Best Food of All Time 

By: Bryce Hanson

        Food is something we all need in our day to day lives, so in order not to take that for granted we show appreciation to our favorites. Foods  like steak, chicken wings, and salad. Like always though there is a certain criteria to be named the best food of all time. This criteria is: overall taste, how often you can eat it, and how much it cost. This criteria will help me show you what I believe the best food is. 

         First I’ll be talking about the foods with the best overall for my taste bud palette. Now I know that this is an obvious one but in my opinion steak has the longest stretch of being the best food known to man and I would be ashamed of myself if I didn’t at least mention it on this blog. Then a solid pick that is not loved by everyone is salad. I’m not a straight lettuce and ranch salad type of guy but a salad with croutons, bacon cheese and ranch is a day in paradise for me. It’s not a versatile meal but it’s overall taste is too good. The last one with best overall taste in opinion is chicken wings. A very versatile dish that has a taste that just melts in your mouth. Also when it’s duo-ed with ranch or blue cheese, the wings just become something legendary. The overall taste of these foods are all very delectable. 

           Next up is how consistent the food is. Steak will always hold a special place in my mouth, but I don’t think I could eat it every day. So sadly I have to eliminate it from being the best. Then comes salad which is a very consistent dish but like I said earlier it’s not very versatile so it would get old after a while. So another great one falls. Then comes wings which a very tasty dish like steak and way more versatile than salad, with all it’s flavors, so it still stands in the running for the best. 

             Lastly, the cost of these food items has gone up exponentially over the last few years and people can’t afford to eat them very often. So yet another flaw of steak is that it is so expensive for the amount you want. Then comes salad which isn’t to bad depending on the place you get it from but usually it’s cheaper than steak. The comes wings and there was a stretch where wings were outrageous but there price has came down where for you to get your fill it will cost between a salad and a steak. So for the grand reveal the best food on earth in my opinion are chicken wings. I could eat them every night and day and I might dare say I have had them for breakfast.

Turkey Hunting

By: Cooper Scott

Turkey hunting is one of my favorite hobbies. I enjoy doing it with friends and family and it never gets old. Enjoying God’s creation and getting out in nature will never get old, but the turkey hunting aspect is what has me hooked on it. Out of all of the hunting I do, turkey hunting is definitely the most challenging out of all the hunting I do. I have heard if a turkey could smell that you would never kill a turkey because they are already so smart. They can see so well if you ever get one coming to you, you have to be very still or they will see you. Turkey season is during mating season so a Male turkey (gobbler) is very aggressive during turkey, so I like to use turkey decoys. I have been very fortunate the last 8 years tagging out every season year which is killing three turkeys a season. I have never had the adrenaline rush I have then I do before I am about to shoot a turkey. There are three different species of turkeys in the U.S. An Eastern which is in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia that area. A Merriam which is up north the Dakota’s and around there. An Osceola turkey is in Florida. A Rio Grande turkey is in the west and south west, and they are the biggest turkey. I have never traveled to kill a turkey but I look forward to doing that in the future. One thing that is on my bucket list is to do the grand slam. A grand slam is when you kill all of the types of turkeys in one season. Turkey hunting is slowly getting outlawed year by year. The DNR is making rules after rules every year making turkeys harder to kill because the population is slowly dwindling. This year one of my turkey hunting goals is to shoot a turkey on public land, and this is something I have never done before. I have missed twice on public land, but never shot one. The countdown has begun for April 1st.

John Deere Pickup Review

By: Tyler Jordan

John Deere, a name known for high-quality agricultural machinery, is about to make big moves in the automotive world with the upcoming release of its new pickup truck. This bold move is exciting not only for fans of the brand but also for anyone who appreciates modern technology, rugged heavy duty  performance, and a sleek interior and exterior  design in their vehicles. The John Deere pickup promises to offer all of these qualities, combining the brand’s heritage in tough, dependable equipment with a modern vehicle that stands out in today’s competitive pickup market.

One of the most striking features of the new John Deere pickup is its powerful engine options. With a 3.5 liter hybrid making 450 hp and 800 ft pounds of torque and a 4.5 litre inline 6 turbo diesel making 600 hp and 1000 ft pound of torque. With a focus on performance and durability, the truck is built to handle heavy workloads and tough terrain, much like the brand’s signature tractors and farming equipment. This makes it an ideal choice for farmers, ranchers, and anyone who requires a vehicle that can handle the demands. But the truck will have enough power to play around the farm. The truck promises exceptional towing capacity, off-road capabilities, and fuel efficiency, offering a powerhouse designed to get the job done.

Another standout feature of the John Deere pickup is its technology. As we’ve come to expect from John Deere’s agricultural machinery, the truck incorporates advanced tech to enhance the driving experience. Features like adaptive cruise control, a smart info system, and integrated GPS make the vehicle not just a tool for work, but a comfortable and connected ride for everyday use since it will have a built suspension and can get air ride to. 

I’m particularly excited about this new release, as I’ve always been a fan of John Deere’s commitment to quality and innovation. The pickup truck promises to embody the same durability and reliability that the brand has been known for in farming equipment for decades. I appreciate the mechanical and engineering thought behind the truck’s design and the seamless integration of both work-oriented and recreational features. As someone who values performance, reliability, John Deere pickup is something I’m looking forward to. It feels like the perfect fusion of ruggedness and modern luxury, and I can’t wait to see it come out although it’s going to have a hefty price tag of around 60k. But even then, I’m still extremely happy to see John Deere advancing in the automotive world.

Why TikTok shouldn’t be banned 

By: Braelen Lewis

TikTok, the best social media app which is known for its short videos, has become an important part of today’s world. While some have called for its banning, particularly due to concerns over privacy, security, and its potential impact on younger users, there are compelling reasons why TikTok should not be banned. First of all, TikTok has become a significant platform for creativity, providing people with the tools to express themselves in creative  ways. It pushes people to create art, music, dance, and share unique perspectives, fostering creativity in ways that traditional media platforms cannot match. Through its algorithm, TikTok promotes a level playing field where both amateur creators and established stars can gain visibility. This media production allows for diverse voices to be heard, particularly marginalized communities, who might otherwise be overlooked on more conventional platforms. Furthermore, TikTok has fostered an important cultural exchange. Users from different countries and backgrounds interact and learn from each other, creating a shared global experience. Although the official date for the ban is set to be on January 19th the newly elected president has said that he will do everything that he can to save it. This is due to the fact that he believes that the app helped him win the majority vote of young voters due to his large following. I hope that president trump will do what is right and save it from being banned because I do not want to move to instagram reels because on TikTok there is a sense of community that is missing on every other social media app. I will also miss the app due to the streak feature where I have multiple TikTok streams over two hundred with many other people. I also believe that it is not in the government’s interest to ban the app because although they believe that it does all these bad things, if they end up banning it without solid proof the people will be in outrage with large protests and riots to occur. Certainly TikTok does not deserve to be banned because it will ruin many small businesses and hurt many civilians and Jo has used the app for many years.

Will TikTok get Banned

By: Henry Jones

As of January 2025, the question of whether TikTok will get is still uncertain. However, there are multiple factors that could make a difference in the final outcome. To begin, TikTok has faced scrutiny in multiple countries, particularly the United States, due to concerns over its data collection practices and its ties to China. Governments have raised alarms about the possibility of the Chinese government accessing user data, leading to national security concerns. Also, several U.S. states and other countries have already banned TikTok on government-issued devices for security reasons. There have also been discussions in Congress about a potential nationwide ban, however, no sweeping federal ban has been implemented yet, and legal challenges would likely make such a move complex. In TikTok’s defense they have worked to address security concerns by shifting its data storage practices. For example, the company has started storing some U.S. user data in the U.S. and Europe, in an effort to mitigate concerns about Chinese government access. They have aslo made efforts to demonstrate transparency by establishing independent oversight boards and opening up their operations to external audits. These measures aim to show regulators that they are addressing concerns about user privacy and content moderation. 

In terms of how it will effect the users of the app, Banning TikTok would have economic and cultural repercussions, especially for creators, businesses, and advertisers who rely on the platform. It has become a global  force, with millions of active users and a significant influence on entertainment, trends, and social media marketing. In conclusion, the possibility of TikTok being banned is still a subject of debate, it faces significant legal, political, and economic challenges. Whether TikTok gets banned will largely depend on the political climate, national security concerns, and ongoing efforts by the company to address regulatory issues. However, given the app’s massive global influence and user base, it’s also possible that governments might choose to regulate TikTok more heavily rather than implement an outright ban. While a TikTok ban isn’t off the table, it’s also not a certainty in 2025, and the outcome will likely depend on a mix of political, legal, and diplomatic factors. In my opinion, I don’t think it will get banned, but mostly because I want it to stay.

CFB Playoff finale

By: Carson Wilsey

Although this college football season has been crazy and messed up, a national championship is now the only thing left to watch and win.  After falling to Northern Illinois, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish are playing for everything after going on a run but the Buckeyes also look to carry on their incredible playoff run by stopping the Irish. Who will win?

The 12-team playoff also makes it clear that ND deserves to be here. They outplayed the formidable SEC Champions, crushed Indiana, and defeated the Big 10 runner-up. Ohio State also went on an incredible run blowing out Tennessee and Oregon but then keeping it close with Texas until pulling away in the end. That’s only the past three weeks. Having said that, many are looking forward to seeing two very hot teams compete for a national champisonship because this season has been a journey to say the least. 

Is it impossible to beat Ohio State, no not at all shown by their horiffic lost to Michigan. Are they now playing as well as the top team in the country, yes probably so. Winning the turnover battle is Notre Dame’s greatest chance of winning. The Norte Dame secondary will most likely double team and attempt to lock down Jeremiah Smith but also have to shut down two of the best backs in the country with Treyvon and Quinshon Judkins, neither will be an easy task. Ohio State will also have a tough job in stopping the Norte Dame run game alongside another great back in Jeremiah Love. Osu and Norte Dame contain two of the best defenses in the country so everyone is looking forward to a defensive battle. 

Regardless of the outcome, it won’t be their first time, Ohio State is competing for its second championship of the CFP era, while Notre Dame has won 11 national titles, but none since 1988. So who will come out on top will it be Jeremiah Smith along with his amazing freshman season or will Jeremiah Love show why he is truly one of the best running backs in the country.  

Rating the Dogs I Have Known

By: Alexis Dawkins

In my lifetime, I really haven’t lived in more than one place for a long period of time. I have grown up in Sumter, but I bounce between grandparents’ houses and visit my mom or my dads sometimes. This leaves many ways for me to encounter many dogs, seeing that everyone I know has at least one. I have always been a dog person so I am going to rate the dogs my family has or has had.

Starting with my childhood dogs. One set of grandparents had a springer spaniel, Katie, and a dachshund, Polly. Katie was the hunting dog and by far one of the best dogs you would ever meet. She was well trained and was my papa’s best friend so I rate her a 9.7/10. Polly on the other hand was mean, especially towards kids. That may have been my fault because I was not the nicest to her but she was never a really nice dog. As I grew up she liked me more so she was nicer but overall I rate her a 7/10. Both of them have passed now and we have two more dogs, both being yorkies. Sadie is the older one and I picked her out. She is sweet but does not like to be picked up. She wants you to lay on the floor and play with her toys. She is a 9.7/10 also. Zoey is the other yorkie and she is the opposite. She loves people and to be held but does not want to play on the floor. She would rather lay down and sleep. She is also a 9.7/10. 

At my other grandparents house they have a french bulldog, Conan. He is my best friend and sleeps with me every night. He does not like the car or the boat or when it’s hot or when it’s too cold, but he does love everyone he meets. He loves other dogs and going to daycare. He is definitely my favorite at a 9.9/10. 

My dad has three dogs, Willow, Penny, and Ellie. Willow is a boykin spaniel and she is attached to my dads hip but she’s a good dog. Penny and Ellie are both old but sweet. I will rate all of them a 9.5/10. 

I have always been a dog person. So much so that I would choose a dog over a person any day. There are many more dogs that have been in my life but I’ll save them for later.

Why Flying Offers an Exciting and Financially Pleasing Job

By: Wyatt Meyers

For people who enjoy flying, being a pilot may be an exciting and financially rewarding job with many benefits. Flying for commercial airlines, passenger service, or even a private plane is just one of the many chances that come with becoming a pilot. Also being cash pleasing, this work offers a sense of adventure and passion that a lot of other jobs cannot match.

For those without a normal four-year college degree, piloting is one of the highest-paying careers in terms of income. The usual yearly pay for commercial pilots is above $80,000, with experienced pilots making a lot more, according to the statistics. The salary for airline pilots can be much greater; senior pilots at large airlines often earn six figures. Pilots are able to travel the world, live comfortably, and possibly save money for the future because of their financial stability. Also, there will likely be a large number of job openings in the upcoming years due to the projected rise in demand for pilots.

In addition to the financial rewards, being a pilot is a fun and exciting career. Pilots get to experience new places and cultures by traveling to other cities and even nations. Whether it’s flying to a new place, meeting new people, or flying through difficult weather, there is something new every day. It also keeps the work exciting and keeps it from being boring. Piloting offers a lot of personal enjoyment in addition to a sense of responsibility. It’s satisfying to know you’re in charge of a big airplane and making sure your passengers are safe.

In conclusion, anyone searching for a career that combines a sense of adventure and a paycheck may find that piloting is a great fit. It offers competitive benefits, the chance to learn and develop in a job that is always changing, and the thrill of travel. Being a pilot is definitely a career worth considering for people who have a strong love for flying.

Top Mexican Restaurants 

By: Logan Mims

On this week’s blog, I will be ranking Mexican restaurants in Sumter, South Carolina from my favorite to my least favorite. The restaurants I will be ranking are Yucatan, Mariachis, and El Paso. 

Coming in at number 3 is Yucatan. Overall, I personally think Yucatan is the worst by far mainly because of how bad it makes you smell after eating there. The food also is not as good as the others because it’s just not as fresh. I do think that Yucatan had the best salsa out of the 3 restaurants but the queso is the worst. It just doesn’t have as much flavor. Lastly, the food at Yucatan is nowhere near as good as the food at Mariachis and El Paso. Overall I would rate this restaurant a 4/10. 

Coming in at number 2 of my ranking of Mexican restaurants in Sumter is El Paso. A major negative to El Paso is the price. El Paso is extremely expensive for no reason, but El Paso does have really good food and really good cheese dip. El Paso also does not make you smell really bad after eating there. Everytime I go to El Paso I get the ACP and it is rice and grilled chicken with cheese dip on top and it is so good but it’s just so expensive. Overall I would rate this restaurant a 7/10. 

And lastly, number one out of the top 3 Mexican restaurants in Sumter is Mariachis. Not only is Mariachis my favorite Mexican restaurant, I would have to say it is my favorite restaurant overall. I absolutely love Mariachis and since it’s my favorite I will be sharing my top 3 favorite dishes. My number 1 favorite dish is their soft tacos with everything on them,  they are just so good. My number 2 favorite dish is their grilled chicken quesadilla dipped in sour cream, it’s simple but delicious. Mg number 3 favorite item off their menu us their enchiladas with a side of rice. Mariachis also has the best cheese dip out of the 3 restaurants as well. Overall I rate this restaurant a 10/10!!!

Ranking Celsius Flavors- Livefit Edition

By: Anna Kate Coker

CELSIUS ESSENTIALS, Sparkling Sunset ...

3. Fruit Burst

This flavor was extremely underwhelming in comparison to the cosmic vibe, claiming the flavor to also be fruit punch. It tasted like a sugar free version which is terrible because it’s not even sugar free. It tastes like a watered down version of Hawaiian Punch. The only thing it has going for it is that it is bigger so it has a larger caffeine amount. Even with that main factor it doesn’t matter because you would not finish it regardless so the caffeine amount will not affect you. The packaging is ugly so it does not even make up for the lame taste. The pattern is not cute and it just makes me miss the original packaging.

2.Orangesicle

This flavor is alright. It tastes more flavorful than the original orange but a little too sweet. It is a weird flavor to make when they already have Fantasy Vibe and Orange, so are they just running out of ideas? This one is more tolerable so it does come in clutch that the packaging is bigger. Ultimately, I would rather just buy the normal orange flavor with the normal can because that is already enough for me. They could have made the cans more appealing with fruits and designs instead of just the color stripe because it no longer stands out. 

1.Mango Tango

This drink scores number one out of this pack but would not place high at all in comparison to the other celsius flavors. The only reason I genuinely like it is because it reminds me of two other drinks — Monster Mango Loco and Arizona Mucho Mango. I do enjoy a good mango flavor and they did somewhat get it right. I would not put it over the other flavored mango drinks I listed but it also would not be the worst alternative choice if all else failed. The con is that it is easy to get sick of and I feel like the amount that it comes with really is the main factor of this outcome. Overall it is a decent drink but still never a podium one when it comes to the whole variety.