by Staff Writer Matthew VanTryon

I’ve always enjoyed writing, from the time I was a little kid. I recently read a journal I had written in third grade, and one specific entry said, “I HAVE DECIDED TO BE A WRITER!” (yes, in capital letters. Don’t ask why, because I don’t know.) I have also always enjoyed sports. I am what many would consider a “baseball nerd.” Therefore, it seems only logical to pursue a career in sports journalism.

I had the opportunity to interview Nat Newell, a sports editor from the Indianapolis Star. His answers were insights into some of the intricacies of the job.

Newell loved sports growing up, but quickly realized that being a professional athlete wasn’t realistic. After several twists and turns, Newell found himself in the newspaper industry. He used to be a staff writer, and is now an editor. (more…)

by Staff Writer Matthew VanTryon

Thousand Foot Krutch, a Canadian rock group with twelve number one Christian rock hits, is set to release their eighth album in April. I got the opportunity to check out the album, The End Is Where We Begin, and I liked what I heard. I think that others will too.

The album starts out with “The Introduction”. You may be slightly confused when you listen to it, since it isn’t actually a song, but a robotic voice. (more…)

By RTF Staff Writer Matthew VanTryon

He sat in his room with his ear pressed to the door, listening intently for the sound of his parents closing their bedroom door. As he heard the click of their bedroom door signifying his privacy, he eagerly ventured over to his computer. Who cared that it was almost midnight on a school night and that he had final exams the next day? He just wanted his usual pleasure.

As he dove into cyberspace and filled his mind with images that seemed to never end, the minutes slowly ticked away, unbeknownst to the eager teenager. Around three hours later, his head hit the desk as he fell asleep. (more…)

by Staff Writer Matthew VanTryon

The conversation was getting heated, and Tyler was trying to keep his temper in check. However, despite his valiant efforts, “#^%*” came out of his mouth. He immediately hung his head in shame.

“I promised I would stop that.”

As the Chemistry test was being passed down the row, Jessie began to worry. Okay, so maybe worry was an understatement. She was sweating, and profusely at that. (more…)

by Staff Writer Matthew VanTryon

Presents are a big part of Christmas time. So, I thought I’d share about a present I got (although not for Christmas) that had an impact beyond simply another ugly Christmas sweater or socks and underwear. This gift involved what I would truly call a “trip of a lifetime” with my dad.

Everyone has passions in life, certain things that they could talk about or do forever and never get tired of it. For me, one of those passions is watching baseball. Chicago Cubs fan. For those of you who don’t watch baseball, just know the Cubs set the standard for consistent losing. (more…)

by Staff Writer Matthew VanTryon

Last year, I knew what I wanted for Christmas long before December rolled around. I decided that I would teach myself to play the guitar — because I assumed that any guy who could play the guitar and carry a tune would be a shoo-in to gain the attention of only the most attractive females at school… and it seemed like a cool skill to have, as well. (more…)

by Staff Writer Matthew VanTryon

Imagine waking up every morning, parched dry. Yet instead of walking downstairs to the faucet and getting a glass of clean and refreshing water, you walk miles later that day to retrieve muddy and bacteria-filled water. This is the situation that many people find themselves in on a daily basis. This is the situation that Active Water is trying to eliminate.

According to Active:Water’s website, 884 million people lack access to clean drinking water. That’s almost three times the population of the United States! (more…)

By RTF Staff Writer Matthew VanTryon

To say Jared has a full plate this semester is an understatement. He is actively involved in Student Council, plays sports year round, and has a part time job at the grocery store. On top of this, he is constantly volunteering at church and, oh yeah, has a ton of homework too.

This may sound a lot like your own schedule. I know that I can relate.  (more…)