Student is politically motivated
Chris Baugh might have a future in politics.
At least he has the knowledge of what's going on in the United States and abroad and certainly isn't afraid to express his opinions.
Chris is interested in pursuing a career in journalism or political science.
Former Columbia County Commissioner Frank Spears thinks the teen will do well in whatever he chooses.
//
"He and I converse about politics," said Spears, who attends Aldersgate United Methodist Church with Chris. "For a guy his age, he's incredible. He's as conservative as they get as far as politics is concerned. He has a command of the facts that just blows me away."
Chris' love of politics transcends just talking about them. He's drawn several political cartoons and has had one published.
"I just came up with an idea, and I drew a cartoon," said Chris, the 14-year-old son of James and Kay Baugh of Evans. "Someone suggested I submit them for publication, and I did."
Chris' love of the English language and putting thoughts on paper has crossed over into writing novels. He is writing his third novel in a series of "at least four. I'm definitely going to write a fourth novel," he said. The unpublished novels, based on Fox's animated science-fiction show Futurama, total more than 150,000 words, and there's no end in sight.
Chris Baugh, a 14-year-old student at Evans High School, is writing his third novel in a series.
Photo by Jim Blaylock
"The novels are based on five college students who go to school in space," said Chris, who maintains that he hasn't determined how far in the future the books are set. "It's past 2030, but that's as much as I'm going to say."
Chris began writing his first novel, It All Started in Chem Class, two years ago after watching the movie Starship Troopers.
"I thought it was a really stupid concept, and I wondered what people watching it years from now would think," he said. "My books are in the sci-fi/comedy/action/drama/mystery category."
Chris admits that although his novels combine children's fiction with adult topics, they are suitable for all ages.
"I don't try to write like any author I read," he said, noting that he's a big fan of Tom Clancy and often reads geo-political books.
It All Started in Starbucks and It All Started in Summer are the titles of Chris' second and third novels, respectively. He's already submitted them to one publishing company but found that the scripts aren't even read unless the author is represented by an agent.
"Agents are leeches that just take your money," he said. "I'm trying to find a way to work around that."
Aside from reading and writing and honing his knowledge of politics, Chris spends time working out with the junior varsity football team at Evans High School and is in the school's concert band. This is Chris' first year on the football team, and Coach Marty Jackson said he's a "critical part of our team."
"We're glad he's on the team," Jackson said. "He's what high school football is all about."
Spears also said he expects to see great things from Chris.
"He's extremely bright and articulate," he said. "This young man is an exception to the exception."