The 1st Semester in Review
Vol. 2, Special Edition
Embedded Files
A Letter from the Editor
A Letter from the Editor
By Emily W
The "year-in-review" is a tradition in journalism in which publications look back at some of their most significant stories of the year. In order to reflect on the great semester SHS and its students have had, the Stuttgart Insider has decided to publish a semester in review. Within this special edition are some of the articles Stuttgart Insider staff are proudest of, with stories from all of the sections in the student newspaper. We look forward to another great semester, and hope that you enjoy!
In This Issue:
School Events
School Events
Drumline Brings Home Trophy
Drumline Brings Home Trophy
By Tadek N
On October 9th, Stuttgart's Legacy Drumline made the major achievement of participating in the Gotham City Band Competition in Fayetteville, North Carolina. They faced off in the finals against the Oak County and Pine Forest High Schools and were able to crush the competition, receiving the first place trophy in the event overall.
The Legacy Drumline have been working non-stop since the beginning of the year, practicing and honing their skills more than ever before to improve their chances in Fayetteville. They meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 3 o’clock to 5:30, practicing their show music and fundamentals. Most of the music is written by the team’s coach, Mr. Everett, along with students and additional coaches. All drumline members learn to play the music by ear.
Despite the massive amounts of challenges when setting up the event, such as raising the money necessary, and coordinating flights to and from the States, the trip itself went off without a hitch. The competition itself was scored by one percussionist based on cleanliness, visuals, presentation, and level of difficulty of the music.
Legacy Drumline did more than just compete while in Fayetteville. They performed at both Agape Ministry, a community driven organization providing care to elderly in need, and Albritton Middle School, a DoDEAschool located in Fort Liberty. The team was also able to have some downtime at a carnival, and an arcade called Main Event.
The trip was a dream of the team’s Coach, Mr. Everett. “[This trip] was a goal of mine that I’ve had for years, and it finally came to pass, but with a lot of hard work and dedication,” he stated. He wants it to be an example to his students that: “Anything you put your mind towards, it can be accomplished.” In the end, making it to the second round of competition was Mr. Everett's proudest moment: “It gave me the motivation and the hope to know that, ok, we stand a chance, and we’re able to do this.”
The competition is something that will be remembered as a major triumph for Legacy Drumline and Stuttgart High School as a whole. It is a remarkable event made possible by the Drumline and its supporters, allowing a once in a lifetime opportunity to many students.
"Ax of Murder" Cast and Crew Kills It
"Ax of Murder" Cast and Crew Kills It
By Julia M
On the evenings of November 1st and 2nd, the Stuttgart High School Drama Club put on a play entitled “Ax of Murder,” written by Pat Cook. This performance was incredibly amusing, engaging, and chilling.
The play follows a troupe of actors under the direction of Bonnie Bagwell (played by Madeline "Raine" Merrill), writer Colin Chambers (played by Charles Sheiffer), and Police Sergeant Mike (played by Jase/GTPL Burkman). When a haunted script appears, the troupe reads it, despite Mr. Chambers’ warnings not to. It is said that the ghost of Jeffery Thatcher, an actor that died years ago, will haunt the troupe until his murderer is revealed. Sergeant Mike appears, claiming that he received an anonymous phone call about a murder, yet no one has been killed. The Sergeant investigates the stage and the script, which predicts everything that happens exactly. It is said that the tech assistant, Midge Sparrow (played by Piper Wilson), would be the first one to die, and only seconds later she falls to the floor, embedded with a hatchet. After a series of crazy, unexplainable events, the troupe becomes very suspicious and nearly everyone starts to believe that the play is haunted. The Sergeant brings in other officers and a seer, who suggests that they read the script to see who murdered Jeffery Thatcher. After some discussion and arguing, Phaedra Parks (played by Angelina Iverson) steps up and confesses to the murder of Thatcher. She is taken away and the writer, policemen, and tech crew reveal that the entire script was a set up to find Thatcher’s killer. No one was actually murdered that night, and the script is not haunted.
Each individual actor and actress put so much emotion into their performances. There were several scenes that made my pulse race. When I heard the gunshot, I jumped nearly a foot out of my seat. When Lucille Beddoes (played by Hayden Jones) screamed, I thought there was an actual murder taking place. People around me screamed as well. During Phaedra Parks’ confession to murdering Jeffery Thatcher, goosebumps appeared on my skin. The emotion she put into her speech and actions swept the auditorium like a wave, taking the entire audience with her. Each word she spoke cut through to the audience. However, my favorite part of the play was when Colin Chambers stumbled to the top of the staircase, delivering the shocking line, “No, I don’t have the gun. Just the bullet.” My favorite element of the performance was how the actors would run through the audience, or ask for a show of hands for how many people thought that the script was haunted or that someone was guilty. At one point, the entire cast ran off stage and through the audience chasing a fellow actress. The audience looked all around to try to find the murder suspect as the troupe chased her.
The play’s setting was unique in certain aspects compared to a fully dressed set; part of the premise of the play was a rehearsal where the cast and crew are deciding which play to perform. The set used props from old plays, and cast members were not dressed in any particular manner. They wore normal day-to-day clothes that reflected their character’s personal style. This enhanced the play by making it seem so much more life-like and real. If they had all been in a certain kind of costume on one specific set, it would have taken away the believability of this haunted play and cursed script. Because the actors wore normal clothes, sat on normal furniture, and used normal props, it seemed like they were actually at a rehearsal-gone-wrong, not performing in front of an audience on closing night. It amplified the spookiness of the play through the typical atmosphere.
My overall reaction to the drama department’s performance is quite simple: it was magnificent. Each time a plot twist occurred, the entire audience gasped and looked at each other in pure disbelief. Every funny line or pun was delivered with such a unique attitude by the actors, and the audience laughed each time. Sometimes they would laugh so hard that the next lines could not be heard. It was by far the best school production I have ever seen, and I am positive that this statement is shared by others.
Images courtesy of Mirabelle K and the Stuttgart High School Theatre.
Local Events
Local Events
Christmas Markets
Christmas Markets
By Tadek N
Germany’s Christmas markets are a timeless tradition, drawing visitors from around the globe to experience their enchanting atmosphere. Among the country’s many holiday treasures, the markets of Esslingen, downtown Stuttgart, and Nuremberg stand out for their unique charm, historical ambiance, and festive offerings.
Esslingen: A Medieval Christmas Dream
Nestled in the picturesque Neckar Valley, Esslingen’s Medieval Christmas Market transports visitors back in time. Set against the backdrop of half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets, this market stands apart with its focus on authenticity. Artisans in period costumes demonstrate traditional crafts like blacksmithing, glassblowing, and candle-making. The market offers more than just goods; it’s an interactive experience with jugglers, fire-breathers, and medieval-style games. For a sip of history, try the mulled wine served in rustic ceramic mugs—an ideal companion to roasted chestnuts and hearty German sausages.
Stuttgart: A Modern Winter Wonderland
Downtown Stuttgart’s Weihnachtsmarkt is one of Germany’s largest and most impressive Christmas markets. Spanning the city center, it features over 300 elaborately decorated stalls, their rooftops adorned with festive scenes and twinkling lights. The market is renowned for its variety, offering everything from handmade ornaments and nutcrackers to gourmet treats like Swabian noodles and chocolate-covered fruit. Families will appreciate attractions like the miniature train and the skating rink, while the giant Christmas tree at Schlossplatz serves as a central gathering point. A visit to this market is not just about shopping; it’s about immersing yourself in the joy of the season.
Nuremberg: The Quintessential Christmas Market
The Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg is the gold standard of Christmas markets, celebrated for its deep-rooted traditions dating back to the 16th century. Held in the historic Hauptmarkt square, it exudes old-world charm with red-and-white striped stalls, the scent of gingerbread, and the famous Nuremberg bratwurst sizzling on grills. The market’s iconic "Christkind," a golden-haired angel, presides over the festivities and opens the event with a poetic prologue. Shoppers can find handcrafted goods, including intricate wooden toys and delicate ornaments, while food lovers indulge in lebkuchen (gingerbread) and glühwein (spiced wine). Its timeless appeal makes Nuremberg a must-visit destination for Christmas enthusiasts.
A Holiday Tradition to Remember
Whether you’re seeking the nostalgic warmth of Esslingen’s medieval streets, the dazzling displays in Stuttgart, or the iconic charm of Nuremberg, these Christmas markets capture the magic of the holiday season. Each offers its own unique take on German holiday traditions, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.
Image courtesy of the Esslinger Stadtmarketing & Tourismus GmbH and Mike Traffic.
Featured Artists
Featured Artists
Sports
Sports
Sports Roundup
Sports Roundup
By Gabby F
Sports of all varieties from all over the world captivate onlookers, inspire young players, and bring people together. Communities are united under their favorite teams, and unexpected friendships and bonds are built through sports. Whether one is a viewer or a player, there is no denying the power of sports and the skill athletes at the top possess. There are several sports currently in season all around the world, with some recapped below.
Local sports like our Bundesliga soccer team's season are in full swing in Stuttgart. VfB Stuttgarts current record is 3-4-3. Stuttgart’s remarkable second-place Bundesliga finish last year landed them a spot in the Champions League, which they haven’t been in since the 2009-2010 season. The team's top scorers this season are Ermedin Demirovic and Deniz Undav, each with five goals so far. Maximilian Mittelstädt leads the team in assists with three. Bayern Munich currently leads the Bundesliga with eight wins, while VfL Bochum sits at the bottom of the ranks with zero wins.
Across the pond in the United States, the NFL season is now over its halfway mark, with 11 of 18 weeks having passed before playoffs start in January. The four-time Super Bowl Champions the Kansas City Chiefs were playing an undefeated season until their loss against the Buffalo Bills this past weekend. This is the third time the Chiefs have been the last undefeated team under Coach Andy Reid, also seen in 2013 and 2017. While they are strong Superbowl contenders, teams such as the Detroit Lions, Buffalo Bills, and the Baltimore Ravens are kept in consideration. The Raven’s quarterback, two-time NFL MVP Lamar Jackson, is having a great season, having thrown 2,876 pass yards and 25 touchdowns, with talks from ESPN of his consideration for MVP once again.
In hockey, the NHL 2024-2025 season started last month with the New Jersey Devils vs. Buffalo Sabres in Prague. The Winnipeg Jets, with fifteen wins, and the New Jersey Devils, with twelve, are the current top NHL teams. According to the NHL, players such as Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid and Colorado Avalanche alternate captain Nathan MacKinnon are the top-ranked players. MacKinnon was last year's Hart Trophy winner, and McDavid finished third. Before the beginning of the NHL season, the cover for NHL 25 was revealed to be the Hughes brothers. Quinn Hughes is the Vancouver Canuck captain, and Luke and Jack Hughes are New Jersey Devils; Jack is their alternate captain. The Hughes brothers have made their mark on the NHL, gathering much media attention when their teams play each other, dubbed the “Hughes Bowl.” It has also been announced that in NHL 25, all six PWHL teams will be available within the game. The PWHL continues to expand, with two new teams coming next season.
With twenty-four races across five continents, Formula One is a remarkable sport. With only three races left, the stakes are high for drivers and teams alike. Though Max Verstappen currently holds the lead for the Drivers Championship, Lando Norris has had an opportunity to steal the title from the three-time winner. If Verstappen finishes ahead of Norris at the upcoming Vegas Grand Prix, he will win the championship. Mclaren currently leads the Constructors Champions, with Ferrari not far behind. With the unexpected news of seven-time Drivers Championship title winner Lewis Hamilton switching from Mercedes to Ferrari, big things are expected from the team in upcoming seasons. Next year's grid will have four confirmed rookies, with one seat for Visa Cash App RB still unconfirmed.
These are just a few of the many sports currently in season. Sports everywhere have huge effects on those who watch them, and each sport has its own story to tell. As the seasons progress for these sports, teams and players will rise and fall, and new memorable moments will be made.
Information courtesy of ESPN. Image of Deniz Undav and Ermedin Demirovic courtesy of Baumann and Stuttgarter Nachrichten.
This article was published on November 22, and more information may have come out by the time of reading.
Politics and World Events
Politics and World Events
Hurricanes Helene and Milton Ravage the Southern U.S.
Hurricanes Helene and Milton Ravage the Southern U.S.
By Gabby F
Between June and November, the Atlantic Hurricane season takes place. On average, two hurricanes make landfall in the US each year. In Florida, three hurricanes have made landfall in this year alone. While the initial hurricane, Debby, caused minor damage, Hurricanes Helene and Milton made unforgettable marks on Florida and its neighboring states.
On September 26th, Category 4 Hurricane Helene ravaged Florida’s Gulf coast, leaving millions of homes destroyed across several states. Just two weeks later, Hurricane Milton entered Florida as a category three storm that destroyed countless homes and businesses. On estimate, in the southern United States, these two hurricanes have caused about $300 billion in damage, and about 250 lives have been lost.
To help with the aftermath of the catastrophic hurricanes, the Biden-Harris Administration has approved $1.8 billion in federal assistance, about $600 million of which goes to helping survivors. The federal assistance includes funds for essential emergency supplies, repairing storm-related damage in homes, and finding temporary housing. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has sent over 4,400 staff, who have worked closely with state and local governments in recovery efforts.
While social media has been used positively to advocate for hurricane safety and to share information on the devastating hurricanes with the world, it has also been used to spread misinformation on the hurricanes. With Election Day on its way, people on both sides of the political spectrum have spread “manipulated media.” Some have even claimed that the government created hurricanes, though this is inaccurate. While weather modification such as cloud seeding has been previously used on a smaller scale, humans cannot control the weather in this way. Hurricanes have been hitting these same places for generations.
Though things will likely not return to normal for a long while, efforts from within affected communities and worldwide are being made to overcome the challenges brought by this hurricane season.
A Letter from the Editor: Discussing Politics After the Election
A Letter from the Editor: Discussing Politics After the Election
By Emily W
The three things you do not talk about in public are religion, politics, and money- not if you’re being polite, anyway. But after a historic event such as the recent election, politics seem to constantly come up. How can anyone avoid such controversial topics? Should you?
Politics tends to bring out the worst in people. People get defensive, and emotional- likely because our political views have been found to be tied to our most basic moral values. In his 2012 book “The Righteous Mind,” professor Jonathon Haidt presents the idea that people place varied amounts of emphasis on certain moral values. He identifies these values as care, fairness, liberty, loyalty, authority and sanctity. He claims that these values shape our mentality on politics and even control our responses to things we hear. What makes us care about politics at all makes it even more difficult to discuss with others; our very morals feel attacked, and are at the same time so ingrained in us that sometimes we cannot begin to understand the other side.
There is no discussing politics without emotions playing their part, whether you’re aware of it or not. But in the coming weeks as well as the rest of your life, you may be outspoken, have a gut reaction, and suddenly feel the need to either boast or complain about current political happenings. From there, rather than a discussion, it often turns into an argument.
I’ll be the first to admit, I have not necessarily practiced what I preach this week. I engaged in an argument, not based on the content of both sides’ arguments, but in one upping and contradicting. If you find yourself in a similar situation, take a breath. You can continue to hold your beliefs and disagree with others, while also remaining respectful. If you find that things are escalating, take the high road; walk away.
Understanding can only be built by productive conversation. Politics are emotional, and messy, but you can try to minimize the drama as you learn more about current events and form your own opinions.
Pop Culture
Pop Culture
Book Recommendations
Book Recommendations
By Presley C
As the summer heat fades away and the leaves begin to turn familiar shades of orange and red, the time to curl up with a good book is quickly approaching. Autumn is the season of cool air and cozy sweaters, and a perfect time to discover your next favorite book.
One of the most iconic novels of all time, "The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger follows the story of a troubled teenager named Holden Caulfield. After being expelled from an all-boys prep school, he navigates the streets of New York City, reflecting on the phoniness of adult society. With its blunt humor and erratic storytelling, "The Catcher in the Rye" is a timeless classic that resonates with multiple generations. If you're in the mood for a thought-provoking and relatable novel, this is a must-read.
“Wuthering Heights" by Emily Brontë is a gothic novel, taking place in the wild Yorkshire moors. This novel follows a complex relationship between two characters, a passionate man named Heathcliff and an aristocratic woman named Catherine. Filled with vivid portrayals of emotion and intricate dynamics between the main characters, it keeps readers hooked. For those seeking a story of love and revenge, "Wuthering Heights" is something to add to your reading list.
"The Secret History" by Donna Tartt is a thriller that will keep you engaged from start to finish. The novel follows a group of classical students at a small liberal arts college in New England, who find themselves involved in a dangerous and deadly mystery. Tartt's attention to detail and hair-raising exposition makes "The Secret History" a good pick for fans of fiction and psychological thrillers.
"Anne of Green Gables" by L.M. Montgomery is a beloved classic that has captured the hearts of readers for generations. It’s set in the 1880s, following the adventures of an orphan girl named Anne while she navigates her way through life in a small Canadian town. With its charming characters and heartwarming story, "Anne of Green Gables" is sure to leave you feeling nostalgic and cozy.
Catcher in the Rye book cover courtesy of https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/j-d-salinger/the-catcher-in-the-rye/9780316769488/?lens=little-brown.
Wuthering Heights book cover courtesy of https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/133031/wuthering-heights-by-bronte-emily/9780141326696.
The Secret History book cover derived from a digital capture (photo/scan) of the book cover, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1966677.
Anne of Green Gables book cover courtesy of https://www.shakespeareandcompany.com/books/anne-of-green-gables-4.
Student Opinion
Student Opinion
Christmas Spirit in November
Christmas Spirit in November
By Presley C
As the weather gets colder and colder, it’s become prime time to transition into the holiday spirit. Although some argue that the Christmas season doesn't officially begin until December, there are many reasons as to why it's a great idea to begin celebrating in November.
One reason to begin getting in the Christmas spirit during November is the music. Christmas songs have been a staple of wintertime ambience for centuries. They have a way of lifting people’s mood and taking their minds off whatever stresses they’re facing. Take "Last Christmas" by the band Wham!. Not only is it an enjoyable holiday song to listen to, but it’s also been a number one hit on and off music charts for decades. There are many other Christmas songs by some of the world’s greatest musicians, such as Paul McCartney, the Ramones, Elton John, etc. Missing out on listening to these tunes simply because they’re holiday hits would be a waste.
In addition, beginning to set the holiday mood in November can help people who struggle with seasonal depression during the winter months. The shorter days and longer nights can make people feel more down than usual, so having something to look forward to, like Christmas, can help brighten people's mood. The decorations and festivities make a cold, dark November a little more cheerful. These festivities also make social events much more exciting. Hot chocolate, heavy blankets, and Christmas cookies are sure to make any event feel cozy.
Lastly, Thanksgiving is a holiday that doesn't have the same purpose or significance as Christmas. Christmas is a time of celebration, giving, and hope, whereas Thanksgiving is a holiday that focuses on a not-so-celebratory historical event. Thus, it makes more sense to start getting into the Christmas spirit instead of waiting for Thanksgiving to pass.
Taking everything into account, there is good reason to get into the Christmas spirit in November instead of waiting for December. Between the music and bright decor, it makes the switch to wintertime much more bearable. If you're looking to start your holiday celebrations early, November is the perfect time to do it!
Page updated
Report abuse