Table of Contents Page(s)
Essay 1
Richendollar Article 2
Richendollar Article Reflection 3
Creative Writing Club Article 4
Creative Writing Club Article Reflection 5
Concussion Awareness Article 6
Concussion Awareness Article Reflection 7
Essay 1
Richendollar Article 2
Richendollar Article Reflection 3
Creative Writing Club Article 4
Creative Writing Club Article Reflection 5
Concussion Awareness Article 6
Concussion Awareness Article Reflection 7
1)
Jacob Thomas
January 23, 2014
Newspaper
The art of writing is something that myself and many others appreciate. The past two years of newspaper class have provided me with a new writing techniques and styles that will help me in my future. I appreciate journalism more than any other type of writing because it is both informative and important to people. I enjoy reading fictional stories and other works of literature, but journalism has more value to myself and society. Historical moments are remembered and looked back on because they are recorded in writing and film which is why journalism is so important. Without any recordings of the past, we would not be able to learn our mistakes and continue to advance.
Our world is constantly changing with technology so job opportunities in the field of journalism are growing at a fast rate. Journalists are needed on websites, blogs, television, social-media, print, and magazines. The growing rate of social media has offered many openings for journalists. Unfortunately, the Newspaper age is slowly coming to an end. I find myself mostly looking online for articles and news reports. Even local papers like The Voice and The Times Herald are found online. I believe it has both advantages and disadvantages. The news is more readily available online and job opportunities are being created to format and organize websites used to place articles, but having a printed copy is always nice. In order to read newspapers online you must have Internet access and a laptop, phone, or tablet. Although Internet access is seemingly everywhere now with coverage through cellular devices, there are still times where people cannot access it.
I believe that journalism has been a beneficial aspect to my life in many ways. I have always wanted to study journalism and possibly pursue a career in that field. I enjoy writing, but the articles I have written for the RHS Newspaper are important to me because they are relevant to modern events and important to the lives of others. I like informing others of on campus events and accomplishments and activities in the community as well. Having a voice in the lives of others and work published for people to see is something to be proud of.
My goal for this year was to improve the information used in my articles. In journalism and writing newspaper articles, it’s not about your writing the way it is like an English essay. Word choice and presentation do not matter as much as the content that is provided in the articles. I still believe I did a good job last year doing this, but I knew there was still room for improvement. Some articles need to more complex than others, but for the most part the most important aspect is just the content provided. A good journalist will provide the reader with all the facts and every angle of the story before an opinion is ever presented. In some cases an opinion is needed in an article, but most of the time giving the facts and bringing others into the article is more important. Another part I learned this year writing for our school newspaper is letting the words of others carry the message. Letting others have an input in the article can give the message itself. Having useful and reliable quotes is one of the most vital parts in being a writer and a reporter. Writing an article a lot of times is like putting pieces of a puzzle together because the first thing you do is gather information such as quotes, facts, people, teams etc. and then you have to figure out what the best way to present the information is. There is not always a clear cut way to put the pieces together like a typical essay.
Another goal I set for myself was to help others throughout the year learn the process of being a journalist. I struggled some at first writing articles, but once you reach an understanding of what to do it is a fun process. Being a second year member of the Blue Devils Advocate, I truly wanted to show and help others what to do. Hopefully some of the juniors who decide to come back try to do the same and help lead the group. Of course there is always more you can do, but I did my best to help many of the new members. Our first couple publications turned out very well for an inexperienced group and hopefully we continue to grow through the rest of the school year.
The newspaper class in general has been a good experience. It has a more laid back on your own approach that many classes do not have. I look at it almost like having a job. You come in and do what you have to do to contribute to make a quality product. At times things become stressful as well similar to having a job. Print-day offers many unique and interesting aspects that can’t be experienced in any other class at RHS. You must be a responsible person because if you fail at your part, the entire group is affected. It truly is a team effort to put a newspaper together and I am glad I have been able to be a part of this for two years now. I know the experiences I have had will benefit me in the future when I am in college and when I acquire a job.
Jacob Thomas
January 23, 2014
Newspaper
The art of writing is something that myself and many others appreciate. The past two years of newspaper class have provided me with a new writing techniques and styles that will help me in my future. I appreciate journalism more than any other type of writing because it is both informative and important to people. I enjoy reading fictional stories and other works of literature, but journalism has more value to myself and society. Historical moments are remembered and looked back on because they are recorded in writing and film which is why journalism is so important. Without any recordings of the past, we would not be able to learn our mistakes and continue to advance.
Our world is constantly changing with technology so job opportunities in the field of journalism are growing at a fast rate. Journalists are needed on websites, blogs, television, social-media, print, and magazines. The growing rate of social media has offered many openings for journalists. Unfortunately, the Newspaper age is slowly coming to an end. I find myself mostly looking online for articles and news reports. Even local papers like The Voice and The Times Herald are found online. I believe it has both advantages and disadvantages. The news is more readily available online and job opportunities are being created to format and organize websites used to place articles, but having a printed copy is always nice. In order to read newspapers online you must have Internet access and a laptop, phone, or tablet. Although Internet access is seemingly everywhere now with coverage through cellular devices, there are still times where people cannot access it.
I believe that journalism has been a beneficial aspect to my life in many ways. I have always wanted to study journalism and possibly pursue a career in that field. I enjoy writing, but the articles I have written for the RHS Newspaper are important to me because they are relevant to modern events and important to the lives of others. I like informing others of on campus events and accomplishments and activities in the community as well. Having a voice in the lives of others and work published for people to see is something to be proud of.
My goal for this year was to improve the information used in my articles. In journalism and writing newspaper articles, it’s not about your writing the way it is like an English essay. Word choice and presentation do not matter as much as the content that is provided in the articles. I still believe I did a good job last year doing this, but I knew there was still room for improvement. Some articles need to more complex than others, but for the most part the most important aspect is just the content provided. A good journalist will provide the reader with all the facts and every angle of the story before an opinion is ever presented. In some cases an opinion is needed in an article, but most of the time giving the facts and bringing others into the article is more important. Another part I learned this year writing for our school newspaper is letting the words of others carry the message. Letting others have an input in the article can give the message itself. Having useful and reliable quotes is one of the most vital parts in being a writer and a reporter. Writing an article a lot of times is like putting pieces of a puzzle together because the first thing you do is gather information such as quotes, facts, people, teams etc. and then you have to figure out what the best way to present the information is. There is not always a clear cut way to put the pieces together like a typical essay.
Another goal I set for myself was to help others throughout the year learn the process of being a journalist. I struggled some at first writing articles, but once you reach an understanding of what to do it is a fun process. Being a second year member of the Blue Devils Advocate, I truly wanted to show and help others what to do. Hopefully some of the juniors who decide to come back try to do the same and help lead the group. Of course there is always more you can do, but I did my best to help many of the new members. Our first couple publications turned out very well for an inexperienced group and hopefully we continue to grow through the rest of the school year.
The newspaper class in general has been a good experience. It has a more laid back on your own approach that many classes do not have. I look at it almost like having a job. You come in and do what you have to do to contribute to make a quality product. At times things become stressful as well similar to having a job. Print-day offers many unique and interesting aspects that can’t be experienced in any other class at RHS. You must be a responsible person because if you fail at your part, the entire group is affected. It truly is a team effort to put a newspaper together and I am glad I have been able to be a part of this for two years now. I know the experiences I have had will benefit me in the future when I am in college and when I acquire a job.
2)
By: Jacob Thomas
News Editor
Success is something we all strive for in life. Many people have different interpretations of success which is one of the many reasons for our diverse culture. Creating success among teenagers is a common theme America continues to work towards, and a local teenager is a great example of this.
Richmond teenager Nathan Richendollar recently released his self-published book Sic Semper Res Publica.
The 318-page book intends to reveal the current faults of America and how citizens need to take pride in their American heritage.
Richendollar was inspired to write a political book for various reasons.
“Bank bailouts, more bailouts, a ruling class that is something from Jefferson’s worst nightmares, Romney’s nomination, and a citizenry that seems perfectly content to watch the decline of their nation is what inspired me to write the book,” said Richendollar.
Other common themes in the book are the previous two presidential elections and the impact of governmental programs on our national debt.
“The main theme is that we need to enlighten ourselves as citizens, take pride in our American heritage and fight for our constitutional system of government,” said Richendollar.
The book took six months for Richendollar to write; however, there was an 18-month break between the time it was started and finished.
“I’ve watched a lot of news, read a lot of old CBO (Congressional Budget Office) and BEA (United States Bureau of Economic Analysis) stats, and I’ve generally just spent a lot of quiet time thinking about how our system works, past precedents, parables and things that work the same way in addition to the natural laws that govern us,” said Richendollar.
Overall, Richendollar enjoys politics, but not to the degree most would perceive.
“To be honest, I don’t enjoy much. Although I enjoy seeing facts and figures and making connections, and I love debating, the more I get into politics, the more pessimistic I become about people in general. I wrote the book to inform, and I study politics to be informed. But if I want to have fun or enjoy something, I will either have a debate or a nature hike,” he said.
Richendollar plans on continuing to stay involved in politics by attending the University of Virginia.
“I’d like to go to the University of Virginia (founded by Thomas Jefferson) to study environmental law, be an environmental lawyer, a politician for a few years (it’s not a real job), and start my own eco-tourism company in retirement,” said Richendollar.
He does not plan on publishing any future political books in the near future, but writing will continue to be a part of his life.
“As far as books, I might publish a nature memoir/comedy about Appalachia, a field guide and a poetry book, as well as an idea for a book that I have right now that I call ‘Adam Smith for Dogs’,” said Richendollar.
Adam Smith is known as the father of economics and being the first advisor for the free-market capitalist system we currently have today.
Richendollar looks forward to having a role in the decision-making process of America within the next couple of years as he will be old enough to vote. However, there are governmental decisions from the past couple years that Richendollar would have adjusted if he were part of the decision making process.
“First of all, in a few years, when I can vote, I will have a part in decision making; that’s the whole point of a republic. No one is merely at the mercy of an all-knowing political elite that governs with impunity. If I were more influential, I would have not bailed out the banks in 2008 and 2009. I would have let the auto companies go through the natural business cycle. I would have abolished the Department of Education and sent that job back to towns where it belongs, reigned in the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), abolished the Federal Reserve, abolish the minimum wage, cut back on regulation, and cut the country’s deficit,” said Richendollar.
While bailing out the banks and auto companies is a controversial topic, Richendollar’s view is more conservative compared to our current state of government.
Richendollar does not foresee positive change in the future of America if the citizens do not take a stronger grasp of their culture.
“It all depends on where we want to take this country and how many of us wake up. I can only speak as to what I see happening if we stay on our current crash course. I see another asset bubble of epic proportions bursting within the next decade, a culture more and more locked into technology and less and less in tune with the natural world, and a country in which the low cost of energy will spur an unsustainable boom in suburban development and economic growth that will cause the general thinking of the nation to become more and more libertarian, preceded by the bubble, and followed by an energy crisis. Because of our increasingly Ron Paul-like stance, we will cut our military drastically to pay for the only cash cows that won’t be skewered in the coming shrinkage of discretionary spending-entitlements. In short, a lot of bad things will happen if we don’t change course, and they don’t rest on the shoulders of any one political party,” said Richendollar.
By: Jacob Thomas
News Editor
Success is something we all strive for in life. Many people have different interpretations of success which is one of the many reasons for our diverse culture. Creating success among teenagers is a common theme America continues to work towards, and a local teenager is a great example of this.
Richmond teenager Nathan Richendollar recently released his self-published book Sic Semper Res Publica.
The 318-page book intends to reveal the current faults of America and how citizens need to take pride in their American heritage.
Richendollar was inspired to write a political book for various reasons.
“Bank bailouts, more bailouts, a ruling class that is something from Jefferson’s worst nightmares, Romney’s nomination, and a citizenry that seems perfectly content to watch the decline of their nation is what inspired me to write the book,” said Richendollar.
Other common themes in the book are the previous two presidential elections and the impact of governmental programs on our national debt.
“The main theme is that we need to enlighten ourselves as citizens, take pride in our American heritage and fight for our constitutional system of government,” said Richendollar.
The book took six months for Richendollar to write; however, there was an 18-month break between the time it was started and finished.
“I’ve watched a lot of news, read a lot of old CBO (Congressional Budget Office) and BEA (United States Bureau of Economic Analysis) stats, and I’ve generally just spent a lot of quiet time thinking about how our system works, past precedents, parables and things that work the same way in addition to the natural laws that govern us,” said Richendollar.
Overall, Richendollar enjoys politics, but not to the degree most would perceive.
“To be honest, I don’t enjoy much. Although I enjoy seeing facts and figures and making connections, and I love debating, the more I get into politics, the more pessimistic I become about people in general. I wrote the book to inform, and I study politics to be informed. But if I want to have fun or enjoy something, I will either have a debate or a nature hike,” he said.
Richendollar plans on continuing to stay involved in politics by attending the University of Virginia.
“I’d like to go to the University of Virginia (founded by Thomas Jefferson) to study environmental law, be an environmental lawyer, a politician for a few years (it’s not a real job), and start my own eco-tourism company in retirement,” said Richendollar.
He does not plan on publishing any future political books in the near future, but writing will continue to be a part of his life.
“As far as books, I might publish a nature memoir/comedy about Appalachia, a field guide and a poetry book, as well as an idea for a book that I have right now that I call ‘Adam Smith for Dogs’,” said Richendollar.
Adam Smith is known as the father of economics and being the first advisor for the free-market capitalist system we currently have today.
Richendollar looks forward to having a role in the decision-making process of America within the next couple of years as he will be old enough to vote. However, there are governmental decisions from the past couple years that Richendollar would have adjusted if he were part of the decision making process.
“First of all, in a few years, when I can vote, I will have a part in decision making; that’s the whole point of a republic. No one is merely at the mercy of an all-knowing political elite that governs with impunity. If I were more influential, I would have not bailed out the banks in 2008 and 2009. I would have let the auto companies go through the natural business cycle. I would have abolished the Department of Education and sent that job back to towns where it belongs, reigned in the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), abolished the Federal Reserve, abolish the minimum wage, cut back on regulation, and cut the country’s deficit,” said Richendollar.
While bailing out the banks and auto companies is a controversial topic, Richendollar’s view is more conservative compared to our current state of government.
Richendollar does not foresee positive change in the future of America if the citizens do not take a stronger grasp of their culture.
“It all depends on where we want to take this country and how many of us wake up. I can only speak as to what I see happening if we stay on our current crash course. I see another asset bubble of epic proportions bursting within the next decade, a culture more and more locked into technology and less and less in tune with the natural world, and a country in which the low cost of energy will spur an unsustainable boom in suburban development and economic growth that will cause the general thinking of the nation to become more and more libertarian, preceded by the bubble, and followed by an energy crisis. Because of our increasingly Ron Paul-like stance, we will cut our military drastically to pay for the only cash cows that won’t be skewered in the coming shrinkage of discretionary spending-entitlements. In short, a lot of bad things will happen if we don’t change course, and they don’t rest on the shoulders of any one political party,” said Richendollar.
3)
Richendollar Article Reflection
The article on Nathan Richendollar’s self-published book Sic Semper Res Publica is the most enjoyable and best article I have written. When I first found out about his book towards the end of the summer, my immediate thought was that could be a great storyline for our high school newspaper. Writing a book is an accomplishment for anyone, but for a high school teenager to do this makes it even more impressive. I liked writing this article because it gave praise to an accomplishment of another individual. Something like this should not go unnoticed. Even though I have done articles on other accomplishments by students in sports and academics, this one stands out the most. Students truly need to look at this achievement and realize they are capable of doing something extraordinary as well.
Having gone to school with Nathan all the way through middle school, this accomplishment does not surprise me. Nathan is one of the smartest individuals I have ever met. A lot of hard work must go into a self-published book. I believe writing a book takes a lot of persistence. There are many steps to writing a book including various revisions. For a teenager to do this shows an extreme amount of mental capability to keep striving for a finished product. It is nice to see a person of youth taking a stand on our government and trying to offer solutions. Right or wrong, agree or disagree it still shows that some teenagers express in interest in the United States government and our economic situations. Overall, writing this article gave me an opportunity to help praise the hard work of another individual which I could not have been happier to do.
Richendollar Article Reflection
The article on Nathan Richendollar’s self-published book Sic Semper Res Publica is the most enjoyable and best article I have written. When I first found out about his book towards the end of the summer, my immediate thought was that could be a great storyline for our high school newspaper. Writing a book is an accomplishment for anyone, but for a high school teenager to do this makes it even more impressive. I liked writing this article because it gave praise to an accomplishment of another individual. Something like this should not go unnoticed. Even though I have done articles on other accomplishments by students in sports and academics, this one stands out the most. Students truly need to look at this achievement and realize they are capable of doing something extraordinary as well.
Having gone to school with Nathan all the way through middle school, this accomplishment does not surprise me. Nathan is one of the smartest individuals I have ever met. A lot of hard work must go into a self-published book. I believe writing a book takes a lot of persistence. There are many steps to writing a book including various revisions. For a teenager to do this shows an extreme amount of mental capability to keep striving for a finished product. It is nice to see a person of youth taking a stand on our government and trying to offer solutions. Right or wrong, agree or disagree it still shows that some teenagers express in interest in the United States government and our economic situations. Overall, writing this article gave me an opportunity to help praise the hard work of another individual which I could not have been happier to do.
4)
By: Jacob Thomas
News Editor
Writing is a hobby many people enjoy. The new Creative Writing Club is designed for those who enjoy an unrestricted way of writing.
Once a class at RHS, it has been brought back as a club for those to enjoy as an extracurricular activity.
English teacher Mr. Rineer is the head of the club.
“Samantha Schafer really launched it. I used to teach a creative writing class but there was little interest in it. She approached me last year about starting a club so she deserves the credit,” said Mr. Rineer.
Creative writing was once considered an English credit but was eliminated as a class years ago. It has since been an option for an elective class but few students have opted for it on their schedule.
“The curriculum was re-written to English 9, 10, 11 and 12. Before there used to be different categories and options,” said Mr. Rineer.
The reaction by other teachers to the creation of the club was positive.
“I haven’t really heard much of a reaction. Mr. Applegate and Mrs. Gabridge were excited about it. Mrs. Michon supported it as well,” said Mr. Rineer.
Because the club is new this year, the amount of people varies. The club tries to meet twice a month but it has been difficult for everybody to always stay after school.
“It started at eight people then moved to six then to twelve. It’s open to whomever. It is a club in progress because people are involved in sports and have jobs,” said Mr. Rineer.
The first assignment for the group is to have a started writing product by the next time they meet. The goal by semester time is for everybody to have a completed short story that could be published by spring.
Although the club is currently a work in progress, Mr. Rineer hopes that eventually the club will be officially recognized and have more significance.
“I would like to have it recognized by administration as an official club. I think it is beneficial to those who love to write. If it was an official club, we could do poetry and much more. I think that the people in the club understand that there are others out there who just like to write,” said Mr. Rineer.
Senior Samantha Schafer was a large reason for the formation of the club.
“I really wanted to have the creative writing class but we didn’t have enough people. We needed 25 to form the class but only had 18,” said Schafer.
Schafer has been trying to help form the class for years, but with no avail starting the club was the only remaining option.
“I have been trying to be a part of the class for three years now so it made sense to try to have a club outside of school,” said Schafer.
The structure to the club was one feature that Schafer enjoys.
“The writing is more creative because of the difference in criticism. It is more along the lines of having creativity than the mechanics,” said Schafer.
Overall, Schafer appreciates the efforts that Mr. Rineer has put forth to make the club possible.
“Mr. Rineer has a very busy schedule and we are grateful he takes the time to help us. He is very invested in how the students are doing because he really enjoys creative writing,” said Schafer.
Schafer hopes to see the club continue once she graduates, but sees reasons that may prevent this from happening.
“I’m sad that I won’t be able to be a part of it once I graduate. I think it may fizzle off, but I am hoping to find younger students to carry it on,” said Schafer.
Other students in the club also enjoy the free style of writing.
Junior Thomas Biafore is one of these students.
“I really enjoy writing fictional stories and being creative. I like to display creative thoughts in writing which is why I decided to join the club,” said Biafore.
Biafore believes the club should be an elective for students.
“I wanted it to be an elective this year but we didn’t have enough people for the class,” said Biafore.
Biafore enjoys the liberty the club has compared to a normal English class.
“The club doesn’t have a followed structure which is something I like. It’s more self-directed; write what you want,” said Biafore.
Senior Jennifer Merriman also was excited about the creation of the club.
“I wanted to join so I could have a group of people read my writing. I consider writing like a hobby that I enjoy, but I like being a part of a group of people who enjoy writing as well,” said Merriman.
Merriman most enjoys how there are few restrictions to the writing style of the club.
“It’s free writing. You do what you want. Our homework is just write more for the next meeting,” said Merriman.
When asked about whether or not she believes the club should be an elective Merriman said, “Definitely yes because it is a writing course that makes you a much better writer. Regular English class is restricted to a certain paper or topic while creative writing is about what you want.”
By: Jacob Thomas
News Editor
Writing is a hobby many people enjoy. The new Creative Writing Club is designed for those who enjoy an unrestricted way of writing.
Once a class at RHS, it has been brought back as a club for those to enjoy as an extracurricular activity.
English teacher Mr. Rineer is the head of the club.
“Samantha Schafer really launched it. I used to teach a creative writing class but there was little interest in it. She approached me last year about starting a club so she deserves the credit,” said Mr. Rineer.
Creative writing was once considered an English credit but was eliminated as a class years ago. It has since been an option for an elective class but few students have opted for it on their schedule.
“The curriculum was re-written to English 9, 10, 11 and 12. Before there used to be different categories and options,” said Mr. Rineer.
The reaction by other teachers to the creation of the club was positive.
“I haven’t really heard much of a reaction. Mr. Applegate and Mrs. Gabridge were excited about it. Mrs. Michon supported it as well,” said Mr. Rineer.
Because the club is new this year, the amount of people varies. The club tries to meet twice a month but it has been difficult for everybody to always stay after school.
“It started at eight people then moved to six then to twelve. It’s open to whomever. It is a club in progress because people are involved in sports and have jobs,” said Mr. Rineer.
The first assignment for the group is to have a started writing product by the next time they meet. The goal by semester time is for everybody to have a completed short story that could be published by spring.
Although the club is currently a work in progress, Mr. Rineer hopes that eventually the club will be officially recognized and have more significance.
“I would like to have it recognized by administration as an official club. I think it is beneficial to those who love to write. If it was an official club, we could do poetry and much more. I think that the people in the club understand that there are others out there who just like to write,” said Mr. Rineer.
Senior Samantha Schafer was a large reason for the formation of the club.
“I really wanted to have the creative writing class but we didn’t have enough people. We needed 25 to form the class but only had 18,” said Schafer.
Schafer has been trying to help form the class for years, but with no avail starting the club was the only remaining option.
“I have been trying to be a part of the class for three years now so it made sense to try to have a club outside of school,” said Schafer.
The structure to the club was one feature that Schafer enjoys.
“The writing is more creative because of the difference in criticism. It is more along the lines of having creativity than the mechanics,” said Schafer.
Overall, Schafer appreciates the efforts that Mr. Rineer has put forth to make the club possible.
“Mr. Rineer has a very busy schedule and we are grateful he takes the time to help us. He is very invested in how the students are doing because he really enjoys creative writing,” said Schafer.
Schafer hopes to see the club continue once she graduates, but sees reasons that may prevent this from happening.
“I’m sad that I won’t be able to be a part of it once I graduate. I think it may fizzle off, but I am hoping to find younger students to carry it on,” said Schafer.
Other students in the club also enjoy the free style of writing.
Junior Thomas Biafore is one of these students.
“I really enjoy writing fictional stories and being creative. I like to display creative thoughts in writing which is why I decided to join the club,” said Biafore.
Biafore believes the club should be an elective for students.
“I wanted it to be an elective this year but we didn’t have enough people for the class,” said Biafore.
Biafore enjoys the liberty the club has compared to a normal English class.
“The club doesn’t have a followed structure which is something I like. It’s more self-directed; write what you want,” said Biafore.
Senior Jennifer Merriman also was excited about the creation of the club.
“I wanted to join so I could have a group of people read my writing. I consider writing like a hobby that I enjoy, but I like being a part of a group of people who enjoy writing as well,” said Merriman.
Merriman most enjoys how there are few restrictions to the writing style of the club.
“It’s free writing. You do what you want. Our homework is just write more for the next meeting,” said Merriman.
When asked about whether or not she believes the club should be an elective Merriman said, “Definitely yes because it is a writing course that makes you a much better writer. Regular English class is restricted to a certain paper or topic while creative writing is about what you want.”
5)
Creative Writing Article Reflection
Writing can be an enjoyable part of education. It is the reason I have taken AP English classes and participated in the Blue Devils Advocate the past two years. Many other students at RHS feel the same way. Unfortunately because of the population of our school and the state curriculum demands, we don’t have the ability to have numerous elective options such as a creative writing class. I wanted to write this article because it shows the efforts made by students and staff to create an extracurricular club for creative writing. I learned from many students and staff members that the school has tried to form a creative writing class for many years now. Although the class once existed years ago, the curriculum requirements have since changed leaving few election options for English classes at RHS.
What I enjoyed the most about this article was how Mr. Rineer and the students’ part of the club have gone out of their way to make this happen. They really wanted to make the club happen and fortunately they found support from other staff members to allow for it to happen.
I liked the diversity of the article. Four different people were included in the article which provided different perspectives on what the expectations of the club and what they had done so far. The reader could interpret why the students wanted to form the club and what future projects were planned.
Creative Writing Article Reflection
Writing can be an enjoyable part of education. It is the reason I have taken AP English classes and participated in the Blue Devils Advocate the past two years. Many other students at RHS feel the same way. Unfortunately because of the population of our school and the state curriculum demands, we don’t have the ability to have numerous elective options such as a creative writing class. I wanted to write this article because it shows the efforts made by students and staff to create an extracurricular club for creative writing. I learned from many students and staff members that the school has tried to form a creative writing class for many years now. Although the class once existed years ago, the curriculum requirements have since changed leaving few election options for English classes at RHS.
What I enjoyed the most about this article was how Mr. Rineer and the students’ part of the club have gone out of their way to make this happen. They really wanted to make the club happen and fortunately they found support from other staff members to allow for it to happen.
I liked the diversity of the article. Four different people were included in the article which provided different perspectives on what the expectations of the club and what they had done so far. The reader could interpret why the students wanted to form the club and what future projects were planned.
6)
By: Jacob Thomas
News Editor
SMACK!
Austin Pawlak laid on the turf face down. Helped to the sideline, he suffered a concussion with symptoms of a headache and a nauseous stomach.
“It happened during the Marine City game during the second quarter. I hit helmet to helmet with another player on Marine City when I went for a tackle,” said Pawlak.
However, a headache and nauseous stomach were not the only results of the concussion.
“I was really nauseous and I did have a [head ache], but my neck was hurting really bad,” said Pawlak.
Pawlak was medically cleared to resume athletic activities a week later, but the headache and neck pain continued for another two weeks.
“I was worried it may have been serious when I was getting an MRI,” said Pawlak.
Another RHS student-athlete has also recently battled concussion symptoms.
Sophomore Ally Swantek suffered a concussion during a basketball practice three weeks ago.
“My sister Emily hit me in the head and I blacked out. I was hit very close to my temple which is the worst possible spot,” said Swantek.
Swantek is still suffering from concussion symptoms, but hopes to be back to practice by December 28.
“I’m going to the neurologist to get answers to why I am still having aching pains and hopefully they give me good news,” said Swantek.
Swantek has been experiencing various symptoms that continue to bother her such as dizziness, severe headaches, increased heart rate, neck pains, nausea, and the inability to remember certain events. She has missed several days of school.
“The most frustrating part of having a concussion is not being able to go to basketball and school. I am falling behind in classes and miss my friends. No matter how much medicine I use, I can’t get rid of the symptoms. I am limited to everything I can do such as talking on the phone and texting and watching television. I pretty much do nothing all day,” said Swantek.
Dr. Muylaert, RHS Athletic Director, voiced his opinion on concussions as well.
“You feel foggy. Many times an athlete will have a headache or vomiting. They will have symptoms of dizziness, loss of balance and blurry vision. You have to look at all of those symptoms to determine if an athlete has a concussion,” said Dr. Muylaert.
There is not a specific time set by schools and the MHSAA that an athlete must be held out, but they must be medically cleared by a doctor to continue athletic activities.
“An athlete must sit out until they receive medical clearance by a doctor. This is a state law. Schools don’t have a choice, but it is for everyone’s safety,” said Dr. Muylaert.
The growing concern of concussions at the high school level has forced coaches and trainers to specialize in concussion symptoms and safety procedures.
“Fortunately in my three years here, we have had little experiences with concussions. Football is a sport heavily focused on for concussion prevention so I have purchased five dozen new helmets over the past three years. I plan to purchase two more dozen football helmets this year and three more dozen next year,” said Dr. Muylaert.
One of the new additions to preventing concussions is a concussion form that all schools, coaches and athletes must abide by.
“Concussion forms are mandatory by state law for any organization with physical contact. Coaches who work with athletes at any level must take a course on concussion awareness. High school coaches, Little League coaches and any other organization must have taken the course by state law. The course is only about twenty minutes long but it serves a purpose,” said Dr. Muylaert.
Even at the lower level of sports, taking the right steps to prevent concussions is something most would agree is necessary.
“There are studies that concussions have long-term effects. Former professional athletes are coming out and complaining about the effects they have experienced,” said Dr. Muylaert.
Thankfully RHS has not had many concussion related injuries, but it is nice to see that the athletics staff continues to take responsibility to care for their athletes.
By: Jacob Thomas
News Editor
SMACK!
Austin Pawlak laid on the turf face down. Helped to the sideline, he suffered a concussion with symptoms of a headache and a nauseous stomach.
“It happened during the Marine City game during the second quarter. I hit helmet to helmet with another player on Marine City when I went for a tackle,” said Pawlak.
However, a headache and nauseous stomach were not the only results of the concussion.
“I was really nauseous and I did have a [head ache], but my neck was hurting really bad,” said Pawlak.
Pawlak was medically cleared to resume athletic activities a week later, but the headache and neck pain continued for another two weeks.
“I was worried it may have been serious when I was getting an MRI,” said Pawlak.
Another RHS student-athlete has also recently battled concussion symptoms.
Sophomore Ally Swantek suffered a concussion during a basketball practice three weeks ago.
“My sister Emily hit me in the head and I blacked out. I was hit very close to my temple which is the worst possible spot,” said Swantek.
Swantek is still suffering from concussion symptoms, but hopes to be back to practice by December 28.
“I’m going to the neurologist to get answers to why I am still having aching pains and hopefully they give me good news,” said Swantek.
Swantek has been experiencing various symptoms that continue to bother her such as dizziness, severe headaches, increased heart rate, neck pains, nausea, and the inability to remember certain events. She has missed several days of school.
“The most frustrating part of having a concussion is not being able to go to basketball and school. I am falling behind in classes and miss my friends. No matter how much medicine I use, I can’t get rid of the symptoms. I am limited to everything I can do such as talking on the phone and texting and watching television. I pretty much do nothing all day,” said Swantek.
Dr. Muylaert, RHS Athletic Director, voiced his opinion on concussions as well.
“You feel foggy. Many times an athlete will have a headache or vomiting. They will have symptoms of dizziness, loss of balance and blurry vision. You have to look at all of those symptoms to determine if an athlete has a concussion,” said Dr. Muylaert.
There is not a specific time set by schools and the MHSAA that an athlete must be held out, but they must be medically cleared by a doctor to continue athletic activities.
“An athlete must sit out until they receive medical clearance by a doctor. This is a state law. Schools don’t have a choice, but it is for everyone’s safety,” said Dr. Muylaert.
The growing concern of concussions at the high school level has forced coaches and trainers to specialize in concussion symptoms and safety procedures.
“Fortunately in my three years here, we have had little experiences with concussions. Football is a sport heavily focused on for concussion prevention so I have purchased five dozen new helmets over the past three years. I plan to purchase two more dozen football helmets this year and three more dozen next year,” said Dr. Muylaert.
One of the new additions to preventing concussions is a concussion form that all schools, coaches and athletes must abide by.
“Concussion forms are mandatory by state law for any organization with physical contact. Coaches who work with athletes at any level must take a course on concussion awareness. High school coaches, Little League coaches and any other organization must have taken the course by state law. The course is only about twenty minutes long but it serves a purpose,” said Dr. Muylaert.
Even at the lower level of sports, taking the right steps to prevent concussions is something most would agree is necessary.
“There are studies that concussions have long-term effects. Former professional athletes are coming out and complaining about the effects they have experienced,” said Dr. Muylaert.
Thankfully RHS has not had many concussion related injuries, but it is nice to see that the athletics staff continues to take responsibility to care for their athletes.
7)
Concussion Awareness Article Reflection
Concussions are appearing to affect athletes at a higher rate now than seemingly ever. Of course now there are more ways to test concussions and understand symptoms so we truly don’t know if athletes are affected more now than the past. Although this article was a little difficult to write because few athletes at RHS have had concussions, it is important to understand the symptoms of concussions and how to properly treat them. I actually learned a lot on concussion prevention by doing this article. The Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) is doing more now than ever to prevent concussions and rightfully so. I was able to learn how equipment has to be checked and renewed often to prevent concussions in football. I thought it was nice to learn that not only high schools across the nation are taking the necessary steps to prevent concussions but that our school cares just as much about its student-athletes.
Two athletes in our school were highlighted in the article. The article focused on their experiences and what they were required to do to eliminate the symptoms. One concussion was more severe than the other, so the reader could understand how different severities are treated.
Overall, I enjoyed this article because of the focus it has on student-athletes. Concussions can lead to long-term problems and it is good to see schools and people associated with athletics around the country taking the necessary steps to prevent concussions.
Concussion Awareness Article Reflection
Concussions are appearing to affect athletes at a higher rate now than seemingly ever. Of course now there are more ways to test concussions and understand symptoms so we truly don’t know if athletes are affected more now than the past. Although this article was a little difficult to write because few athletes at RHS have had concussions, it is important to understand the symptoms of concussions and how to properly treat them. I actually learned a lot on concussion prevention by doing this article. The Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) is doing more now than ever to prevent concussions and rightfully so. I was able to learn how equipment has to be checked and renewed often to prevent concussions in football. I thought it was nice to learn that not only high schools across the nation are taking the necessary steps to prevent concussions but that our school cares just as much about its student-athletes.
Two athletes in our school were highlighted in the article. The article focused on their experiences and what they were required to do to eliminate the symptoms. One concussion was more severe than the other, so the reader could understand how different severities are treated.
Overall, I enjoyed this article because of the focus it has on student-athletes. Concussions can lead to long-term problems and it is good to see schools and people associated with athletics around the country taking the necessary steps to prevent concussions.