“A lot of people stare. Some people try to lecture me about my ‘nails in my ears’ and try to tell me they won’t close up, while others think they’re sweet,” Anderson said. “But I like them. They fit my personality.

Various Northwest clubs such as the Gay-Straight Alliance, National Art Honors Society, and Coalition set up tables in the mall to raise awareness and donations for their causes. Amnesty International had multiple displays talking about the work they help with, ranging from women’s rights...

Due to the construction at SM Northwest last year, many of the treasured murals have been torn down or painted over. As a result, art teacher David Hunt decided to start a club for students that would like to participate in the “re-beautification” of the school.