Informative Writing

Netflix Warner Brothers Purchase - Vol.10

As of December 5th, Netflix made an offer to buy Warner Bros (WB.) Their deal would give them ownership of HBO and access to all the movies and TV shows produced by WB. Netflix’s motive in the merger is to add more content for their site and gain Warner Bros television studios. The access to more studios will give the company more opportunities to create Netflix original content. But another part of Warner Bros are their cable channels CNN, HGTV, and TNT, which will not be included in the buyout. These channels will split off and stay under Discovery Global. This possible deal has consumers worried for the movie theater industry. Warner Bros recently announced in August that they plan to release 12 to 14 movies to theaters a year. Being bought by a streaming service could drastically change that. It would take away competition in the entertainment industry, sparking worry of monopoly. This could also affect the job market if theaters aren't bringing in enough money (depending on how many movies other companies release in the upcoming years.) Because of this worry, the co CEOs of Netflix made a point that they aren't just buying the company and making it theirs, but will make efforts to stay in and assimilate to the market. It is said to take about 12 to 18 months for regulatory approval before everything goes through. This could possibly be slowed down though due to letters the Department of Justice received from multiple congress members such as, Reps. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Sam Liccardo, and Rep. Darrell Issa and Sens. Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, Richard Blumenthal, Ayanna Pressley, and Roger Marshall. Their letters spoke about worry of environmental, data privacy, antitrust/monopoly, and streaming price concerns.

By Jasmine Dorval

Midnight Merriment - Vol. 10

Concord is a hot spot around holiday seasons. When the weather gets colder and the various December holidays start to get closer the town likes finding ways to celebrate. There are events like Midnight Merriment, which I have had the joy of going to for the first time this year. Midnight Merriment takes place in downtown Concord on the first Friday of December. Holiday music plays over the speakers and all the shops are open until Midnight. Some shops hand out hot chocolate and cookies to promote their stores. Some markets, like Concord Craft, are there so holiday shopping can be done early. Overall, Midnight Merriment is a very cheery, family friendly, environment and a great Concord tradition.

By Olivia Abrams

Government Shutdown - Vol. 9

A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass sufficient appropriation bills or continuing resolutions to fund federal government operations and agencies. When this happens, non-essential government services are suspended, and many federal employees are furloughed, meaning they are temporarily laid off without pay. Essential services like national security and air traffic control, typically continue to operate. During the Shutdown, many bills were proposed to reopen the government. One of them was the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026. This stopgap measure was introduced in the House to provide temporary funding for the federal government, but it failed to pass due to disagreements over included policy provisions and spending levels. Another was the Defense Appropriations Bill. A standalone bill aimed at funding the Department of Defense and related agencies for the fiscal year. It became a point of contention due to proposed increases in military spending. Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This bill included funding for major social programs and education, but faced opposition from lawmakers seeking to reduce overall spending and modify eligibility requirements for certain benefits. After 43 days, Lawmakers reached a temporary funding deal that restored operations for federal agencies and allowed government employees to return to work. This agreement provided short-term financial resources to keep essential services running while legislators continued negotiations on a more permanent budget solution. The reopening was widely welcomed by the public, signaling a commitment from both parties to resume governmental functions and address the nation's critical issues.

By Faith Parisi

Update on Advisory - Vol. 9

One quarter has passed and everyone has settled into their classes. However the strong feelings about advisory still seem to be present. Instead of having advisory everyday after Period 1 and 2, it’s after Period 5 and 6 and only on Thursdays. In the beginning of the year these changes were not very well liked by the student community because the new schedule was too strict, didn’t allow enough time in the week to get help for work, and on top of everything, everyone got new classes with new teachers. The louder group within the crowd seems to be the seniors who feel as though they shouldn’t need to go to advisory because in previous years it's always been optional. So much so, that a petition has been going throughout all grades to make senior advisory optional again. This petition has gotten over 600 signatures and caught the attention of our school administration. Personally, I hope to see senior advisory optional and I know I'm not the only one.

By Olivia Abrams

Update on Phone Ban - Vol. 8

In the beginning of the school year, there was doubt about how efficient implementing the phone ban would be in the Concord High community, and rightfully so. Phones have been such an integral part of our daily routine, and many were skeptical at how smoothly this law would be followed. Concerns were raised about communication, safety, and there were quite a few students that were upset they wouldn’t be allowed music or recreational use in their free time. As the first quarter of the school year came to a close however, more students and staff have adapted to the new cell phone policy than expected, and it has been observed to be running smoothly, at least for the most part. “My grades are way better this year” one student responds, when asked if the ban had any effect on their productivity. “I actually appreciate it in class, because then I can actually get my work done.” Nearby students voiced their agreement. However, some students expressed that not much has changed, having experienced using or seeing students still use their phones regularly. “Kids have just learned to be more sneakier.” says a group of students.

Some teachers agree. “I think it has been smooth, but it is starting to regress.” A substitute commented. "A lot more phones have been in pockets, rather than bags.” Staff have also voiced that although they have seen a lot less phones, students' attention seems to be shifting to other devices. “Students have found other ways to redirect their attention...everyone is just on their chromebook rather than their phones.” He added. On the upside, productivity and focus has been noticed to increase. "A lot of students, even though they might not admit it, like it. It does give a level of structure that we need.” voices a science teacher. He isn’t the only one that thinks this. Other staff also stated they have seen more sociability, attention, and involvement in class, especially when students have time to themselves.

On the other hand, when asked about how they felt about the ban, some 2nd year students expressed extreme distaste, admitting their grades were getting worse without the ability or wifi to cheat. When asked if they thought the ban had any benefits, they responded mutually with “Nope. Not at all.” Although there were varying experiences and opinions regarding the policy, a lot of people had the same idea in mind, when asked if the ban should continue. Many said the ban had benefits, and should continue to be implemented, just with minor tweaks or increased leniency. “For me, meeting up with people at lunch is hard without my phone. I think it would be a good idea if the policy was restricted to class to class, rather than bell to bell. That way we can have it during passing periods, and lunch.” A student pointed out.

By Zadie Taylor

Halloween Howl - Vol. 8

The Halloween Howl in Concord, NH, is a beloved annual event that transforms downtown into a festive celebration for all ages. Each year, Main Street closes to traffic, and families from all around dress up and trick-or-treat downtown. The event features live entertainment, games, and a variety of food vendors. Local organizations and performers often participate, adding music, dance, and interactive activities that make the evening lively and memorable, and even a trunk or treat down Pleasant street . The Halloween Howl has become a Concord tradition, bringing the community together for safe, family-friendly fun in the heart of the city.

By Olivia Abrams and Faith Parisi

Crimson Closet - Vol. 8

The Crimson Closet is a self-sustaining, student run, and free thrift store. Starting just a few years ago, Ms. Speidel wanted to create a space where anyone who wanted or needed clothes could find them within the school. With many racks filled with pieces such as CHS merch, denim, sweaters, to even prom and homecoming dresses. In a collaboration with Feminism Now, the Crimson Closet has also set up four different locations around the school with pads, tampons, underwear, deodorant, and a change of clothes. For a while, they had a space in the West building, down the hall from the language classrooms, however they have just made a big move into the room next to the senior lounge by Commons A where there is more room for their pieces. Feel free to stop by any time of the day to see what’s around, get some clothes or accessories, or even make a donation!

By Sadie Bengtson

Senior Sunrise - Vol. 7

The senior class government planned a “senior sunrise” for Friday, September 26, 2025. With all the homecoming festivities, the officers and the rest of the government thought this might be a nice event to include in the week, even though the sunrise at the end of the year at the beach is still happening. Bright and early, 6:00am, about 50 seniors arrived at Memorial Field to watch the sunrise. After a cloudy and rainy couple of days, it was surprisingly a very beautiful sunrise with bright pinks, oranges, and yellows. Many people came with signs decorated and made to take pictures with, and the class was able to celebrate the beginning of their final year all together.

By Sadie Bengtson

Homecoming Parade and Tailgate - Vol. 7

Homecoming stands as one of the most anticipated events at Concord High, and this year’s celebration was truly unforgettable. The festivities began with a vibrant parade winding through South Concord, featuring clubs and CRTC classes that transformed trucks and cars into creative, spirited floats. Highlights included the Education and Behavioral Science CRTC’s imaginative Inside Out-themed float and the Social Club’s entry, decked out in bold Tide colors and gear. After the parade, the excitement continued at Memorial Field with a lively tailgating event, where clubs set up fundraising booths to support their activities. Feminism Now offered pomegranate lemonade, symbolizing femininity and empowerment, while the improv club PITCH invited attendees to create their own tie-dye shirts. The Classics Club tempted the crowd with chocolate-covered pretzels, and many other groups contributed to the festive atmosphere with unique offerings.

By Faith Parisi

Homecoming Spirit Week - Vol. 7

In the mood for a little creative freedom with your wardrobe? During spirit week, people were able to dress up every day of the week, with different themes that sparked the creation of some very unique outfits. Monday where you could express whether you were the type to stay in for the night, or out, Tuesday is when students and teachers swapped style- with staff coming in in sweatpants and birks, and students wearing cardigans or dress pants. Wednesday was a heated debate- whether you were more of a Soccer or Football fan, in “Futbol vs. Football”. Thursday was a time for duos to shine, guided with the prompt “Friend or Foe,” and lastly, Friday was time to sport your class color: white for freshman, grey for sophomores, black for juniors, and red for seniors. Did you have fun at spirit week? Let us know!

By Zadie Taylor

Homecoming Dance - Vol. 7

This year’s homecoming dance brought the theme “A Night in Rio” to life. The cafeteria was transformed with palm trees, colorful streamers, and tropical flowers that made it feel like a Brazilian carnival. Students arrived dressed in bright, festive outfits. Upbeat music played throughout the night, filling the dance floor with energy and laughter. Friends formed dance circles and tried out new dance moves, while others cheered as a few were tossed in the air. Outside, the courtyard was strung with twinkling lights and filled with games like cornhole and giant Jenga. Groups gathered around tables to play card games, sharing jokes and friendly competition. The warm night air and tropical decorations added to the festive mood. Snacks and cold drinks were available at a refreshment stand, giving everyone a chance to cool off. The whole night was lively and memorable, bringing students together for a celebration of friendship and school spirit.

By Faith Parisi

Homecoming Pep Rally - Vol. 7

As students file into the gym to get to their bleacher section, some older, some newer, we hear the band being introduced as they start to play and the seniors walked in behind them. Once the seniors sat, all the administration started lip sinking and dancing to Pink Pony Club by Chappell Roan. Once they finished one of our MC’s Oliver started to introduce our fall sports teams. Throughout the sports introductions the MC’s would go to each grade's bleacher to see which is the loudest. For me, the most memorable one was the girls field hockey team’s high school musical dance. At the end of the pep really, each grade got one last chase to be the loudest, and the juniors ended up on top. All CHS pep rallies are fun, but the homecoming one seems to be the most well liked. It’s the first one of the year, it’s followed by the homecoming day festivities, and there are more people in attendance.

By Olivia Abrams

Freshman Orientation - Vol. 6

This year, the staff and student leaders at Concord High raised the bar for incoming freshmen by making the entire week about CHS spirit, creating an orientation focused on school community. Every activity was designed to build pride in being part of Concord High. On Day 1, freshmen toured the school, learned about Concord High’s history and traditions, and set the tone for the days ahead. Day 2 included team-building games that helped students get to know each other and create team chants, encouraging unity and friendly competition. On Day 3, freshmen walked through their class schedules, preparing for Day 4’s Spirit Day as teams finished their chants and joined in CHS pride. Day 4 was the highlight: everyone, including student leaders, dressed in team colors. The day began with a trip to Memorial, featuring a 400-meter relay race with full participation, followed by a game of water balloon capture the flag, both events emphasizing teamwork. Back at the high school, teams competed in a trivia contest about CHS, and the day ended with a talent show, where each group presented a skit, dance, or cheer for a chance to win the top prize. To end the week, everyone celebrated with free Kona Ice. By the end of orientation, every freshman was now part of the Concord High community, ready to start the year with pride.

By Faith Parisi

Club Fair Overview - Vol. 6

On Friday September 5th we had the club fair. The club fair is something the school holds in the beginning of every school year, to showcase the amount of clubs Concord High has. The school does this to encurage students to sign up and be a part of something. Concord High holds over 200 clubs and is very flexible if you want to make one. This club fair was held on main street with a bunch of tables on each side.

By Gabby Provencher

Poetry Out Loud - Vol. 5

Concord High School had a Poetry Out Loud event on Friday February 7 2025, with sponsorship from Gibson’s, Red River, The Common Man and CCTV. Michael Woodward, with the poetry "In Flanders Field" ," was the runner-up, while Anna Leon, with the poem "Invisible Children," was the winner. Both winners received a gift card and a book of poetry. Michael Woodward attended Plymouth State on February 13 for regionals because Anna was unable to compete in the upcoming round. Michael did not advance to the state competition at the NH State House.

By Gabby Provencher

Lunar New Year - Vol. 4

Wednesday, January 29, was the Lunar New Year. Dating back more than four thousand years, it is the start of the lunisolar calendar. To celebrate, families gather together from near and far to usher in the new year and good fortune. The color red is important as it represents prosperity and luck. Many members of western civilization may not know much of the history or traditions behind the celebrations. Getting to know more about other cultures and their histories is more important than just marking a day on a calendar. It's a day of importance. for family, for friends, for community.

By Gabriel Patterson

History of Halloween - Vol. 2

Dating back to 2,000 years in Ireland, before being conquered by the English in 1169, Ireland’s pagan beliefs were widespread. Samhain (pronounced Saa-wn) was the first day of the “darker half of the year” or winter. Around this time, all the crops and the cattle would be brought in from the fields. It was believed that on the last day of October, the boundaries between ours and the spirit world were at its thin nest. It was said that the spirits of people that died that year would move on, and spirits that have already passed on would come to visit. Much like Dia De Los Muertos, food was left out for families' loved ones. Bonfires and lanterns made of turnips (they didn't have pumpkins there) were lit to ward off the evil spirits, while dressing up as spirits was meant not to scare off the dead. Children would go door to door, singing carols and traditional songs, asking for candy. This was called ‘guising’. When the children were pacified with their sugars, they would move on. But refusing to hand out treats was very hazardous. Since the children and actual spirits both looked the same, you wouldn't be able to tell them apart. And refusing a spirits plea would often end up badly. from animals being let loose from their stalls, to a bad year's harvest, spirits were not something to be messed with. As Irish immigrants came to America, they brought with them their pagan practices, which eventually came to call home in the American tradition of Halloween. Isn’t it cool how so many cultures believe that October is when spirits come back? I wonder why?

By Gabriel Patterson

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