Senior legacy: Maddie Hines

Lily Johnson, Opinion Editor

May 14, 2026

Q: How have you made The Trail a better program? What was your contribution?

One way that I think that I have made the trail better is educating my peers about Black Culture. Not just my peers, but our community in general. Also representing the trail as Social Media Manager and making us look good as a brand.

Q: What college do you plan on attending, and what will your major studies be?

I plan on attending Bowie State University and majoring in Communications

Q: What is your favorite memory from your years on The Trail staff?

Definitely when we won Distinguish Site and on the cake they misspelled “Distinguished

Q: What are you proudest of in your time with The Trail?

For me, I think winning a superior rating for my podcast. Honestly anytime the trail has won something and we have celebrated something.

Q: What words of wisdom do you have for the upcoming editors and staff?

What you do matters. The stories you write (or say) matters. Also don’t stress yourself. You are a team, act like it. All of you are gonna do great in your positions. I wish y’all well!

Q: Provide a fun or interesting fact/hobby you have.

I love to play volleyball and hanging with friends.

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About the Contributors

Lily Johnson, Opinion Editor

Lily Johnson is a junior at McIntosh High School and is serving her third year on the Trail and is currently serving as the Opinion Editor. During Johnson’s free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors. She loves going on long golf cart rides, watching the sunset and spending time with friends and family. She enjoys listening to music, her favorite genres consisting of punk, rock, and metal. “I think spending time with family is very important so I try to spend as much time with them as I can.”

Betty Jane Plitt, Photo Editor

Betty Jane Plitt is currently a sophomore at McIntosh and is serving her second year on the Trail as photo editor. Plitt often spends her free time hanging out with her friends, doing homework, or getting matcha. She also enjoys crocheting and reading as hobbies. Plitt is also a music enthusiast, tuning in to Laufey, Faye Webster, and Clairo most often. Plitt also enjoys volunteering at places such as the Midwest Food Bank or Royal Animal Refuge. Although when she gets a chance away from her usual activities, Plitt is also part of colorguard in the McIntosh Marching Band. She currently spins both flag and rifle. Plitt took part in the New Voices Student Leaders Institute this past summer, where she learned all about the New Voices bill and started advocating to get it passed in Georgia. She and two other journalists from Georgia are working on contacting legislators to introduce the bill. As a member of the Trail, Plitt hopes to expand her knowledge on writing, on-site journaling and meeting deadlines.