article fosters a deep personal connection with me. I have witnessed the competitiveness of students at Clarke Central and can attest to the dangerous environment it creates. Too often will I hear classmates criticizing each other, going behind their backs to say things like, “Oh, he’s such a know-it-all, I’d take a harder schedule just so that he doesn’t become Valedictorian,” and “He’s a try hard,” or even “I bet he begs teachers to add points to his grade.” The reality is that students at this school encounter plentiful toxicity just for trying to be competitive academically. It breaks my heart.

– Caroline Orbock, CCHS senior on Boiling Point by Maya Clement

I love the honesty of this article. I love how (author Jane Ripps) is not trying not to make the school look good. She is being brutally honest with how students feel about the (drills) we do for shootings. I completely agree because multiple schools do the same drills and still don’t come out alive. One thing I feel could have been better is if they interviewed someone at the school so they could give a more in depth response about it.

– Kaitlynn Spence, CCHS freshman on Judge Janie by Jane Ripps

The story was very informative, for me personally as a freshman. It gave me an idea of what the end of the school year is going to look like so I can prepare myself. Although, I do wish they included more solutions to the problem. For example, how to handle all the work, deadlines and finals. interviewing seniors rather than the teachers would be most helpful for this.

– Kai Whitmore, CCHS freshman on Wild Wild Westrich: Second Semester Struggle by Isabella Westrich

This article is very relatable. I always feel burnt-out at the end of a semester or at the end of the year. The second semester is one that all students have to deal with, so writing an article talking about it is very smart. This article does a good job talking about how students feel and showing that teachers do understand the struggles that the second semester brings.

– Ginny Finch, CCHS freshman on Wild Wild Westrich: Second Semester Struggle by Isabella Westrich

I am writing a letter about Henson’s Helping Hand by Maya Shrivastav and Jesse Dantzler because I believe that it shows how even though there are struggles you can push through it make sure that you get the bet education you can possibly get. many people go trough these struggles just like (Henson). I think that what the author said in the passage showed a good example on how life problems can impact your life in a good and bad way. one thing is that maybe you could include more of how life went with the child as Henson was a young mother in high school. (I would suggest going) into more depth of how she maybe did have to struggle and what she did miss out on.

– Emory Forrestor, CCHS freshman on Henson’s Helping Hand by Maya Shirvastav and Jesse Dantzler

I love the fact that the school provides places and activities for people over the summer to engage in. I relate a lot when it comes to summer break or any break in general, I have trouble finding stuff to do over the summer and end up wasting my time on stuff that doesn’t matter. Knowing that there are places I can go to occupy my time and not waste it all while laying in bed. it would give me god opportunities to get out of the house and do something productive, and it will also give me the chance too learn new skills and help me with bonding too.

– Zoie Popish, CCHS freshman on Safe Spaces by Miles Lawrence

I personally loved the article! It was a beautiful analysis of what (these safe spaces) work hard to do. The article was articulately written and had a wonderful flow. It was so easy to understand the facts, and it left out unnecessary details.Correct spelling and grammar helped me get an exact picture of what was happening and made it easy to focus on the story.

– Wille Geier, CCHS sophomore on Safe spaces by Miles Lawrence and Mykolas Kumpis

The letter from author Molly Harwell was somewhat really inspiring. It gave me a look to the future when I get to my junior (year). I think the point of this article was to give other people the idea that they should prepare for their junior year. This article gave me a sneak peek of what problems might show up at my junior year, and how I could prevent (it) from affecting me as much as it did for the author in the article. This article is full of experiences, and personal thoughts that were put into it. Which makes this article more relatable, and also has a good thought into it. I think this article is well written.

– Alex Cho, CCHS freshman on Letter from the Editor by Molly Harwell

The message at the end is a good lesson. The background information to prove that point is helpful. The picture at the bottom helps me understand the story better. It is easy to read and there is not a lot of unnecessary information.

– Charlie Anderson, CCHS freshman on Fresh Voice by Abigail Holloway

This is a really good article, and one of my favorites in the magazine. Just the way it is written is really nice. The subject is also nice and (author Miles Lawrence has a) professional take on it while also displaying his opinion.

– Cash Meyer, CCHS freshman on In uniform by Miles Lawrence

I think this is a very good story. This story informs us about what exactly ESOL is and why it’s important. It even included a real person who was in the ESOL program which better helped us see how the ESOL program is helping people who may not speak English very well. This story even used statistics to demonstrate why ESOL is so important.

– Rene Rodriguez, CCHS freshman on ESOL Explained by Mykolas Kumpis

This article shows what the experience of being an ESOL student is, and it shows everything that the teachers do for the students to help them succeed. I really liked how the author included students and teachers to share their personal experiences with the ESOL program. It shows that many students are able to make progress in learning English very quickly and that they feel the support from the teachers which makes it easier for them.

– Cecilia Ayala, CCHS junior on ESOL explained by Mykolas Kumpis

The article ” 5 things to know about the CCHS varsity golf team” by Kendarius Butts tells of the positive impacts and daily routines of the members of the varsity golf team. This allows us, the reader, to see the struggles and challenges that (the players) go through each and every day. Not only does it show this but it also informs the readers about the positive impact that playing Golf has on someone. The way Butts conveys this message is outstanding and deserving of high praise.

– Liam Fish, CCHS sophomore on 5 things to know about the CCHS varsity golf team by Kendarius Butts

This article is a good way to-help people who don’t know about golf learn (about the sport). This article shows that CCHS golf is a young program with lots of new players, which sounds like it is a bad thing, but it’s not. With how Coach Lance has transformed the softball program the past few years, I feel as if our golf team can make the same change.

– Luke Davis, CCHS senior on 5 things to know about the CCHS varsity golf team by Kendarius Butts

(The article) was great! The outlining of talented students in our own school is incredible. The in depth analysis and questioning of each musician is honestly just easy to read and even easier to enjoy. Would love to see more about musicians in the student body in further issues!

– Essex Forker, CCHS freshman on Student musicians by Victoria Garland

“A Final Salute” by Cadence Schapker was a heartfelt story and an excellent goodbye to a JROTC leader. This article describes McMickle as a firm, but caring leader, which is what a lot of students need in school. I’ve never met him, but I would have loved to because of the article. I think the article could’ve provided more from McMickle’s students’ point of view, along with quotes and a more detailed background. I enjoyed the descriptions used, and the effect he had on JROTC was depicted well.

– Jacqueline Braun, CCHS freshman on A final salute by Cadence Schapker

Volume 20, Issue 4

Angel Tejada’s description for his love for sports and how it influenced his personal relationships is really relatable because as someone who’s a huge soccer fan, it can really bring out all types of emotions and feelings out of you. I can recall quite a couple of games that made me feel some type of way. For instance, Angel Tejada talked about his memories of watching the 2022 Qatar World Cup from the first game to the final when he should be showering or asleep. I had similar moments like that as well l would be watching the 2022 Qatar World Cup during class.

– Cesar Garcia-Salinas, CCHS senior on Fresh Voice by Angel Tejada

I find the article to be helpful in informing students about these issues since this is something we’d expect when we get into the restrooms, and the article is easy to understand since it discusses a problem which all of us know about right now. There’s a good amount of text which tells the restroom issue quite well. It’s a bit long, but it’s better than having read certain paragraphs which only tell of the same thing but are written differently. One thing I did want to see was a further look into what kids do in the restrooms, it’s a lot more than vaping or fighting, mainly with kids writing hate speech or strange things on the walls. I wished the author of this article could have given us a better idea on what is really happening in these places.

– Uriel Perez-Garcia, CCHS senior on Nowhere to go part 2 by Nico Willman

I really liked how the author of the article included a bunch of different points of view when it comes to fashion. There were so many different opinions and statements amongst everyone that was interviewed, but they all agreed on the fact that fashion can make a person feel more comfortable by allowing them to express themselves in any way they want. I strongly agree with the article in the sense that fashion is an outlet to demonstrate individuality and I like how there are so many different styles represented in Clarke Central. The author did an excellent job in showing the reader that the representation of so many different fashion tastes at Clarke Central allows for any student to be able to find a group of people that have similar interests to their own.

– Riley David, CCHS sophomore on Fashion statements by Victoria Garland

Volume 20, Issue 3

The article “Holiday Hardship” introduced me to a new perspective on winter break. I learned that even though days in school seem to pass slowly and many students can’t wait to get home, there are still kids who would rather be in school and stick to their routines. This could be for many reasons, but the one that stuck out to me the most was that many students do not have a reliable and steady food source at home. Although this information was not shocking to hear, the aspects in which it negatively impacts students’ home lives were. This article has taught me to always look at the other side of things and be grateful for what I do have.

– Mary Robinson, CCHS sophomore on Holiday hardship by Maya Clement

In the last ODYSSEY issue, I thoroughly enjoyed the piece “Worth her shot.” I appreciate how the author describes Sheppard’s role on the Clarke Central basketball team as a leader and a mother figure. In the world of sports it is easy to automatically assume that taller people are better at their craft, especially when it comes to basketball. With this being the stereotype, it is so important to acknowledge the hard work of all athletes including taller ones, and to acknowledge the struggles all athletes face. Confidence is a major struggle for many athletes, including Sheppard, but she has worked hard to better herself and her teammates. I especially like the piece because it inspires all athletes to work hard during practice, not give up on themselves, and to always love their team.

– Caroline Orbock, CCHS junior on Worth her shot by Kendarius Butts and Wyatt Meyer

I like how the article talks about the problems of the school’s bathrooms because I think it needs to be addressed to the students on how they are treating the bathrooms in our school. The school bathroom is honestly an embarrassment, when I walk inside the bathroom it’s usually foggy and someone is generally vaping or there is typically a group of friends in one big stall vaping in the bathroom. There have been times when people couldn’t use the bathroom or had to go to another bathroom just to use the restroom. I think that the writing on the wall is unacceptable. I think as Clarke Central students we should do a better job of taking care of our bathrooms.

– Asia Barnett, CCHS senior on Nowhere to go by Riley Ramsey and Nico Willman

Volume 20, Issue 2

Maintaining a boundary of truth and understanding gets blurred in the golden horizon of social media. The buildings that shimmer the most are the ones willing to play the game. Those whose contradictory statements will end up with the brutal truth destroying everything we’ve all had a hand in making. So I would ask the journalist one question if I could. When he comes to this crossroad of truth or assimilating, will his youthful ambition bring him favor or annihilation?

– Edmund Davis, CCHS substitute teacher on Social media’s people problem by Mykolas Kumpis

In lieu of election season, I think that it’s important for me as a 17-year-old to start becoming more interested in politics. After reading Victoria Garland’s article about Brian Kemp, I have more information about the 2022 candidate, and some strong feelings. Although I do not think that America is prepared to give up their arms, I strongly agree with what Stacey Abrams stands for regarding gun violence. Compared to Kemp, I think that it’s quite hypocritical of him to be so pro-gun, yet still be pro-life. He believes that all citizens have the right to carry in public without a special license, but at the same time, he has goals of training kids in schools for “intruder alert” drills. To me, that’s not fixing the problem. Instead he is enabling intruders and making kids prepare for it like it’s inevitable. If he was truly pro-life, he would create legislation that makes it more difficult for a person to carry In public, so that Intruders aren’t even a possibility. When the next election comes, I will know where I stand and I will make sure that l will vote for a candidate whose intentions match their ideals.

– Grace Habibi, CCHS senior on On the issues: Governor’s race by Victoria Garland

The “Changes At Central” article was a wonderful read. I feel like now I have a greater grasp of the reason and benefit that came with the security policies. I loved the student interview the most, as it resonated with my feelings on the problems caused by the lack of communication regarding lockdowns and other incidents. One area that I really wish you did cover was the shoddy implementation of the new tardy policies. Gaining the student and teacher perspective on that, as I feel that’s where most of the initial backlash came from regarding these processes following the assembly meetings. Hearing the teacher’s perspective of negative feedback during the early days of enactment would have elevated the article by exploring the timeline of the policies, and inform students about the missteps of the administration early on.

– Emile Swartz, CCHS senior on Changes at Central by Riley Ramsey

Volume 20, Issue 1

I really enjoyed this article because it was very relatable.As a multi-sport athlete at Central it can be very hurtful to my education and grades to be leaving in the middle of class all of the time .I find myself having to catch up on assignments on the bus ride back or talking to my teacher after class to ask them to teach the lesson again to me . I also feel like it’s a topic that is not talked (about) a lot. Our student athletes already have so much on their plates and not having a full amount of time in class to be able to ask questions and fully understand the material will hurt them more than people know.

– Vivian Carabello, CCHS sophomore on Taking back class by Wyatt Meyer

As a member of the flag football team myself, It was very nice to see this sport represented in the ODYSSEY. Women’s sports are greatly overlooked in the world, and at CCHS. Lots of people don’t care about (flag football), or they think it isn’t a real sport. I’m glad that we are being recognized for our hard work and I am excited to see people supporting us in the stands!

– Sadie Miller, CCHS freshman on Central takes the flag by Cadence Schapker

I really enjoyed reading the Mo Knows article of this ODYSSEY (news)magazine. As a girl on social media, I find that it can be really hard to not compare yourself to other people.
Although the “that girl” trend is not completely harmful, I still feel like it sends the wrong message. I feel like it puts a lot of pressure on girls and can easily influence them. I loved reading this piece because it’s something that’s very relevant to our world today and something that needs to be talked about more.

– Caroline Goldman, CCHS sophomore on Mo Knows by Molly Harwell

Living in a football-crazed region and in a state where high school football is at the core of many communities, a school’s football team is often a point. of pride not just for the student body, but for the community at large. It can be a unifying force in divided times and is something the entire community can rally around. Over the years, however, the program faded from prominence and I am extremely excited to see the program move towards reclaiming its spot among the state’s elite high school football programs thanks to the efforts of Coach (David) Perno’s staff and the talented and dedicated players that walk the halls of Clarke Central! Go Glads!

– Tyler Graves, CCHS social studies department teacher on Revisiting Perno’s playbook by Gretchen Hinger

I agree that skipping and absences are big issues at Clarke Central High School. Many of my classes only have around half of the students they’re supposed to have but I don’t think the raffle is something that is well known nor cared about by the students. I think that the interviews of the teacher and student were a good way to support the author’s claim. I also think the author did well in choosing who to interview in order to get relevant answers to the topic. However, I think that the best way to have people actually go to their classes is for there to be serious punishments for unexcused absences.

– William Hogan, CCHS senior on Combating absences by Jane Ripps

Volume 19, Issue 3

I agree with the topic of the article. Mental disorders are commonly joked about by others, but there is also the issue of sell-misdiagnosis for these disorders. The article does feel repetitive, but that helps drive the point home. Perhaps a better way of bringing awareness to mental disorders would be to better educate today’s youth on what they really mean i.e.: the definition of ADHD and how it affects people who have it).This might help lower the jokes and seil-misdiagnosis that is common today.

– Thomas Jones, CCHS senior on Diagnosed with ignorance by Antonio Starks

I thought the article was great. It was engaging and analytical (which is what I expect when reading newsy articles like this), but it was also giving voice to a critical point of view which was very interesting. As a student, I would have liked seeing more student voices because it feels to me like the teachers in the article are made to speak on behalf of the students. Everything is streamlined well, though I also think a counterpoint could have been interesting. Everybody seemed to agree with each other. Overall, I would absolutely read this article in ODYSSEY. Super cool stuff.

– Tripp Sandifer, CCHS senior on Desensitized to danger by Audrey Enghauser and Emily Couch

I agree with the topic of the article. Weight training does, in fact, help with strengthening Clarke Central students’ body, muscles and engagement in class. But there’s also an obstacle that takes place. Weight training class is always seen to be a class of just working out and helping your body structure, which isn’t the case. Weight training class does build students a healthy and better relationship in school, which I can relate to because I’ve had friends who’ve taken weight training and actually found the class to be an escape and confidence booster. Overall, I really think the weight training class has strengthened students at CCHS.

– James Mack, CCHS sophomore on Strengthening Central by Gretchen Hinger

Volume 19, Issue 2

I genuinely liked reading the article “Mo Knows” because it made me feel seen and helped me understand that many are going through the same situation I am. I entered the Clarke County School District my freshman year online, already anxious that I wasn’t going to know anyone and was unfamiliar with learning on Zoom. When returning back to school in person this year, now a sophomore, I became flooded with that same anxiety of the unknown. Being able to relate to someone who understands the same stress and rigor that is put upon sophomores at this point and time is extremely relieving and has now helped me understand that we can all grow from these bizarre past two years.

– Isabelle Duncan, CCHS sophomore on Mo Knows by Molly Harwell

I was thrilled to learn about SCAPE (Students of Color Achieving and Pursuing Excellence) club in the ODYSSEY. Diversity begets more perspectives, more growth and more learning.The demographics of our advanced courses tend to be less representative of the student body as a whole. This means that all students of color who take these courses would likely benefit from a community of supportive peers. Kudos to Makenna (Mincey) and McKenna (Ezekiel) on their leadership and continued efforts!

– Molly Dorkey, CCHS English department student teacher on Scholars in SCAPE by Maya Clement, Lucas Donnelly, Emily Couch and Cadence Schapker

I was very astonished and inspired after reading the article “Gaps Between Glads”. I have expressed my anger towards the (locker room) inequality for years, (but) no one has been as passionate about the issue as me. Although, after reading this article in (the) ODYSSEY, I realized other people felt the same way. Seeing the article not only made myself and others aware about this problem, but it made me realize other student-athletes actually care about this and (it) inspired me to help bring this issue to light.

– Hannah Barnett, CCHS senior on Gaps between Glads by Gretchen Hinger and Jane Ripps

Volume 19, Issue 1

I really like this article because while everyone struggled during the COVID-19 pandemic, it helps shine a light on people that you might overlook. It helps show you the struggles of what it is like to be a high school athlete during COVID and (why) college recruitment is difficult. Although it shows the struggles of getting through this pandemic, it also shows how innovation can come from the most unlikely places, as well as showing that you can’t give up and that you need a fighting spirit.

– Beck Wolf-Hardy, CCHS sophomore on Committing during COVID by Audrey Enghauser

1 enjoyed reading the Boiling Point because it talks about having patience, which I think we could all use more of in the world. She talks about how when she finds herself overwhelmed by her school work or personal battles she plays instruments. This can inspire or catch the interest of some readers inside and outside of Clarke Central that also may feel overwhelmed, (and) it might inspire them to find things to do that make them happy when they are struggling and need to take a step back from the world. As someone who, at one point, was in need of healthy habits and hobbies that could help me get through a rocky point in my life, I also enjoyed playing instruments and also doing sports. If I were to be able to read this at an earlier point in my life, it definitely would have helped and inspired me to do something new.

– Aidan Williams, CCHS freshman on Boiling Point by Elena Webber

I greatly enjoyed this article as it highlighted some of the struggles that we as a school community had to overcome last year in the face of the pandemic. Extracurriculars did struggle last year and I know that a lot of the responsibility for making them continue fell onto the shoulders of the students. Stepping in to help with Philosophy Club in the fall, I saw firsthand the amazing work done by students who truly cared about their clubs and wanted to make sure they did not fade out because of CCHS not being in person for the first several months of the year. I think that highlights of specific clubs might be something that ODYSSEY could consider including in the future.

– Caitlin Mozzo, CCHS English Department teacher on Essential extracurriculars by Eliza Ingle

Volume 18, Issue 2

I really liked how the author told us about Na’kia, about how she started playing basketball and why she started playing. I also liked that the author got her coach, her teacher and her mom to give input about Na’kia and what kind of person she is. The author wrote a lot of the article from Na kia’s point of view by using quotes and it makes it feel like it’s Na’kia telling her story and not someone telling it for her. I also liked how the author included what Na kia’s plans are after high school with basketball and what she wants to study in college.

– Anna Robinson, CCHS junior on A helping hand by Salai Diekumpuna

I really enjoyed reading this article because I believe it showed both the negatives and positives of virtual learning. I can relate to all the student perspectives included, especially the point about virtual learning being too easy so sometimes you don’t learn much. The inclusion of teachers’ perspectives is also really beneficial because sometimes as students, it’s hard to see things from their point of view, and vice versa. The article shows that virtual learning has been something challenging for everyone. It shows that the students, the teachers, and the rest of the faculty are all trying their best to make it work despite the various obstacles.

– Ebuechukwu Obi-Okoye, CCHS senior on The digital divide by Owen Donnelly and Eliza Ingle

I strongly agree with the points the author made in the most recent Boiling Point edi-torial. I am reminded of the difficulties presented by moving away from the demeaning ways we evaluate students’ academic knowledge. It’s not only important to find more accurate measures that aren’t limited to the students ability to memorize facts for a test, but we must also expand teaching styles that will drive students to work hard, develop critical thinking skills and a love for learning. Encouraging our administrators to explore different methods would be beneficial for the students during their high school career and beyond.

– Victoria Garland, eighth grader at Burney-Harris-Lyons Middle School on Boiling Point by Elena Webber

Volume 18, Issue 1

I enjoyed reading Michael’s story because it did a great job of showing who Michael truly is and how he affects the people around him. Articles like these are a must-have because they can be life-changing. Reading articles about people who look like you can be very encouraging. His positive demeanor and desire to make people happy are what struck me the most. They’re traits everyone should strive for.

– Da’oud De Lane, CCHS sophomore on Micheal’s mission by Andrew Robinson

To improve this article, I would have interviewed more artists from their point of view with the life of hip-hop. This article is important because in some songs it teaches you a lesson on what not to do when you’re older. Some of the female rappers have taught a lot of kids on what is wrong and how to become a rapper. I liked how the author added the way the rappers talk, walk, and dress. I hope that one day people will come together and spread the love of hip-hop more.

– Norma Monroy, CCHS freshman on Home of the hip-hop by Natalie Ripps

I have a twin sister of my own, and read-ing. the article made me think about my own family relationships. It’s nice to hear that these two girls will continue to stay close, even if they are not in the same classes or pursuing the same activities.I liked when the author said that she would always be there for her sister if she needed someone to talk to. There should be more articles like this because this article is very sweet and heartwarming and it can show siblings that they can always be together no matter what.

– Treasure Goings, CCHS freshman on Letter to my sister by Imani Sykes

Volume 17, Issue 3

I think that this article does a good job of bringing attention to how much waste and litter is in and around our school. Students are constantly littering, especially during and after lunch, not caring about the harm they bring to the environment. I think one good idea (author Shea Peters) stated would be to use reusable cutlery and dishware in the cafeteria. Another idea that could have been added would be to reuse food students don’t eat for composting since students constantly get food, don’t eat it and then throw it away.

– Sasha London, CCHS sophomore on Waste warning by Shea Peters

I enjoyed reading about Mike’s story. It’s really interesting and inspiring to read about a student from our school building their own brand and earning recognition for it. I really appreciate how the story gives recognition to a student who chose a non-traditional and creative path, especially considering there are no classes here that teach what he does. I also liked how the author took the time to interview subjects to provide a complete picture of how students work together and support each other. My only complaint is that I wish there would be an additional focus on his creative process and his plans to expand his brand.

– Grady Johnson, CCHS junior on Fashion anomaly by Andrew Robinson

This article was very informative and enjoyable. I am constantly in the “Hot Corner” area of Downtown Athens, and I always see this mural. I never thought about the process or work behind it, or even its true purpose. These kinds of articles are necessary, seeing that our school’s population is largely made up of minorities. I appreciate this acknowledgment of those who shine a light on our predecessors’ achievements. This type of material is what makes me want to read ODYSSEY.

– Makenna Mintzey, CCHS freshman on Localizing Black history by Tecoya Richardson

Volume 17, Issue 2

I think this article was the most (impactful) because a lot of females that are rap artists receive backlash for risque lyrics that promote their sexuality. Like this article says, men are doing the same thing. It is good that the (ODYSSEY) allows students to write about this and give us information about what’s going on besides schoolwork. It is good to know these things because a lot of girls at Clarke Central would like to be female rappers.

– Karla Arriaga, CCHS junior on Let them speak by Samaiyah Ra’aid

I liked how there is an introduction to the new offensive coordinator for the football team. The introduction of the new coach is made easy with five different points to read. It’s interesting to me that Gary played for UGA, and it makes me like him already. Although (the article) is simple, there should be some more information on what he’s actually doing for the offense and what kind of plans he has instead of just saying they’re trying to win. This article excites me as I am a fan of football from the high school level to the NFL. Overall, it’s a good page in the magazine, but it had to be pointed out to me as there wasn’t anything on the cover or in the first few pages to mention the page existed.

– Houston Heyward, CCHS junior on Five things to know by Mackenzie Caudill

The article “A Change of Spirit” is a very good article. It focuses on the school spirit and on one of the many ways we can build on it. As a student coming in after the summer of 2019, I noticed everything new about the school. I personally felt very welcomed and more at home even though this is my fourth year at Central.

– Samuel Pleitez, CCHS senior on A Change of Spirit by Colin Frick

I grew up on the Eastside of town and graduated from Cedar Shoals in 1991. The stigmas referenced in the article are just as real today as they were back then, and I applaud the conscientiousness of (writer Tecoya Richardson), considering the rivalry that exists between both schools. My only suggestion is the size of the East and West sides of Athens were not mentioned in the article. This would have been helpful in contextualizing Athens for those reading outside of town, as I believe it is important to mention that the West side of town is substantially larger than the East.

– Meg Hines, CCHS parent on Exploring the Eastside by Tecoya Richardson

Volume 17, Issue 1

To touch on the sensitive topics of Southern history is a difficult task. Nonetheless, (author Katie Grace Upchurch’s) exposition on “the duality of the Southern thing” praises the development of Southern culture and emphasizes the delectable culinary specialties that define the Southern kitchen. Growing up in New York, there are many aspects of Southern culture that remain invisible and inexplicable to me, even as I was being thrown into the roots of Southern society. (The article_ clarifies the duplexity of Southern life in a way I have never been able to comprehend.

– Eden Sears, CCHS senior on Letter from the Editor by Katie Grace Upchurch

I thought this was a pretty cool story to showcase a part of CCHS culture that not a lot of others have been a part of – like myself. It was bittersweet, but I’m glad I got to read it. Though the focus was on Coach Hinson, his recounting of the years he spent getting to know and love all of the players helped me somewhat familiarize myself with tennis at Clarke Central. That kind of insight is really nice sometimes. After reading, I understood more about the school itself and felt a little closer to its community. But at the same time, the article kind of highlighted just how much of Clarke Central is foreign to me – which is not as comfortable a feeling.

– Tomas Dougan, CCHS junior on Hinson’s last ride by AJ Carr

An article that really impacted me positively was the one on page 19, “Multiple Directions”. Specifically, this article on the past senior Edwin Summerour. His story sets an example for me as an athlete and a scholar. The way he developed his path to achieve his goals and career is inspiring. I like how the article is so detailed about our school, but it would be nice if it could include our local society more.

– Samuel Pleitez, CCHS senior on Multiple Directions by Andrea Matta-Castillo

I like the story because she’s basically explaining how hard it was for her moving to the United States. She had to get used to her new life here. For me, this is positive because her story relates to my life when it was hard for me to learn English when I moved here.

– Joanna Pantoja, CCHS senior on Becoming Sa Blue by Tecoya Richardson

Volume 16, Issue 4

I like how my friend Aniyah was honest about the transition between Ms. Jean and Mr. Ragsdale in GMA. I like how the people in my group were honest about what was going on. Even though I didn’t really go after the first semester, GMA was definitely helpful (for me) a lot of the time. It gave me the motivation to keep breaking boundaries.

– Bruno Jara De La Cruz, CCHS senior on Making headway through GMA by Ana Aldridge

I am glad to see Hispanic representation in the magazine, not to mention the use of our language. I must say that personifying the country was quite an interesting approach to the topic. It’s very emotional and has aspects that I, among plenty of other students at CCHS, can relate to. Leaving home, readjusting to society, facing the struggles of the new world, these are all attributes that are explored through her life and in turn shared with us, accompanied with the love for her home country. Thank you, ODYSSEY Media Group, for sharing our stories through hers.

– Carlos Cobos Corbo, CCHS senior on Carta para mi hogar by Nicole Ramos

This article impacted me the most because I actually know kids that smoke Juuls. Even though one pod is considered to be 20 cigarettes, but they don’t seem to care. I think smoking Juuls is stupid and bad for everybody’s health. I really liked the illustration in this article and I believe this article gave me some good information of what Juuls are and the tea on how some students get caught with it. I wouldn’t want to smoke something I could easily get addicted to. You may get a buzz, but the buzz isn’t worth messing up your lungs.

– Mekhiah Dunn, CCHS senior on Juuls by Valeria Garcia-Pozo

I think the writer coveted the story really well. She got a lot of good and interesting details that previously I had not thought of. I like how she went to the teachers to get their point of view on the honorary assistant coaching program. I think that made the story more developed and balanced. I also think the grammar in the story was very accurate and I liked the coverage over a topic that is not normally discussed.

– Aravian Thomas, CCHS junior on Calling all coaches by Elena Gilbertson Hall

Volume 16, Issue 3

In this article, I read that some teachers have second or third jobs because of the fact that they don’t get paid very well for being a teacher. One teacher, Dr. Swift, said that he loves teaching math and that he wants to impact people’s lives by teaching them math. I think that’s really inspiring because of the fact that all of his jobs include teaching math. I really like reading about people who never give up on what they truly want in life, and this is a pure example of that. When I read this article I think of how much work they have to do, just so they can get by. I just think the article could have had more details about those teachers’ lives.

– Samantha Shaffner, CCHS senior on Their second lives by Mackenzie Caudill

Though your review is concise and well-written, you are wrong to say that the Chick-Fil-A peppermint milkshake contains ice cream. Even Chick-Fil-A cannot call it ice cream, because it’s not even close. They have to call it “icedream.” That alone should give one pause before ordering this “treat.” Here’s something else that should give one pause, the list of ingredients. With over 900 calories, 127 grams of sugar, 31 grams of fat, and a long list of food additives, this “treat” should be looked at a little more closely before giving it such a ringing endorsement.

– Jen MacDonald, CCSD parent on Review: Peppermint Milkshake by Elena Webber

This wasn’t my first time hearing about the bones found under Baldwin Hall, but I didn’t really know that much about it until now. I thought the article was very well-written, and it gave me a clear, objective story of what happened on the UGA campus. I think that the article is a little late, and I would have liked to have read it sooner after the discovery of the bones, but I understand it takes a while to gather all the information and format that information into an interesting and engaging story. And, as I learned from the article, the memorrial was just recently unveiled. However, I did like how it was written in a sort of chronological order. I really liked the addition of the timeline, as it showed me exactly how every event having to do with the discovery of the bones played out.

– Kurali Grantham, CCHS sophomore on Before Baldwin by Elena Gilbertson Hall and Eli Clarke

I liked this article because of the realism it shows with the wrestlers and how they bonded together through the love of the pack. I feel like the author could have got some more of the hard-hitting truth about the wrestlers – I feel as if he should put in more detail about how the students really felt, even with raw and aggressive language being used. He should take out the soft spotlight on the athletes and shine it on the dark truth they felt about the whole situation. I feel picking at them one by one and bringing the old coach into the conversation would make it pop while adding some questions and responses from the new coaching staff.

– Stephon Barrow, CCHS senior on Turning away by AJ Carr

Volume 16, Issue 2

I feel like this article was pretty good. It introduced us to our new principal and gave us an idea on how he wanted our school to change in a few ways. Dr. (Swade) Huff was my former assistant principal at Alps Road Elementary School. I can’t really remember how long he was there, but I do remember him leaving and it kind of changed the dynamic. Some may think he’s mean just based off the fact that he stands on everything he says, but I feel that he means well and just wants everyone to be great. We really do need that here. Reading this article, I could really relate to some of the other people’s opinions about him. I’m glad this article was made. The only changes I think should be made to this article is that I would like to hear more about his life and where he came from.

– Demetria Bolds, CCHS senior on Get to know Dr. Swade Huff by News Staff

While reading this article, it had me thinking about my life and what I went through and go through. This article paints a picture. A quote that caught my eye was, “People have things that they like. You cannot justify them as being real or fake or something that is not right” –Rea’l Pogue. I have things that I like and do, but people judge me all the time about what I do. It’s just not fair or right. I struggled with bullying, as well, and it’s not a situation anybody wants to be in. I don’t see how someone with a different taste of clothing makes them different from anybody else. Just make more articles as beautiful as this one.

– Cedric Sherrod Jr., CCHS senior on Hearing music in silence by Emma Ramsay

I like this story because Havilland (Ford’s) words really spoke to me personally. She made me realize that dressing isn’t everything, and also to just be myself in the way I dress, not to worry about impressing anybody. I really like Havilland’s style because she’s not afraid to be herself and doesn’t care what anybody thinks about her. I find it cool that she designs her own clothes and shoes, as well. Rocking a brand that nobody else can wear, because you made it yourself, is one of the coolest things ever. I think Havilland should embrace her style at school more because I’m sure a lot of students would like to invest in some of her items she makes herself. Not only would it bring her profit, but it will also help her with getting her fashion line up.

– Kenzia Thomas, CCHS senior on A passion for fashion by Elena Gilbertson Hall

I think that it shows Clarke Central (High School) is becoming a better school. By us getting a full time trainer, people will be able to get checked out when the nurse isn’t here, and people will get a better understanding of what’s wrong with their bodies and what they have to do to take care of their bodies. I look at it as Clarke Central starting to think of better ways to keep our school in order. I know that’s not doing anything to stop the bad stuff that goes on in the school but it prevents others from getting sick and hurting themselves even worse than they are hurting.

– Ja’quarus Grant, CCHS senior on Part-time to full-time by Andrea Matta-Castillo

Volume 16, Issue 1

I used to play soccer for Athens United and Clarke Central. I had to stop playing soccer when I tore my meniscus and haven’t returned to the sport since. I liked this article because it reminded me why I liked playing soccer so much even though I have not been able to play for so long.

– Emily Gillespie, CCHS junior on Fresh Voice by Andrea Matta-Castillo

The opioid crisis is an incredibly difficult matter to discuss, due to the fact that every involved party (pharmaceutical companies, doctors, and patients) can be held accountable. For these reasons, the article gave a good general overview on the issue at hand. However, I would have liked having more specifics on the Athens epidemic. Overall, I think that in order for true progress to be made, each entity/individual responsible must be proactive in their efforts to reduce the overuse and over-prescription of the drugs.

– Bella DeMarco, CCHS senior on Opioid crisis by Elena Gilbertson Hall

I have played Fortnite both on mobile and console. There are some things that I hate about the mobile version more than the console/PC version. First, the controls are really hard to play on phone, as the article says. Second, the game is an invite only. Last, the graphics and the lag area are a problem that I think can also be fixed, too.

– Daniel Ojong Eku, CCHS sophomore on Review: Fortnite by Kelly Fulford

I enjoyed reading the article by Mackenzie Caudill because it touches on topics and situations that I have been in and can relate to. Most of my Advanced Placement classes all throughout high school have been filled with predominantly Caucasian students. In the article, one of the students talks about how minority students might be scared to be in AP classes, but I disagree. I believe that the stereotypes are rooted so deeply that minorities have become accustomed to their kind not being put in those classes. I appreciate the author putting solutions to this issue in the article because in the future, I hope to see more minorities in AP classes, not just being in them, but I hope they actually do well and succeed in the classes as well.

– Zykearia Dean, CCHS senior on AP problem by Mackenzie Caudill

As an older sister of a baseball player, I related to this article on a personal level. My brother started off playing for Athens Little League when he was 4 years old and he has played for multiple teams ever since. Watching baseball at home as a girl in my house, I have always had family ask me, “Why do you want to watch baseball? Why don’t you watch the softball games instead? You don’t get it.” Anyone, boy or girl, can play any sport. It’s not about the gender – it’s about your ability to do what you do well, and with confidence.

– Alexis Gibbons, CCHS senior on A league of her own by Hannah Gale

Volume 15, Issue 4

I agree with the editor when they say sexual education feels awkward to talk about due to the presentation. Teachers shouldn’t make the students feel awkward, as this is something that is needed and is something that is normal in everyday life. Having sexual education at a younger age is also a good idea as the teachers can learn to better present sexual education and it teaches students not to feel awkward when they go through the rest of the course.

– Xylan Moon, CCHS freshman on Letter from the Editor by Lucia Bermudez

Work-Based Learning is a great opportunity for high school students to have an idea and some experience on how the real world operates. Students should be encouraged to engage in such programs and likewise more similar programs to help students prepare for the real world should be introduced. I liked this article because it portrays the importance and advantages of Work-Based Learning and reading this article has encouraged me to such programs in college.

– Ikechukwu Obi-Okoye, CCHS senior on Hands-on learning by Luis Garcia

Jordan (Butler) is one of my best friends. We met last year and ever since then, I’ve seen her anxiety start to dissipate. I didn’t know why until she started to talk about her love for agriculture more and more and started to get excited about the concept of maybe becoming FFA president. Then, when she was asked to be interviewed for the ODYSSEY, she didn’t stop talking about it for a week. Imagine how excited she was when she learned she was the cover story. Thanks for helping my friend get the word out about her favorite thing in the world.

– Nyah Carlson, CCHS sophomore on Finding her home by Maddie Ingle

I loved reading this article by Everett because it gives an outlook on artists that aren’t known as “mainstream” in music media these days. The article really gives students the opportunity to expand their taste in music, especially artists that have a huge ability to rise to stardom. Not only did Everett point out some really good artists, but he also gave some of their background information and their music style in general, which is really helpful.

– Latila Imes, CCHS sophomore on 5 artists to watch in 2018 by Everett Vereen

As an active member of marching band in the fall and JROTC Drill Team/Color Guard, I agree with this article. I am aware that marching band and drill team are not considered “varsity sports” but they are full-time commitments. Grades are very important for participation in these activities, as well. I definitely agree that a study hall should be added to our varsity athletics program.

– Elizabeth Gaskill, CCHS junior on Mixed messages by Hannah Gale

Volume 15, Issue 3

Anahi makes a good point on having good translation services. I also think that iff Anahi was better or comfortable with translating to her mother, it should be allowed. There is a translator for deaf people at Clarke Central that I know of. When my grandad met a translator, one of the teachers who speaks sign language, they seemed to have a fluent conversation. I liked this article because it addresses problems when it comes to parents and school relationships.

– Zi’Quasha Key, CCHS sophomore on Fresh Voice by Anahi Delgado

When you say, “Here’s a statue of an American who fought for what he believed in,” you have to ask yourself, what is this cause? Slavery. When it comes down to it, this is a monument that honors slavery and those who supported and fought for it. Forcing humans into servitude isn’t the American Dream. I can’t help but wonder where the monuments are for Mary Turner, Recy Taylor or countless other Black women, men and children who lost their lives for speaking up, or just because of the color of their skin. The article also didn’t use and Black students as a source, even though the minority enrollment in our school is 80 percent. We are talking about a monument honoring those who fought to the death so Black people couldn’t go to school, or even be considered people, so one would think the voice of a Black student would be important to this article.

– Flora Lechtreck, CCHS junior on Confronting history by Elena Gilbertson Hall

Stricter gun control is a common sentiment and a great way to get elected, but most of it is a security theater. Senator Howard Metzenbaum (a Democrat and an advocate for strict gun control) states that “If you don’t ban all [guns[, you might as well ban none of them.” But this view is not common – a very small minority of American voters support a nationwide ban on all guns. Is it fair for the United States government to confiscate hundreds of millions of guns when there are millions of citizens using guns for self-defense per year?

– Marcel Morgan, CCHS junior on Kids with guns by Jurnee Louder

I liked this review because it didn’t sugarcoat the fact that mental and physical illnesses are somewhat romanticized in John Green’s books. Although I have enjoyed reading John Green’s books in the past, it doesn’t take away from the fact that he takes both mental and physical illnesses and turns them into this fairytale-like story. I like the fact that Upchurch said what she wanted to say, but still ended on a positive note by saying that the book shows John Green’s growth as an author.

– Ginny Marbut, CCHS senior on Turtles All the Way Down by Katie Grace Upchurch

The article was very moving. I think that (senior Kendarious Watson) is very inspirational because he never gave up on his dream, which was playing basketball. I love how he never gave up on what he believed in. Even when he lost his ability to do everything, he got back up and worked hard to get where he is now. I hope that he will never stop chasing his dreams in the near future.

– Aliyah Arnold, CCHS sophomore on Defying expectations by Hannah Gale

Volume 15, Issue 2

Remediating tests does not get students ready for the real world. I am currently a 10th grader in ninth grade, I struggled with math more than others. I failed quizzes sometimes, so we got the chance to remediate for those quizzes. At the time, I loved it. I thought test and quiz remediations were the best things ever. It wasn’t until I moved on to 10th grade and realized that test remediation was not helping me at all. If I failed a quiz and remediated for it, do I really understand the work I’m doing, or am I doing it to bring up my grade? Test remediation is a crutch that we depend on.

– Imani Sykes, CCHS sophomore on Take it back by Valeria Garcia-Pozo

When Ms. Gorham first came to the school, she didn’t get the warmest welcome from the students. There were rumors floating around and people didn’t try to get to know her. I spoke with Ms. Gorham, and she was very open and welcoming. The article on Ms. Gorham was very informational, and it gives the students an opportunity to see her from a different perspective. I believe that she would have had a warmer reception to Clarke Central if she had done personal introductions with each grade.

– Zipporah Daniel, CCHS senior on Growing with Gorham by Elena Gilbertson Hall

I think it is nice to know more about the people in my school. This article is pretty good, because it shows that the superintendent is not all that strict. It shows personality. I enjoyed the part “Getting Personal,” because it shows where he’s from and what his interests are. I feel like some high schoolers think that adults in this school are plain and boring, but if they read this, it’ll show them that they aren’t all that plain.

– Eva Fierro-Boza, CCHS freshman on Meeting Means by Lucia Bermudez and Mackenzie Caudill

Instead of not giving Lil Uzi credit for his great success, you should be talking about how he is one of the young upcoming rappers that is changing the whole rap game. Lil Uzi is starting a different style that is helping him make a lot of money. With Pharell Williams featuring in “Neon Guts” this probably helped Lil Uzi take notes and learn what to needs to change to be one of the greatest rappers of all time, like Pharrell Williams.

– Justin Layne, CCHS sophomore on Not ‘Luving it by Everett Vereen

Trash talking is not bad in sports because it can motivate people to do better, but there is a line that people should not pass. Trash talking shouldn’t be to a point where it hurts someone. It should be more of a friendly type of communication saying that, “You can do this better,” instead of, “You’re absolutely terrible at this.”

– Maxwell Wells, CCHS junior on Surrendering sportsmanship by Hannah Gale

Volume 15, Issue 1

I think the article is something everyone should’ve read, so I feel like it could’ve had a (larger) “spotlight.” I personally am always considerate to waiters and can’t stand it when others are rude to waiters. It’s a job that is susceptible to many “inside” factors, but most aren’t considerate of that.

– Darling Vasques, CCHS senior on Boiling Point by Sophie Fernandes

Since the distant years of middle school, I was aware of the project that I would have to complete in 10th grade. Once that time came around, I shrugged it off, because I knew that I wouldn’t have to do it. I think there are some reasons as to why basically no one else did it either. The amount of school work in sophomore year, along with other extracurriculars, doesn’t give much time for a long project. I had a good idea for one surrounding animations, but I couldn’t possibly find the time to do it. Also, in a world where school is about grades and how they affect your future, there was no clear benefit for doing the IB project.

Hopefully, in the future these aspects can change, because it could really benefit students.

– Arianna Hamilton, CCHS junior on Reviewing the personal projects by Zoe Peterson

I love the story about (social studies department teacher Stephen) Hinson because he is such an amazing teacher and he deserves to be talked about. I enjoyed that you talked about his stories because that is what makes him and his class so great. His stories always make class feel like a relaxing environment to learn. You can really tell he cares about the students and the feeling is definitely mutual.

– Mary Carroll Waller, CCHS senior on A living legend by Johanna Hall

The orchestra really interested me because I also have to say goodbye to friends from band every year at the final band concert. I feel many of the same things said in this article, which really made me interested. I really enjoyed this article and I hope more of this nature are made in the future.

– Sam Wilson, CCHS sophomore on A finale to remember by Katie Grace Upchurch and Emerson Meyer

I really liked this article. I feel like it’s an interesting and inspiring story that really shows how collecting sneakers really helped him. It shows how hobbies that people have can really help them through their problems. It’s really cool that this helped him so much and continued to be a part of his life.

– Gabe Fricks-Starratt, CCHS freshman on Jerseys and Jordans by Maddie Ingle

Volume 14, Issue 4

I really enjoyed the piece about referring to Latina women as food. I had never really thought about it because I never had anything to do with it. But, after reading this I have become more aware of the objectification that these women go through. I am happy to see someone taking a stand for themselves about this because I have heard and seen that kind of repulsive behavior before.

– Maya Jones, CCHS junior on Letter From the Editor by Lucia Bermudez

I think that it is great that the student body is being informed about the new frisbee Glad Time, since it will help bring in new students who never knew how much fun frisbee could be. I think that the ultimate frisbee Glad Time is a very good idea. It lets kids get out and play a game during the middle of the school day, and it helps to teach them team-building skills.

– Luís Vicente-Vazquez, CCHS senior on “I’m 17 and I have dwarfism” by Sara Goodie

I think that it is great that the student body is being informed about the new frisbee Glad Time, since it will help bring in new students who never knew how much fun frisbee could be. I think that the ultimate frisbee Glad Time is a very good idea. It lets kids get out and play a game during the middle of the school day, and it helps to teach them team-building skills.

– Lucy Gibson, CCHS freshman on Glad to play frisbee by Owen Churchwell

I really think that the Cultural Buzz section would really benefit from some negative reviews. Every review is between five and three stars. I would like to know what to avoid as much as what I should look into. I would also like to have the movie reviews given stars as well.

– Joseph Mullen, CCHS senior on Cultural Buzz by Jurnee Louder

The Clarke Central swimming team caught my interest because I’m a new student from California and I didn’t see a pool at our school and I honestly didn’t know that we had a swimming team. Also, I think it’s really cool that they are going to state. I have been on swimming teams before, and it’s really hard to swim. It works your whole body. So, they must have had to put in a lot of work to get to state finals, and that really proves how great our school is and the people here are motivated to do great things like this.

– Jacob Daigrepont, CCHS sophomore on Swimming to state by Sports staff

Volume 14, Issue 3

I really liked this article because the facts that she states are so true. I never really understood why it was so problematic that white people went to Africa and took a picture with children from there. I know that you may have helped them in some way, but like Jurnee said, what’s the picture for? To show people evidence that you actually went, or to show some that you helped society somehow? Neither these children nor their parents have any idea what you’re going to do with the picture. I think this article is a wake up call to people everywhere.

– Rosie Sykes, CCHS freshman on Africa – the Disney World for White Saviors by Jurnee Louder

I really enjoyed this article because nothing makes me more content than hearing my peers graduate and continue on to achieve higher things. Knowing that the faculty of our school is trying their best to prepare us for graduation is amazing. Unfortunately, there’s a couple of points that I’m not too hyped on. One is the fact that graduation prep is the only thing that students are being prepared for. Were not really receiving the lessons that would actually benefit us outside of high school. Another one is that they’re reducing the difficulty level for graduating requirements to get more people to actually graduate, but this harms students and doesn’t let them be as courageous as they could be. This perfectly explains why our reading levels are lower than they were in the ‘90s.

– Neil Chavis, CCHS sophomore on The weight of the rates by Katy Mayfield

I really enjoyed this article because it shows me a different perspective. You hear all the success stories on SportsCenter of people starting with almost nothing and then going through adversity to college to play a sport or achieve a life goal, but for one of those stories to happen at my own high school makes it seem much more real.

– Braden DeLamater, CCHS freshman on Dreamed and Achieved by Owen Churchwell and Lucia Bermudez

I really liked the article on Grace Vanderwaal because not only did she win “America’s Got Talent”, but she has an amazing voice. I agree she doesn’t have new tunes, but the originals. She is well on her way to the top of the charts by being only 12!

– Marisha Christain, CCHS senior on Perfectly imperfect by Andrew Caldwell

Cherrelle Pullen, being forced to become a Jaguar as opposed to a Gladiator, is a twist because this woman has put her life and soul in the presence of Clarke Central High School. Cherrelle, considered an alumna at Clarke Central, longed to coach the basketball team, and to be rejected must have taken a moderately high toll on her psyche. However, reading this article through gives me hope that Cherrelle did not give up on her dream of coaching. Despite not coaching for her roots, she continues her influence to move other people’s hearts through the love of playing sports and working hard to achieve success.

– Brevin Brown, CCHS senior on East side story by Aneesa Conine-Nakano

Volume 14, Issue 2

The article is full of facts about why people don’t discuss controversial subjects. I really like how you included why the teachers can’t discuss it and why students struggle to discuss it. However, when are students supposed to discuss this in class? We have to continue our lessons to prepare for the many standardized tests they make us take. Teachers don’t have time to bring this up. They are stressed with time and making sure they do their role.

When one of my classes discussed rapists and women, the class got way off topic. Although it was very interesting to hear how my classmates behaved or what they have experienced, we lost crucial class time that put us behind. How do you suggest teachers or students incorporate this into their lives at school?

– Nicolina Boza, CCHS senior on Letter to the Editor by Lucia Bermudez

In the article “Making a green sweep” it expresses a more energy efficient school that will save the district money. I like how the writer shows the perspective of a science teacher who understands the positive effects of a science teacher who understands the positive effects of all these new eco-friendly features give us.

One thing I did not like was the lack of student input. Although they are not experts, they can see differences in the school like how there is more grass visible and the trees that were planted. There could have also been more input on other things about areas that might have needed more greenery.

– Jordan Ostrom, CCHS senior on Making a green sweep by Ana Aldridge

The principal naming was done on the announcements during school. I feel like the administrators should have figured out a better way to introduce (Principal Marie Yuran) to the students. I feel like this poll needed to be taken, so the administrators could understand that kids really don’t pay attention unless it’s in a one-on-one conversation. Being honest, half the kids don’t even listen to the announcements. So, I’m glad the issue was brought up and they did a better job at introducing our new principal.

– Lauren Beck, CCHS senior on Meet the principal by Ana Aldridge

I liked the article. However, I disagreed with the negatives said about the remade musical. I believe the modern twist that was made added a bit more pop to the musical and even improved it. It’s honestly a great modern take on an underappreciated classic. I’m a big fan of the original and even though the reboot isn’t as sexual, it’s still great.

– Charis Stafford, CCHS senior on Rocky Horror by Katy Mayfield

I’m glad to see an article on the fishing club. The clubs and organizations we have at school are something we hear very little about, especially new ones. The author here did a very good job putting into words what Cole and Jacks explained to her exactly what the fishing club is an how they work.

– Matthew Burgess, CCHS senior on 5 things to know about fishing by Emerson Meyers

Volume 14, Issue 1

I am glad this is something that is being brought up in our society. When it comes to rape culture and things related, more people’s immediate reaction is to censor it. The reality is that this is a problem. It’s one of our biggest in society and we NEED to talk about it not only in the society of this high school, but also in our entire community. Most people right now can’t even give you a definition of what rape culture is, and the first step to eliminating it is being educated by it. Women are told from ages as young as five that we need to be careful, watch what we wear, where we walk, how much we drink in social settings. Instead of training young girls to prepare for sexual assault, maybe start to teach boys not to do it. At the end of the day, we could all use a lesson in consent.

– Ashton Drane, CCHS sophomore on Boiling Point by Amelia DeLamater

A thing such as exploring cultures is a subject that Clarke Central is lacking. The fact that we have incorporated a teaching of not only cultures, but also specific foods is an efficient step towards introducing all students to diversity. Being from a different country, I always take the time to explain Middle Eastern culture to anyone who asks me, but I’m sometimes disappointed that people are not mature enough to understand. This article and its content is a brilliant thing to inform students about the ongoing cultural diversity. Even though the story is informative, it has repetitive quotations that makes it less interesting to read.

– Shahrzad Roshanz, CCHS junior on Que estás comiendo? by Ella Sams

I think the issue is we need to have students be able to read at the right reading level from an early age. Most of the time students are passed because the teachers do not want them to get behind as to not hurt them, but in my opinion it is hurting them more to move them to the next grade level with reading deficiencies. I believe Mr. Barner got it spot on with his perspective.

– Joseph Cervantes, CCHS junior on If you can’t read this, it’s too late by Katy Mayfield

Volume 13, Issue 4

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines discrimination as “the practice of unfairly treating a person or group of people differently from other people or groups of people.” Does the Gifted Minorities Achieving Initiative discriminate against the non-gifted? By isolating people from certain backgrounds and believing there are reserved pedestals for others, is this not perpetuating the issue of discrimination? Unfortunately we will always be faced with ignorance and intolerance from some, but hopefully that number is shrinking. Please do not assume the ignorant represent 20 percent of our student diversity.

– Kiley Hanna, CCHS freshman on Initiating empowerment by Valeria Garcia-Pozo

I had been thinking about dual-enrolling, but I did not have much information on how the process worked. It’s good that the admission process for the colleges is the same as the process for dual-enrollment, which I think is good practice for the actual acceptance into college. I plan on dual-en-rolling at UGA, which would get me a good sense of what the campus is like. This article has definitely cemented my plans on dual-enrollment.

– Preston Haden on MOWR: Dual Enrollment by Katy Mayfield

I found Logen’s story to be both inspirational and empowering. We live in a society that is obsessed with concrete and definitive answers with nearly all ideas and aspects of life. Our black and white world fears fluidity, especially with concepts such as sexuality and gender. It is this mindset that makes it so difficult for people to accept gender-fluid individu-als, even within the LGBT community. As a member of the LGBT community myself, I’m aware of how challenging it can be to face and even go beyond and be accepted by the heterosexual, cisgender majority. I’m even more aware of how much more challenging it is for gender-fluid individuals which, to me, makes Logen very brave.

– James Wilson, CCHS senior on Life as Logen by Emma Ramsay

After hearing the first song “Consideration,” I knew this album was going to be something big. She has definitely found something worth sticking to. I have always weighed more to the R&B style, and she is nailing it in her own incredible way. I hope she continues to surprise me with her diverse way of thinking musically.

– Mara Bastow, CCHS junior on Rihanna Redone by Jurnee Louder

I would say my favorite article is the one about Ja’morris Hart because I never knew until now that he was a varsity wrestler and a varsity football player and how much potential everyone sees in him. This is why I like to read the sports section of the ODYSSEY. I actually have a place to go and spend my time catching up with Central’s sports program. It allows you to learn about people you probably did not know about and you get to learn about the talent we have at Central.

– Jordan Shaffner, CCHS freshman on Showing Heart by Owen Churchwell

Volume 13, Issue 3

I agree with the opinion that immigration is an important part of our country’s history. Everyone who lives here today is an immigrant or has immigrant ancestors, and denying other immigrants from coming over is hypocritical and wrong. Immigrants provide a stable workforce and integrate their culture into our own. Trump’s argument that immigrants are criminals is factually incorrect and outrageous. I’m very glad that your magazine publishes articles about issues that affect the world around us and causes its readers to have a better understanding of political issues.

– Denise Sunta, CCHS junior on Our Take by Staff

Texting and driving is such an important subject to me because most of the time, it leads to a car acci-dent. Most teenage drivers think that it’s okay just because they hold their phone high enough, so they can see the road at the same time, but they are still not focusing on their surroundings and on the road. Like Camille Legette said in the article, “The thing is, teenagers have this sense that they’re in-vincible.” I agree with that because every single one of my friends are on their phones while they drive, which makes me more alert in the passenger seat.I lost a family member due to a car accident and I feel Katy Mayfield wrote an amazing article to show awareness about texting and driving. The statistics that she found and the way she organized her article makes the message that much more effective.

– Kira McIntyre, CCHS junior on Why can’t it wait? by Katy Mayfield

Understanding cultural differences is growing in differences as the world is becoming increasingly interconnected. This article on Dea Pool and her immigration to the United States does an excellent job of raising questions on cultural identity and helping students understand how unique we are as individuals living in a multi-cultural environment such as Clarke Central. I look forward to reading more articles like this.

– Freddy Geiser, CCHS senior on Little beyond bosnia by Fajr DeLare

I agree with Jordan’s critique of the songs on Fetty Wap’s newest, self-entitled album being similar to each other, but I feel like that is something he wants to do. With the exclamation, “Yeah, baby!” in most of his songs, it’s like, “Oh yeah, this is is Fetty song we are listening to,” and it is something we think of when we hear about him, if that makes sense.

– Caroline Stewart, CCHS sophomore on Trap King by Jordan Rhym

I have a couple friends on the softball team and I know losing so many games was really tough on them, and then once they finally started winning games they were really excited! Once people heard they were beginning to win some games, it started bringing more people to come watch their games which was kind of a pick-me-up for the team. Coach Tedeschi has brought such a new perspective of softball to the team and has motivated them that if they want to win games and quit losing, that they’re going to have to put in the work. It won’t come easily, but in the end it’ll be worth it.

– Colliar Stephens, CCHS freshman on Swinging to success by Andrew Caldwell

Volume 13, Issue 2

The article “Athens Town Throwdown,” the throwdown between the head coach of Clarke Central, Aaron Self, and head coach Scott Wilkins of Cedar Shoals High School highlights an intense rivalry. During the last couple of years, Clarke Central has won the battle on the field. This article is important to me because it is not just a football game, it represents all the Gladiators that came before and that will come after. The clash of the head coaches will continue and I will look forward to the next edition of the ODYSSEY on the throwdown to be even better.

– Aaron Gresham, CCHS junior on Athens Town Throwdown by Johanna Hall, Zoe Peterson and Kevin Mobley

I read the article “The Road No One Knows” by Sophie Fernandes. This article made me feel so sad, but again makes you pick your head up, because the stuff that we stress about can’t be as bad as what she’s been through in life. She is a strong girl.

I don’t understand what she’s going through. Perhaps no one does, but I will keep her in my prayers because she is a fighter.

– Shikira Hughes, CCHS senior on The Road No One Knows by Sophie Fernandes

When it comes to our school food, it’s not really as good as it should be. So I don’t blame students for going outside of campus to get lunch everyday. I would do it everyday just so I wouldn’t starve for another three hours. If the school doesn’t want students to spend money on outside food then they should spend more money on better food.

– Tyra Watkins, CCHS junior on Keeping it on campus

Education is very important to me and for the ones who did poorly in high school, they now have a second chance in learning, bettering themselves and can graduate. Also, I didn’t know that each student at Foothills had their own personal mentor.
In conclusion, great article.

– Aliah Thomas, CCHS junior on Heading uphill by Violet Merritt

My impressions of the article about Marie Yuran, “Meeting Marie,” by Sara Goodie were that I found it very interesting since I had known who she was but never knew anything about her. I found her back story to be very detailed and really described people from the South, a place so close to home, very well. In conclusion, I found the article to be very interesting and a great opportunity to learn about the people who work at our school.

– Javier Romero, CCHS freshman on Meeting Marie by Sara Goodie

“The Road No One Knows” by Sophie Fernandes tells a story about junior Mia Wilhite’s experience with homelessness. Mia Wilhite and her family lived in Rolling Ridge, a low income housing community. Mia Wilhite’s story meant something to me because she comes to school and nobody talks to her, so it makes her feel that she has no friends. I really liked this article.

– Lillie Hammond, CCHS senior on The Road No One Know

I really enjoyed reading the magazine you guys provided us with. It is very straightforward and it keeps me informed on everything going on in the minds of the students here at Clarke Central High School. I really liked the article, “Athens Town Throwdown.” It really compares both Cedar and Central’s coaches and how they see their teams. Not only did I like how everything is written, the pictures are just marvelous! All very well-placed, and the focus is on point. I really enjoyed this magazine and look forward to reading many more that have yet to come!

– Luis Jimenez, CCHS junior on Athens Town Throwdown by Johanna Hall, Zoe Peterson and Kevin Mobley

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Volume 13, Issue 1

I have recently read your article in the ODYSSEY entitled “5 Things Tò Know about MMA” as told to Sam Hood. I found that most of the five points were well explained, detailed and understandable.The first point-shaping up-is the most difficult part. I have been in there a couple of times last year and the fighting is very exhausting and somewhat overwhelming the first times around. However, that wasn’t my favorite “thing to know”; my favorite one was the striking moves. I think that the teacher really hit the nail on the head when he was explaining his striking techniques. Also, he does teach anyone everything they need to know about MMA. I really liked reading this article and look forward to reading the rest of your upcoming news.

– Daivyon Hall, CCHS junior on 5 Things to Know about MMA as told to Sam Hood

I read Dalace Thomas’ story called “A letter to Jalen” in the last ODYSSEY, and I found it very heartwarming. It made me feel emotional because she said what she couldn’t say to him. I liked how it was a personal letter and it was something she could keep forever.

– Riley Wilson, CCHS freshman on A letter to Jalen by Dalace Thomas

Kevin Mobley’s “Congratulations! You’ve Lost?” is a very interesting article to me. I never knew that many people had been through concussions more than one time just by playing football. You would think the helmet would protect the players more than they do. What scares me the most is more than 75 percent of the football players that are deceased have a brain disease from those concussions. They need more head support. I’m disappointed about how they treat concussions. There is no standard protocol on what to do after. It’s like they don’t even care. This article has taught me a lot and how bad it can mess you up on your head in the long run. Write more articles and let people know what’s going on with the injuries and what happens after football.

– Lauren Beck, CCHS junior on Congratulations! You’ve Lost? by Kevin Mobley

“Back on the right track” by Olivia Ripps shows Coach Christian Norton’s passion for track and field in an inspiring story to read. At a young age, Norton knew his passion for track was deep. I can relate.At the young age of about 10, I always knew that football was my outlet from life, my getaway place.So keep up the inspiring stories ODYSSEY, your work really does matter.

– Aaron Gresham, CCHS junior on Back on the right track by Olivia Ripps

Thank you for your heartfelt apology on behalf of Mr. Ragsdale, the editorial board of the ODYSSEY Newsmagazine, and the ODYSSEY staff. It was indeed an honor to be chosen by the students to be highlighted in the May issue of the magazine. I have received many honors during my career; however, I consider the article as one of the greatest tributes that I have received in over thirty years of serving students in our community. After retiring as Director of the Athens Tutorial Program, substitute teaching has provided me the opportunity to continue to play a small role in the lives of our community’s children. I am inspired by the students at Clarke Central High School: their enthusiasm, inquiring minds and optimism for the future. It is my pleasure to have the opportunity to work with each student.

I wish you and your staff an enjoyable and successful school year.

– Barbara Thurmond Archibald, CCHS substitute teacher on More than a teacher by Flynne Collins

Volume 12, Issue 5

I read Christina Kurian’s VSCOCam review. This is a very insightful and knowledgeable review on a creative app. It was a very informative review considering the length. It gives readers a short and sweet look into the VSCOCam app.

– Evan Newman, CCHS junior on Christina Kurian’s review of VSCOCam

Louise Platter’s “Letter from the Editor” was very interesting to me because it was concerned about classes. Obviously, school is oriented around classes, so there is always the question of which classes to take. It was helpful to be able to recognize that there is a good AP class that can entertain my interests in school. I enjoy the opinionated approach to American history and the concern about the truth and the full unhidden ideas, both hidden and from the past of American history. I agree that it would be quite unfortunate to have our curriculum altered, as it shades our past of US history.

– Samuel Ivy, CCHS freshman on Letter from the editor by Louise Platter

Christina Kurian pointed out that we come to school to learn, not to play sports. If those sports are becoming a distraction to the point of failing grades, they shouldn’t be played. She made wonderful points and they made sense.

– Carina Bryan, CCHS sophomore on Academics before athletics by Christina Kurian

When females love themselves it is considered a very harmful, bad quality. However, when a male harasses a female it is considered a compliment. This teaches people that the male gaze and happiness is more important than one’s own self. I enjoy the way that Violet Merritt’s editorial is written in a story-like form. It helps to humanize this “political” issue.

– Valley StipeMaas, CCHS senior on Vanity, modesty and self-confidence by Violet Merritt

I really appreciate the fact that Zoe Peterson brought my attention to healthy eating in her article “Nutrition enhances players”. I think that it is very important for athletes to maintain a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Many athletes don’t realize that eating certain foods, even something as simple and light as cereal could really affect the way he or she plays.

– Chloe Calabria, CCHS freshman on Nutrition enhances players by Zoe Peterson

Volume 11, Issue 3

This was the first time I read the ODYSSEY since I only recently moved from the United Kingdom. I found that the magazine was well written and thoughtfully laid out, much like a professional magazine. I found that most of the titles were captivating, however, some were quite average/dull, but the content within the articles was well structured. The magazine helped to convey all of the major issues and events that happened in an astounding way.

– Aswin Mannakulatbil, CCHS junior

I enjoyed Sara Goodie’s story about her early years, and the overwhelming small mindedness of small-town life. I loved the feeling that she was able to get across to me. I felt like the article explained a lot about the society we live in today. I think that though she initially struggled, I liked how she has been happy at CCHS.

– Rigel Turner, CCHS freshman on Fresh Voice by Sara Goodie

Reading “Scheduling conflicts” by Jenny Alpaugh was good because it actually explained why the schedule was created and implemented at our school. They’ve never really told us anything before this so this was helpful to read. She did a good job by talking to Superintendent Philip Lanoue.

– Ashley Gloster, CCHS junior on Scheduling conflicts by Jenny Alpaugh

“Life as brothers” by Jaymel Israel was a very sweet and inspiring story. I really enjoyed reading about his family and I thought he did a good job of talking about he and his brother’s relationship.

– Grace Mauldin, CCHS freshman on Life as brothers by Jaymel Israel

I really liked reading about Bulldog and about all of the improvements he does for our school. I think he does a lot for our fields.

–Deijon Yearby, CCHS junior on Committed to the “C” by Radford Brosius

My favorite article in this month’s issue of the ODYSSEY was definitely “Florence’s Fight”. It’s an inspiring story that gave me hope. I don’t have cancer or know anyone with cancer, but I still believe that I can overcome anything.

The story revived my spirit. Florence is so strong. She still managed to be a happy and bright person even though she was battling an aggressive, deadly disease. The article itself was written well. I stayed interested the entire time. The diction was nice and so was the emotional aspect. I don’t know Florence, but from reading this story I found out that she is a strong, beautiful cancer survivor.

– Patra Kennedy, CCHS senior on Leaving leukemia behind by Mary Merritt

I read “Relocating the roaster” by Ethan Crane. I think that the article was very important because Jittery Joe’s is a local business that many people in the Athens community care about.

– Isobel Crain, CCHS freshman on Relocating the roaster by Ethan Crane

After I read “Government shutdown” by Aaron Holmes, I felt that it was a shame to see Congress not doing their job in helping to recover the economy. Instead, they are toying with Americans and their financial lives.

– David Gomez, CCHS senior on Government shutdown by Aaron Holmes

Volume 11, Issue 2

“Eye on the iOS” by Nicholas Byrne was accurate. I feel that it wasn’t as popular as Apple expected it to be. I personally like it, but I feel that (iOS 7) has gotten a lot of negative feedback. I think this is because people need time to get used to the new design and over time it will grow on them.

– Marquavies Ford, CCHS junior on Eye on the iOS by Nicholas Byrne

I read “Rallying for the arts” and as an elective member of the music program at Clarke Central High School, I have noted the many funding problems we have had. Fine arts are an important part of our school and they deserve to be funded. The fact that PTSO is stepping up and lending a hand is great. It will be hard to get all of the funds we need, but even a small amount makes a huge difference.

– Sara Tonks, CCHS sophomore on Rallying for the arts by Audrey Hinkle

My stance with banned books is that we’re in high school, and it shouldn’t bother anyone who reads the books. If they don’t like something in it, they can skip the pages or stop reading. The school is being fragile, if you want us to grow and be successful grown-ups, then prepare use with things we might hear on the street anyway.

– Malik Sanford, CCHS senior on Challenging censorship by Henry Thomas and Censorship Conundrum by Geneva Hinkle

I am very pleased that you published the article “Teaching from the Shadows.” Not many know the effect being undocumented has on people, and I personally think this is an issue seldom explained or talked about. I like the focus of your article, and how it brought to attention not only the issues with immigration, but solutions to the problems as well.

– Nike Shimobi-Obijuru, CCHS junior on Teaching from the Shadows by Louise Platter

I’m glad to know the bakery is getting such positive reviews by people in the community. Athens was in need of a good, locally-owned bakery. The location is great and the bread is even better. If people are looking for a way to support the community, making a purchase at the Independent Bakery Co. is a great investment. All the quotes by customers and employees are so positive that it would be hard not to swing by to see what all the fuss is about.

– Sage O’Reilly, CCHS sophomore on Breaking bread by Tiernan O’Neill

I’m in complete agreement with the article “Too scared to tell” by Jaymel Israel. When being labeled a “snitch” it makes you feel small amongst your friends. In many cases students aren’t necessarily scared to tell because of the outcome of being bullied, but because of the bonds between their friendships. These bonds are tied together with loyalty and respect. If you rat out someone being called a snitch it makes you look like the bad guys and the one that doesn’t belong.

– Mirial Smith, CCHS senior on Too scared to tell by Jaymel Israel

Being an artist myself, I very much enjoy the short amount of art time that I do have during GLAD time. It gives me time to actually draw, paint, or do whatever I’m working on at the moment. It’s great that I have this time because I don’t really go to art here; I just go there for GLAD time and I don’t really have time to work on it at home because of things like work or other things my family may ask of me. I’m also very thankful this was published in the ODYSSEY because if not, I probably wouldn’t have known.

– Javonte Barrow, CCHS senior

Volume 11, Issue 1

I read “Life of Lessons” by James Lumpkin, and I really enjoyed the artwork in the article. It really helped convey the message of the article, specifically, the cartoon by Gabe Harper. That was very nice.

– Chris Barnett, CCHS senior on Life of Lessons by James Lumpkin

I read “Changes in Curriculum” by Radford Brosius and found the pictures in the article very appealing to the eye. Many of the quotes in the article showed how diverse our school is becoming in terms of curriculum, which is a very good thing for our school.

– Lyric Barnett, CCHS freshman on Changes in Curiculum by Radford Brrosius

“Remembering Zach” by Chloe Alexander was great. As a baseball player, I really enjoyed this article. Although I didn’t know Zach Henderson, it made me feel closer to him and helped me know the things he did and strived for.

– Tyler Boon, CCHS senior on Remembering Zach by Chloe Alexander

After reading “Parting with Pauldoe” by Henry Scott, I do not think they should have torn down Pauldoe because a lot of students grew up there and will not be able to go back anytime soon.

– Joseph Bunton, CCHS junior on Parting with Pauldoe by Henry Scott

I read “A push for equality” by Aaron Holmes and I’m glad that gay marriage is becoming a positive thing in both our community and Clarke Central High School.

–Ivan Rogel, CCHS sophomore on A push for equality by Aaron Holmes

I thoroughly enjoyed “Five things you need to know about rock climbing”. It was a surprising diversion. I would like to see more articles like this in the future.

– Noah Barfield, CCHS sophomore on Five things you need to know about rock climbing by Gabrielle Saupe

I read “Breaking away from block” by Hannah Dunn-Grandpre. The schedule change has indeed made a big impact. The impact, however, is neither all good or all bad. I mean, who wants to sit in a class for a full 90 minutes? No one’s attention span is that long. Yes it’s true, there are less courses offered, but it isn’t as extreme as losing all of one’s elective opportunities. As a dual enrollment student myself, my options were limited as to which classes I could take since they all had to be in the morning or all in the afternoon. Just remember, the benefits and drawbacks are an equally mixed bag.

– Ana Serer-Estevez, CCHS junior on Breaking away from block by Hannah Dunn-Grandpre

Louise Platter’s “Evolving Industry” really opened my eyes to the local business markets and it makes me want to shop there more. Wal-Mart is nice though, so I won’t stop shopping there either.

– Sean England, CCHS junior on Evolving Industry by Louise Platter

Volume 10, Issue 6

I read “Still learning from Eve” by Dory Macmillan. I feel that this article is very well written and thoroughly expresses the personality of Eve Carson. It is an extremely moving article.

– Maddie Defoor, 8th grade, Burney-Harris-Lyons, on Still Learning from Eve by Dory MacMillan

I read “Breaking Bonds” by Louise Platter. This article is very inspiring and motivational. I can relate to this article because I have friends and family who grew up living in foster homes. I saw how this process damaged one of my good friends by tearing her emotionally. She became depressed too. My favorite quote in the article is “I’ve been depressed for 26 years but I refuse to live another day like that.” It makes me proud and glad that she is my mentor. This shows how powerful and courageous a black woman can be and how important it is not to look back at your past, but focus on your future.

– Natasha Maddox, CCHS junior on Breaking her Bonds by Louise Platter

The story I liked most was Ms. Bonds’ story. I didn’t know she went through a lot, but at the end she came through it. It is really helpful for the ODYSSEY to put these kinds of stories because I didn’t know that about her, but it was the most admirable story I read.

– Ismael Huato, CCHS sophomore on Breaking her Bonds by Louise Platter

I really like the article “Some new drama” by Tiernan O’Neill, considering I was part of one of the productions stated in the article. It feels very good to be recognized. I enjoy that it also states the upcoming shows, which is a big help to the drama department.

– Donovan Melnik, CCHS freshman on Some New Drama by Tiernan O’Neill

The “Our Take” was an awesome and inspiring article and gives people courage. Those without hope will get hope when they read this. Also, it tells you much about what people go through but have been successful. Life comes with struggles and also life is not easy. So I think it is a very nice article and people should read it. I think the cartoon is very nice, too.

– Priscilla Badu, CCHS senior on Our Take by Staff

I read “Activating Change” by Ethan Crane. What you have displayed is a wonderful idea. I think that we should have more physical education classes put in, therefore more student athletes would start to participate in more sports. It also helps students prepare for a more physically fit life if they plan on playing sports at the next level, because I know I do. That’s why I think we should look into this wonderful idea.

– Jamonte Smith, CCHS junior on Activating Change by Ethan Crane

I read “Tardy control” by Robert Walker. I liked the article, I feel that detention does not serve as a punishment. But I think it’s better than sitting in ISS all day missing class time.

– Anthony Evans, CCHS junior on Tardy Control by Robert Walker

Volume 10, Issue 5

I feel the “Proud to be CCSD” article by Louise Platter was a very well-written, wholesome piece. I believe that it is very important to embrace your school district, and Clarke County does a great job compared to other school districts. I feel that you need to celebrate all the good aspects of Clarke County, but also realize and fix the problems and mistakes. In this sense, I am proud to be a CCSD student.

– Luke Slaboda, CCHS freshman on Proud to be CCSD by Louise Platter

I read “Breaking bread with Robbie” by Radford Brosius. This article was very interesting and I learned a lot about the Lunch with the Principal program. I think it is very nice of Dr. Hooker to take time out of his day to have lunch with students. It’s a great experience to express how you feel and let the principal know what’s up from your perspective.

– Dana Jones, CCHS sophomore on Breaking bread with Robbie by Radford Brosius

I enjoyed reading “Lessons from the lab.” I thought it was a very informative and helpful piece for anyone interested in the field. Overall, I also enjoyed the positivity of the writer.

– Reynaldo Herrera, CCHS junior on Lessons from the lab by Brionna Hall

Kudos to Britney Butler for her well-written profile on Gary Stevens, “The basketball team’s big brother.” Gary is the kind of student-athlete who deserves more recognition: hard-working, goal-oriented and a fine citizen of the school. Britney did a masterful job capturing all of these traits, and both she and Gary should be commended for making our school a better place.

– Jacob Reuse, CCHS English department teacher on The basketball team’s big brother by Britney Butler

I read the article “Valentine’s Day on the Cheap” by Isabella Zaccaria-Jeffers. I thought that it was very informative on things you can buy for your Valentines locally, or just to buy presents for friends and family any time of the year

– Viviana Lopez, CCHS sophomore on Valentine’s Day on the Cheap by Isabella Zaccaria-Jeffers

I read “Campus Control” by Lorcan Posey. I like that the article is written so as to make it clear that security is stepping up – something I think is very good.

– Emily Hall, CCHS freshman on Campus Control by Lorcan Posey

I have always known that the security has been an issue at our school, one that is being fought with the new rules and regulations. This was covered in the most recent edition of the ODYSSEY. I felt that “Open door policy” and “Campus Control” were fantastic, eye-opening stories that covered major issues at our school. They could, however, have been condensed into one major article, saving space and allowing room for a different story.

– Max Germain, CCHS senior on Open door policy by Dory MacMillan and Campus Control by Lorcan Posey

Volume 10, Issue 4

I liked the article “Changing roles” by Chloe Hargrave because Dr. Meri Blackburn is one of my favorite teachers. She loves her job, her students and she’s a wonderful teacher. When I found out that she would no longer be teaching Spanish, but instead becoming an International Baccalaureate Coordinator/Gifted Collaborator, I was pretty sad. I really enjoyed her class when I had it in ninth and 10th grade. I know that Dr. Meri Blackburn is where she needs to be and I’m sure she is doing a wonderful job.

– Antanay Goode, CCHS senior on Changing roles by Chloe Hargrave

I liked the article “Rap is dead” by Chloe Alexander. I thought it made some very valid points that I agree with about the state of rap. Chuck D and Flavor Flav were great rappers of their time whose politically motivated raps brought their point across clearly. Since then, rap has become driven by money and greed and the article did a great job of explaining why that happened.

– Milan Pavlic, CCHS sophomore on Rap is dead by Chloe Alexander

I read “Surreal talent” by James Lumpkin. I liked this article because when I was reading it, I could surely feel Ella’s passion for art. I appreciated her surrealistic drawings and her passion. I think that nothing can stop one’s passion.

– Yiming Gao, CCHS sophomore on Surreal talent by James Lumpkin

I loved Lela Jenkin’s column about being a dancer. I was quickly drawn to this article as I can easily relate to it. Although I’m not currently enrolled in any dance classes, I was a dancer at DanceFX for many years. I completely agree with Lela that dance is one of the most amazing ways to express yourself and that it makes you a more disciplined person.

– Claire Elliot-Gower, CCHS freshman on Fresh Voice by Lela Jenkins

Clarke Central High School’s Media Specialist Kacy Tedder surprised me. As I flipped through the ODYSSEY, I saw “Saving Josiah.” I really enjoyed reading this article. It shows how strong and courageous Mrs. Tedder and her son are, with Josiah progressing and Mrs. Tedder reaching out. I wish success to both of them.

– Natasha Maddox, CCHS junior on Saving Josiah by Kacy Tedder

I read “A learning experience” by Radford Brosius. Although I have a history of not liking student teachers, last semester I had one of my favorite teachers ever, and he was a student teacher. I understand that students teaching students is not always the best. However, sometimes it can provide both the student teacher and the student with valuable insight into the subject. I think it just has to do with the capabilities of the student teacher, because if they are fully capable, then they can prove to be a wonderful addition to the classroom.

– Nicole Googe, CCHS freshman on A learning experience by Radford Brosius

I read “Conflicting opinions” and “Tenacious tidings” by Aaron Holmes. I think that it is fine for CCHS to call the winter holidays “Christmas Break.” Regardless of what religion you are, Christmas is a time of love and cheer. People should not get up in arms about it.

– Joshua Jones, CCHS senior on Conflicting opinions and Tenacious tidings by Aaron Holmes

I thought the article “The facts of the matter” by Ruqayah Bhuiyan was based on an issue that is not nearly talked about enough. Many people do not realize the prejudice that our Islamic citizens face everyday, and it was especially interesting to read an article representing this point of view.

– Anna Grossman, CCHS sophomore on The facts of the matter by Ruqayah Bhuiyan

Volume 10, Issue 3

The article “Election 2012: National Face Off” by Aaron Holmes and Louise Platter provides clear information on both of the candidates’ standpoints on major issues that have a large impact on the American public. The layout made it easy to compare and contrast between both candidates. In addition, the visuals greatly added to the spread.

– Marina Byrne, CCHS sophomore on Election 2012: National Face Off by Aaron Holmes and Louise Platter

Both articles of the “Election 2012: National Face Off” by Aaron Holmes and Louise Platter were well-written and very timely. Although many students don’t even think about politics, the comparison/contrast format of the articles was simple enough for all to follow and gain some insight.

– Sharon Barnes, CCHS English department teacher on Election 2012: The National Face Off by Aaron Holmes and Louise Platter

The story I loved was “Being in between” by Teana Mathews; this story was very truthful. It also made me think back on the bad decisions I made by not taking AP courses. If I had changed my willingness to learn and the people with whom I was learning, I would more likely be successful in school now.

– Jerrel Wright, CCHS senior on Being in between by Teana Mathews

I liked the article “Classic City Clash” by Kevin Mobley, because it tells the reader about the rivalry between Clarke Central High School and Cedar Shoals High School. It states all the facts about the stats between both teams and how they rank against each other. I think that there should be another page with more pictures, so it can capture the reader’s attention a little more. Other than that, it was a good article.

– Montel Wall, CCHS senior on Classic City Clash by Kevin Mobley

In reply to Geneva Hinkle’s ratting on Apple’s newest innovations, EarPods, I was not content with the two and a half stars it received. The new design not only provides stronger protection from sweat and water, but an earphone that is stable in the ear. At the same time, Apple was focused on improving sound quality. Although this new design may not have noise-canceling technology, it resolved an issue that many people had with earphones: they wouldn’t stay in. With EarPods we now have a reasonably priced earphone that fits comfortably in our ears and an audio quality that rivals high-end headphones.

– Harrison Boza, CCHS senior on Geneva Hinkle’s review of Apple’s EarPods

I agree with the sentiments expressed in the article “Lengthening the break,” by Aaron Holmes. Having the whole week off for Thanksgiving was beneficial in many ways. It allowed students and teachers to relieve stress by relaxation, created more family times and allowed for a more enjoyable break. It certainly gave me the opportunity to spend more time with family. Overall, it was an interesting article.

– Jared Warner, CCHS freshman on Lengthening the break by Aaron Holmes

Volume 9, Issue 2 

I agree with the “Change for the worst” article. The new cell phone policy is more difficult for teachers to enforce because many students misuse it. If you enjoy using your phone between classes, please don’t mess it up for everyone by using them during class. The administrators might take that privilege away.

Students smoking in the bathrooms is also a problem. Get this straight: smoking is not cool. And you want to be cool, right? So don’t smoke. Thanks for this article; it reveals what we can do to help everyone

– Brooke Martin, CCHS senior on Change for the worst by Alexa Friedman

Leaving fourth block 45 minutes early to participate in a pep rally, regardless of its lameness, was exciting. I enjoyed the spirit, but I had an issue with the disunity that ensured. In the article, “Pep rallies make a comeback,” faculty members are quoted as having thought “pep rallies would help build school unity.” I loved cheering with the seniors and did so whole-heartedly, but I was not a fan of the others’ collective booing. The affair seemed to foster individual grade unity, but very little school unity.

Though I enjoyed the outdoor environment, this lack of cohesion – as well as the abundance of sweat – would have been solved had the rally been held in the gym. Had they done so, the administration could have calmed down about security.

– Eliza Robstein, CCHS senior on Pep rallies make a comeback by Jenny Alpaugh

After reading the article “Clarke Central welcomes Glad Time,” I was left with some thoughts. Glad Time is very valuable to CCHS and to me. It gives me time to finish homework and study for tests and other assessments. One teacher was quoted in the article, “Since the students are allowed to choose (what they do during Glad Time), they’re more willing to attend, commit and try hard.”

I don’t think that is entirely true because if the students decide what classes they attend, they may not have the self-discipline to choose a class they need. They may stay in their comfort zone and be with their friends. I think that this is really good for those who don’t have the time after school to receive help. I am also excited about the extra enrichment programs that will be available soon.

– Hamleigh James, CCHS junior on Clarke Central welcomes Glad Time by Hannah Greenberg

I read the article “Clarke Central welcomes Glad Time.” For me, Glad Time has been very beneficial. I have noticed that my grades have been gradually improving because of Glad Time.

In my opinion, Glad Time is a good addition to the school schedule.

– Kiara Mejia, CCHS junior on Clarke Central welcomes Glad Time by Hannah Greenberg

I read the News brief, “Students get suited.” I would like to say that I think Dress for Success Wednesdays is a very good idea. I enjoy dressing up myself and I have always heard of people doing dress for success to impress.

This news idea really does help with some people because it’s better than baggy clothes. It really helped me with my job.

– George Hulin, CCHS senior on Students get suited by Austin Defoor

I have seen the campus of Clarke Central High School filled with trash and littered with cans and bottles all over the place on some Saturdays. I think that University of Georgia students should give our property respect because we are letting them park in our parking lot on game days.

We, as CCHS students, should write letters to UGA letting them know that trashing our school is not right. They should learn to respect us and our school.

– D’arrian Craft, CCHS sophomore

Volume 9, Issue 1 

I thought the “Georgia on my mind” article was very interesting. Like Candice, I experienced some of the things she went through. When I moved here from California four years ago, I felt like I did not fit in because of the differences.

It is nice to know how other states are different and the types of experiences people go through in order to accommodate to the differences.

– Kiara Meija, CCHS junior on Georgia on my mind

I especially liked the article “Mama Makes Time.” I found it very interesting to read about a disease that is not commonly spoken of.

It really helps you realize how different, yet functional, each family can be.

–Addie Downs, CCHS freshman on Mama makes time

I read the article, “Cuffed: a glimpse into the adult justice system.” I enjoyed the fluent language, and the description of the offender’s charges. I thoroughly enjoyed being educated about Ahtnes’ system of jurisdiction and the processes of the law. The depth of the article, not to mention the captivating writing, has ultimately kept me wanting more. All and all, it was a marvelous piece of work.

– Tobi Brown, CCHS freshman on Cuffed: a glimpse into the adult justice system

Thank you for your efforts to address difficult issues in a mature and informative way. Your recent article “Cuffed: a glimpse into the adult justice system” is just one example of a careful handling of what is a complex and provocative subject. You incorporated personal experiences with important facts in a way that provided our students with an interesting and relevant article. We have many students at CCHS who are dealing with grown-up problems and challenges. It would be easy to avoid these often controversial subjects, but I have never known the ODYSSEY staff to shy away from topics that could be tricky to handle. You represent the student body and community of Clarke Central with excellence and creativity, and we all benefit from it.

Thank you for your dedication to your work on this superb publication, and in this article in particular.

– Ginger Lehmann, CCHS English department teacher on Cuffed: a glimpse into the adult justice system

Volume 7, Issue 5

I am amazed at how Clarke Central High School Athletic Director Jon Ward is able to balance and distribute the money CCHS athletics makes.

However, being a three-year member of the golf team, I would like to see a bit more money being put into the “fourth tier” sports such as golf, tennis and cross country. I understand that bigger sports like football and basketball generate more revenue, while golf doesn’t, so I will have to be happy with what we have.

– Gianni Powell, CCHS junior on Finding the funding to fuel athletics

The article “Finding the funding to fuel athletics” drew my attention, especially the area on the funding for Swimming and Diving at Clarke Central High School.

I’ve just completed my third season of swimming for CCHS and know about the expensive fee to swim. Some kids who have the dream of swimming aren’t able to fulfill it because of the cost.

Maybe now that the topic is addressed by a student, more adults, such as the boosters, will notice and more students will be able to do sports, such as swimming, despite large fees.

– Michelle Legette, CCHS freshman on Finding the funding to fuel sports

I thoroughly enjoyed this article. It covers both opinions on the issues of Valentine’s Day flawlessly. I am currently single and can understand how people hate this holiday. However, I have had boyfriends before on this holiday and can also understand why some people love this day.

There are pros and cons to everything, so don’t let this one day ruin your life. The ODYSSEY provides a practical and humorous article for readers yet again.

– Sabrina Partridge-McNeil, CCHS sophomore on My Word vs. Yours

Volume 7, Issue 4

The article “Halo goes viral” is yet another good example of why the ODYSSEY is such a well-known newspaper locally and nationwide. From the so-called “perpetrators” to the teachers and administrators who have to deal with the results of Halo’s takeover of the school’s computers, Kinsey does an excellent job of presenting the numerous viewpoints on the matter.

I was aware that people were playing Halo on the school computers, but the negative consequences arising from what appeared to be innocent fun came as a real surprise to me. Thanks to this article, I know now that playing this game can have serious repercussions both because of the crowding of the bandwidth and the teacher crack down on games.

Thumbs up to Kinsey and the ODYSSEY for the informative article that made my classmates and myself aware of the situation.

– Jonathan Striepen, CCHS sophomore on Halo goes viral

Volume 7, Issue 1

I enjoyed the article “On the outside looking in.” The article had a good perspective on what the life of a high school athlete is really like. Everything that was said was something I could relate to because I am a student athlete myself. Like Coach Gary said, it’s hard to hear that you can’t play a sport because of your grades. All my life I’ve heard “No eligibility, no play.” When I began playing for Clarke Central High School’s freshman football team I started to realize that I was in the big leagues now. I knew that I had to start taking what I was being taught in the classroom seriously. I don’t want to be the guy who is a superstar on the field but an idiot in the classroom. I am striving to graduate in the top of my class in 2013. I know that I need to push myself on and off the field to do my best, and that is what I got from reading this article.

– Bryce Elam, CCHS freshman on On the outside looking in

I enjoyed the article “Controversies of the N-word,” because it is a huge topic that many people are afraid to take a stand on. Each author wrote very passionately and I enjoyed reading each side. Every time the subject of racism is brought up in a conversation, the common reactions are to shy away from it or blow the situation out of proportion. I was happy to find a calm, rational and well-researched argument over one of the biggest controversies today. The response of my classmates to the question of who uses the N-word was very interesting to me. It raises the question of who uses the N-word out of racism and who uses it as a social normality.

– Ethan Davis, CCHS senior on Controversies of the N-word

The article “Jittery Woes,” is yet another example of poor planning by administrators. Before spending all the money constructing the coffee shop in the media center, maybe our administrators should have double-checked a few things and made more precise plans. Taxpayer money was essentially flushed down the toilet for a coffee shop that reduces the media center’s capacity for books and doesn’t even work! Maybe next time they should rethink it and put that more towards more important issues like getting more students to graduate.

– Elizabeth Morris, CCHS senior on Jittery Woes

Volume 6, Issue 7

I’ve lived in Athens for years and was really impressed that a high school publication could do such a rich send up of the “Modern Athenas” in our community. Stacey Venker, Dr. Eunice Kang, Jane Kidd and Kendre’ah Perry serve as great examples of what young women in our community may one day represent: strong, independent women.

The profiles of Kidd and Venker showed the leadership women in our community display. Dr. Kang’s work to better the school orchestra is worthy of praise and Perry’s work as Cinderella with the Drama department in her first production was top-notch.

Kudos to ODYSSEY staff for a great magazine and capturing these wonderful women in your articles and photographs.

– J. Elizabeth Jordan, Athens community member on Volume 6, Issue 6 of the ODYSSEY Newsmagazine

Thank you for your meaningful and insightful articles on the Clarke County School District. It’s nice to finally be informed on a subject that affects me on a daily basis. I hope the efforts from the district have positive results in the next few years.

– Ella Grace Downs, CCHS senior

I really enjoyed the article Living on the wrong side of the tracks. I’ve lived in Athens for about a year and a half, and I still haven’t really gotten to know about everything there is here. After reading that article, I started to appreciate Athens more. I never knew how much culture there was here in Athens. Being a musician myself, it is really cool to know that I am surrounded by so much culture and talent. Thanks Carlo for sharing a part of Athens that some of us didn’t know about!

– Somora Hernandez, CCHS sophomore on Living on the wrong side of the tracks

Volume 3, Issue 6

I have just finished reading the February ODYSSEY and wanted to congratulate you and your staff on another great issue. The ODYSSEY has established a high stan-dard, as evidenced by the many recent state and national accolades the newsmagazine has earned. I do need to offer clarification, however, to a few points raised in your commentary, “Show me the money.”

In describing the difficulty in raising money for publication costs, you state “the superintendent has the final say about how much money goes where” in the Clarke County School District.The implication, of course, is that if the superintendent really wanted to fund ODYSSEY’s production costs he would reach into a magic bag of money and do so. Unfortunately, the funding equation isn’t that simple.

The superintendent only recommends an annual budget to the Clarke County Board of Education after seeking input from school principals and department heads. The Board of Education has the final word on how and where the school district spends its money and has the authority to make line-item additions and deletions to the superintendent’s recommendation. It is worth noting, however, that the state and federal governments actually dictate how and where most of the school district’s funds are spent.

While there is very little discretionary money in any public school system’s budget, the Clarke County School District does provide a certain amount of discretionary funding directly to each school. It is up to the administration of each school in Clarke County to decide how these funds are used, not the superintendent. In addition, each school in Clarke County receives an annual allotment from the school district’s contract with Pepsi Cola. Again, the school has the authority to decide how these funds are spent.

Your commentary is very timely. The school district is in the process of putting together a budget recommendation for the next school year. I would suggest the ODYSSEY staff make its needs known to the Clarke Central administration and ask that the school include funding for the newsmagazine in any budget request that goes to the superintendent.

– Mike Wooten, Clarke County Public Relations Director

After reading this arti-cle, I really admire Sam Shiver. I’ve never been a “new kid”, but I’m sure the experience can be very intimidating. I found it extremely interesting that Sam found her niche in wrestling. She seems to have lots of spirit and knows how to keep the boys in line. I admire her ability to jump right in and get involved. I’m sure Coach Stoudenmire really appreciates Sam’s involvement, as do the boys on the wrestling team.

– Laura Wooten, CCHS freshman on Managing the men of the mats

Yes, I know. I am a 17-year-old male, but after reading “Splitting Ayers”, the “ODYSSEYs monthly grouses and grumbles from the Viewpoints editor” I was so infuriated by the way she described Oprah that I thought I would respond.

You see, Erin doesn’t like how Oprah chooses to use her success. Well, let’s talk about how she chooses to use her success. She uses her success to build schools in South Africa.
which has long been considered to be the world’s poorest region.

Her “Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls” will open in 2007 in South Africa. She uses her success to raise more than $35 million for charities across the world.

She uses her success to raise more than $50 million to help the children in Africa. She used her success to get the government to pass the Oprah Act in 1991. She uses her success to spread truth, something that few other media outlets do.

The definition of “down to earth” according to Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary: practical. The definition of practical: relating to, or manifested in practice or action; not theoretical or ideal: Oprah is definitely practical, not “down to earth”.

She talks a lot, but she also backs the talk with her actions. She is simply “down to earth” and not a “show-off”

– Henry Liang, CCHS senior on Splitting Ayers

I really enjoyed John Wharton’s article about fighting daily temptation. I thought it was about time someone pointed out the vulgarity that is becoming all too common in our hallways. Really guys, what happened to the days when men respected women? There is a time and a place for everything.

Our 26th President, Theodore Roosevelt, was one of America’s most colorful and beloved politi-cians. Mr. Roosevelt valued good manners and knew that a term like Bull___ was unacceptable in the presence of a lady. Therefore he coined the phrase, “Bullfeathers”.
So gentlemen, the next time you are faced with temptation, if “WWJD” does not apply, think “What would Teddy do?”

– Chris Green, CCHS sophomore on Warts and all by John Wharton

Volume 3, Issue 1

I really liked the layout about music festivals in the South. I really love going to Athfest and the Human Rights Festival, so I am glad that these events are being recognized. I think it’s good to bring attention to local art and music.

– Sophia Lane, CCHS sophomore on Festival–Palooza

Better late than never. I feel strongly about this because I think it is a bunch of nonsense. When you are 15 minutes late to class, how is that mistaken for not being in class at all? Maybe if it was 45 minutes, because that is half of a class period. Also, how on earth can people get to school on time, for 5 months straight, when they have to depend on other people like their parents or friends? It’s impossible. Me personally, my dad always makes us late, even if we get up on time, he still manages to drive slow, or forget something, and he won’t listen to anything I say and he doesn’t care. What am I supposed to do about that? This policy is hurting the wrong people. How does being late five minutes for three days add up to missing a whole class period? It is insane, pointless and annoying.

They could at least make class change time a little longer, so that we actually have time to go to our locker and the bathroom. As well as walk all the way up to the third floor from the first, getting past the crowds and all the fights. I hate this place.

– Penelope Crymes, CCHS junior on Better late than never? by Emily McArthur

The article “Better Late Than Never?” is a really strong article to me. With all this new attendance policy, I think our 2005-2006 school year is going down. With 3 tardy slips equaling one absence, I just think it’s wrong. Many students have problems getting to class, and when they see that they have so many absences they are just going to quit. Instead of the dropout rate going down, it is going to go up. 1 think they should just reconsider this whole thing again. Because it is about what is best for the students, not what is best for the teachers.

– Lisette Dominguez, CCHS junior on Better late than never? by Emily McArthur

I like the article about Alps Road that Emily Barkelew did. I like it so much because that’s the elementary school I went to and it made me think of all the time I’ve shared at Alps Road. Another reason I like it is because it’s not boring, you would enjoy reading it. I guess I like it so much, because it’s about Alps road and Emily and 1 were best friends in Elementary school. That’s why I like it so much

– Bronica Clark, CCHS junior on Alps Road just ain’t the same by Emily Barkelew

I liked the Alps Road article by Emily Barkelew. I also attended Alps and just recently I went inside the building for the first time. I didn’t like it; it was too new, too unfamiliar. I liked how the article was written by and targeted people who actually went there. Being someone who went to the school, I was given a sense of comfort that someone who knew the school and felt the same about it as I did was writing a good story about it. As I read the whole magazine I noticed a lot of stories were written by people who actually cared about what they were saying. That might be my favorite part of the story.

– Rob Packer, CCHS junior on Alps Road just ain’t the same by Emily Barkelew

I really enjoyed reading Adam Bewley’s article on “Reality Check for Reality T.V.” It was funny, clever and light hearted. He poked fun at reality T.V. in a sarcastic way that made the reading easy to read.Also, at the same time, while this article was funny, it also made me take his views on the subject.

– Anna Bell, CCHS junior on Reality Check for Reality TV by Adam Bewley

I really enjoyed the article on our very own principal, Dr. Maxine Easom. “Beyond the Principal’s door.” I found out that Easom really cares for the students at CCHS and is strict on us sometimes because she wants us to excel in school. Something interesting I found out is that she is emotional when she’s happy, sad and mad. She also has an eclectic music style; she listens to everything from rap to classical. Our principal is cool after all.

– Katie Johnson, CCHS freshman on Beyond the Principal’s door by Laura Benson

I think that it is a great idea for Andrew, Ben, Collin and Sam to travel along with Darius. Not only will Darius be having fun, but he will be having fun with new friends. It is very nice of them to volunteer part of their summer before they go to college to spend time with Darius. I have friends who actually saw them leave for the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and Los Angeles and said it was very exciting. I bet they had fun, I only wish I could have gone.

– Latima Gresham, CCHS junior on Darius Gone West

Volume 2, Issue 7

This article was really great because it tells what a great teacher Mr. Dover really was. I have known Mr. Dover my whole life and he is truly an awesome person and loved teaching. I am glad he is being honored because he spent 24 years at Clarke Central doing what he loved the most. Now that he is retired he is still being remembered. He is my best friend forever!

– Joanne Anderson, CCHS sophomore on Branching out by Emily McArthur

The article I liked the best in this month’s ODYSSEY was “Branching out” about my dad. I really thought it was well written and I loved that the staff chose to write about him. My family really enjoyed it, and the article really meant a lot to my dad. Thanks!

– Margaret Dover, CCHS sophomore on Branching out by Emily McArthur

I am really glad and appreciative that there is an article about the Humans Right Club. It gives the student a little more knowledge about what the club really stands for. I hope this article encourages more people to join and get involved in our community. I think it is great that this club, along with the Debate Club, is being recognized.

– Amy Freeman, CCHS sophomore on Human rights matters by Ya’Shika Solomon

I think it is great that we finally have a Debate team. Debate Club lets you express your opinion effectively. It is a chance that will greatly help your public speaking skills. It is fantastic that we have a club that is helping us to produce some of our future leaders.

– Umair Javid, CCHS sophomore on Make your point by Hannah McLain

“Girls gone golfing” was a very good article. Most people, when they think of golf, think of only guys. It is good to see some girls play because it is really fun to play, especially when you get to drive the golf carts. I hope the golf team has a good season and good luck to the girls!

– Shannon McLousland, CCHS sophomore on Girls gone golfing by John Wharton

I really enjoyed the “We’ve come a long way” article by Emily Barkelew. This was a well-written article and gave me a good understanding on a topic I was not familiar with. I was amazed that some schools in Georgia still have segregated proms. I am personally glad that we do not have segregated proms. Our school is diverse and we should have a prom that includes all of the people, no matter what race they are.

– Joanne Anderson, CCHS sophomore on We’ve come a long way by Emily Barkelew

I am utterly shocked at the percentage of schools and students that think segregated proms are acceptable. I could hardly believe some of the narrow-minded quotes that students from other schools gave. I am so glad that Clarke Central’s students are so open-minded and diverse. It horrifies me that there is still racism all over the state. I had hope that we had all come past the senseless discrimination that plagued the nation decades ago. Unfortunately, it appears that I was wrong.

– Meg Granum, CCHS sophomore on We’ve come a long way by Emily Barkelew

I enjoyed reading the debate between baseball and soccer. Both writers argued well for their respective sports. I think the articles enlighten anyone who reads them. Most people think both sports are boring and the article gives people like that a new perspective.

– Jerel Baurayan, CCHS sophomore on The great debate rages by Alexander Stephens and Michael Henson

I really enjoyed the article “Caviar and collard greens”. I never knew the big differences between North and South Georgia. I enjoyed Dr. James and Mr. Hinson’s personal accounts, along with the beautiful background the article was set on top of. Just the right things were in just the right places, and I enjoyed reading the simple differences in parts of this state.

– Michael Baramidze, CCHS sophomore on Caviar and collard greens by Lauren McFay

I really enjoyed the story on Southern stereotypes. Lauren McFay is a good writer and I enjoy reading quotes by Mr. Hinson. I loved the image and the layout. I look forward to the ODYSSEY and seeing our students’ hard work.

– Lilli Crowe, CCHS sophomore on Caviar and collard greens by Lauren McFay

Volume 2, Issue 6

This article opened my eyes and helped me see how bad things really were in Asia when the tsunamis hit. Homes and lives were destroyed. Children were lost or lost their parents.
I am so proud of Clarke Central’s DIVAS for taking the initiative and helping raise money to send to the relief efforts.

– Elisa Barron, CCHS sophomore on Staring into the eyes of the storm by Julia Wilson

The article entitled Herr Wooten was very interesting to me because it was about a teacher I know and have seen in the halls of Clarke Central. I never knew he was the man who bleeds red and gold, or that he was so involved with the sports of Central. I know the crazy and hilarious Wooten but I never knew he was so passionate about our school. I liked getting to know Mr.
Wooten a bit more through this article by Emily Barkelew.

– Caitlin Cornwell, CCHS senior on Herr Wooten by Emily Barkelew

I liked this article because I am on a baseball kick, trying to learn more about the sport (because of my boyfriend). So, reading about the past record and the expectations for the upcoming season helps my understanding of the sport a little more. So I thank you for having such a wide variety of sports, and topics in your news-magazine.

– Brittany Hamel, CCHS sophomore on Baseball bounces back by Jess Tullos

I cannot believe so many teachers have left. Every year I come back and some of my favorite teachers are gone. The school district should try to make more incentives to keep these people who influence us everyday. They are the people who are molding us into the people we will eventually become. Teachers are really important and to the rate that they drop is a real problem at Clarke Central. I am glad someone made the issue a public affair.

– Jessica Holden, CCHS junior on Where have all the teachers gone? by Laura Benson

I like the article about teachers being under appreciated. A lot of us do not realize how much time they take to prepare their lesson plans and how much tolerance and patience it takes to be a teacher. If you were a teacher and your kids acted up, would you calmly control them, or would you try to belt whip them? We need to appreciate teachers a lot more.

– Karla Varga, CCHS sophomore on Time for teacher talk by Don Hudson

I thought the article on Ultimate Frisbee was informative and insightful. It would be great if Clarke Central could end up with an official team. However, I thought it was kind of weird that the article was written by John Wharton, and the picture of the player playing ultimate frisbee was also John Wharton.

– Alice Yu, CCHS senior on Out of school sports by John Wharton

I do not feel that there should be an ultimate frisbee team because i will take money from more important sports such as football,
baseball, and soccer.

– Nick Wegman, CCHS sophomore on Out of school sports by John Wharton

The worst thing about the ODYSSEY this month was that there was no Chick-Fil-A coupon in the back of the magazine. I think Chick-fil-a should advertise with the magazine more often.

– Margaret Dover, CCHS sophomore

I really enjoyed the article on living without Walker. The story was unique and totally like him. I’ve even heard him talk about space before. His ideas amaze me. He is so out of this world. I will miss Walker Talk just as the ODYSSEY staff will.

– Jaegjia Green, CCHS junior on Living without Walker by Andrea Gonzalez

Not only is Walker the coolest guy I know, his articles always either made me think, laugh, or get confused. Either way, 1 always enjoyed them. I am glad that even though Walker no longer writes for the ODYSSEY, he is still remembered.

– Isaac Lake, CCHS sophomore on Living without Walker by Andrea Gonzalez

I really enjoyed the article about the origins of Valentine’s Day Hannah Mclain. I know that most people do not know the history of most holidays, especially Valentine’s Day. So, 1 thought it was a good idea to let everyone know exactly what they are celebrating. I also thought Mr. Hinson’s story was hilarious, I almost believed him.

– Mallory Hudgins, CCHS junior on Don’t be my Valentine by Claire Stice

Volume 2, Issue 5

The article “Coming To America” was very enlightening. I had not realized that the problems in other countries were so bad that people are being forced to move to America even nowadays. This article has opened my eyes to the trouble in other coun-tries, and that the people who have moved here have more going on than I dreamed possible. I think that people who were born and raised in America have a hard time understanding those who have immigrated here and the language barrier makes things even harder. People write off those that they cannot communicate with, and I believe that we all need to be a little more open-minded, and accept those different from us.

– Lauren Daniels, CCHS junior on Coming to America by Andrea Gonzalez

I really enjoyed reading this article because I believe that the issue of same sex marriage should be addressed in the world as well as CCHS because we have various sexualities in the school as a whole.

In my opinion, I agree with same sex marriage because you cannot help who you love and should not be banned from joining with your spouse or lover legally in marriage.
I was not happy when Georgia passed the law banning same sex marriage because I do not believe in discrimination.You should be treated equally no matter what creed, sex, race, or sexuality you may be. Everyone is equal in my eyes.

– Cherrelle Pullen, CCHS junior on The legalities of love by John Wharton

I really liked how the ODYSSEY staff asked a variety of different people about their fashion. Our school is so diverse yet we form a school that works. I also like this because to me the way someone dresses says a lot about their personality and character.

Thanks ODYSSEY for putting something in your magazine that girls want to read! I really enjoyed reading about the different students in school and how they classified their fashion! It made me think about my fashion. I think the Variety staff is doing a great job of giving a wide variety of topics to match the wide variety of people at our school.

Abby Foster, CCHS freshman on A passion for fashion by Variety staff

Being a freshman, I can really appreciate Alexander Stephens and his article about the lack of coverage given to junior varsity teams. They play just as hard as varsity teams and win, too. Where do you think varsity players got so good? By playing on JV! Junior varsity should not be considered inferior, it should be thought of as the start of something great!

Haley Ayers, CCHS freshman on Junior varsity blues by Alexander Stephens

This article was very informative and well written. I think anorexia and bulimia tend to take a toll on teens because of the influence of magazines with supermodels who weigh 100 pounds or less and information boxes that give a specific weight and say if you are over that then you are fat, which I do not think is true. Students tend to want to be like others and go overboard with it and it leads to an unhealthy lifestyle. I am glad that this issue was addressed because so many students are uninformed on the risks that are associated with Anorexia and Bulimia. It also deals with low self-esteem, stress, and “fun” mirrors that portray their image in a false pretense.
I think you can be healthy and eat right, but you do not need to risk your life for a couple of pounds.

– Natalia Vargas, CCHS junior on Wrestling with weight by Alexa Klein

Volume 2, Issue 4

I liked the article about the cross country boys and girls. I think that it is about time that people hear about them. Yes they are a lower key sport than let us say football or basketball when it comes to the amount of coverage, but it requires just as much work. They run like four to six miles everyday down Milledge. They work just as hard as football and basketball players, but yet they do not get as much attention.

– Kaitlin Bradberry, CCHS sophomore on Running for region by Alexa Klein

I really liked your drug dealer story. We always hear about how bad it is, but now we can understand it from a different point of view. Also I think that it was very well weit-ton. Emily should write more columns.

– Anonymous on Gateway to addiction by Mary Grace Hager

I think that “A Crime of Passion” was a very good article. It is something that is a lot more common in teenage life than many people usually realize. I have friends who have dealt with the issue before (not me, personally, never that), but it is a good subject that hits close to home when you have people you care about in that type of situation.

In my opinion, the article is like an eye opener because even some teenagers are unaware that their peers encounter issues like this. The abuse is an important one and it is good that the article gave the option of how to get help from somebody else who feels sympathy and wants to help you, and to open a gate to getting out of the relationship before it gets danger-ous.

– Diana Marie Lumpkin, CCHS sophomore on A crime of passion by Andrea Gonzalez

I loved that you included the Athens music scene in this edition of the ODYSSEY. Athens is a huge music town, and there are some great bands here. Not only have great bands come out of Athens, like R.E.M. and Widespread Panic, other well known bands come here to play concerts. Phantom Planet, who sing the theme song for the T.V. show, The O.C., played at the 40 Watt Club last spring. The up and coming band, The Killers were also playing in Athens last week. We are lucky to live in such a great town, especially one that has such a large variety of music.

– Mary Conroy on Athens’ musical odyssey by Staff

I liked the article about Athens music. It is important to have students aware of the major things that happen in their town. It is apparent to me that many people do not know much about the music scene in Athens. I am glad you put an article in the ODYSSEY about that, so that we may know about it. I am looking forward to more articles about Athens.

– Nick Nehf, CCHS junior on Athens’ musical odyssey by Staff

I really like the article on one of our own stu-dents, Joseph Stunzi. I used to go to church with him, and I heard all the hype about his pacemaker project, but I had no idea that it went national. It is really cool how one of our own classmates can achieve such a level of fame at his age.

– Anna Bell, CCHS sophomore on America’s top scientist of the year by Julia Wilson

Is the school clean? Well… I don’t doubt that the janitors do an exemplary job. They’re always cleaning, that’s for sure, and I know I’m not the only one who feels guilty about using the stairs when someone has just finished mopping them spotless.

I definitely agree with Hannah, and I think her article was important. Students need to be aware of the mess they make, and they need to be more grateful for the dirty task the janitors undertake daily. One student’s mess may be small, but when 1,500 students each leave a small mess, it’s a big deal. Let’s give the janitors a break; let’s wipe our feet when we come inside, throw our trash in the trash cans where it belongs, and for goodness sake, let’s not clog the bathroom sinks with toilet paper!

– Lesley Appleby, CCHS senior on How clean is your school? by Hannah Crockett

The ODYSSEY seems to get better every edition. It is very interesting and my mother even enjoys reading it. The growth of the staff is amazing. Good job!

– Jerica Kelley, CCHS junior

I really like that we have a bank here and that information was provided for all that are interested in opening an account. It is a great way to save money and we do not even have to waste gas to go to the bank, we just simply drop it off across from the library. The worst thing in The ODYSSEY to me would be on page 12, the Athens Music article, except for Bubba Sparxx. I do not know who they are, and I am just not interested in them or their music. It is just a waste of time to read about them.

– Judy Munoz, CCHS sophomore on Volume 2, Issue 3

Volume 2, Issue 3

Vera Lake’s article on skateboarding was really good. I agree with her about how skateboarders need more places to practice their sport. I honestly do not think they are annoying to this community and I think there are more important things to worry about. I think it is good that the community is giving more to BMXers, skaters, and bladers.

– Annie Nobbie, CCHS sophomore on Skateboarding is not a crime by Vera Lake

I enjoyed this article because I’m a football fan of Georgia. So, to hear about them in our magazine made me enjoy that particular article. To Jess Tullos, keep up the good articles.

– Brittany Hunter, CCHS sophomore on Georgia vs. Florida: time to be a Gator hater by Jess Tullos

I like this article because a lot of people do not stand for the pledge. I really think you do not need to stand if you do not want to. We have the right not to.

– Brandon Heard, CCHS sophomore on How many students stand for the pledge? by Emily Barkelew

I enjoyed Emily Barkelew’s article on “How Many Students Stand for the Pledge?” This is a touchy subject to a lot of people, and she was able to present it well without swaying one way to the other. Giving everyone straight facts and valid points, allowing readers to form their own opinion in the subject. Props, Emily!

– Laurence Worthington, CCHS sophomore on How many students stand for the pledge? by Emily Barkelew

Baseball is a great tradition, one that has been around since the mid 1800s, and one that involves great skill, both mental and physical. It is a game which thousands of young American boys learn to love as they play on small sandlot fields around the neighborhood.

Baseball is a game of time and time-lessness, speed and grace, failure and loss, and imperishable hope. As James Earl Jones quoted in the movie Field of Dreams,”The one constant through all the years has been baseball. America has rolled by like an army of steamrollers. It has been erased like a blackboard, rebuilt and erased again. But baseball has marked time. Baseball is part of our past; it reminds us of what was once good and can be again.”

The amount of history and prestige that comes along with the game of baseball is one that cannot be found along with any other sport. The game of baseball has brought about many American heroes, such as Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, Jackie Robinson, and Mickey Mantle. It has impacted our country and its people for many years and in many different ways, and by no means did this great game deserve the disrespect it was shown in the article written by the Sport’s Editor, Alexander Stephens.

Who cares if he watches the World Series or thinks it takes too much time or thinks it is boring? Not this American. I was very displeased and disappointed that someone would, out of the blue, verbally attack our National Pastime, the great game of baseball. Baseball is more than merely a game. To many Americans it is an art form, a passion, a love, a way of life. These feelings are shared by many peo-ple, and I speak for the whole baseball world and everyone who shares my love of this great game, in saying that the article written by Stephens is a disgrace to a tradition that has long been a part of America’s history.

Baseball is America’s Pastime, and coming from one American out of the many who are “mesmer-ized by a diamond field with a bunch of white bags lying in the dust,” I think filth and personal attacks such as those written in Stephens’ article can be kept to oneself.

– David Brownlee, CCHS junior on National Waste of Time by Alexander Stephens

I disagree with Phil Stice’s opinion on “Is Dance a Sport” because I think it definitely is! Any activity in which hours of practice should be considered a sport! And I also think it takes a lot more to dance for hours to classical music in a ballet than it does to punch someone a couple of times.

So before you try to think dance is not a sport you should take a couple of lessons-if you are not sore and have not gained any appreciation for the art form then you have the right to criticize.

– Amber Schreiner, CCHS sophomore on Is dance a sport by Phil Stice and Julia Wilson

I liked the articles debating whether dance is a sport or not. I think Julia Wilson stuck up well for dance, because I think dance is a sport. It shows how ignorant some people can be when not understanding something. Dance is one of the most strenuous sports on every muscle in the body. You use every muscle.

– Diana Lumpkin, CCHS sophomore on Is dance a sport? by Phil Stice and Julia Wilson