By Shivali Shah, Digital Editor

Valentine’s Day brings a unique kind of energy–one filled with gestures of affection and appreciation that lifts spirits and creates a sense of connection. At River Hill, the annual rose sale has become a cherished tradition that taps into this spirit. Run by the Class of 2025’s SGA, the fundraiser offers River Hill students a chance to spread kindness while supporting a good cause. 

From February 3rd to February 7th, 2025, students had the opportunity to order roses during all lunch shifts at a table set up outside the cafeteria. Each rose was priced at $3, though a bundle of five roses could be purchased for just $10. When buying a rose, students were asked to provide the name of the recipient’s 4B period teacher and could also include a personalized message that would be attached to the rose upon delivery. 

Just like last year, this year’s rose sale was a resounding success, though there were a few notable adjustments to improve the experience for students. Senior Rishab Jain, Vice President of the Class of 2025 SGA, shared his thoughts on the changes, explaining, “The way we delivered them last year was a little crazy and I know there was some wilting that happened between us delivering them and people actually receiving them. So we went ahead and did silk roses this time, instead of real roses, and we hope that people will be happier with that.” 

As for the delivery process this year, Senior Estelle Chen, secretary of the Class of 2025 SGA, explained, “We distribute the roses during period 4B, on February 14th. And how we do it is we have a little tag that is attached to the roses, and it’ll say the 4B teacher’s name, and then we’ll go into the classes and deliver it there. We typically try not to deliver them during lunch because we just find that it’s a little bit too difficult to find people.” By opting for silk roses and refining the delivery method, the SGA team aimed to provide a more lasting and efficient experience, ensuring that everyone could enjoy their roses for much longer without worrying about missed deliveries or the fading that comes with fresh flowers.

The primary goal of the fundraiser was to raise money for the Class of 2025’s senior gifts. While the gift itself  will “be a surprise,” Chen explains, “Every year, the senior class does a senior gift for all the seniors, so this year we’re just continuing that tradition.” In addition to funding the senior gifts, the money raised will also be used to support “other senior-related events at the end of the year,” helping to make the final months of the seniors’ high school journey memorable. 

The SGA officers emphasized that purchasing roses was not only an opportunity to raise crucial funds for the Class of 2025 SGA but also a way to strengthen the sense of community within the school. As Jain put it, “We need to raise money for our SGA but we also think that last year when we did the rose sale, it was a really awesome way to bring the community together. People really like it, we sell a bunch of roses and I think it’s a cute thing to do during Valentine’s Day.” The rose sale resonated with students because it offered a simple way to connect with others during Valentine’s Day. It wasn’t just about raising money, but it also gave students a chance to acknowledge and appreciate the people around them. As Chen reflected, “I think it’s really great that this money is going back towards the seniors, But I think in general, being an entire school fundraiser, it’s really nice people are able to share appreciation on Valentine’s Day, whether it’s to their partner, or to a teacher or to their friends.” Through the sale, the Class of 2025 SGA hoped to make Valentine’s Day more meaningful, while also supporting important senior events. 

Junior Hailey Park, motivated by the Valentine’s Day spirit, chose to buy a rose for her friend. She explained, “I think it’s just a nice gesture and it could brighten someone’s day, and I feel like if you’re the person who receives them, you’d be pretty happy about it.” 

Many recipients felt that the roses did in fact brighten their days. Junior Sanah Ahmed echoed this sentiment, saying, “I felt very loved and appreciated when I received a rose on Valentine’s Day.”

This year’s rose sale not only raised funds for the Class of 2025 but also fostered a sense of community and connection among River Hill students. By offering an easy but thoughtful way to express appreciation, the event allowed students to participate in a time-honored tradition while supporting their senior class. Whether it was for a friend, teacher, or someone special, the rose sale brought people together in a way that felt unique to River Hill. As Jain puts it, “I think it’s a pretty awesome little gift to have and you can’t really find this kind of comradery at different schools, I think River Hill really does it best.” 

By Alu Machinjili, Staff Writer

The highly anticipated Super Bowl performance was a brilliant event that captivated audiences with its mix of creativity, music, and powerful messages. This year’s halftime performance featured Kendrick Lamar and SZA with surprise cameos from Samuel L. Jackson, Serena Williams and DJ Mustard. This show not only showcased music but also presented social commentary with hidden messages, making it a memorable experience for viewers in the stadium and at home.

Students at River Hill High School have various opinions on the performance. Senior Baraka Ndirutu enjoyed the performance, stating the choreography was “cool” and liked SZA’s “All the Stars” as his favorite part. “The way those performers were coming out the car was cool.’” The same is true for Senior Jack Genovese, who states, “My favorite part of the performance was SZA’s part.” This song is known to be very uplifting with a feeling of empowerment. This seems to resonate with many of the viewers, such as Baracka who appreciated the energy and emotion SZA brought to the stage. Despite only 30 seconds of performance time, her part of the show was a significant factor in the show’s overall success.

Another student, Senior Alex Alston, appreciated the deeper messages shown during the Super Bowl. He thought the halftime show went beyond entertainment: it brought up themes of resilience and social justice. “It really made me think of important issues in society.” As an African American student, Senior Alex Alston felt represented by listening to the performance. The performance highlighted pride in the African American community.

A significant factor surrounding the hype of the halftime show was the Drake vs Kendrick beef. Earlier this year both artists released confrontational diss tracks insulting each other. Kendrick performed one of these songs, “Not Like Us” at the Super Bowl. Many view this halftime show as the conclusion of the long-lasting beef between the two artists. There was also a further issue between Drake and his Record label UMG (Universal Music Group). Drake had accused UMG of defamation by releasing and promoting “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar. UMG has since responded by saying the claims weren’t true and they’ve helped him succeed throughout his whole career.

The 2025 Super Bowl halftime show was a performance that captured audiences with its performances, message, and visuals. The various opinions from River Hill High School students reflect the show’s ability to connect with a diverse audience. The Super Bowl halftime show is a way for artists to express their creativity and make it an enjoyable experience for the audience and people at home.

By Nikhil Krishnamoorthi, Staff Writer

For the past month, public schools in Howard County have been closing due to excessive snow occurring in the county, which will lead to extra days at the end of the year. Many students and teachers are affected by this occurrence. Some enjoyed their time off and used it as an opportunity to relax, but some people were unhappy about it due to it conflicting with their academic curriculum and the amount of the things teachers and students must cover before school ends in June.

Some students saw the days off as a luxury and an opportunity not to attend class. Freshman, Sahib Batra shared his perspective on the days off that helped him catch up with his schoolwork. Because of the snow days, he had the time to settle and finish all the work he had missed during the weeks he was absent. He says, “I was in India for 2 weeks and I had to finish up two weeks’ worth of homework.” He also says, “Because of the snow days I’ve had the time to rest up and take my time to finish all the work I had from all my classes.” However, some teachers are finding these snow days very unhelpful. Mrs. Hazard, head coach of the girls cross country team said, “ I feel as though having one week off of snow days was awesome, however, this has been going on for a while, and it’s very hard to catch up with material as we are heading to the end of the year in a couple of months.” 

Additionally, some teachers who teach college-level courses are having a really hard time finishing up material before AP exams and final exams. Mr. Parrish, an AP Government teacher, said how “this was probably one of the worst times that snow days are affecting my teaching and unfortunately cramming material has been my only option because I need to finish teaching all lessons by mid-April to prepare my students for the AP exam.” It’s true, many teachers who are teaching college-level courses are having the hardest time and they are feeling very stressed out because of the snow days covering up their teaching times.

Hopefully, the snow days will start to slow down and students will return to going to school five days a week to comprehend and study material before the school year ends. Mrs. Weinburg, a math teacher in River Hill, said, “I’m kind of stressed out with all the snow days that I have to push my schedule which gets really frustrating as the snow days are really unexpected.” Keep an eye out for the sky and hopefully, it is full of sunshine instead of more snow days. The teachers and students need to get back to rhythm before the year ends.

By Vincent Wang, Staff Writer

The NBA trade deadline on February 6, 2025, has had some surprising notable moves. 

In a huge trade, the Los Angeles Lakers acquired Luka Doncic, in return the Dallas Mavericks got in exchange Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round draft pick. This huge move was met by shock across the league as Doncic is a 25-year-old superstar just hitting his prime and Anthony Davis’s best days are behind him as he battles through injuries. Junior Ram Chillakuru, states, “This is a win now move by Dallas as they add more defense to the front court” Ram adds that “they could have got more value for Luka,” as most of the league thought he was untouchable. 

Next, we look at the other blockbuster trades starting with De’Aaron Fox being traded to the San Antonio Spurs. The San Antonio Spurs acquired another superstar in his prime to pair up with the face of the franchise Victor Wembanyama. The Spurs gave up four first-round picks (three of which are headed to Sacramento), a second-round pick and three players (Zach Collins, Tre Jones and Sidy Cissoko). Junior David Carr explains that he “hopes it works out because four first-round picks are very valuable.”

 In a separate deal, the Miami Heat traded a defensive menace Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors in exchange for Kyle Anderson and Andrew Wiggins, strengthening the Warriors’ already powerful lineup. “This trade is great as the Warriors need to win now” as they have limited time with the aging star Stephen Curry, David explained. 

Overall, this has been a crazy trade deadline and will go down in the history books as one of the most shocking trades of all time. The Lakers’ move was to secure a long-term superstar, while the Mavericks’ decision to trade him has been criticized by the media and public as they thought Luka was their future. The impacts of these trades will show as the season progresses through the All-Star break. Ram mentions that “the trade deadline is always a rollercoaster of emotions” since one fanbase could be happy and the other is “stuck scratching their head.” 

This “deadline would definitely change the league” stated David. At River Hill, it was one of the most talked about topics at lunch. The true impact of these blockbuster trades remains to be seen. One thing is certain, this year’s trade deadline will go down in history as some of the most surprising, head-scratching trades of all time. 

By Maya Gambhir, Staff Writer

Complete with dazzling outfits, flashing cameras, shining trophies, and show-stopping performances, the Grammys took place this past weekend, February 2. With a viewership of over 15.4 million, it seems as though nearly every River Hill student was invested in that eventful Sunday evening, Music’s Biggest Night now being River Hill’s Biggest Lunch Table Topic.

Every February, the Grammy Awards are hosted by the Recording Academy, the members of which vote for winners among some of the biggest music projects released over the past year. The Grammys consists of 94 categories, but the “big four” are Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist. 

On the evening of the Grammys, awards were interspersed with several performances, including Sabrina Carpenter, Benson Boone, Billie Eilish, Doechii, and Charli XCX. Junior Sharvi Wankhade remarked that “everything about Doechii’s performance was really amazing, and she reminds me a lot of Tyler, the Creator,” and especially “the choreography…was perfect.” Wankhade was also excited about Sabrina Carpenter’s performance, noting “I think she’s really bringing back the type of performances we saw from pop artists earlier.” Another notable and highly discussed moment of the performance was “the tribute to Quincy Jones with Stevie Wonder,” which, according to Senior Karell Clement, “was powerful”

The big winners of the night were Kendrick Lamar, whose hit Not Like Us secured both Record and Song of the Year; Beyoncé, whose eighth studio album COWBOY CARTER was awarded Album of the Year, and Chappel Roan, who earned Best New Artist.

However, as awards were presented, controversy began to erupt as well. Junior Samara Winrose, for one, “really felt Billie [Eilish] deserved Album of the Year,” explaining that it “has elements of a concept album which sets it apart from anything else nominated, so it was a bit disappointing to see it wasn’t recognized.” However, despite much of the internet being passionately pitted against Beyoncé, many River Hill students feel that it’s a bit overkill. Sharvi Wankhade also remarked, “it touches on a lot of important issues and topics regarding her culture and identity, so I can see why it won.”

Another controversy that came with this year’s award ceremony was Kendrick Lamar’s winning of two major categories with one record. Junior Elise Marcus explains that, in her opinion, “Not Like Us was good enough for [Song of the Year] in terms of the writing but to me the production was not outstanding enough to award it [Record of the Year] as well.” Other notable nominations for Record of the Year included Billie Eilish’s Birds of a Feather, Sabrina Carpenter’s Espresso, the the Beatles Now and Then. 

From a broader perspective, Sophia Chudnovsky remarked “It was so powerful to see the LA firefighters attending, and all of the wildfire relief efforts that the Grammys focused on this year. ” In light of the California fires, the Grammys pivoted to support MusiCares Fire Relief, a campaign dedicated to providing support for those affected. During such a difficult time, the Grammys ceremony was able to bring people together to celebrate, express gratitude to those who serve us, and award music artists who connect with us through music.

This year’s Grammy Award ceremony was certainly one for the books, with both social media and hallway discussions lingering even weeks later. Music is a central part of our community here at River Hill, which can be mirrored today by many school-wide discussions about Music’s Biggest Night. Only a few weeks out, many River Hill music enthusiasts are already eagerly awaiting seeing and connecting with their favorite artists at next year’s Grammy Awards!

By Abigale Paterniti, News Editor

Every year the River Hill Independent Research Program (I/R) hosts an annual Valentine’s event, where cards are created and distributed around the school to each staff member at River Hill. 

Students spent the week before February 14th decorating cards of pink and red hearts and writing kind words as an offer of thanks to the numerous staff members around the school. This includes every department from English and Math to the custodial and cafeteria staff. 

Ms. Sharbaugh, the River Hill research teacher, expresses how her “favorite part is the cardmaking itself and seeing the students pause from their busy schedules” since “pausing just doing some arts and crafts is very important and meaningful.” This tradition has been around since before Mrs. Sharbaugh became the River Hill research teacher four years ago, and she has continued the tradition ever since. Mrs. Sharbaugh estimates that “this tradition has been going on for around 20 years, maybe more.” 

The goal for this year’s event is simple, Mrs. Sharbaugh’s focus is on, “ensuring that students understand how important it is to personalize the cards as opposed to writing generic messages.” Each student is tasked with designing four unique cards. Junior Sonya Gupta explains how “I wrote cards for two of my favorite teachers and two staff in the front office who I am not familiar with.” For Sonya, her favorite card included colorful Valentine’s decorations attached to a pink card with a personalized message. How cute! 

Sonya feels like this event encompasses her favorite part of Valentine’s Day in an atmosphere of gratitude. “I hope receiving my cards will at least put a smile on staff members’ faces, I would love for them to keep the cards because I know if I received one of these it would make my day.” 

This is Sonya’s first year in Independent Research. She is sure that experiencing this event for the first time will stand out in her memories of Valentine’s Day. “I didn’t know anything about this celebration when I signed up for Independent Research, but I am so glad that we do it.” 

Senior Neal Goturi, the Research Student Aid, is responsible for the organization of the event alongside Mrs. Sharbaugh. Neal is the designated student card connoisseur and is tasked with creating a spreadsheet that is used to keep track of all the staff members. This prevents any staff member from being accidentally left out of the process. Mrs. Sharbaugh explains further how “Neal does inventory of all our valentine supplies and to make sure we have enough materials.”

Junior Freya Patel, a second-year IR student, made cards for Mrs. De La Mar, Munding, Noecker, and Lauer. Freya emphasizes how this event reflects the benefit of Independent Research, “everything you put in you get out of IR.” In the midst of intense deadlines, the reward is card-making! Not only are these Valentine’s cards beneficial to the staff of River Hill, but Independent Research students find making the cards a way of relieving stress amid their research paper deadline. Sonya explains that “it is nice to take a little break from the stress of writing a research paper.” Mrs. Sharbaugh elaborates how “the majority of card making [is completed] here in school after students submit the first round of their research paper as a little reward for them.” Furthermore, the cards are meant as a “hands-on task that doesn’t involve technology… all in the spirit of gratitude to our amazing staff.” 

Not only do the Valentine’s cards contribute to the event, but there are also cookies, chips and any snack you can imagine available to the staff in the staff lounge on Valentine’s Day. Each I/M and IR student signs up to bring decorations, utensils, napkins, cookies or snacks. All of this is neatly placed in the staff lounge by Ms. Sharbaugh and her student aid Neal. 

After the event, staff members expressed gratitude for the cards they received. Mrs. Sharbaugh reflects how, “every year after the event, I get emails letting me know just how much this has meant to them.” For some teachers, they look forward to these cards every year and the yummy snacks they get to enjoy. “If you walk into the majority of classrooms here at River Hill nine times out of ten, you’re gonna see a Valentine’s card from a previous year hanging up on their wall or on their desk.” says Mrs. Sharbaugh, herself having numerous valentine cards of gratitude plastered on the wall above her desk.  

By Benjamin Hong, Co-Editor-In-Chief

During an away game on Wednesday, February 5, for girls basketball against Atholton High School, River Hill senior Dylan Watson cemented her place in school history by scoring her 1000th career point. Watson became just the ninth player in River Hill girls basketball history to reach this milestone, following in the footsteps of Saniha Jackson, who achieved the feat in 2020. The achievement places her among some of the most proficient scorers the school has ever seen, providing ample testimony to her commitment to and aptitude for the sport.

The game itself was a hard-fought battle. Entering the game with a strong 13-5 record, River Hill faced a determined 9-9 Atholton team. At the end of the back-and-forth match, River Hill narrowly emerged victorious with a 48-46 victory over the Raiders. This win added to River Hill’s undefeated record in the Sierra Division, which consists of a group of teams made up of Atholton, Centennial, Howard, Long Reach, River Hill, and Wilde Lake High School talents.

Central to the Hawks’ win was Morgan State University commit Watson, who put up a game-high 19 points to secure both the game and her ascension to the 1000-point club. 

The fact that Watson has been a defining factor in River Hill’s success this season should hardly come as a surprise, yet it does not make her dominance any less impressive. On top of her outstanding performance Wednesday, Watson currently leads Howard County girls basketball in points per game (21.3), steals per game (8.1), and is fourth in assists per game (4.2), all while managing to lead her team in every statistical category. 

However, her abilities as a player extend far beyond her point-making potential or the defensive threat she poses. As a shooting guard, Watson serves as an effective leader on the floor on top of her prodigious technical skills. The star emphasized that in her capacity as an emotional center point for the team, it was “very important to [her] to provide … the energy, the spark,” following the example of senior team members from when she first joined as a  freshman: “I just knew I wanted to be like that as I progressed and got older.”

Watson’s stellar performances have not gone unnoticed by the broader sports community. Most recently among the numerous accolades and plaudits she has received throughout the course of her career, Watson was named Howard County’s Athlete of the Month for December and January, winning 29% of the popular vote over runners-up Sara Yarnell of Hammond High (22%) and Olivia Creighton of River Hill (18%).

Coach Teresa Waters, who teaches business at River Hill and is a legendary coach in her own right, was not surprised by this result, heaping praise on the star by stating, “Dylan is the engine that gets us going. We are so appreciative of her on both ends because she delivers in every capacity, nonstop.” This overwhelming style of play is what Waters views to be what makes Watson such an important element of the team, remarking how the guard is constantly “rebounding, getting steals and making assists. She’s just everywhere. She’s the glue.”

With the playoffs fast approaching, Watson and the Hawks are focused on continuing their current level of superb performance. While the year’s result is far from guaranteed, the amount this iteration of River Hill girls basketball has already accomplished this season cannot be understated. As Watson closes out her high school career, her 1000th point stands as a testament to her dedication and level of skill in the sport she loves and will remain a constant reminder of the indelible impact she leaves behind on the legacy of River Hill basketball.

By Carolina Alphonso, Staff Writer

It’s one of the most dangerous places in the world. No, not I-95 and not a public bathroom. While both are terrifying in their own way, neither can compare to the terror of a high school hallway.

Many students are speeding their way to their classes, hurrying up and down stairs in a desperate rush to get to class before the bell catches up to them. Junior Charlie Bishop stated, “I try to get to class as fast as possible. I don’t like being late.” Students, especially here at River Hill, are trying to get by the day as fast as possible. “I’m honestly trying to get to the end of the day.” Sophomore Joe Alphonso comments. “The faster I get to class, the better. I’m just trying to get home.”  The faster they get to their classes, the faster they can get it over with and soon be embraced by the freedom of going through those school doors

However, there seems to be a common obstacle among many students here at River Hill. “The hallways are definitely a problem,” Senior Daniel Dzubak complained. “It’s too chaotic, especially with it being early in the morning.” During passing periods, the hallways flood with students, all going in different directions. It causes trouble for some to get to their classes on time. “There are too many people in the hallways,” Junior Ade Smithson stated, “I’m surprised I haven’t been trampled yet by how many kids are shoving through.” 

It’s not only the number of students that seems to be causing an issue in the halls, but the students that linger there too. Senior Jizelle Williams made a complaint saying, “The amount of times I’ve had to go around because kids are standing in the middle of the hallway or stairs is insane.” Some find it frustrating to have some students stand by the large stairwells, giving them no room to pass through. It causes some commotion for a few and brews frustration. “I’m having trouble getting to a class that’s literally a few steps away.” Ellicott Olson said when asked about the hallways. “Like, why are kids just standing there? If you wanna talk, stand off to the side of something, not in the middle of the hallway.”

It’s safe to say that many students here at River Hill are, needless to say, a bit frustrated with the hallways. But there are simple solutions to this problem. “Stopping standing in the middle of the hallway is a good start,” Jizelle suggested. “You can stand to the side or in an area where people are walking through.” Many struggle to get a path to their class due to many lingering in the middle of the halls. Staying more toward the walls gives others a better chance of not getting stuck in the mod. 

The halls can certainly be a rough place. An unpredictable area with chaos and numerous people chatting, talking and even running. So stay safe out there River Hill, and make sure to look both ways before crossing the halls!

By Siena Houk, Staff Writer

When a President introduces new policies, the effects ripple across the country, impacting everyday people, such as Federal employees. Under Donald Trump’s administration, changes in government regulations, budgets, and labor rules have altered how millions of federal workers are able to do their jobs. From shifts in pay and benefits to stricter workplace rules, these policies can influence anything from how national parks operate to how social services are delivered. But how does this relate back to the students attending River Hill? Whether it’s your parents’ jobs, summer internships, or even future career plans, understanding these changes can help you see how government decisions directly affect people’s lives. 

On January 20, President Trump signed an Executive Order, Restoring Accountability to Policy-Influencing Positions Within the Federal Workforce. Under the order, federal agencies must review and identify positions that involve policy-making, policy advocacy, or confidential advisory duties and recommend them for transfer to the new policy schedule. 

Sophomore Isha Patel’s parents both work in the federal government. The budget cuts “have definitely started to impact them. My mom, who works at a federal agency, says there’s been a lot of uncertainty lately—people are worried about layoffs and pay freezes” Due to the new hours and policy issues, many people have been facing lesser pay, and fear of losing their jobs. With this, families will face problems meeting their basic needs. 

Junior Wasif Khalid’s mom is “a teacher so she has been affected by the new policy. There haven’t been a lot of financial changes in my house recently but my parents have been more stingy with buying groceries.” 

On the other hand, a new big change is having to work longer hours. Sophomore Shyam Patel’s parents “are both working longer hours, trying to keep up with the same workload but with fewer resources. It’s been tough because we’ve had to cut back on things we usually do, like family vacations.” Continuing with these struggles, Shyam’s family has also had to cut back on “small stuff, like eating out. My dad says he feels like morale at work is low, and there’s a lot of stress around job security.” 

Due to these changes, Sophomore Casey Moss has been rethinking “whether I want to go into government work. I mean, it’s great that they have good benefits, but the cuts make everything feel unstable. I also worry about how these cuts affect services we rely on, like public transportation and healthcare—my parents say those areas are definitely feeling the strain.” With the unstable working conditions, longer hours, risk of cuts, and possible issues with public transport, this seems to be a much more risky field to go into now. 

Even though many government policies may seem distant from your daily life, they can have real effects on you and your family. If your parents work for the federal government, changes to their job security, wages, or benefits could impact your household. Beyond that, these policies can shape the quality of public services, from school funding to healthcare and transportation. As high school students prepare for their futures, it’s important to understand how these decisions could affect career choices and financial stability. 

By Ema Bojaxhi, Staff Writer

With the threat of removing the Department of Education, students across the country are grappling with what this means for their future. Some worry about losing financial aid, while others fear that education quality will depend too much on where they live. For many, this decision could widen the gap between well-funded schools and those already struggling to provide basic resources.

“It just feels like, without some kind of national standard, education is going to become a total lottery,” says Wasif Khalid, a sophomore. “If every state gets to make its own rules, some kids will have great schools with tons of resources, while others will be stuck in underfunded classrooms just because of where they happen to live. That’s just not fair. We need a system that gives everyone a fair shot, not just the ones who got lucky.”

Wasif’s concern is echoed by many students, particularly those from lower-income areas who rely on federally funded programs to bridge gaps in educational resources. Without federal oversight, states will have more freedom to allocate funding, which could make these disparities even worse.

Sherina Sen, junior, shares similar concerns. “This is just going to make education even more unfair than it already is. Some schools have way more resources than others, and without some kind of oversight, that gap is only going to grow. What happens if the school loses funding? Will we still have AP classes? Will our best teachers leave for better-paying jobs somewhere else? It just feels like students are the ones who are going to pay the price for this decision.”

Teachers also have strong opinions on the issue. Ms. Casper, a U.S. government teacher, emphasizes the importance of understanding what the Department of Education does. “One of the big things people need to understand is that the Department of Education does not decide our curriculums. There’s a lot of noise out there about ‘parental choice’ and ‘national curriculums,’ but that’s not what the Department of Education oversees. Citizens who are concerned about what their kids are learning need to take that up with their states.”

Beyond funding and curriculum, the Department of Education has played a key role in protecting students’ rights, especially for those with disabilities or facing discrimination. Many worry that without federal oversight, there won’t be a consistent way to ensure students receive necessary accommodations. While some believe the change may not have an immediate impact on the majority of students, others worry about those who rely on federal protections. “I don’t think most students will notice if the Department of Education is cut,” Ms.Casper continues. “But there are some very vulnerable students who need protection for their rights to an education, and those students and their families may feel it the most.”

As the government decides whether to get rid of the federal Department of Education, students, teachers, and families are left with more questions than answers. Will funding disparities get worse? What will happen to financial aid? And most importantly, will students be the ones who bear the greatest burden of this decision? For many, the uncertainty ahead only deepens existing concerns about inequality in education

By Benjamin Hong, Editor In Chief; Connor Hawthorne, Editor In Chief; Shivali Shah, Digital Editor; Abigale Paterniti, News Editor 

On Wednesday, February 5th, approximately 125 students participated in a school-wide walkout to protest Executive Order 14151, passed by President Donald Trump on January 20. Entitled “Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing,” this directive seeks to dismantle Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives across all federal institutions. 

The new executive order mandates that the director of the Office of Management and Budget “coordinate the termination of all discriminatory programs, including illegal DEI and “diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility” (DEIA) mandates, policies, programs, preferences, and activities in the Federal Government, under whatever name they appear.” It also requires the director of the Office of Personnel Management to review and revise “all existing Federal employment practices, union contracts, and training policies or programs to comply with this order.” 

This marks a significant shift in how diversity-related policies have historically been implemented in the United States, effectively rescinding Executive Order 13985, titled “Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government.” Issued by Former President Biden, it focused on tackling systemic racism in all aspects of life, advancing racial equality, and providing support to underserved communities. Trump’s new executive order also runs counter to the effects of similar DEI-related efforts from past administrations, including those of former presidents Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Lyndon B. Johnson. 

The executive order has sparked much controversy and opposition. Many argue that the action undermines years of progress toward equal opportunity and inclusion. Accordingly, a barrage of lawsuits against the Trump administration has resulted from the order, with the list of plaintiffs including the city of Baltimore. Representatives of the city contest described the order as “unconstitutionally vague,” and argued that “the vagueness [of the executive order] encourages those tasked with enforcing the order to ‘engage in discriminatory enforcement.’”

Some River Hill students who also opposed the President’s actions took the opportunity to voice their opposition to the order by participating in the Wednesday walkout. Organized by Senior Caitlyn Foot, the walkout took place during Hawk Time, with students meeting in the front and walking out on the track together in unity. Foot emphasized the importance of student activism in hot-button issues like this, stating, “As students we don’t have a very loud voice but there are still things we can do within school to make a difference.” Foot’s primary goal for the protest was to “spread awareness,” and if students “[get] people to care about the issue, it does make a difference and it brings it to the forefront of people’s minds.” 

Among the students who participated in the walk-out was senior Michael Gerdes, who spoke about the personal impact of the order on his peers. “A lot of people I know are directly affected by this… [and] I want to be there to support my people so that a lot of my friends are able to get the jobs that they deserve one day and not be subject to discrimination,” Gerdes remarks. “It’s a big step back in [the] progress that’s been made over the years”

Junior Sanah Ahmed, who was also one of many who walked in peaceful protest, concurred, stating, “It feels like we’re kinda going backward in time with the whole executive order.” Ahmed also aired her feelings on the significance of standing up for equal rights and opportunities, making it clear that “it’s very important that we’re not discriminated against […] We want to have the same opportunities that everyone else does because historically, that has not been the case.” Junior Nika Nikhinson shared Ahmed’s concerns, explaining that “a meritocracy doesn’t really work in a world where a group of people already has an advantage […] Now that we’re going into college, I want to have the same opportunities as other people, as a Jewish person and as a woman.” 

Executive Order 14151 threatens to undo decades of progress in the fight against discrimination of all kinds in the workplace and in the broader world. The walkout against its implementation stands as a testament to the importance of student voice and emphasizes River Hill’s place as an environment that promotes and protects civil rights. It serves as a role model for other schools across the county and the nation looking to allow students to express their beliefs, and in doing so, helps set society’s expectations for a new generation of activists.

By Shivali Shah, Digital Editor

River Hill’s Lunar New Year celebration on January 30th was one filled with cultural richness and excitement. Coupling the many talents of River Hill students with the vibrant traditions of the Lunar New Year, Project Lotus and the Chinese Honor Society made the event a memorable and immersive experience.

Lunar New Year, or Lunisolar New Year, celebrates the start of a new year on the lunar calendar. Its date is set by the new moon closest to the midpoint between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox. This holiday is one of the most significant in Chinese culture, marked by traditional celebrations such as fireworks, cultural dances, family dinners and the iconic gifting of red envelopes filled with money.

River Hill’s Lunar New Year event highlighted many aspects of this rich culture. Stations set up for attendees included Chinese Calligraphy, Tea Corner, Chinese Yoyo, Majiang and Fan Decoration, along with performances ranging from bamboo flute melodies and a guzheng duet to a kung fu demonstration. Planning the event was no small feat. Senior Rhea Nair, President of Project Lotus, explained that while they “didn’t run into too many problems,” bringing everything together was the most challenging part. “We have two clubs working together, and at the event, we have performances, stations and lots of food. Planning all of that individually was easy, but finding a layout that fit the event was difficult.” 

To manage the event effectively, Nair and the other officers “put everything in a list and time-blocked the different stations so that [their] main focuses like food and performances were showcased and given enough time.” Reflecting on last year’s event, Nair said, “We wanted to improve on previous events. Last year, we had 4 or 5 stations, so this year we added more—close to 7 or 8. And last year, we ran out of food, so we promised to order more and distribute it more evenly.”

The results of their hard work were evident, with attendees raving about their time at the event. Junior Julia Goldenberg shared her excitement, saying, “I feel like it is really great to see my peers share things about their own identity and culture. Everyone here is going through such a great effort to showcase something special to them and I think it’s really cool to learn more about it!” Similarly, Junior Ananya Porwal, a Project Lotus Officer, expressed her enjoyment of the performances, noting, “I always love seeing the performances because they come from different ages and types of acts. I really enjoy seeing the Chinese culture and how they celebrate one of their bigger holidays.”

One of the main focuses of the event was “to promote inclusion and awareness, but also a sense of belonging,” according to Nair. She explained that at many other schools, “there are absolutely no cultural events,” and that growing up, she often felt that the few holidays celebrated at school catered to a specific demographic. “A lot of other officers felt this way as well. So our main mission is to take a festival that many people in this school celebrate and have an event for it, so we can all come together to celebrate, and so that people that are new to it can learn more, while the people who celebrate it can feel included.” 

Much of the event’s success was rooted in its ability to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the cultural diversity at River Hill. Mrs. Casper, the sponsor of Project Lotus, reflected on the importance of such events, saying, “Speaking as someone who doesn’t come from a culture that typically celebrates Lunar New Year, I think it’s incredibly educational and really special to be able to participate in and share people’s celebrations and holidays, no matter what they are. I think it’s something that is really important, particularly at this school since we have a majority Asian population, as you learn something new and build community.” 

In the end, Project Lotus and the Chinese Honor Society succeeded in their goal of creating an inclusive event, one that extended beyond just River Hill High School’s students to include the entire community. “I really like seeing all of the younger kids that come,” Goldenberg explains, “I think it’s really cool that they are being exposed to different cultures they may not already know about at their young age.”

River Hill’s Lunar New Year celebration was a shining example of how cultural traditions can bring people together, creating both a sense of belonging and an opportunity for learning. Thanks to the dedication of Project Lotus and the Chinese Honor Society, the event was a resounding success! As attendees left with fond memories and a new understanding of Chinese culture, it was clear that such events not only celebrate the holidays but also the diverse community at River Hill.

By Alu Machinjili, Staff Writer

On January 28, 2025, River Hills National Chinese Honor Society hosted a dumpling celebration in room 151. This event was not merely a culinary gathering, but also a celebration of cultural heritage highlighting the significance of dumplings in Chinese tradition. It attracted food lovers from all over the school. This event served as a place for students in River Hill and the whole county  to connect with and bond with their communities

Throughout this event, students had a hands-on experience of making dumplings, which added to the interactive element of the event.  Students had the opportunity to choose from a variety of different fillings such as pork, beef, seafood, and vegetation openings. This allowed students to choose to customize their dumplings to their tastes and preferences. Senior Austin Zhang stated.”

The process of making dumplings brought together teamwork and collaboration. Students worked side by side sharing tips and techniques with each other. Senior Gary Peng stated, “I was working on my dumplings with my friends. We all had different fillings inside our dumplings.” Students were comparing with each other and trying to make the best dumplings possible. 

This further brought together the club’s community spirit. The feedback from the participants of the event highlighted the positive impact of the dumpling celebration. Senior Austin Zhang expressed his enjoyment, saying “This event was very fun, and talking to others was great.” Similarly, Senior Gary Peng noted, ”It was nice hanging out with other people in the group.” These reflections show the importance of the cultural meaning of this event and it promoted social interaction between the students.

 Beyond the social interaction, this event served as a valuable learning experience for the students. Students learned about the different types of fillings and processes to create dumplings. Students were able to customize their dumplings and make them unique from the other students. Senior Austin Zhang said his dumpling was full of “vegetables and this gave an educational opportunity to the students.”

The event stands as a model for future events that promote community bonding within the school. The event’s success demonstrates the power of combining cultural tradition with hands-on activity and social interaction at school to create an impactful experience. By prioritizing teamwork and practical elements, the club came up with an engaging event that celebrated Chinese culture and at the same time strengthened the bonds within the school community. Senior Gary Peng stated, “ Even though I knew most people, it was still cool talking to the other guys I don’t usually speak to.” 

Overall, this dumpling event proved to be a successful and impactful event. It not only brought an enjoyable experience for students but it proved a valuable educational opportunity allowing students from all over the county to learn about Chinese traditions in an engaging way.

By Ema Bojaxhi, Staff Writer

In early 2024, Congress passed a bill banning TikTok in January 2025. Ultimately, the order was temporarily halted; however, the debate over the app has continued amid intense controversy. At River Hill High School, the app had become a major part of daily life. The popular social media platform, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, had faced accusations of collecting user data in ways that could pose risks to national security. Lawmakers had argued that its ties to China made it a potential tool for surveillance and foreign influence. Meanwhile, River Hill students, like many others across the country, have seen the ban as an overreaction that threatened free expression and took away a platform they used for entertainment, creativity, and social connection. 

For many students, TikTok wasn’t just another app, it was a daily routine, a creative outlet, and a way to stay connected with friends. Sophomore Isha Patel voiced her frustration over the potential ban. “TikTok isn’t just some random social media platform; it’s part of how we communicate. Whether it’s sharing funny videos, learning new trends, or even discovering educational content, it’s more than just an app to us. Banning it feels like they’re taking away a piece of our generation’s culture. It’s frustrating because we use it for so many positive things, but now it feels like that doesn’t matter.”

Sophomore Yvonne Bonnah pointed out what she saw as inconsistencies in the decision. “I understand that people are worried about privacy and security, but TikTok isn’t the only app that collects data. Every social media platform, including [Instagram] and Snapchat, gathers information about us. So why is TikTok being singled out? If they’re going to ban one, shouldn’t they be questioning all of them? It just feels like an unfair double standard.”

Junior Sherina Sen highlighted the impact on small creators and businesses. “A lot of students at our school have small businesses or make content that actually helps them financially. TikTok gives them a platform to promote their work, whether it’s selling handmade jewelry, tutoring, or even sharing fitness tips.”

However, not everyone was completely against the ban. Junior Masa Atilimi admitted that while she loved TikTok, she also understood the concerns. “Honestly, I spend so much time on TikTok, and I’d hate to see it go. But I also get why people are worried about data privacy and security. I just wish there was a way to keep the app while making sure it’s actually safe to use. Maybe there’s a better solution than just banning it outright.”

As RHHS students continued discussing the issue, it was clear that the TikTok ban wasn’t just about losing an app, it was about the larger impact on communication, business, and digital freedom. Whether they supported or opposed the decision, many agreed that the debate over TikTok had become much bigger than just one social media platform.

By Mehreen Alamgir, Staff Writer

The Angels Network Club recently held its annual Bracelet Making Event, and it was a lot of fun! This event is always a favorite among students, not just because it’s enjoyable, but because it’s a great way to earn volunteer hours for those who need it. This year was no different, with students coming together to create brackets and enjoy a day filled with laughter and teamwork.

The event is about creating bracelets for donation. Students work in groups to come up with creative and unique bracelets, which are then donated to local shelters as a creative and meaningful act of kindness. It’s a great way for students to get involved and contribute to the school’s activities.

Students from different grades and backgrounds come together to work on their bracelets. One of the best parts of the event is the sense of community it creates. Senior Sunia Tanveer noted “I like being able to feel like a young kid again. I loved making bracelets and it reminds me of my childhood.” 

It’s a chance to meet new people and make new friends. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, with everyone excited to see what others come up with. Sophomore Maliha Parvez was proud of her bracelet and was excited to donate, “It’s nice being able to help those in need with a small act of kindness.” 

The event also offers an opportunity for students to earn volunteer hours. Many high schools, including River Hill, require students to complete a certain number of volunteer hours to graduate. Junior Mabel Orunawusi expresses her need for extracurricular activities, “This club is an easy way for me to earn service hours, which I desperately need before college. Additionally, many students are in the National Honor Society, which requires 20 hours of service per semester. Being a member of the Angels Network is a fun and easy way to earn those hours. Club member Mina Arooj emphasized, “This is one of the best clubs at River Hill. Having fun with my friends is a great way to spend an afternoon.” 

The teamwork that comes along with being a member is why this club is so fulfilling for all grades. Senior Hussan Tanveer says, “The best part about Angels Network is the chill vibe. We get to do good deeds while hanging out with friends.”

Junior Sophia Chudnovosky also loves the club. “It’s a nice break from my busy schedule. We do simple activities that make a big difference.” The club focuses on community service, but it’s not stressful. Instead, it’s a way to feel good about making a positive impact on others around our community.

Working with others for a good cause is fun because it brings a sense of community and teamwork, Junior Samara Resnick adds, “I joined because it’s fun and rewarding. We laugh a lot and come up with cool ideas to help others.” The club meetings are relaxed and nobody is pressured to work at any pace. You can be yourself, meet new friends, and enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from helping the community.

In addition to the fun and volunteer hours, the Bracelet Making Event also supports a good cause. At each event, the club works together to support a local shelter. This year, the proceeds went to a nearby food bank and different shelters. It’s a helpful way for students to give back to their community and make a positive impact. 

By Maya Gambhir, Staff Writer

Several of our River Hill academic teams are entering the thick of their competition season this month. One of these clubs is the Mock Trial team, who began their weekly trials this past month against other Howard County Schools.

The team spent much of November and December in the audition and preparation stages, but this month, they’ve begun to showcase their hard work. The team’s first trial was held on January 16 when they went up against the Long Reach Lightning, who snagged the win in a final score that totaled 110-112. The Hawks remain confident, with Junior Lawyer Alvin Lee explaining how “The first trial got us readjusted to how a trial flows and reminded us we have a lot of work to do.”

Even with the extensive preparation this past fall, the team’s work is far from over. Between trials, both lawyers and witnesses are constantly refining their arguments to make them stronger and more streamlined. Junior paralegals Huda Nassar and Sonya Gupta are critical in this role, as they take extensive notes at each trial to help the team identify their strong and weak points in each area. “Even after a win,” Gupta states, “there’s always more to do since we pick up on new strategies from each trial and can make our arguments more cohesive.”

Trials are held weekly at the Howard County Circuit Court, with the team alternating between playing Prosecution and Defense. Seasoned witness Huda Nassar explains that trial days can be “a little nerve-racking just trying to feel like you’re prepared beforehand.” Still, she says, those nerves are outweighed by the “excitement of being able to be able to compete with your team.” 

The trials can last up to three hours, and require an exceptional amount of mental stamina. Junior Lawyer Siana Kabara explains “It’s surprisingly easy to stay focused and locked in through a whole trial because you just get so into it.” Trials never seem to have a dull moment, whether it’s an unexpected objection or a curveball thrown by the other team. “A key part of a trial is adapting to unexpected things and remaining cool and collected,” Kabaria also notes. 

During the trials, lawyers must be prepared to change their line of questioning at any point, and witnesses must be able to mold to a new set of questions at every trial, which adds an extra level of excitement. Witnesses must respond to a set of questions by the other team that are intended to invalidate their story in the trial. Nassar also explains how her “favorite part about being a witness is getting to embody a character and deciding how [she] wants her to be portrayed.” As much as there is a method to Mock Trial, there is also a lot of room for creativity and thinking outside the box. New lawyer Chris Li shed light on how “the fact that the case was designed for competition purpose [makes it] a relatively equal match-up for both sides. This means that “lawyers must do excess work to ensure that the case leans toward their respective sides.”

The River Hill Mock Trial community is very tight-knit, as also remarked by Li, who said “Sometimes after trials or practices, the team would even go to dinner together….Time spent as part of the Mock Trial is always time well spent!” The team focuses on collaboration both in and out of the courtroom, as they continue meeting over the weekends to make technical adjustments. When it came to the Long Reach trial, Sophomore witness Mark Li remarked that “we stuck together as a team well but we could be more confident overall considering technical adjustments are being made in the meantime.”

In the coming weeks, the Hawks will face off against Wilde Lake, Atholton, and Howard High Schools before entering out-of-county playoffs. Our River Hill Mock Trial Hawks are determined to showcase their hard work and dedication, and keep up their streak of successful seasons!

By Benjamin Hong, Co-Editor-In-Chief

On February 1st, students from across Howard County gathered at Glenelg High School for the 2025 iteration of the Science in Society conference. Founded in 2015, the conference is an annual celebration of real-world applications of science topics, with particular emphasis on inspiring a love for STEM in students from all across Howard County. Speakers from a vast array of disciplines ranging from ecology to metrology led workshops discussing their specialties and how students can get involved in them, creating a truly inspiring atmosphere that spurred scientific inquiry and intellectual development.

The event would not have been possible without the hard work of the large team of students responsible for making it happen. At the helm of the project was River Hill junior Sophia Chudnovsky, one of the conference executives for the event. Having had an overwhelmingly positive experience at the event in her freshman year, she was particularly motivated to get involved in its organization because of the effectiveness with which it offered her “insight into specific careers and opportunities that I wouldn’t otherwise have known about.”

Detailing the process of sorting out the logistics of an event on a scale such as this, Chudnovsky described it as a “long-term effort,” beginning last spring but kicking into high gear around mid-October. From organizing promotions to handpicking workshop topics and making sure Glenelg was fully decorated in preparation for the conference, that this daunting list of tasks was executed so effectively is all the more impressive given the near-total autonomy the student organizers were given in tackling each line item. John Ballentine, a science teacher at Glenelg High School and the conference’s faculty sponsor, described his involvement in the event as being limited to “[supporting] the committee with what they need to independently plan for, organize, and execute the conference” (mostly tackling communications with Glenelg’s administration to handle scheduling), focusing on operating “mostly [as] a sounding board for the committee.”

Most workshops followed a general pattern in their overarching outline, establishing clear connections between the speaker’s own professional journey and the opportunities available to the students in attendance. Dr. Birthe Kjellerup, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at the A. James Clark School of Engineering of the University of Maryland was one such speaker whose workshop highlighted the crucial role environmental engineers play in disaster response, citing real-world examples such as “the Key Bridge collapse (Baltimore), the North Carolina flooding, [and] the California wildfires.” She also discussed how engineers contribute to forward-thinking sustainability initiatives, particularly focusing on “providing sustainable solutions for water use for cooling systems in data centers.” Dr. Kjellerup emphasized the importance of curiosity and adaptability in career paths, noting, “I didn’t expect or even plan for a position as a professor at a large university in the US. I just knew that I liked environmental engineering.”

Dr. Andrew Baldwin, another speaker, echoed these sentiments, reminding students that “it is so hard to know what an area of study or work is about until you actually do it.” A wetland scientist and professor at the University of Maryland, Dr. Baldwin emphasized in his workshop the inherently interdisciplinary nature of his field, which integrates plant and animal ecology, hydrology, biogeochemistry, ecological engineering, and policy. “Many other areas of science are also multidisciplinary,” he noted, encouraging students to recognize the interconnectedness of all STEM fields. 

Dr. Barb Glenn, who helped coordinate the conference’s first-ever workshop on agricultural sciences and serves as the vice president of the Howard County Farm Bureau, similarly placed heavy emphasis on the interplay between seemingly disconnected fields in modern science. Dr. Glenn underscored how modern agriculture integrates innovations like “autonomous tractors, precision applications of crop and animal inputs, and efficient food safety, processing, and distribution,” with cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence and biotechnology, and shared that her primary goal in playing a role with the conference was to raise awareness that “agricultural sciences are a part of STEM!” to inspire students to consider exploring careers in the field.

Besides encouraging students to explore different fields and providing insight into the role of science in the modern day, the conference also offered concrete career opportunities for attendees. Dr. Kavita Hegde, a physician-scientist and researcher at Coppin State University, not only shared insights on her field of study during her workshop “Ophthalmic Research Laboratory: Coppin State University: Towards early diagnosis and treatment of blinding eye diseases,” but also made sure to “inform students about the research opportunities in [her] lab, especially summer internships.” Following in the same vein, Dr. Fan Zhang, a career scientist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology who spoke at the conference about “the significance of metrology” and its real-world applicability to “fields like fentanyl detection and advanced manufacturing,” made sure to highlight the conference’s importance in connecting students to potential career paths. “We live in an era of rapid technological advancement,” Dr. Zhang stated. “These developments bring exciting opportunities, but also uncertainty. Events like this give students a chance to gain insights that can help them make informed career decisions.”

Next year’s conference is already entering its planning stages, and for students looking to get involved, Chudnovsky shares that “applications to join the SiS planning committee for the 2025-26 school year will be out shortly.” Joining the planning committee comes with its own unique set of career-oriented benefits. Dr. Hegde praised the conference’s organizers for making use of an opportunity to develop essential soft skills (teamwork, professional communication, event coordination, etc.) emphasizing that “no matter what areas of study the conference is about, such skills are in demand universally.” 

Year after year, the Science in Society conference continues to be a valuable resource for students, providing a platform to efficiently explore the breadth of career options STEM offers and network directly with professionals. In a time when students are beginning to transition into the period of immense uncertainty that is young adulthood, events like these are critical for students to develop a sense of clarity about where they want to end up and how they plan on getting there. “It is so hard to know what an area of study or work is about until you actually do it,” Dr. Baldwin explained. “The more information you can get about the details of different career paths, the more likely you are going to be able to find what excites you and which path will have meaning for you,” and the Science in Society conference serves as a stepping stone for many students towards just that.

By Connor Hawthorne, Co-Editor-In-Chief

For the first time in School History, the River Hill Quiz Bowl team is headed to nationals! After placing 4th out of 44 teams in their most recent competition, the River Hill Quiz Bowl team qualified for the High School National Quiz Bowl Championship in Atlanta, Georgia on May 23rd. Only one other team in River Hill history qualified but unfortunately was unable to attend. This means that our Quiz Bowl Team will represent the school for the first time ever at the national championship. 

The River Hill Quiz Bowl team has had a spectacular season so far. Team Captain Gannon Smith describes how “this is the most successful year we’ve had as a school which is very exciting” noting that for the “first time, we’re going to get to go to the national tournament.” Of course, this success doesn’t come from nowhere. Every Thursday, the Quiz Bowl team meets to practice, memorize trivia, and hone their strategy.

The Quiz Bowl team participates in competitions of trivia, with teams of 4 members going up against another team in a head-to-head of trivia knowledge.  Questions range from pop culture to classic literature and science. This is where teamwork is essential. Many members of the team focus on one discipline, honing their skills in one of the many subjects that they may have to ask questions for. Alex Michos, a senior on the team explains how “we really try to specialize for different categories.” Alex prepares to take on Science questions, while Gannon focuses mostly on literature. This specialization helps make the team more effective, allowing them to focus on a certain topic. 

Outside of their weekly meetings, many on the Quiz Bowl team practice on their own time, working to master their specific discipline. Gannon explains that he practices “almost every day” practicing questions and studying literature. Alex describes how the team is “good in our individual areas and has great team synergy.” This cooperation and teamwork is what makes the QuizBowl team really effective. 

During their weekly practices, the team also focuses on skills other than rote memorization. Although obviously you need to know the information to be successful as Quizbowl, strategy is just as important. During these practices, Alex explains how they practice skills such as “knowing when to buzz.” He notes that there “are a lot of sub-skills other than just knowing the knowledge.”

The Quiz Bowl team looks forward to heading to nationals, with Gannon noting that “it’ll be very exciting going up against such great competition.” Their team will have to prove their skills, going head to head with the very brightest and best Quiz Bowl teams from across the country. The team has proven that preparation and collaboration are key to success. As the team heads to Atlanta for the High School National Quiz Bowl Championship, River Hill will be proud to have its Quiz Bowl team represent the school on a national stage for the first time ever.

By Rachel Bowers, Staff Writer

At River Hill, dreams become a reality with the Make-A-Wish club. The club helps to give back to the community by raising money through various fundraising events. Make A Wish is an actual nonprofit organization that grants wishes to children with critical illnesses. The organization’s goal is to create life-changing experiences for children who are battling life-threatening illnesses. Club sponsor Ms. Gingrich explains that “in the past, River Hill used to sponsor a kid, but ever since Covid they have been having trouble sponsoring a kid.” 

The club works on numerous different projects to benefit others. Since Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, they have activities planned that correspond with the holiday. Members of the club plan to “write down what they are thankful for on hearts and they are going to get hung up all around the cafeteria,” Ms. Gingrich explains.

As of right now, there are around 25 members in the club, 6 of them officers. The officers work together to make sure that the club runs smoothly and efficiently. Event coordinator, Senior Ghilda Babilah talks about her role in the club saying, “I come up with the different games and activities that we do.” She also remarks that she is “so excited for the Valentine’s Day theme coming up.”

Another major role is the treasurer, which is Senior Olya Abarahms’s job. She explains, “I am in charge of the financial aspect of the club. I also find the best equipment and materials that would benefit us the most.”

An important aspect of the club is advertising, this creates publicity and ensures that more people will know about the club and the Make-A-Wish foundation. Senior Lucy Qian plays a big role in creating more publicity saying, “I’m the secretary of the club, so I help coordinate and guide different people. I am also in charge of the attendance, and run the social media accounts like Instagram.” The other officers for the club include seniors Noelle Goitom, Sunny Wu, and Caitlyn Foot. 

The main goals for the club are to raise funds and awareness for Make-A-Wish children and build a strong connection within the River Hill community. Ghilda Babilah shares that her favorite part about the club is “connecting with a lot of people because we have volunteer opportunities and it’s really exciting seeing other people participate and raising money.” 

Similarly, Olya loves “being able to raise money for other people because it makes me super happy seeing other people happy.” Lucy’s favorite part about the club is “getting to work with all the other officers kinda creating the events and seeing them actually happen and giving other people the opportunity to have service hours and help the children in Make A Wish. Overall, the club is an amazing way to get to know more people and connect with them, while also being able to raise money for children.

By Carolina Alphonso and Vincent Wang, Staff Writers

On January 20th, 2025, President Trump returned to the presidency for his second term. In less than 24 hours, he issued a record number of executive orders, many of which involved the issue of immigration and deportation.

Throughout his campaign, Trump focused heavily on the issue of illegal immigration and deportation.  He promised to deport undocumented civilians back to their country of origin. “This has been like his main thing,” senior Maggie Orlofsky says, “ever since he talked about this ‘wall.’ This isn’t new to us, about him wanting to separate Mexico and America.” Now in office, Trump has already put these orders into action. The Immigration Customs and Enforcement Office (ICE) has been tasked with the deportation of millions of illegal immigrants.  ICE raids have been happening around the country, taking any people without documentation away from their lives and into black trucks. Junior Nova Alamo had commented that “there are already deportations happening in Puerto Rico which is just mind-boggling to me.” 

The raids have been trying to make their way into schools, churches, and even hospitals. 

“This honestly shouldn’t be legal.” Senior Jizelle Williams exclaimed frustratedly. “These are places that shouldn’t be where they should be raiding. Like church is for worship and hospitals are literally for those who are injured or sick. They can’t just be taking people away from there.” These areas were considered ‘sensitive’ and would not permit Homeland Security from entry. After Trump took office, this policy was revoked, allowing ICE to raid these places.

The situation has also spread to those migrating with the complete deletion of the CBP. The CBP (Customs and Border Protection) app was created to help people migrate to the country legally. The process takes time, with some waiting since 2018 to get legal documentation. On January 20th, the app was, according to the CBP website,  “no longer available, and existing appointments have been canceled.” 

Senior Moon Bautista, had spoken with frustration about the shutdown of the app: “They want people to enter the country the ‘legal way,’ but how can people do that if they don’t even have access to resources?”  With the app no longer being able to be used, all migrants who had been scheduled for appointments no longer can enter the country with their appointments being canceled. The years of waiting to be able to obtain legal documentation are no longer a possibility for them. 

The issue of illegal immigration has long been at the forefront of US politics.  Trump threatened to use tariffs and add a trade tax when he started his second term in office since Coulmbia first declined the deportation of illegal immigrants. Tariffs would hurt Columbia as all U.S. exports would have a tax. Some of the goods that could be impacted are coffee and oils. After the pressure of Trump’s threats, the Columbia government agreed on the deportations of Colombian natives as the cost of these tariffs would hurt the economy more. Now let’s look at what the short and long-term effects are. The short-term effect is that the flow of goods moving in and out are not affected because of the agreement. The long-term effect would be the tensions in the relationship between Colombia and the U.S. rising and that could cause problems in the future. Junior Ram Chillakuru states that “hopefully the threat of tariffs on Columbia does not affect us in the long run,” since “it’s better to have peaceful relations throughout countries” rather than having “tensions rise”.

This order has sparked a lot of controversy throughout the nation, with many wondering what exactly he has planned next. It’s safe to say though, that these orders are moving fast and they’re hitting hard.