The official student newspaper of Walter Johnson High School

The Pitch
The official student newspaper of Walter Johnson High School

The Pitch
The official student newspaper of Walter Johnson High School

The Pitch
All content by Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Former Maryland lawmaker Dan Cox attends a campaign event during his gubernatorial campaign. Cox, a far-right Republican who took very conservative policy positions on the main issues of the race, ultimately performed historically poorly against Democratic candidate Wes Moore.

[Photo] The Republican party has a Maryland problem

January 26, 2023
One of few Southwest airplanes that was able to takeoff during winter break. The company caused many delays, cancellations and overall chaos.

[Photo] Widespread Southwest cancellations disrupt winter break plans

January 17, 2023
WJ alum Tim Kurkjian was enshrined in the Montgomery County Sports Hall of Fame in December.

[Photo] WJ: A year in review

December 21, 2022
Exceeding expectations yet again, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever grosses 180 million dollars less than a month after opening. The film payed tribute to late actor Chadwick Boseman for his immense artistic contributions to the film industry.

[Photo] “Wakanda Forever” themes resonate with audience after passing of Chadwick Boseman

December 15, 2022
Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery writer, director and producer Rian Johnson attends a red carpet movie premiere. Johnson was contracted to create a second and third film in the mystery franchise after Netflix purchased the rights to the series in 2021.

[Photo] Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery review

December 14, 2022
Keeping up with the Kardashians has garnered record-breaking viewership. However, many have been embarrassed to admit they enjoy it because of the catty drama and controversy constantly surrounding the Kardashians. Because of this, the reality TV show is considered a guilty pleasure.

[Photo] Guilty pleasures: Indulge in that trashy TV show

December 5, 2022
MCPS recently announced that it will hold scheduled gun education assemblies in all high schools through the fall of 2022. This is in partnership with the Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office and the Montgomery County Police Department.

[Photo] WJ to hold gun education assembly

September 20, 2022
Former US Secretary of Labor Tom Perez is one of many candidates running for the Democratic nomination for governor in Maryland. The Maryland Democratic primary on July 19 will decide the outcome of many elections given the strength of the Democratic party in the state of Maryland.

[Photo] State, local candidates prepare for July primaries

June 16, 2022
The sign outside Robb Elementary, the site of the devastating shooting that took place on May 24.

[Photo] What really happened at the Uvalde shooting

June 16, 2022
At one point, there were almost 13 million Ukrainians that were displaced because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In this photo, refugees are crossing the border to Poland. Many refugees want to go back to their home country and get their ordinary lives again.

[Photo] War in Ukraine presists

June 16, 2022
FedEx field has been in the spotlight this recent season with many malfunctions within the stadium. The Commanders hope to step away from these negative connotations with a new stadium.

[Photo] Commanders purchase land in part of campaign for new stadium

June 15, 2022
The number of mass shooting deaths annually, a demonstration of how shooting rates have only become worse in recent years

[Photo] We’re numb to school shootings: America’s deadly fetishization of gun culture

June 13, 2022
There are many different languages in the world that students may know and schools only over a small sample of these.

[Photo] How students are learning languages that schools don’t offer

May 11, 2022
The Nationals celebrate their 2019 World Series Championship. Since then, they havent made the playoffs and havent had a season over .500.

[Photo] Reactions to the first month of the MLB season

May 11, 2022
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[Photo] Do you agree with the leaked SCOTUS decision concerning Roe V. Wade?

May 4, 2022
Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski draws up a play for his team during a timeout. Duke went on to win 61-58 against Virginia.

[Photo] Recap of March Madness

April 22, 2022
The Tidal Basin brings many people from all over to experience the beauty of Cherry Blossoms.

[Photo] Cherry Blossom activities taking place around Washington D.C.

April 5, 2022
Prom, an exciting event for graduating students all over the country is at risk of not happening for the unlucky WJ senior class.

[Photo] Prom gets cancelled due to large senior class

April 1, 2022
Joel Embiid shoots a free throw against the Washington Wizards. He went on to score 35 points in the 76ers loss.

[Photo] NBA MVP race remains a tight battle

March 7, 2022
Cooper Kupp celebrates with his teammates after a big play. Kupp went on to have 5 catches for 66 yards as the Los Angeles Rams beat Washington Football Team 30-10

[Photo] How Cooper Kupp overcame the odds to become the best wide receiver in the NFL

March 3, 2022
Kristaps Porzingis attempts a floater versus the Washington Wizards. Porzingis was traded to the Wizards at the deadline with the Wizards hoping to give Bradley Beal a star counterpart.

[Photo] Recapping an eventful NBA trade deadline

February 23, 2022
Pro-Russian separatist forces take control of the eastern Ukrainian city Luhansk. The separatist are reportedly being backed by the Russian military.

[Photo] Ukraine v. Russia: What WJ students would do if they were the President

February 17, 2022
Map of Russian occupied territories within Ukrainian borders, specifically the eastern section, to the right of the map, has been fought for decades.

[Photo] The air remains tense between Russia and Ukraine

February 14, 2022
The 2021 NFL playoffs are set. The only thing left to do is to crown the Super Bowl champions.

[Photo] NFL Playoff Preview

January 15, 2022
The thick layers of chocolate topped with mouthwatering candy canes is simply irresistible. Especially around the holidays, there is simply no better dessert.

[Photo] Can the holidays be enjoyed vegan?

December 21, 2021
Pictured here is a zygote, two haploids fused together to make a new individual being. This is the creation of life.

[Photo] Examining Roe from a biological perspective

December 17, 2021
Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak join forces for the release of their album, An Evening with Silk Sonic. Many fans are excited for the start of the accompanying tour to promote the album in 2022.

[Photo] Silk Sonic releases their debut album, “An Evening with Silk Sonic”

December 13, 2021
Whether it is a computer, cell phone, or tablet, students utilize multiple devices everyday to communicate with friends all around the world.

[Photo] Into the exclusively virtual relationships of students

December 7, 2021
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[Photo] Latin Honor Society attracts interest to a dead language

December 3, 2021
Kyler Murray has played like a stud so far in the 2021 NFL season. His play, combined with a re-tooled defense, has led the Cardinals to the best record in the league.

[Photo]

Travis Scott has had many previous concerts before but none had caused damage like this one. Many speculate that his performing career will take a detrimental hit.

[Photo] Travis Scott’s chaotic concert ends in deadly tragedy

November 12, 2021
Five anonymous game-runners stand over the two buttons that players press to determine if they want to keep playing The Game. Players must play The Game until the end unless the majority press the green button to agree to finish it.

[Photo]

Lil Nas X gets ready backstage at the 2019 MTV Music Video Awards. Lil Nas X blew up following the success of Old Town Road, a song that combined elements of country and rap to create a hit with cross genre appeal.

[Photo] How Lil Nas X uses controversy to sell albums

October 15, 2021
Many WJ seniors will be attending the University of Maryland in the Fall and will be impacted heavily by the vaccine requirements.

[Photo] MD university system requiring covid vaccinations

June 15, 2021
After having the all virtual draft in 2020, the NFL went back to a pretty normal draft atmosphere in 2021. The 49ers made a splash by selecting Trey Lance with the 3rd pick.

[Photo] 2021 NFL Draft Recap

June 1, 2021
Demi Lovato recently released a new documentary recounting the events that contributed to their overdose. The four part series can be viewed on the pop singers Youtube channel.

[Photo] Demi Lovato astounds in new documentary series, “Dancing with the Devil”

May 25, 2021
Steph Curry is having a historic season scoring the basketball for the Warriors. He continues to put a team with minimal talent on his back as he looks for his 3rd career MVP award.

[Photo] NBA MVP race heats up with playoffs looming

June 1, 2021
Washington Nationals shortstop Trae Turner rounds first base. The Nats are among the teams hoping to rebound from a rough 2020 season. Opening Day for the new season is April 1.

[Photo] MLB preview: a report on all 30 teams

April 16, 2021
Now with vaccinations becoming easier to receive, many teachers have found it easier to become vaccinated before returning to school.

[Photo] Teachers work to get vaccinated in preparation for return to school

April 12, 2021
The new Netlix film The Dig follows the archeological efforts to uncover the Anglo Saxon burial mounds at Sutton Hoo. Pictured is one of the most significant discoveries of the site, an Anglo Saxon Kings helmet.

[Photo] The Dig takes a few too many creative liberties with history

April 19, 2021
Minari stars Steven Yeun alongside Han Ye-ri, Youn Yuh-jung and Alan S. Kim. The flim is nomminated for six academy awards this year.

[Photo] “Minari’ captures life through immigrant’s eyes, telling the story of a family building their American dream

March 29, 2021
Passengers at Washington Dulles International Airport lining up at the check-in area for their flights. As national vaccination efforts have progressed and travel restrictions have been eased, high levels of travel are expected this spring.

[Photo] Top packing tips for a tremendous vacation

March 19, 2021
The Netflix musical comedy series Julie and the Phantoms covers deep topics of grief and loss while also providing a much needed break to audiences.

[Photo] Julie and the Phantoms: a ‘Bright’ spot in a difficult time

March 8, 2021
Black History Month is an annual observance that occurs during the month of February. The month serves as a way to acknowledge and celebrate Black achievements.

[Photo] Is Black history month enough?

March 2, 2021
Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers stand ready to face off against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV. Students predict that Brady and the Bucs will take home the win due to Brady’s history as a record breaking quarterback.

[Photo] Who will win Super Bowl 55?

February 3, 2021
Many low-income women struggle when they menstruate because they do not have the resources to purchase sanitary products. By installing sanitary and products in MCPS bathrooms, many female students will be able to gain access to this necessity.

[Photo] MCPS installs sanitary products in all middle and high school bathrooms

January 22, 2021
Zendaya at the Spider-Man: Homecoming premiere (2019). Zendaya stars as Rue in Euphoria, and historically won an Emmy for her performance in the show.

[Photo] Euphoria surprises viewers with a heart-wrenching special episode

January 15, 2021
LeBron James and Bradley Beal go head to head in a regular season matchup. This matchup will be watched closely this upcoming year with the addition of Russell Westbrook to the Wizards

[Photo] Is the NBA’s quick offseason giving advantages?

January 13, 2021
Taylor Swift released her ninth studio album, Evermore, on December 11, 2020.

[Photo] Taylor Swift’s second surprise album doesn’t disappoint

January 12, 2021
Eight-time All-Star James Harden has requested a trade, naming the Nets, Bucks, Heat, and 76ers as preferred destinations. However, teams should be cautious of him due to his record of selfish play.

[Photo] NBA teams shouldn’t trade for Harden

January 12, 2021
Supporters of President Trump and the far-right stormed the U.S. Capitol building Wednesday in a final bid to overturn the results of the election.

[Photo] WJ community reacts to political unrest in Capitol

January 7, 2021
Another famous athlete with quite a few superstitions is Tennis star Serena Williams. Some of her pre-game rituals include bringing her shower sandals to the court and tying her shoelaces in a specific way.

[Photo] Superstitions in sports: How athletes from all levels find success through rituals

January 5, 2021
John Wall looks to recover strong from his Achilles injury as the newest member of the Houston Rockets.

[Photo] Fan reaction to John Wall being traded

January 5, 2021
Many arts centers such as the Kennedy Center in DC have been forced to rethink their programs. One new innovation is the Digital stage where you can watch performances from the comfort of their home.

[Photo] Arts struggle to survive the transition to virtual performances

January 5, 2021
The most recognizable athlete to ever come out of Montgomery County celebrates on the podium after winning a gold medal. Katie Ledecky won four gold medals in the games.

[Photo] Best professional athletes to come from around moco

December 21, 2020
WJ students trie to relieve themselves of the stress filled year of 2020 with something normal of celebrating Thanksgiving.

[Photo] How WJ students celebrated Thanksgiving

December 21, 2020
Alex Smith watches on during pregame warm-ups as he unknowingly prepares for what will be his first game with playing time since his leg injury in 2018. He has since then led Washington to a 5-7 record and second place spot in the division.

[Photo] Dissapoinment of the NFC East

December 15, 2020
After missing out on March Madness in 2020, this season all eyes will be on college basketball by March. There are many teams that could take home the championship this season.

[Photo] College Basketball Preview

December 18, 2020
Ohio State clashes with their bitter rival Michigan. The last time Michigan beat Ohio State was 2011, the Wolverines are looking for revenge this year.

[Photo] Big 10 football preview

December 8, 2020
After the success of Stranger Things, many were eager to see what Millie Bobby Brown would do next. Netflixs Enola Holmes gives Brown an opportunity to shine like never before.

[Photo] Enola Holmes is a pleasant surprise

October 29, 2020
Celtics forward Jayson Tatum takes the ball down the court. Tatum looks to lead the Boston to their first NBA championship win since 2008.

[Photo] The NBA’s Response to COVID-19

October 6, 2020
Harry Potter author JK Rowling has faced allegations of transphobia following controversial tweets and the release of her new book, which features a male serial killer who kills in drag.

[Photo] What’s Going on in the World (Besides COVID-19) VI

September 30, 2020
Increasing amounts of protestors gather outside of state capitals protesting the lock down orders

[Photo] Protesting is not the safest option right now

May 10, 2020
While fans across the country will miss out on watching their team compete for an NCAA tournament championship, it can be enjoyable to go back and watch some classic March Madness affairs.

[Photo] Sports to re-watch during quarantine

April 17, 2020
New social distancing guidelines pose new challenges in everyones lives. Its important to consider how to maintain as much normal as possible.

[Photo] The need for a routine while social distancing

April 4, 2020
The recent tragic bus crashes have forced MoCo to pass reforms attempting to ensure safety at bus stops all across the county.

[Photo] Protect our children: MOCO bus stop reform

April 4, 2020
A young girl participates in an Easter egg hunt. Easter is one of the many upcoming holidays that WJ sudents will be celebrating.

[Photo] WJ students prepare for upcoming holiday celebrations

March 10, 2020
With the playoffs fast approaching, MVP candidate Giannis Antetokounmpo has the Bucks in impeccable shape. Other top contenders in the league are hoping to keep up pace and take the title in June.

[Photo] Things to notice and look out for as the NBA season winds down

March 6, 2020
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[Photo] Superbowl halftime show: offensive or empowering?

February 26, 2020
Members of the 139th Airlift Wing, Missouri Air National Guard, pose for a photo with Patrick Mahomes, quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs football team, at the Chief’s training camp in St. Joseph, Mo., Aug. 14, 2018. The Chiefs hosted a military appreciation day on their final day of training. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Michael Crane)

[Photo] Super Bowl 54 is an instant classic

February 25, 2020
Commissioner Rob Manfred has been criticized harshly across the MLB and the wider sports world for not coming down on the Astros harder. On February 18, Lebron James tweeted, Listen I know I don’t play baseball but I am in Sports and I know if someone cheated me out of winning the title and I found out about it I would be [expletive] irate!”

[Photo] Astros cheating scandal headlines MLB offseason

February 20, 2020
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[Photo] Patriots dynasty is not over

February 25, 2020
Senator Bernie Sanders was unable to come away with a victory in Iowa in 2016, narrowly losing to eventual nominee Hillary Clinton, and came up just short in 2020 as well. While results are still technically up in the air, the Democratic Party has gone ahead and awarded Pete Buttigieg the most delegates from the caucus.

[Photo] Iowa caucuses lead to concerns, not clarity

February 11, 2020
Ovechkin recently surged into the goal leader in the NHL with his hat trick vs. the Los Angeles Kings. He is quickly approaching the 700 goal mark, and continues to move up the scoring list.

[Photo] NHL teams look to come out of All Star break strong

February 7, 2020
The Caps have rebounded after a Stanley Cup hangover in the previous season in a big way.

[Photo] Caps leading President’s Trophy going into All Star Weekend

January 28, 2020
WJ students had mixed reactions to the graduation location being moved to the UMBC event center. Some think it will be better than the Xfinity Center, as parking wont be as big of an issue, while others think it wont be as nice as Xfinity.

[Photo] WJ News Updates

January 28, 2020
Redskins fans were thrilled to see Bruce Allen finally out of Washington, but many question why it took so long. Owner Dan Snyder must be sure not to make the same mistake he did with Allen again, and hire a more football-minded general manager.

[Photo] Redskins changes hint at future success

January 22, 2020
Into the woods article

[Photo] WJ S*T*A*G*E* prepares to go “Into the Woods”

January 22, 2020
Penn Badgley at the 2010 Toronto International Film Festival.

[Photo] Netflix’s YOU returns for a second season (Spoilers ahead!!)

January 19, 2020
This is the second MCPS teacher to be charged with criminal offenses in recent months.

[Photo] Magruder teacher convicted on multiple sex offenses

December 18, 2019
The flu shot is so important that even the former President of the United States gets one. The best way to prevent the flu is the shot.

[Photo] Flu season is in full swing

December 11, 2019
Women in the Solomon Islands march in parade for 16 days of activism against gender based violence.

[Photo] 16 days of activism against gender-based aggression

December 6, 2019
Students are largely split on which college application platform they prefer, but most had to use both in their set of applications.

[Photo] Coalition V.S. Common App

December 5, 2019
In a back to back appearance at the World Series in 1925, the Washington Senators home field of Griffith Stadium is filled with fans. In 2019, a similar spectacle could be found at Nationals Park when hoards of fans crowded the stadium to witness the first World Series in Washington since 1933.

[Photo] Oh Walter J, how would your world compare to today?

December 7, 2019
Actor Timothee Chalamet at the 2018 Toronto Film Festival.

[Photo] The King movie review

December 3, 2019
The Thanksgiving race is an annual classic, and WJ students should get out and participate in any way they can!

[Photo] Turkey Chase Preview

November 27, 2019
Montgomery County will continue to provide free vaccination services until all of the remaining students receive their requirements.

[Photo] Students worried by lack of vaccination requirements

November 3, 2019
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