Friday, March 31, 2017/Page 1

PatriotPressThe

Vol. 15 No. 3 March 31, 2017

by Annabelle Coyne

On March 17, the State School Superintendent, Richard Woods, visited our school. He arrived in a helicopter and was chauffeured to the school in a new golf cart the school rented just for the occasion. (Many students may have noticed the golf cart charging in the weight room.) The student ambassadors greeted him at the door. Those students include Annabelle Coyne, Curtis Tyndell, Holden Summers, Holly Pilson, Alirria Rice, Eli Sorrow, and Brieanna Smith.

They escor ted him to the data room where Star Student, Alex Smith, made an

introductory speech. Both Marvin Sagastume and Tanisha Harper made speeches about how the school had helped them not only make goals but also achieve those goals.

We visited two classes including Mrs. Bunch’s class, the healthcare teacher, where we watched the students walk through the digestive system. We also visited Ms. Maddox’s classroom, the freshman math and A.P. Statistics teacher, where the students were doing graph transitions with smiley faces.

After that we went to the media center to show Mr. Woods the 3D printer. There were also

State Superintendent of Schools Richard Woods stops by for visit

some students in there working on their robots for the obstacle course.

At the end of the school day the State Superintendent and the men that came with him left with their own key chains made by our students with the 3D printer. He was impressed with our CTAE classes and the initiative our school is taking to focus on each student’s education individually.

Richard Woods has been State Superintendent since 2014. He taught as a high school teacher for fourteen years so he was very understanding when some of our teachers and administrators told him about their concerns. Some of those concerns

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Pg. 2 - Miss Oglethorpe Pageant winners & sponsorsPg. 3 - Literary Competition Sparks EnthusiasmPg. 4 - New Uniforms for a New SeasonPg. 5 - Real World FearsPg. 6 - Prom Word SearchPg. 7 - Track Off to a Running StartPg. 8 - Patriot Baseball Hitting Off the Season

Prior to the state superintendent’s visit, an incident occurred here at the school where a student threatened to shoot up the school when Superintendent Woods was here. This threat was made in front of other students and a classroom teacher. According to the Sheriff’s Office, this student expressed no regret for his actions. As a result, he was turned over to Juvenile Justice. Since this is an ongoing legal matter, school administrators are unable to comment further about the situation.

Threat to superintendent put to restBy: Abby Williams

included the benef i ts and disadvantages of a small town school system and how some of the standards may be too broad.

H e w a s v e r y understanding and only had good things to say about our school. He took every opportunity to say that he wants feedback from not only teachers and administrators but also from the students.

Mr. Woods wanted to make sure that students and teachers felt free to contact him through his website with any ideas they have about how to improve Georgia school systems.

Another option for students on how they can make their voices heard is to apply to be a part of the Student Advisory Council which works directly with the State Superintendent.

Overall the visit went great and our teachers’ and administrators’ dedication to our students’ success was well represented.

Top: State Superintendent, Richard Woods, at a table with Ms. Levine and Ms. Johnson

Middle: Mr. Woods entering the school buildinAbove: Mr. Woods shaking hands with one of the student

ambassadorsBelow: Conversation over a meal

Page 2/Friday, March 31, 2017

Patriot Press

News

The Patriot PressKatelynn Tiller, News Editor & Editor-in-Chief

Julia Thackston, Features EditorCori Rollins, Sports Editor

749 Athens Rd.Lexington, GA 30648

(706) 743-8124

Published quarterly in October, December, April, and May. All opinions expressed are those of the individual writer and not necessarily those of the administration or the Patriot Press.

Members of The Patriot Press Staff include:

Seniors: Josh Spears, Katelynn Tiller, Julia Thackston, Cori Rollins, Destanee Newsome, Alexis Wray, Destinie Taylor, Annabelle Coyne, Dakota Woods, D’Asia Bolton, Abby Williams, Jaime Kennedy, Jessica Pena, Audrey Utley

Juniors: Bailey Grantham, Julianna Montgomery, Danielle Lindmier, Makayla Smith

Miss Oglethorpe pageantproves successful The Miss Oglethorpe Pageant competition exists for the purpose of providing personal and professional growth opportunities for girls in elementary, middle, and high school. The OCABC goal to provide young and teenage girls in the Oglethorpe County community the opportunity to compete in a pageant that showcases academic, athletic, and artistic talents and leadership i n i t i a t i v e s . T h e O C A B C celebrates another successful year of Miss Oglethorpe Pageant! Joanne Wrenn, coordinator of the Miss Oglethorpe Pageant. Generations Photography by Heidi Tweedell. Mrs. Katy Fleming Tracy hostess and announcer for this wonderful pageant. The committee would like to send a very special thank you to all

of the 2017 pageant sponsors and partnerships! Proudly to announce contestants and their parents! Huge Congratulations to the 2017 pageant winners: Miss Oglethorpe OCHS: Diana Flores Miss Patriot Ambassador: Tabitha High Miss Red, White, and Blue: Amber Watkins Miss Oglethorpe OCES: Bai ley Wray Miss Oglethorpe OCMS: Andi Grace Moore. Pageant Sponsor: Jordan Quality Air & Heating, Goodness Grows, Townecraft Cookware, Larry Miller, D&D Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., Blazers, C.I.M., Oglethorpe Feed and Seed, Krafty Keebs, Madison Health and Rehabilitation, Quiet Oaks Health Care, Blanton Flooring, A Talent Company, Sassy’s Photography, Perno’s Formal Wear

by Bailey Grantham and Destanee Newsome Mr. Jones’s Gender Reveal on March 18th went spectacular. A little over thirty people showed up and it went from 2 until around 2:30-ish. I am pleased to announce he and his wife are having a baby girl. Lucas seemed to be little over thrilled and I quote from him, “No boyfriends.” when his mom asked him, “What can’t she have?” It was absolutely adorable. Almost

Band director welcomes new family addition

by Jaime Kennedy

everyone was voting for it to be a girl, which made me laugh when we all found out it was truly a girl. The event started in the band room where we took it out onto the practice field and watched as Mr. Jones got to pop a balloon that sent pink powder everywhere and informed us they were having a girl. Right after everyone formed a girl symbol and took quite a few picture. Lucas got a cute shirt as well. To finalize it we all got pink hubba bubba gum

and tried to blow bubbles for pictures.... unfortunately it was too windy but I did get quite a few shots of successful bubbles. Mrs. Jones announced the girl’s name will be Savanna, which I seen quite a few big smiles after the announcement. Watch out underclassmen band students you are getting a little sister next year... I hope the band-aids can keep up with Lucas and Savannah running around together.

There has been huge controversy over the subject of PATs. PAT (Patriot Academic Time) is time for you to make up, redo, or get practice work for a class you are failing or in the danger of failing, if your classes are all passing and aren’t in danger of failing students are able to pick a club they’re in gym or study hall. There’s probably a lot you don’t know about PAT. This system have been a common thing happening in schools across the state. There

have been multiple complaints of people passing a class and being put into that said class that they’re passing, so with this question in mind, and others I search for the answer. Mrs. Cooner explained to me “there is not a protest or post to see the growth of the student” meaning being in these classes it hard to see if the students are actually getting help. If not there would be no way to see in what area. Mr. Geuter gave good feedback saying, “This is better that kids coming after school because kids have thigs to do and

by Josh Spears

PATS Time Improves Grades

might not have time. This system perfects that and is here to help the students, not to punish.” I went to administration for help; Mr. Lance, the person who is in charge of the scheduling of classes during PAT had a lot to say. The last few weeks many people have been help by this system and there grades prove this. The PAT schedule is a combination of both helping meet needs of the student and pushing students to do better. From the feedback of the teachers and administration, PAT is a very helpful system that has a few kinks to work out but all in all, it’s here to stay. The best advice is to get the work needed to be done, get help where needed, and enjoy your thirty-minute class time.

Friday, March 31, 2017/Page 3

Red Cross advertising states that a standard one-pint donation of whole blood can save up to three lives, making many community members and OCHS students heroes as they came to the Oglethorpe County Library on Friday, March 17th to donate blood at a local blood drive.The blood drive, coordinated by the OCHS Chapter of HOSA: Future Healthcare Professionals, took place at the Oglethorpe County Library Friday Afternoon from 3-7 PM. After registering inside the library, prospective donors were given a quiz to determine their eligibility. Eligible donors were then taken to the mobile donation center, known as “The Blood Van” or “The Bloodmobile”, where they were subject to measurements of their pulse, blood pressure, and hemoglobin to further determine their eligibility. Abnormally high or low measurements can make donating blood dangerous or even fatal, and some donors were rejected for these reasons. Once the donors had been deemed eligible, they were taken to the front of the van, which can attend up to four donors at a time. Upon completing their donation, volunteers received a snack to replenish their energy, as well as a bag of candy and a plush blood-cell doll as a compliment to thank them for their donation. While Red Cross employees attended to the donation process, the HOSA students did everything else, from advertising for the blood drive, to scheduling appointments, to disseminating information to interested donors about preparing for the event, to helping donors

sign in on the day of the event. Several HOSA members attended the event on Friday afternoon to help manage the event, including: Dan Cosby, Megan Whatley, Courtney Anthony, Sara Colquitt, Georgia Looney, Cameron Shook, Lawson Foster, Courtney Tittle, and Abby Mnatzaganian. Some of them even opted to donate blood in addition to their volunteer service. Started in the Fall of 2015 with the addition of the Healthcare Science Pathway, the OCHS chapter of HOSA, advised by Healthcare Science teacher Erin Bunch, has been very active, competing at the state level as well as reaching out to the community through the Red Cross Blood Drive and the Quiet Oaks Nursing Home. The HOSA program exists to introduce teenagers to careers in the Healthcare field. Mrs. Bunch had this to say about the Blood Drive: “OCHS HOSA was happy to partner with the library to host a successful blood drive. We hope to continue serving our community and helping others.” Overall, the blood drive was a tremendous success. The goal of the blood drive was to collect 22 donations, and by the end of the evening, the Red Cross had successfully collected 26 donations. Many prominent community members came to support the drive, including EMS Director Jason Lewis, Oglethorpe County Sheriff David Gabriel, as well as county EMT’s. After such impressive results, both HOSA and the Red Cross are excited to team up again for future blood drives in the county.

HOSA Organizes Red Cross Blood DriveBy. Daniel Cosby

UGA Certificate of Merit Recipients (Top 5% of the Junior Class)Top: (left to right) Ben Mathis, Courtney Tittle, and Austin GabrielBottom: (left to right) Cameron Shook, Abby Mnatzaganian, Gracie Bonner, and Danielle Lindmier

Excitement. Nervousness. Fear. All three feelings clung to the Literary team on March 2nd as they stepped off of the bus and stared ahead at Putnam County High School, the host school for their district competition. The contestants had spent months preparing for this day, some who had never been to Literary before and some who had been waiting for the competition to take place again as soon as it ended last year, genuinely hoping they accomplished even more than the year before. As the day progressed, the events took place, and the scores were recorded on a large screen. By the end of the day, all of the scores were recorded, and Oglethorpe County placed third overall. In the first event, the essays, all three contestants placed. Josh Rohme (Argumentative essay) and Daniel Cosby (Rhetorical Analysis essay) both placed third, and Danielle Lindmier placed first for Personal Essay. Nick Rowe and Erin Dempsey placed third for Duo Interpretation after performing a chilling piece about 9/11, Alex Bero placed third for Humorous Interp, and Sarah Miller placed fifth for Dramatic Interp. In Extemporaneous speaking, Jeremiah placed fifth for Domestic, and Evie McGovern placed first for International. In singing events, Sarah Van Gelder placed fourth for girls’ solo. There were no competitors on the team for Trio, Boys’ solo, or Quartet.The competitors, as well as a few students who came to support the team and get an idea of what Literary competition is like, all seemed to have strong feelings about competing. Daniel Cosby, who stayed for the beginning portion of the day, remarked,

“The competition seemed to pass in a blur. Before I even knew that I had gotten there, I was already leaving to come back to the school.” Sarah Miller, who had competed last year in Rabun County, stated, “The competition was another great experience. I enjoyed being with friends and doing what I love: performing.” As far as the feeling of performing itself, Erin Dempsey describes her experience like this: “The blood pounded in my ears, I felt as if I had donated too much blood, and my fingers and toes were freezing. My mind was empty, and my voice did not sound the same. I had become my character, facing on the obstacles as if they were happening at that moment.” The feeling of the day was summed up when Erin stated that the experience “was definitely awe-inspiring.”Both Evie McGovern and Danielle Lindmier moved on to the State Literary competition on March 18th at Houston County High School. Evie McGovern and Danielle Lindmier both competed against seven other competitors. When the awards ceremony took place, Evie

McGovern came in second place and received a medal. Danielle Lindmier came in sixth place. When asked to give her opinion of Literary competition, Evie replied, “Attending the Literary competition as a freshman was kind of intimidating, and I didn’t expect to get as far as I did. Winning regionals and getting 2nd in state is amazing, and I feel incredibly accomplished and motivated for next year. Plus I was able to meet new friends at the competition that I otherwise wouldn’t have. All in all, it was a great time, and I hope to do well next year, too.” Danielle Lindmier was unavailable for comment. The teachers and adults involved in Literary (Ms. Kitchen, Bly, Mr. Jones, et al.) were impressed with the efforts of the competitors at both district and state competitions. According to Bly, her main wish for next year is to make sure that there are competitors for every category and “to do even better.”

Literary Competition Sparks Enthusiasm By: Danielle G. Lindmier

Page 4/Friday, March 31, 2017

New Uniform for a New Season

By: Daniel Cosby

Anyone who knows a marching band member knows that the buzz this year has been all about new uniforms. Last semester, the band was unsure if it would be able to purchase new uniforms for the 2017 Marching Season. Now however, it is certain. This fall, the band will be marching in fresh new uniforms. Since his arrival as OCHS Band Director in 2014, Mr. Jones has had his sights set upon buying new uniforms for the marching band. The old uniforms, in use for more than five years so far, are not only stained, ragged and weather worn, but also no longer accurately represent the school’s colors, as they have changed since the old band uniforms were purchased. They have needed replacement for several years, yet the band has continued to use them due to a lack of sufficient funds with which to replace them. Fall semester, however, saw a change in this situation. After the band’s yearly mattress sale and chocolate fundraiser, it found itself within reach of its goal of purchasing new uniforms. With the addition of a few generous and well timed donations, the band had enough money to order the new uniforms. Mr. Jones announced this development to the band early in the Spring Semester, much to the delight of many of the students. The new uniforms will include black pants, blue jackets with two white sashes running across them in an X formation and red epaulets. The uniforms will also include black hats with red plumes. Fitting for the new

uniforms began in February, with each student being measured for custom-sized uniform pants. Students will purchase their uniform pants and will be able to keep them throughout the length of their high school career, a prospect that many students are excited about. Often, veteran marchers grow very fond of their uniforms because of the memories they represent, and are excited to be able to keep a piece of their uniform when they graduate. These new uniforms r e p r e s e n t a t r e m e n d o u s accomplishment for the band. They represent not only a renewed pride and dedication within the band, but they also represent all of the hard work and time Mr. Jones has invested in improving and maintaining the band program. An Oglethorpe alumni himself, Mr. Jones has regarded the band with extreme passion, loyalty, and enthusiasm, and has had extraordinary success in boosting student morale and enthusiasm by connecting with his students on a personal level, and with the promise of new uniforms on the horizon, the band is more excited than ever to be back on the field for the 2017-18 football season. Upcoming Sophomore Angel McDaniel made the following comment about the new uniforms: “I think they’re rockin fantastic. The made-on gauntlets are killer because we don’t have to Velcro them anymore and the colors are bright but not white like the old ones that are easy to get dirty. The material is pretty light too, and it’ll be even more cool that it’ll actually fit this year.”

Drum major, Alex Sanders (12th grade) poses in the Oglethorpe County High School’s new band uniform for the 2017-2018 school year.

FFA’s Extraordinary MembersBy: Danielle G. Lindmier

Agriculture has always been a source of pride for Oglethorpe County students and citizens, and this pride was thoroughly displayed in the FFA Banquet on March 21, 2017. The banquet started at 7:00, and food was served first (beef, macaroni, green beans, rolls, and “chocolate delight” or pineapple cake as dessert). The FFA meeting began after everyone had a chance to eat, and many awards were given out after an FFA officer and FFA member roll call.The first award that of honorary membership, was given to Mrs. Tracy Townsend. An honorary member is selected at every FFA recognition banquet.After this, participants in Career developments were recognized as follows: Parliamentary Procedure (Holden Summers, McKenzie Spooner, Audrey Thaxton, Buddy Webb, Ethan Thaxton, Katy Ogle, Cade Legg, and Rainey Smith as alternate), Agricultural Sales (Holden Summers, Angeleigh To w n s e n d , a n d J e r e m i a h Norman), Floral Design (Audrey Thaxton in senior division and Katy Ogle in junior division), Job Interview (Tenisha Harper), Livestock Judging Senior Team (Andy Chastain, Cade Legg, Gabrielle Scruggs, and Courtney Brown), Ag Mechanics Senior Team (Ethan Thaxton, Joshua Lindmier, Buddy Webb, and

Cade Legg), Ag Mechanics Junior Team (Joshua Lindmier, Grayson, Buddy Webb, and Matthew Marucci), Forestry (McKenzie Spooner, Rainey Smi th , Holden Summers , Danielle Russell, Dustin Patrick, and Cade Legg), Creed Speaking (Katy Ogle), Prepared Public Speaking (Tenisha Harper who was state finalist), Nursery Landscaping (Rainey Smith, McKenzie Spooner, Lizzy Vaughn, and Katelyn Krummen), Floriculture (McKenzie Spooner, Lizzy Vaughn, and Rainey Smith), Wildlife (Rainey Smith, Katelyn Krummen, Will Gilbert, and Will Bowman), Electrical Wiring (Ethan Thaxton, who was state finalist and placed 3rd at State level out of twelve, and Cade Legg as an alternate), Tractor Driving (Ethan Thaxton), Lawnmower Driving (Cullen Cochran), Discussion Meet (Angeleigh Townsend), and Scrapbook Competition (Rainey Smith, McKenzie Spooner, and Angeleigh Townsend).Chapter Degree Applicants were announced next, and there were thirteen of them: Brittany Bone, Tyler Watson, Carson Lavender, Audrey Thaxton, Chase Helwig, Dustin Hansford, Kristian White, John Whitmore, Samantha McClellan, Katelyn Krummen, Jacob Lee, Aaron Messer, and Will Chandler. Livestock Exhibitors were recognized

next (Andy Chastain for beef cattle; Rainey Smith for dairy heifers; Zac Collins, Cade Legg, Gabrielle Scruggs, Courtney Brown, and Amber Youngblood for market hogs). The winning beef showman was Andy Chastain and swine Showmanship was Zac Collins. The proficiency applicants are Andy Chastain for beef production, Rainey Smith dairy production, Amber Youngblood for equine, and McKenzie Spooner for home and community development). Additional Awards were presented to the following: Buddy Webb and Joshua Lindmier (Star Greenhand Degrees), Audrey Thaxton (Star Chapter FFA Degree), Rainey Smith and McKenzie Spooner (Star Outstanding Junior), Ethan Thaxton and Andy Chastain (most outstanding senior), and Angeleigh Townsend (Dekalb Award). After this, the Carla Thaxton Brown Scholarship was awarded to Ethan Thaxton. Holden Summers was president-elect for next year. Rainey Smith, McKenzie Spooner, Audrey Thaxton, Cade Legg, Katy Ogle, Buddy Webb, Abigail Legg, and David Zumbro were vice-president elects. Levi Oldham was the secretary-elect.After this, the meeting was adjourned. Those attending sloshed through the pouring rain in order to return home, carefully protecting all the awards they had just received.

Prom 2017: Enchanted Forestscheduled for April 15

By: Alexis Wray

As prom rolls around the corner, everybody is rushed for last minute alterations, tux ordering, and even still trying to find the perfect dress.

Guys, you can rent your tux at Perno’s Formal Wear in Downtown Athens on Baxter Street. You will receive a free T-Shirt with all prom orders from Perno’s. This year’s prom theme

is Enchanted Forest and will be held on April 15th. Prom is going to start at 7:00 and will last until 10:30.

Prom was booked at Countryside Catering and Manor, the same place that last year’s prom was held at. Senior walk forms are given to seniors when you claim your free senior prom ticket. The price of prom tickets

this year is $40 per person, or $60 for a couple. Prom T-Shirts will also be for sale as well.

If you are bringing a date from another high school or recently graduated high school student that’s 21 years of age or younger a form must be filled out. The forms will be in the office March 22nd through March 31st.

Final decisions regarding sports banquet still to be made

By: Dakota Woods

During the month of October, the Oglethorpe County High school held their annual fall sports banquet. The time and place of the banquet was held at last minute, so it was pretty short due to the amount of people that showed up versus the amount were expected to show

up. The athletes and parents were very disappointed about this and some wanted to have a re-do of the banquet during the spring and include all the sports. Some people are skeptical about this and say they should just leave it as it, move on and hope for a better planned event

next year. Some seniors are upset about this because it’s their last sports banquet ever and they wish it could have been better communicated than it was. This topic is still in the air and being decided if the fall athletes will be invited to join the spring athletes in the coming banquet.

Friday, March 31, 2017/Page 5

Daily HoroscopesBy: Destinie Taylor

Aries Mar 21- Apr 19 Yo u ’ v e g o t charm, smarts, And the element of surprise Going for you all year long! Now what do you want to do With all these cosmic gifts? Tip: let them take you in a Brand new direction.

TaurusApr 20 – May 20This year, focus on your ownWell-being above all else. You can increase your material Wealth and health this way, And also structure a more stableFuture.

GeminiMay 21- Jun 20Make the most of your people skills, Make the big changes you want and need, And advance your goals for the future in 2017.You’ll have endless ideas and insights

Cancer J u n 21- Jul 22 2017 can be a high-water year Full of major achievements, Crucial decisions and changes for you.Great things are possible with so muchTransformative energy aimed your way.

LeoJul 23- Aug 22This is a year on fire, Pouring energy into your work, career,And creativity sectors. Make sure that emotions, Lofty spiritual ideals, and instincts are not left behind.

VirgoAug 23- Sept 22You normally act with great

Consideration and compassion.

This year, what you do may more Often have karmic implications With soul connections to improve your life. You’re more playful, dramatic actions Could have deeper, more subtle And long-reaching consequences.

Libra Sept 23- Oct 22 F o r the first ten months of 2017, Enthusiastic and big-hearted Jupiter Is in your sign, Libra. You can do endless good things with this. Strong allies and friends are there with you. Have a persistent vision, help and be helpful, A n d y o u s h o u l d h a v e a magnificent year!

ScorpioOct 23- Nov 21You may not recognize just How lucky you are going to be this year.You’re wired, intense, And focused on your chosen work. Keep an eye out for lucky opportunities And be ready to pounce. Your modern planet Pluto will keep you sharp And intense all year long.

CapricornDec 22- Jan 192017 is a year wide open with opportunities.There is plenty of energy that will prompt you to dig inAnd make tremendous progress. There are also countless doors opening to new.This year, you can do just about anything.

Aquarius Jan 20- Feb 18

2017 is a time of great potential And personal growth. Hard work and success are there, too, But your greatest progress may be Made internally rather than externally.

Pisces Feb 19- Mar 202017 is a year of pure magic! Take the time to distinguish between what’s real And what’s illusion And you’ll safely navigate any and all situations.You can use charm rather than be charmed

SagittariusNov 22- Dec 23 It’s your year to charge ahead, Make bold changes for progress, success, And achieve greater respect in the world.Family and friends will listen and support you. But it may be love that generates the most progress for you.

Real World FearsBy: Julia Thackston

The days until graduation are finally winding down, and all of the seniors are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. While some are getting to take a break from studying hard and others are doing everything they can to stay above water, we all have one thing on our minds. GRADUATION. Reality is setting in, trying to get everything ready for college or whatever the next step is; we’re all a little nervous to get out into the “real world”. Some of the seniors have been accepted to college and are meeting their roommates. Their realizing how expensive college is going to be and are trying to figure out how to pay for it all. While some seniors are taking it easy in their last months of high school, others are working hard on their grades to bump up their GPA for final transcripts and more scholarship opportunities. “I’m excited for college because I get to play football and further my education. I’m kinda scared too because I will be pretty far from home.” –Taylor Goettie, attending Norfolk State University “I’m excited for college,

but it’s not going to start out the way that I thought. I have to readjust my plans, but I’m still eager to start in the spring at UGA. This is an amazing school, and I’m very thankful to have the opportunity to attend. The only downside is how expensive going to be. Trying to figure out how to pay for it all is a little difficult.” –Audrey Utley, attending University of Georgia “I’m ready to get into the real world, but I’m anxious because I don’t know if I’m completely ready for college. I’m nervous to do all of the work because I don’t know if I can balance it all.” –Kole Stafford, attending online school All in all, we’re all a little scared to get out there. It’s a bittersweet time for us, finally graduating and moving on in life. Of course, it’s going to be hard for us to get into the swing of things considering that all we have known is going to be completely changed. Our real world fears are finally here, and now we must all face them, but it makes it all the better that each and every one of us can face the world together.

Maintaing Good GradesBy: D’asia Bolton

The stress of keeping g r ades a f l oa t r e a l l y h i t s Oglethorpe’s students at this moment of the year, also the possibility of summer school not being here makes students work ten times harder to pass their classes and stay on track to graduate. Now is the time where some students are working harder than ever to fill the mistakes they’ve made earlier in the school year, and there are also students who are taking it easy since midterms are over and their grades are where they’d like them. Thanks to administration,

students are given a second chance to pass their classes for both terms. Students are offered a contract that basically says that they must pass the class this semester to pass the entire course for this school year. Seniors are really feeling the stress on their shoulders, not only is this the end for them, but also their ending grades could make or break them, resulting in whether they walk or not. We are nearly two months away from end of the year, the moment is bittersweet for those students who are staggering between passing and failing. As for the seniors, the end of their

high school career is finally here, but whether they will make it there or not overrides their excitement. Students become diligent workers at this time, they’re understanding that time is quickly running out. Also for those seniors that would like to exempt their final exams, maintaining their grades is their main priority. Grades for exemption must be an eighty five or higher, and just about every senior hopes their grade is at least an eighty five by the time exams roll around. Grades are the students’ main priority during these last few months of the school year.

Two months, a little less,Until the summer comes.Partial care, unfinished testsMourned by only some. These moments far removed from timeAnd from the former year.Seniors waiting for a time when caps and gowns are here.

Matching gowns and tossed-up hatsFill the seniors’ minds.Counting down each passing dayBefore leaving school behind.They cannot think. They cannot

The Future Can BeginBy: Danielle G. Lindmier

write.They cannot do a thing.. (Or so they claim because their brains Are filled with thoughts of spring.)

Days shrugged off with apathy,Walking down the halls.(So excited to be gone They’re bouncing off the walls.)The future beckons a siren’s call, And they are all drawn in.Forget the past, the present’s gone, The future can begin.

Page 6/Friday, March 31, 2017

Prom Wordsearch

By: Jessica Pena

Z E Y E C M J P A L Y K A K P A J L K M I Y A D S F V C D F E W S F C C I C Y A W H F T S V C Y A F E G H J K T D C G S A C V B G DH T S N I I D K P C R S K S U T E E T H W A Y F E S G H F D G B XP U V F A C R Y E B A E B E K G R E N D D V S G D S V B H I K N M I U R D D G E I U P B N N X G H E T I G C R O W N F O R H EK F H R E S L E E H P E F I W P R O M K I N G S A F E T Y L I R GF K E V M E G X C U X J Y O A S A L O J G H J I Y T I P P O I J J JV S E M D A N T U X E D O R L D E A D G H T S D F H J U G F C S B M Y S T X I D D J N C J K L O P E T R E G D V G D A C F S V T S E R O F D E T N A H C N E M N J C E T R G H E T R E W Q D Q Z O L N A I L S U F Q A I P P R O M Q U E E N J U H Y B J K K G C V E U I B A V N O X K I C J H N J H F D F G H N J K J G R W A W G W P L S M T Q N B G E R T R W F S A C F S J JH O K L KL H V E E Z Q I P P Y E D V B E W R T E W T R E E Y O U L I K EO V N J S Q W V T S G I W X H S A S H D R E T D F G B C B F E

TUXEDODRESSHEELSHAIRMAKEUPDANCEPARTYMUSICCOUNTRYSIDEMANOR (1word)JEWELRYNAILSCORSAGEBOUTINEERPROM QUEENPROM KINGSENIORWALKENCHANTEDFOREST (1word)CROWN

Candids

SeenAround

Friday, March 31, 2017/Page 7

Patriot Press

Sports

B y : M a k a y l a S m i t h

In track there are many different events despite what most may think. The talented athletes of this sport are, for the boys: Taylor Geottie, Tyler Burrel l , Bradley Waldrop, Omarion Martin, Tyler Eberly, Wesley Norman, CJ Jackson, George Gresham, Ian Bates, Webb Allgood, Jared Ogle, Dakota Beloin, John Shellnut, Devin Bryant, Blaine Tuck, Eli McFalls, Austin Gabriel , Demetrion Lester, Nash Justice, Antonio Stephens, and TY Pattman.

For the girls: Ty’Queria Cunningham, Ariel Drake, Danidra Favors, Kelly Flores, Lawson Foster, Brianna Henderson, Autum Hosting, Jayla Jones, Mary Jones, Morgan McGarity, Nikya Meadow, Gicel Sagastume, Melinda Tank, and Brianna Wood.

They compete in a number of events. Events that involve, throwing, jumping, and of course running. Some of the above athletes have placed very

well in some of their events. The ones listed below are the placing of some of those, for the girls: Danidra Favors got 4th in long jump with a personal best of 15’7”, Melinda Tank got 1st in triple jump with a personal best of 33’3.5”, 3rd in 100 Hurdles with a best of 18.76, and 1st in 300 Hurdles with a best of 50.89, Brianna Henderson got 1st in 1600m with personal best of 6.21 and 800m best of 2.47, Ariel Drake got 3rd in 400m with a personal best of 72.08, Jayla Jones got 4th in 100m with a personal best of 13.93 and 200m personal best of 29.12, Brianna Wood got 3rd in 800m with a personal best of 3.11, 3rd place in the 4x100 relay with a personal best of 55.03, 3rd place in the 4x400 relay with a personal best of 5:32.

For the boys: 1st place winners are Webb Allgood shot put 40.1, Jarrod Ogle discus 112, 4X1 Relay 45.79 George Gresham, Taylor Goettie, Ian Bates: Tyler Burrell 220m-24.28, George Gresham 300m hurdles

45.50 and 2nd Place: Ogle -shot, Beloin -disc, Gresham long jump & triple jump, Waldrop - 400, Goettie-100 (10.87 PR), 4x4 Gabriel, Waldrop, Goettie, Burrell. These results are only from the meets that they have had so far, overall the boys have gotten OCHS in: Oconee-90 points 1st place, Elbert- 65 points 2nd place, Putnam- 50 points 3rd place, Oglethorpe- 42 points 4th place, and the girls have gotten OCHS: Oconee- 104 points- 1st place, Elbert- 53 points- 2nd place, Oglethorpe- 48 points- 3rd place, Putnam- 28 points- 4th place.

That is an outstanding job. Just this past Saturday there were 16 teams competed at the 6th annual Eagle Invitational. They competed against many 3A, 4A, and 5A schools. The only team in the same region as OCHS was Banks County. The Lady’s placed 14th out of 16 schools.

It is expected that they will have a wonderful season, as they already are off to a fantastic start.

Track off to a Running Start

Teeing it up with

AndersonB y : J a i m e K e n n e d y I n t e r v i e w i n g t h e g o l f t e a m ’s c o a c hAnderson was pleased to announce that his team was, “Alright.” He said that, “Conner Smith did well, with a score of 44, which was the lowest score they had. The second lowest score was at a 52 by Carol and Megan. The girls had lost by 3 strokes. H e w a n t s h i s t e a m t o , “Practice.” The day had been cold and windy with 30 mile winds and it was hard for them to hit straight. Mr. Anderson

announced to me that it was, “a good learning experience.” He also wanted to say that, “Nothing is easy in life especially on golf courses.” It made me laugh. His team is learning to push through and are getting stronger everyday so watch out Oglethorpe Patriots the golf team is rising up. The golf team have 3 matches next week and they are getting ready for them. P u t - C o u n t y w a s c a n c e l e d u n f o r t u n a t e l y. E lber t county, and Green county need to be ready for the mighty patriot’s golf team.

Page 8/Friday, March 31, 2017

Patriot Press

Sports

The next issue of

The Patriot Press

will be distributedon

Friday May 12, 2017

By: Julianna Montgomery So far this year, both of the Patriot soccer teams have been doing very well. The girls have mercy ruled multiple teams. And, the boys have been doing very well also. A member of the boys’ team, Brandon Padilla, says, “So far I feel as though we have worked hard as a team to accomplish what we have this season. And, maybe they hate us because we’re too good”. The boy’s JV team has been making improvements, and though not all the games have ended the way the team would have wanted, the season has been going well all around. Coach Stafford has been working hard on ensuring that both of the boy’s teams are performing to the best of their ability. And he has said, “This year’s boys’ soccer teams have been doing well. We have a strong varsity team and a lot of potential with the JV team. The JV team has continually

improved with each game and we are looking to continue that. The varsity team has also improved and so far had some impressive showings. We were able to finally beat Madison County this year, which I believe is the first time this has ever happened. We have had some off days but nothing that we can’t bounce back from. I’m looking forward to the rest of the season and think it will be a great one for us. So far the goal scoring is being led by Josh Norman with Jairo Madrid close behind. Our defense is very strong and consists of Ben Mathis, Mathew Soto, Luke Lowery, and Caleb Hubbard. We have had some terrific play from everyone so far and are looking to continue that throughout the season. We would love to see everyone in the stands for the rest of our games. Our senior night will be on April 18 against Lincoln and we would love to give a great send off for our seniors! We still have much of our region

play to continue and we hope to post more in the win columns!” The g i r l s have 24 members, all of which are only one team. This team is all around classified as a JV team, and the girls have been doing well, and Coach Simmons says, “We’re undefeated as a JV team. We’ve played 5 Varsity games, won 2 (1-0 in Region) and lost 3 (all against schools way bigger than us).” This season is going well for the Patriot’s soccer teams, and both the members are coaches hope to continue their luck!

Patriot Soccer kicking butt and taking names

Patriot Baseball Hitting off the season

By: Audrey U t l eyThe spring season of

baseball is halfway over. The varsity boys have won 10 of the first 14 games. Head Coach, Jason Bramlett, is proud of how the team is playing so far and hopes that they continue to do well for the rest of the season. He also says the seniors and juniors are doing a good job

leading the younger half of the team, and the sophomores and freshmen have shown promise for the team in future years. This year’s senior night will be on Tuesday April 18 vs. Towns Co. in Lexington at 5:00. The 2017 seniors are Dillion Nation, Dylan Smith, Blake LaCount, and Dakota Bales. The team is hoping that a lot of students

come to senior night to watch one of these seniors’ last games. The first round of state playoffs begins on Friday April 28th and Saturday April 29th. The location and time of these games has not been announced yet. Coach Bramlett is hopeful that the team can continue to do well and progress to the first round of playoffs and beyond.