The Express - December Issue by The Express

the express

OUR MODERN RELIGIONS At a school with religious diversity, students explain its effect on their everyday lives. PAGE 14

VOLUME 28 • ISSUE 2 • BLUE VALLEY NORTHWEST

CONTENTS | 12.10.20

A&E

THE EXPRESS STAFF Editor-in-Chief .......................................Emma Johnson Executive Editor...............................................Bella Rinne

THRIFT + SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES

OUI LOVE THESE CREPÊS!

There is an ethical shopping movement in the BVNW community.

The Express explores three crêpe restaurants to determine the best one in Kansas City.

Assistant Executive Editor....................Tessa Regan Print Editor..........................................................Izze Lentfer Online Editor.......................................Maggie McCready Design Editor.......................................................Erin Reece Graphics Editor.......................................Courtney Krebs Social Media Editor..................................Lola Shipman Managing Photo Editor............................Rachel Sarff Quality Photo Editor.................................Mitri Krishna Co-Sports Editors.......Jonny Isaacson & Jack Nitz News Editor.....................................................Megan Yates National Editor.............................................Jack Bensing Chief Writer..................................................Maddie Oliver Writers Anna Bailey • Elizabeth Caine • Kathryn Case • Katelyn Gau • Rachel Hostetler • Reagan Kauth

HOLIDAY RECIPE HOW-TO

Reagan King • Abbie Kratofil • Liz LaHood • Matthew Lemke • Lizzie Lively • Emily Moser • Julia Moser Mauri Peterson • Raabia Qureshi Photographers Savannah Bridges • Amanda Carvalho • Grace Davis • Lauren Kline • Jenna Soltwedel Design Sophie Dellett • Emma Gau • Alyssa Peterson • Sabrina San Agustin Adviser Jim McCrossen

Assistant Adviser Amanda Ford

As the holidays commence, several teachers share their favorite holiday recipes and the significance of the food. Above is a dessert Jamie Finical bakes each year: “Ethel’s Sugar Cookies.”

CONTENTS

EDITORIAL: Stay safe this win

12.10.20 | CONTENTS

FEATURES

COVER: OUR MODERN RELIGION Seven BVNW students describe their religious identity and its influence on their lives in relation to Gen Z culture. Photo illustration includes seniors Vedha Penmetcha and Nick Schemmel.

THE MEANING OF MASCULINITY

COMMITTED: COLLEGE RECRUITMENT IN THE MIDST OF COVID

2020 RECAP

Junior Braden Bartalos said he likes to wear a skirt as a way to express himself.

Thirteen seniors committed to play a sport at the collegiate level even with COVID-19 restrictions. Senior Jack Chapman will play basketball at UMKC.

A recap of everything that happened in the last 11 months.

nter break

OPINIONS: Covering the R-word + more

HIGHLIGHTS 30 HUSKY Looking back on first semester

EDITORIAL | 12.10.20

STAY SAFE THIS WINTER BREAK

e know the year of the virus has been

anything but normal. But eight months on and off of quarantine, required mask use in public and high school from home still isn’t enough to curb the numbers; Nov. 23 marked an all-time high of 7,301 cases in one day in Kansas, bringing the state total to more than 166,000 cases. Are we, the BVNW community, really doing everything we can to reduce the spread of COVID? As we near the end of the semester and have another opportunity to travel, we want to remind you that if we want any sense of normalcy next year, now is the time to change. Restrictions in Kansas began to lift this fall, allowing for more freedom with social gatherings like contact sports and in-person school. Although it was nice to have a sense of familiarity within our communities again, it wasn’t time yet. Numbers of new cases and deaths soared, with more cases in Kansas in November than March-June combined. In less than two months, we ended up in an all-virtual classes again. Is a few weeks of football and FOCO really worth sacrificing our quality of education? The millions of people affected by the virus and thousands dead? We need to take this more seriously. That being said, we are not the only ones who need to be held accountable. Despite the rising number of cases, our parents still protested to “Let Them Play,” prompting Kansas officials to give the go-ahead for fall sports and activities while it wasn’t safe. The adults we trust the most pushed the narrative that our high school years should not be wasted and maximized any opportunity to get a "normal" high school experience. They claim the youth is not at risk. Although young people are statistically the least likely to be

affected from COVID-19, we are the ones spreading it to those at risk. According to the CDC, the highest percent positivity was among persons aged 18–24 years (14%), followed by those aged 0–17 years (11%). It is more important now than ever to maintain the guidelines the media has ingrained in America: stay six feet apart, wear a mask and wash your hands. As winter break approaches, we have a choice: either continue to treat the virus as a second thought, or we take action now. We may be conditioned to believe our loved ones cannot give us the virus, but realizing that we are ultimately protecting them only brings us closer to flattening the curve. Before you visit your grandparents for the holidays, consider making other plans, such as hosting a virtual gathering or delaying your travel. It is disappointing, but you can see them next year. The families mourning their loved ones because of COVID-19 can’t do that. It’s easy to feel the virus fatigue, believing that these precautions aren’t worth it because we don’t face the consequences ourselves. But this isn’t about us; it’s about a collective effort to support our community. Because we are not prioritized for the vaccine, we may have to wait months before we have the vaccine, although coming out in the next few weeks, will not be available to the general public for a while. We still need to hold ourselves accountable. Members of The Express staff are not perfect, and we don’t expect anyone else to be, either. There is still work on our end to ensure we make the best decisions for the betterment of our school and community. However, we want to encourage growth from our past and advocate for our health rather than our selfish desires. Stay home this winter break: refrain from fake dances and traveling. The world will thank you.

12.10.20 | OPINION

A LETTER FROM A

FORMER INTERNALIZED MISOGYNIST Written by Emma Johnson

remember running around the playground with one of my guy friends in elementary school when he told me I’m “not like other girls.” After that day, I wore that statement like a badge of pride. I was more than some basic girl; I was one of the boys. It wouldn’t be until years later that I’d realize a compliment stripping me from my gender is not a compliment, it’s internalized misogyny. Comparatively, misogyny is a glaring prejudice against women whereas internalized misogyny is a subconscious projection of sexism against women that people often don’t realize exists within them. Growing up in a society that values masculinity over femininity made me want to be perceived as boyish. I believed that girls were shallow for being interested in fashion and makeup. For a portion of my childhood, I actively tried to avoid activities that were perceived as feminine in an effort to not be seen as superficial. Today, I unapologetically love fashion but every time I dress up someone asks if I am dressing for some guy to notice me. It’s defeating; why can’t I style myself because I find joy in it? It implies that I exist to please the male gaze rather than live for myself. The truth is internalized misogyny manifests itself in how children are raised. When I was younger I was told when a boy is mean to me, it means he likes me. That type of rhetoric is extremely harmful to young girls, even if he does like me he has no place to make me feel uncomfortable or hurt

me. This situation should be a place to teach boys respect, but it often turns into a lesson for girls to accept behavior like this. When girls grow up believing a boy’s disrespect is how he shows love, it’s no wonder women stay in relationships that are mentally and emotionally abusive. In fact, one in four women will experience severe physical violence from a partner, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. As I look toward the future I am often discouraged by the way internalized misogyny exists in the workplace. The Equal Pay Act was signed into law in 1963, however the average woman will earn 81 percent of what their male counterpart makes, according to the US Census Bureau. If the pay gap continues to close at this rate, equal pay will not be obtained for another 257 years according to the World Economic Forum. I hope to work in Washington D.C. someday despite the fact I see the horrible way women in politics are talked about. Men in government positions are seen as powerful and assertive, where women who possess those same traits are called bossy and a few other choice words I can’t mention in the school newspaper. Personally, I will never forget when I was 10 years old and told my boy cousin that I was going to be president of the United States one day. He looked at me and said “you can’t be president because you’re a girl.” I felt so defeated as my biggest dream was just invalidated because I was born with two x chromosomes. Unfortunately there is a shameful amount of truth in my cousin’s statement. In our 244 years as a nation a woman has never been president and today women only make up 24 percent

of congress and 26 percent of the Senate. The fact that women make up half the population but are unwilling to vote women into office proves internalized misogyny exists within women. No, a woman is not qualified to be a leader because of her gender, but so often her gender is used as a weapon against her. Internalized misogyny is not in any way harmless; it leads to bigger issues like the gender pay gap and domestic abuse. It’s frustrating because I often find the only way I can start to get men to care about gender inequality is by bringing their sister, mother, wife in it. Women shouldn’t only matter to you because they are someone’s sister, mother or wife but because they are a human being. Not caring about gender equality once you understand your place in it makes you the oppressor. Women have so much to offer this world and it is entirely unacceptable that we allow them to believe or achieve any less.

For a portion of my childhood, I actively tried to avoid activities that were perceived as feminine in an effort to not be seen as superficial.

OPINON | 12.10.20

FROM WORST

TO FIRST Written by Jonny Isaacson

hile most people were unable to attend games this year, it’s hard to imagine they haven’t seen the football team’s big scores. What they weren’t able to see was the amount of work that was put into reviving a program, which had only won four games total in the last three years. If you strictly looked at the numbers, you would think the Huskies success might carry over for just a couple years. However, this season’s impact will turn BVNW football into a perennial state contender. The Huskies played a total of seven games this season, scoring 40 or more points in four of them. This was only done once in their nine-game season last year. They also held their opponents under 20 points four times this season, something they had not done a single time since 2017. A key piece in the Huskies’ success is junior quarterback Mikey Pauley, who got all district first team honors and will be one of the league’s best again

next year while he plans to lead the Huskies to a state championship. Pauley, who broke BVNW’s record for passing touchdowns and passing yards in a career, is likely to break more records during his senior season, as well. With Pauley under center, it's difficult to imagine the Huskies anywhere except the state championship, but he was just one of nine players to make an All-Blue Valley team for the offense. Another big reason for the one season turnaround was the defense. After hiring new defensive coordinator Kollin Ahern, nobody knew what to expect out of the Husky defense. After his first half of football, it was clear Ahern was the right choice after shutting out the Blue Valley Tigers in the first half of the season opener. After finishing a season that saw the Huskies defense be rejuvenated, nine out of 11 starters were named to an All-Blue Valley team. With only four out of the 18 players named to an All-Blue Valley team being seniors, the Huskies are expected to

return 14 important pieces to their roster. With so many key pieces returning, head coach Clint Rider said he was confident that they are going to shock people and make a run for state next year. “I think the sky's the limit, we should be thinking we can win every game that we play,” Rider said. “The expectation now is to make a serious run next year, I think we have the guys to do it, we have guys who are hungry and ready and we’re going to be loaded.” While all eyes are focusing on next year’s season, I am confident that the accomplishments made this year will continue on as long as Rider is at the helm. He has built a culture within Northwest football that will last; a culture that is dedicated to getting better and winning.

The BVNW varsity football team won their first playoff game in 11 years, defeating Shawnee Mission East 42-14 on Oct. 29. (Photo by Lola Shipman.)

12.10.20 | OPINION

THE SIMPLE

REMOVAL Written by Mauri Peterson

etard! You laugh with your friends in the hallways or at your lunch table when the r-word is said. Many of us may hear the word being said at weekend hangouts or just as a joke when one of your friends does something funny. People may toss around the word, using it as a “funny joke” on a normal basis, but the definition holds a meaning way deeper than a joke in the hallways. Step back and take a look through someone else’s point of view. Think about anyone with an intellectual disability, maybe even one of the 27 students in room 102. If someone with an intellectual disability heard this slur do you ever wonder what they would think? Probably not, but you definitely should. Put yourself in someone else's shoes for once. Think about other people. A typical response when asked why someone used the word is, “I am not using the word in a bad context.” Intellectual disabilities do not define someone. Whether you use the word as a joke or not, there is still a meaning that is cruel and derogatory to many people around you. Spread the Word to End the Word is a global campaign spreading awareness about inclusion and removal of the r-word from society. In 2009, the campaign began to allow people to pledge to stop using the r-word, and overtime put more goals in place. Their belief is that the world would be a better place if all people were valued, respected, embraced and included. This campaign found that groups around the world are still being left out, a big portion being people with intellectual disabilities. Junior Jaclynn Pickens, an intensive resource room student, said that the

r-word is upsetting, and if you said the r-word to someone’s face their feelings would automatically be hurt. “It [saying the r-word] is hurtful to someone, you should treat others the way you want to be treated,” Pickens said. “People are different and it’s OK to be different because imagine if we were all the same thing, that would be boring.” Junior Avery Reid, an intensive resource room student, said that the r-word should not be used because it is unsympathetic and inconsiderate. “That [saying the r-word] isn’t treating people kindly and doesn’t include all people,” Reid said. Intensive resource teacher Lauren Richter said when she hears the r-word being said she gets very frustrated. “Whenever I hear someone use the r-word I immediately think, ‘why couldn’t you have chosen a different word,’” Richter said. “It makes me want to have a conversation with the person, ‘Why did you choose that word, [and] are you aware that word is offensive?’” As someone who works with individuals with intellectual disabilities each day, I can’t help but to want everyone to know the negative effects from the r-word. When I walk into the intensive resource room each day, I feel welcomed and happy because of how special each student is. Each of the students have the biggest smile on their face, greet everyone with positivity and always want to make new friends. Walking into room 102 is the best part of my day by far, and those students are normal human beings; why use such a derogatory word for such kind-spirited and bright people? Society is guilty for exclusion and the use of words that deeply offend others. Oftentimes, we are so fast to blow off what we did or what we said, but why

not try to make a simple change that would make everyone feel better about themselves and each other. A lot of people struggle to see many different perspectives because it’s the easy way out, but this needs to change. Seeing through different perspectives allows us to understand how others feel, which we must do better at. It’s important to recognize and embrace our differences. There have been big changes to remove the r-word from our vocabulary, notably Barack Obama’s 2010 Rosa Law that replaced the terms “mental retardation” and “mentally retarded” with “individual with an intellectual disability” and “intellectual disability” in federal health, education and labor policy. If the federal law is capable of eliminating this word from their language, everyone is. The removal is simple. Just choose another word. By doing so, you aren’t choosing a word that is damaging to so many people around you.

As someone who works with individuals with intellectual disabilities each day, I can’t help but want everyone to know the negative effects from the r-word.

FEATURE | 12.10.20

THINK

T H R I F T Due to the production techniques of fast fashion clothing brands, many students decide to thrift to support a better cause. Written by Kathryn Case, Design by Alyssa Peterson, Photos by Jenna Soltwedel

After realizing the term,” Feather said. “You definitely harm fast fashion shouldn’t be going to thrift stores to brands cause the buy them out and take that resource environment, senior away from people that really need it, Avery Feather said but I think there is no harm in everyone she became more in the community working and using conscientious of which clothing things that deserve a second life.” companies she was going to support. Along with Feather, senior Lauren “Originally I used to shop for a lot McCarty said she is an active thrifter of fast fashion stores and it started and believes that thrifting is a fun really putting pressure on my ethical activity that also promotes a good cause. consciousness “[Thrifting] is better and my wallet,” for the environment Feather said. “I and it also supports the No matter what started to realize thrift stores for people your taste, style or how expensive and that need to shop there,” bad it was for the certain preferences McCarty said. “Cheap environment, so I online stores don’t always of clothing are, started to look into have the best quality and thrift stores are other options, and are not made in the most a big solution to ethical way, so thrifting is able to apply that problem was much better.” to everyone, as thrifting.” Avid fast fashion opposed to other While going to her shopper, senior favorite thrift store Hannah Walden, said stores that may like “Savers” and she chooses to buy have a specific “Blessing Abound from these businesses fashion, gender or Thrift,” Feather said since they have stylish she only lets herself style,that is hurting and affordable prices. get up to three items However, she disagrees people. in order to prevent with the means behind buying unnecessary their production -AVERY FEATHER products that could techniques. take away from someone else who “[Fast fashion brands] should have needs them. better rules and regulations to find “If you get carried away and buy a more ethical approach, even if that things you won’t necessarily use, you means increasing the price of the end up wasting money in the long clothes,” Walden said.

Due to learning about the manufacturing process of fast fashion companies, Walden said she will look into a more ethical means of shopping, including thrifting. With thrifting being his preferred way of shopping due to its sustainability, junior Jack Furstenau said he appreciates the cheap clothing and said it is a more effective way to express his style. “When there is less production that goes into making clothing, [it makes] thrifting a lot more ethical, because you’re not supporting something that is hurting people,” Furstenau said. In contrast to retail stores, Feather said she is always astounded by the wide selection and diversity thrift stores have. “No matter what your taste, style or certain preferences of clothing are, thrift stores are able to apply to everyone, as opposed to other stores that may have a specific fashion, gender or style,” Feather said. Due to the rapid release of new clothing in fast fashion, Feather said many people can get caught up in the fads and lose their appreciation for clothing sustainability. “Thrifting helps us appreciate clothing more,” Feather said. “Fast fashion relies too heavily on trends as opposed to when you go to a thrift store, a lot of the things you find have withstood the test of time.”

12.10.20 | FEATURE

FAST FASHION FACTS Fast fashion is the mass production of cheap, poor quality clothing

The fashion industry is the second-largest consumer of the world’s water supply

The fashion industry produces 10 percent of all human carbon emissions

It takes about 2,000 gallons of water to produce a pair of jeans

Up to 85% of textiles go into landfills each year It takes about 700 gallons of water to produce one cotton shirt *Information from Business Insider

Avery Feather’s red Calvin Klein heels, found at Goodwill for $10.

After looking for a backpack, Avery Feather said this one was the perfect fit. She found the bag at Plato’s Closet for $15. Lauren McCarty wears green sweatpants found at City Thrift for $8 and a plaid sweatshirt found from Goodwill costing $4.

A&E | 12.10.20

LOCAL HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE With the upcoming holiday season, here ares six ethical or family-owned small businesses within 30 minutes of BVNW to support. Written by Rachel Hostetler, Design by Sabrina San Agustin

The Laya Center

Ditto

The Laya Center is a blackowned wellness spa about 25 minutes away from BVNW. This spa has many services to offer, including Cryotherapy, (using cold temperatures to relieve body stress) massages, skincare, heated therapy, and more. The Laya center provides gift cards and many spa packages that could make the perfect holiday gift. The Laya Center is located at 601 Walnut St, Kansas City, MO.

Ditto is a resale boutique that is a great substitution for thrift shopping. Ditto is a recycled fashion retailer that buys and sells brand-name and designer clothing for a fraction of the costs of buying new. Ditto might be a good fit for you to add to your array of second-hand stores, even though it might be more expensive. There are many different brands and styles of clothes, shoes, and accessories sold here, making it easy to find something for everyone. Ditto is taking Covid-19 precautions, so hours have been limited and shopping is by appointment only. Ditto is about 12 minutes away from Northwest, and is located at 7594 W 119th St.

Ten Thousand Villages Ten Thousand Villages is a business that aims to improve the living conditions of artisans in 30 developing countries. There are a wide variety of handmade goods sold here. From South American earrings and hammocks to colorful woven baskets and tote bags, there is something charming for every price point. Ten Thousand Villages is 16 minutes away from BVNW and is located at 7947 Santa Fe Dr.

Plato’s Closet

Function Junction

Plato’s Closet is another resale boutique that is a good substitution for thrifting. Plato’s also buys and sells trendy clothes from teens and adults looking to make some extra money. On their website, Plato’s Closet says that they love brands like Brandy Melville, Vans, and Forever 21, which are all popular clothing brands for teens. There is a Plato’s Closet five minutes away from BVNW at 11608 W 135th St.

Function Junction is a sister-owned cookware store in Crown Center that sells cool cooking and baking gadgets. This would be a great place to go if a family member or loved one enjoys preparing anything from coffee cakes to tacos. From quiche pans to inspirational magnets, there is something for every kitchen and chef. Function Junction is 24 minutes away from BVNW, and is located at 2450 Grand Blvd. Suite 231. Online shopping is available at https:// functionjunction.com/.

The Upper Crust The Upper Crust is a small family owned pie-oriented bakery located at 7943 Santa Fe Dr. The Upper Crust offers many different flavors of pie and other baked goods to customers. This bakery is on the expensive side, with whole pies costing between $28-$32. The wide variety of flavors include apple blackberry, banana cream, bumbleberry, butterscotch meringue, coconut custard, rhubarb, and your more basic flavors like apple and pecan. The Upper Crust also sells cookies and bars, with ½ dozens costing between $10 and $20.

12.10.20 | FEATURE

THE MEANING OF MASCULINITY

Boys at BVNW discuss the changing nature of what masculinity means to them. Written by Reagan Kauth and Liz LaHood, Design by Sophie Dellett, Photos by Rachel Sarff

FEATURE | 12.10.20

Senior Rowan Ramey shows off his pink and purple glitter nails. "Do whatever you want, whatever makes you happy," Ramey said. Previous page: Junior Braden Bartalos shows off his true style with his past self gazing toward his current self, illustrating how his style has evolved.

eople’s opinions on what it means to be “manly” are widely debated in today’s society. This subject goes hand in hand with the topic of toxic masculinity, and how stereotypes and labels influence people’s perceptions of what men should represent. Junior Braden Bartalos voiced his opinion on this topic, saying toxic masculinity leads men to act in unnecessary and sometimes

threatening ways in order to prove themselves to others, when that is not at all how men should be portraying themselves. “What I think it means to be a man is to have control over your emotions and take responsibility when it needs to be taken,” Bartalos said. “It means to not interfere with other people’s problems when they don't need you to, and to be a welcoming figure to people so they can always come to you and not feel bombarded by your presence.”

Senior Zach Stark said while emotions are part of being a man, so are the traditional masculine qualities. “To be manly, I think it’s to be able to persevere through the hard times. I think it’s hard wired into a man to be competitive,” Stark said. “I think men traditionally have strength and independence. That defines what it means to be a man.” Stark said many would view these qualities as contributors to toxic masculinity. Toxic masculinity, Stark said, is not something that exists because actions do not reflect a man's masculinity. “I don’t believe toxic masculinity exists,” Stark said. “I don’t think that somebody's gender defines their actions. There are definitely bad people who may be men, but at the same time there are also bad people who may be women.” Toxic masculinity is defined by senior Rowan Ramey as a cover for people's insecurities and emotions, saying that it is a problem especially for those who don’t feel like they fit in. “I think toxic masculinity is just a cover up for people's insecurities or a way to suppress someone else because you don’t agree with the way that they act,” Ramey said. The concept of toxic masculinity has been around for a while, sprouting from centuries of labels and gender norms that have recently come into question. Bartalos said it’s crucial to break and challenge these stereotypes which go against gender neutrality and inclusivity. “For years and centuries, clothes have been something that people define themselves as and say there’s more ‘feminine clothes’ and more ‘masculine clothes’. I think it’s important to break those [stereotypes] because clothes have no gender,” Bartalos said. To go against toxic masculinity and gender norms, Bartalos said he expresses himself through his fashion choices and reluctance to fit under a specific category or stereotype. “There’s no rule that says a girl has to wear dresses and skirts and guys have to wear pants,” Bartalos said. While agreeing with the idea that people can do whatever they want, Stark said boys dressing femininely does not redefine masculinity. Stark

12.10.20 | FEATURE said he strongly believes in the idea going to affect what I want to do and that skirts and dresses are femine it’s not going to make me stop doing it clothing. because I enjoy it.” “I do think clothing plays a role in Many people get caught up in the masculinity,” Stark said. “If you are idea of doing what everyone else thinks wearing clothing that’s feminine, that's they should do, Ramey said, when in not masculine. That is not rebranding reality others do not really notice any masculinity. That is just you wearing change. feminine clothing. Traditionally, “Just don’t care,” Ramey said. “You masculinity is a set of attributes, think everyone’s going to care about behaviors and roles.” something that's gonna change or once Sophomore Brett Oplotnik you show up it's gonna be such a huge said breaking free of these unfair deal. It's not that big. Nobody cares, stereotypes has been difficult for him actually. You can do whatever you because people see him differently and want, whatever makes you happy and try to break him down because of it. it’s not going to affect your daily life.” “I am a little more feminine acting Bartalos said he also likes things and since I don’t really hang out that are perceived as more feminine with guys, and I do more femininein terms of fashion. He said his main acting things like dance and theater,” inspiration for his style came from Oplotnik said. “They’ll make fun of some of his friends and other people me and think I’m and trends he saw weird just because I in photos or online. I think toxic choose to do those He said he likes to things. I just think incorporate his own masculinity is just a that it’s really stupid cover up for people's ideas to make his that people treat me fashion choices more insecurities. like that just because individualistic. I don’t want to do “I wear a lot of -ROWAN RAMEY something that they different clothing to view as normal.” express myself, and Being himself made it hard to fit I also like to wear eyeliner and paint in, Oplotnik said. Fitting in can be a my nails and I like to show emotion,” struggle for a lot of people, and he said Bartalos said.”I think it’s really easy for that toxic masculinity only adds to me to do that because my whole life those obstacles. I’ve grown up around girls, and so it’s “I feel like it's this thing where boys easy for me to be myself and not just feel like they have to act a certain way stick into a box.” in order to be accepted in the male Although some people, like Bartalos, community. They think that doing are more open to expressing their things that are even slightly feminine feminine side, whether it be through is a bad thing, and I don’t like that they their fashion, attitudes or some other look down upon it, because it's not a factor, he said other guys act in ways bad thing if a boy wants to paint their that only add to the stereotype because nails or wear skirts,” Oplotnik said. “I of their efforts to be considered feel like all these boys think there is a “manly” by others. certain standard of what you have to “They take their own route into be like.” more toxic masculinity, which makes Despite facing these challenges, them seem as more of a threat. They Oplotnik said he was able to defy these try to be all big and buff and strong gender norms by expressing himself and all these things that they don’t through his fashion choices. need to be just to prove that they’re “I dress however I want and I act masculine, when masculinity just however I want and don’t even care means being loving and caring and what anyone else is saying because showing emotion,” Bartalos said. obviously no matter what you do Stark said boys wanting to be seen somebody else is going to have an as strong is not a choice but a natural opinion on you, whether that be a good instinct. While boys do want people to opinion or a bad opinion,” Oplotnik see them as strong they also want to be said. “They can just tell me whatever seen as leaders, he said. they want. I honestly don’t care. It’s not “I think boys are often hard wired

13 into you wanna be tough, you wanna be competitive,” Stark said. “I think a lot of the society now is saying ‘oh that’s toxic, you shouldn’t engage in any of those instincts that you have,’ because it is a natural instinct for boys to not want to cry and to be tough and to be great.” While he believes toxic masculinity is a problem in society, Ramey said BVNW is doing a good job of being accepting of people trying to be themselves, but to break these norms people still need to work together to create a more inclusive environment for everyone. “I feel like our school has definitely become more accepting and open, but there's always going to be differences and different points of views that aren't going to work together well or that aren't going to support one another,” Ramey said. Bartalos said it is important to be yourself and not limiting yourself despite the many stereotypes present in society. “I think people should be more open with themselves and more loving. They need to know what they truly want and how they want to be perceived, and not to just fit in one specific category. You can still branch out, you can still be yourself, but show who you really are and don’t try to keep yourself in a box,” Bartalos said. Although there’s still a ways to go in ending toxic masculinity, Oplotnik said that it shouldn’t stop people from having confidence and expressing themselves honestly. “Just keep going until you find something that you like and don’t care what anyone else says,” Oplotnik said. “You do you, and you show yourself however you want to.”

OUR MODERN RELIGIONS 14

COVER | 12.10.20

BVNW students explain their religious identity and its impact on their everyday lives. Written by Emily Moser and Raabia Qureshi, Design by Emma Gau, Photos by Mitri Krishna This photo illustration was made from images of Cameron Quick, Rumesa Nisar, Nick Schemmel and Vedha Penmetcha edited together due to COVID-19 social distancing guidelines.

12.10.20 | COVER

or Senior Avi Keating, fear arises when thinking about attending a traditional Jewish synagogue, he said. In this setting, men and women are forced to sit in separate areas. As a transgender, bisexual Jew, Keating said he has fears about where the congregation would make him sit. He said his sexual and gender orientations affect the way he is perceived in the traditional Jewish faith. Keating said he practices a more modern denomination of Judaism because it is wholisiticaly more accepting. He said traditional Jewish practices are more conservative, making them less accepting of people who stray from straight and cisgender orientations. “With my sexuality, I think I’ve been very lucky to be at a synagogue with a gay rabbi,” Keating said. “I haven’t had any anxiety about it because of that, but I’m sure that if I went to a different synagogue, things may have been a little different.” Similarly to Keating, senior siblings Nate and Nick Schemmel also practice a modern form of Judaism. Nick said their parents practice different religions, as their dad is Catholic and mom is Jewish. Both boys began their religious journey from an early age, Nick said. As they grew older, their involvement with Judaism through volunteering, religious camps and other religious activities caused them to devote themselves to Judaism. “My mom is really deep into religion and she wanted us to become Jewish and go through the process and learn about it. So we got into Sunday school at a young age and we learned scripture and how to read Hebrew, [and it] just kind of evolved from there,” Nick said. When they were both 13 years old, Nick and Nate visited the Western Wall in Jerusalem, Israel for their bar mitzvah, a coming-of-age ritual signifying the religious adulthood of a Jewish boy. Nate said the emotion and rich devotion to prayer from crowds of people served as a formative experience and shaped him and his brother into who they are today. However, with their religion comes challenges, Nick said. Both the Schemmel brothers and Keating fear a lack of acceptance for their beliefs.

15 Keating said he has faced problems because of his Jewish religion within the walls of BVNW. He said the way he has been treated and the offensive words of his peers toward him regarding the people of his religion scare him. “I’ve been called a greedy Jew for picking some coins off the ground,” Keating said. “I’ve been told I should be gassed in a concentration camp and I’ve been told I’m going to go to Hell.” Keating is not the only one who faces fears of sharing his religious identity with peers. Nick said being Jewish in a dominantly Christian area has created a sense of fear when it comes to opening up about his religion. Nick said he is an analytical person, causing him to keep his religious beliefs to himself. “The fact that I don’t tell too many people [that I am Jewish] is probably an inclination that I’m afraid of what people will judge me as,” Nick said. “I wouldn’t be as afraid to tell people if I

practiced a more accepted religion, like Christianity.” Nonetheless, both brothers said the strongest aspect in Judaism lies in its community and acceptance of others. As people devoted to a religion with a turbulent past, Nick said they want to save others from the judgement and hatred Jews have faced and continue to face till this day. “I feel like being Jewish helps me be accepting because we know in the past, Jewish people haven’t been accepted all the time,” Nate said. “And now that other religions are having that problem too, we don’t want that to happen to them either.” While religious identities are unique, current events can greatly shape a person’s religious character, Nate said. Some religious people face more hatred than others, particularly Jews, he said. This realization has allowed both brothers to bond with people of other religions and be accepting of

Senior Nick Schemmel wears a Jewish Kippah on his head as he points a yad necklace toward a miniature Torah.The torah is the most important document of Judisim.

COVER | 12.10.20

16 them regardless of their beliefs. Despite the challenges they face, both twins continue to practice Judaism, and they each have a unique perception of what the religion means. As an aspiring doctor, Nick said he maintains a more modernistic view of Judaism compared to his brother. While religion and science oftentimes conflict, Nick said his passion for the subject has pushed him to have a more scientific view of the world. Similarly, senior Cameron Quick said he experiences clashing viewpoints between his religion and science. Quick is an Evangelical Free, Protestant, Christian. He said his religious beliefs typically take precedence over his scientific beliefs because of how deeply rooted he is in his faith. “Different topics that I learn [in

school] can conflict with what I believe in and, you know, I try to hold true to what I know is true from God’s word,” Quick said. “And I recognize that other people may not see it the same way, and I’m OK with that.” Quick said his religion does not always match widely accepted worldly views on certain topics, but he navigates these conflicts through discussion with his family and youth group. He said together, they can compare and contrast their individual interpretations to try to reach an understanding. He said while he tries to come up with a clear answer based on his religious beliefs, it is not always possible because there are so many interpretations of his religion. Quick said the theory of evolution is a perfect example of the clash

Senior Vedha Penmetcha wears Churidar pants with her cultural dress. “Traditional clothing generally reinforces traditions and modesty. It signifies my identity and culture which is something I value as a Hindu,” Penmetcha said.

between his perspectives of science and religion. “Speaking on the topic of evolution, you know there’s some theories as to how that fits into the Bible, such as the seven day theory that some days weren’t actually seven days, but again that’s up to interpretation,” Quick said. Senior Vedha Penmetcha practices Hinduism, a religion that she has grown with and been able to make her own throughout her life. Penmetcha said starting in middle school, she attended Balavihar classes on Sundays to enhance her understanding of her Hindu religion by learning the meaning behind stories and shlokas. Paired with the Balavihar classes, Penmetcha said she also participates in a type of South Indian classical dance called Bharatnatyam. She said that this type of dance is a portrayal of deities’ stories, emotions and events in an artistic way. She said she plays different characters in her dances, allowing her to explore the stories on a deeper level. “Adding those emotional aspects and nuances into religion gave me that firsthand or kind of direct experience because you are acting the part, you’re seeing that story unveil or unfold in front of your eyes,” Penmetcha said. Penmetcha said along with her dance, the education she received from her Balavihar classes has helped her to make her religious journey her own. “I would explore [the stories] more from an educational point of view within those Sunday classes, and that’s when I would first start getting those meanings,” Penmetcha said. “Then, I’m a dancer, so that’s when I would actually fully dive deeper into the meaning and make it my own.” As she has grown older, Penmetcha said engaging in conversation with her Hindu friends has helped shape her religious views as well. “It’s kind of nice because it’s a conversation that can be fun and interesting just because it is so varied among each person and each person’s perception and view on it,” Penmetcha said. “So I guess it’s just kind of engaging.” Penmetcha said that making her religion her own over her life has created something important for her to fall back on in difficult times. She said Hinduism has helped her strive to be

12.10.20 | COVER the best human she can be, regardless person. Although there have been of the situations she is in. times of questioning her identity, she Junior Rumesa Nisar is a Sunni said her journey has allowed her to Muslim. One of her biggest challenges, appreciate her religion and love the she said, has been feeling comfortable way she practices it. with her religious identity in public “The experiences that I’ve had with environments, such as school. Nisar my religion made me who I am today, said she began wearing the hijab, an the bumps in the roads basically Islamic head covering for women, in molded me into who I am. As many sixth grade. Since then, she said she’s hardships as I went through, it didn’t faced a multitude of questions and bring me down,” Nisar said. challenges from her While many students friends and peers. at Northwest identify “I have friends with a religion, a number I just don’t think that are also Muslim of others refrain from I need a religion that don’t wear a having any religious hijab, and I can commitments. Senior telling me how to definitely see people Sravya Narahari said she be a good person, target me more is agnostic, or someone because I feel like because they can who believes proof of a see that [my hijab] higher being’s existence my parents have is a sign for them has not yet been taught me the that they’re like, ‘oh, determined. values and virtues OK, she’s Muslim.’” Coming from a Hindu Nisar said. “So, they family, Narahari said to be a good try to approach me she chose agnosticism person by myself. more in a negative when she was in eighth -SRAVYA NARAHARI way and to my grade because growing friends, they act up she did not regularly like they’re normal visit the Hindu temple or humans.” take Hindu classes, and Although Nisar said she’s fully never established a strong connection aware of the counseling resources with God. at Northwest, she resorts to seeking “It didn’t make sense that good help from her friends and family due things would only happen to me if I to their understanding of similar prayed or that I could only be kind to viewpoints. Despite her minority people if I prayed,” Narahari said. “I status, she said her friends and just don’t think I need a religion telling teachers try their best to create a me how to be a good person, because I welcoming environment, allowing her feel like my parents have taught me the to embrace her religion. values and virtues to be a good person “My friends and teachers try their by myself.” hardest to make it feel like an open While both of Narahari’s parents environment which is good, and I feel acknowledge and respect her beliefs, like it works for the most part, but Narahari said she often participates there are also students that do have in Hindu traditions and events as a different views than others, and try courtesy to her mom, who is religious their hardest to make their views be to a higher extent. Narahari said belief shown,” Nisar said. systems are a choice, and she doesn’t However, taking into account the want her mom to feel her beliefs are minority population at BVNW as a invalid. whole, Nisar said the environment still “I think she wishes that I was there poses challenges for herself and others. with her and sat down next to her “[They can] definitely open their eyes when she was doing [religious] things,” and know that students have feelings, Narahari said. “But whenever it’s like and that, you know, not everything is for the bigger events, honestly, out of black and white in the school. We have respect for her and because I want her inner conflicts as well,” Nisar said. to be happy, I’ll sit down with her.” Ultimately, Nisar said her Narahari’s mom, Sailaja Narahari, challenging experiences have made her said although her daughter’s religious a stronger and more understanding identity is different from her own, they

RELIGION AT BVNW *214 Blue Valley Northwest Students were surveyed *Do you believe in a higher power? 22% 71.5% 6.5%

Yes

Don’t wish to answer

*What religion are you? 7.8%

4.2%

1.4% 4.7%

57%

24.8%

Christian

Hindu

Jewish

Islam

Not religously affiliated

Other

COVER | 12.10.20

Junior Rumesa Nisar wears the hijab as she practices Islam in her day-to-day life. both believe in being a good person. When attending large religious events, Sailaja said she appreciates having Narahari and the rest of her family by her side. Ultimately, Narahari said her parents’ respect and acceptance for her beliefs lifts a weight off her shoulders, and allows her to embrace her religious standing with certainty. Not everyone has such luxuries of ease in regard to their religious identity. As an atheist, or someone who denies a higher being’s existence entirely, junior Tyler Fitzsimmons said he experiences arguments with his family members regarding religion and its intricacies.

Although the arguments are infrequent, Fitzsimmons said, they occur within both his mom and dad’s side of the family, who practice several different religions, ranging from atheism to different denominations of Christianity. “I don’t like those conversations,” Fitzsimmons said. “I really feel like it’s not my place to speak on what someone else should believe in.” Although Fitzsimmons’ family engages in religious discourse, he said it doesn’t have a large impact on the dynamic of his family as a whole. He said their ability to separate their arguments from their daily activities allows them to live together with

differing belief systems. “I think of religion as more of a personal thing,” Fitzsimmons said. “Something that should just be openly spoken about. You can speak about it, I think that’s good, but I don’t think it’s something to get angry about or something to, you know, fight over.” As an atheist, Fitzsimmons said he chooses not to practice religion because of the vast information available to people from science, so he said there is less of a need to rely on a supernatural force for answers. He said that while Gen-Z is one of the most non-religious generations, he thinks it is the most accepting in terms of differences between individuals. Similarly, while Narahari does not actively practice religion, she said if people need religion to guide them and to be able to stay positive, they should practice it. For herself, she said she does not feel like she needs to believe in another entity to be in touch with herself and the added responsibility of a religion is a lot to carry. “As long as it’s helping you be a good person and you’re being a good person outside of your religion and you’re not pushing it on to other people, [it’s a good thing],” Narahari said. “Like, you’re happy and content with yourself. I think that’s all.” As someone who has faced tribulations because of his sexual and gender orientation, Keating said religion has affected the way he sees the world and has helped him to put personal experiences through a new lens. Keating said he is very accepting of people, regardless of the religion they choose to practice. “Even if you’re an atheist, you need to respect Christian views, even if you’re an atheist, you need to respect Muslim views and even though you’ve had a negative experience with religion, that doesn’t mean all religion is bad, you know,” Keating said.

12.10.20 | COVER

NORTHWEST VS. THE NATION *214 Blue Valley Northwest Students were surveyed for Northwest polling and national polling is from the Pew Research Center.

NORTHWEST

NATIONAL

*It’s _____ to believe in a higher power in order to be moral and have good values. 1%

22.4%

71.5%

61%

Not Necessary

38%

Necessary

6.1%

Don’t wish to answer

12.1%

0.9%

*You have _____ religous beliefs as your parents. 8%

35%

43%

All of the same Some of the same 51.9%

Quite different

48%

Don’t wish to answer

*Do you see students getting teased or made fun of for their religion? 22%

23.4%

Never

11%

28%

Rarely Sometimes

5.6%

Often

1.9%

Don’t wish to answer 47.2%

58%

FEATURE | 12.10.20

COMMITTED.

Due to CO

Writte

Jack Chapman - University of Missouri-Kansas City Senior Jack Chapman said basketball was a part of his life since he was four years old. “I’ve been playing basketball as long as I can remember,” Chapman said. “It’s had a huge impact on my life and it has been something I’ve always cared about a lot.” Chapman said he has been interested in playing basketball in college since he started playing. He said the interest stemmed from watching college and professional basketball when he was young. “Watching KU on TV and watching NBA players inspired me to want to play on the big stage, and I’ve worked for that ever since,” Chapman said. Chapman committed to the

University of Missouri-Kansas City on Nov. 1. He received an offer from UMKC last winter and he said he got to know their coaches very well, which helped him realize it was the right place for him to continue his basketball career. After many calls with the UMKC coaches and a campus visit, Chapman said he had no doubts and felt at home. “All the coaches were really talkative and they were always calling me and FaceTiming me, so it was nice to know someone cared about you and that they really wanted you,” Chapman said. “I was able to visit the campus [in October] and I really liked what I saw.” The 6A state tournament, last March, and many summer Amateur Athletic Union tournaments were canceled due to COVID-19. Chapman said these cancellations caused him to miss out on many recruiting opportunities. “Over the summer our AAU season got canceled and that’s where most of the recruiting comes from for college,” Chapman said. “You get to go

play in different states and 20 or 30 college coaches come to every game, so that’s really where most people get their offers.” Along with his lack of exposure to college scouts, Chapman said it was also more difficult to stay in contact with the coaches at UMKC, but he is satisfied with the outcome. “COVID had a huge impact on the recruitment process because you can’t be face to face with coaches and it kind of killed all interactiom,” Chapman said. It really slowed it down for everyone and made it harder to get offers, but I’m happy to be where I am at UMKC.” After signing his letter of intent on Nov. 11, Chapman said he is looking forward to his senior season, and is relieved to not have to worry about recruitment anymore. “It’s a relief to be committed because I can now focus on my senior season,” Chapman said. “I’m really excited to see what the team is going to do this year and I don’t really have to be worrying about anything personal, I just have to worry about winning another state championship.”

Riley Beach - Iowa State University In the third grade, senior Riley Beach joined Girls on the Run, an organization which empowers young girls through running. After Girls on the Run, Beach said she lost touch with the sport for a few years before joining a club cross country team, which she ran with in middle school. Beach said she fell in love with the sport again and ran cross country along with track and field throughout high school. Beach committed to Iowa State University in November, where she will be running cross country, along with indoor and outdoor track and field. Similar to Chapman, Beach said the recruiting process was difficult because she missed out on an important time

of the year to get recruited, due to COVID-19. “The recruiting process was really tough for me, because the junior track season, which was cancelled for me, is the most important season for recruiting for running,” Beach said. “Usually college coaches make their recruiting decisions based off of runners’ junior seasons, but I was lucky to have my senior cross country season, which helped me a lot in the recruiting process.” Unable to take an official visit to the Iowa State campus, Beach said she relied on Zoom calls to get to know the team and the coach. “When I got the offer [from Iowa

State] it was during the dead period, which meant I couldn’t visit the campus,” Beach said. “The most helpful part of recruiting ended up being Zoom calls because I was able to talk to the coach somewhat face to face and get an understanding of the environment and attitude of the team.”

12.10.20 | FEATURE

OVID-19, high school seniors had to adapt in order to commit to play sports at the collegiate level.

en by Jack Nitz and Matthew Lemke, Photos by Savannah Bridges, Design by Sabrina San Agustin

Kysen Howard - Colorado State University-Pueblo Since senior Kysen Howard was five years old, learning baseball from his dad, he said that he has worked for his dream of playing in college. Howard verbally committed to Colorado State University at Pueblo on Aug. 20. Recruited as a shortstop, Howard went on a visit with the college. “For me, it was out of the blue,” Howard said. “The coach there now has some really great values and philosophies. Everything just felt perfect around that.” Before committing, Howard said he made a list of pros and cons.

Traveling eight hours away with no family or parents was difficult to process at first, but after researching the program and learning about the coach, Howard said it just felt right. Due to Covid-19, Howard said his process of recruitment was a lot different than how he thought it would be. With many tournaments in other states getting canceled, exposure for athletes was more difficult than in previous years. Due to this, Howard said social media played a large role in his recruiting process this summer. “Basically, my process was to make

sure that all the universities could see me play,”Howard said. “I know that some people in schools aren’t able to be there to see players play, but social media was a great platform for kids like mostly seniors for their information and other videos to get out there so I had to put stuff on social media as much as possible.”

Megan Edwards - Washburn University After the pandemic put senior Megan Edwards’ final high school basketball season in question, Edwards said she decided she wanted to play in college because of her love for the sport. “I’ve wanted to play in college for a while, but I had never made the

decision to until this year,” Edwards said. “After the pandemic started, I thought I might not play anymore, so I decided I wanted to play another four years since I had the offer.” Edwards committed to Washburn University in August of this year. She received an offer from the university earlier this spring. Edwards said she made the decision to commit after she visited the campus. “I really liked the coach and once I saw the campus I knew I definitely wanted to go there. I know some girls on the team and they made it seem like the atmosphere is very fun,” Edwards said. Edwards committed to Washburn University despite not meeting the team or watching games in person.

She said COVID-19 created some limitations on the recruitment process, but she was able to overcome many of them. “The main thing I missed out on is that I haven’t met the team yet and I don’t know if I’ll be able to go to any games,” Edwards said. Due to concerns about what her senior season would look like, Edwards said her commitment came earlier than she expected, but she said she is glad it happened when it did. “I decided to commit before school started because I didn’t know what to expect with sports this year. I probably would have committed after the season, just in case I got anymore looks, but I’m happy with how everything turned out,” Edwards said.

OTHER COMMITTED SENIORS Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Rockhurst University

Kyle Leathers - Baseball

Reece Trusdale - Lacrosse

University of Missouri St. Louis

University of Kansas

Ottawa University

Ian McCrary - Golf

Olivia Shin - Rowing

Isaiah Walker - Baseball Corey McCready - Baseball

Oklahoma State University

Southwest Baptist University

Maddie Clark- Volleyball

Evie Vitali - Soccer

Isabel Schelhammer- Soccer

20 in review 20

FEB 2 The Kansas City

Chiefs win the Superbowl and Global Air Travel is restricted.

The U.S. declares a Public Health Emergency.

Recap of all that has transpired over the past 11 months.

5 President Donald Trump is acquitted on 2 articles of impeachment by senators: abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.

Researched by Megan Yates, Designed by Courtney Krebs

JAN

6 The first American

dies of COVID-19 in Santa Clara County, Calif.

WHO (World Health Organization) announces first COVID-19 case in Wuhan China.

Drama teacher Steve Landes announces retirement after 43 years.

14 Alston Mason makes his

18 The BVNW girls

BVNW basketball debut.

21 The BVNW pro-life club

basketball team wins their first EKL game in overtime against Mill Valley.

The CDC confirms first U.S. COVID-19 case and human transmission of COVID-19.

The BVNW boys basketball team secures the EKL championship on senior night.

attends the Topeka Rally for Life and is met with backlash.

NBA player Kobe Bryant and one of his four daughters, Gianna Bryant, die in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, Calif.

Photo by

8 The BVNW bo team wins

WHO COVID-19 a p

The KS basketball tou cancelled due

Breonna Tayl Louisvi

President Tru COVID-19 emerg

Govern Kelly calls for K-12 to be c

KSHSAA a will cancel all s

3128

27 A $2.2 trilli

27 We the People wins 8th state

stimulus pac CARES Act)

championship in the last 10 years.

31 The Sweetheart

assembly is held.

WHO issues a Global Health Emergency.

2828

Photo by Mitri Krishna

The organ Tokyo Olympi that the Olymp place in the sum

APRIL

and Prince Harry are no longer working senior Royals.

Photo Courtesy of BVNWnews

2 Global COVID-19

cases surpass 1 million.

The state of New York alone has more COVID-19 cases than any country in the world. Sen. Bernie Sanders drops out of the Presidential race, making former Vice President Joe Biden the presumptive Demoractic nominee.

oys basketball substate.

declares pandemic.

9 Athletic Director

SHSAA state urnament is to COVID-19.

Kevin Gerke dies.

ump declares a national gency.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says China is responsible for the spread and severity of COVID-19 and should be held accountable.

4 Murder Hornets are confirmed in the U.S.

7 U.S. unemployment hits

23 President Donald Trump

15 John Hilton is announced

suggests that citizens use bleach in an attempt to cure COVID-19.

27 Dictator of North Korea, Kim

nor Laura r all schools cancelled.

MAY

20 WTI (West Texas

Intermediate) oil prices drop below zero.

lor is shot in ille, Ky.

Jong Un, is falsely rumored to be dead following heart surgery.

33 million or 20 percent of the workforce.

as the new Athletic Director.

WHO reports most new cases in a single day: 106,000 worldwide.

25 George Floyd dies and 28

protests begin.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz declares a State of Emergency in Minneapolis and activates the Minnesota National Guard after protests over the death of George Floyd.

1428

ion COVID-19 ckage (The ) is signed.

nizers of the ics announce pics will take mmer of 2021.

1 The first day Meghan Markel

y Mitri Krishna

announces it spring sports.

U.S. COVID-19 deaths pass 100,000.

Photo by Mitri Krishna

30 SpaceX launches a manned

rocket from Cape Canaveral to the International Space Station, becoming the first private company to launch astronauts into space.

JULY

1 America confirms 50,000 new cases of COVID-19 in one day. 2 Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issues a mask mandate. 4 Kayne West announces he is campaigning for President. 6 Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas

1 The Kansas C

their Super B Quarterback P proposes to Brittany

Photo by Mitri Krishna

AUG

City Chiefs signs a record 10-year $503 million contract.

23 U.S. COVID-19 cases pass 4 million. 24 Major League Baseball resumes. 31 Trump says he will ban TikTok

6 Protestors o

Matter movem consecutive night

A record 2 m California are

18 The BV community protests in

9 BVNW students 18 Justice Ruth B

JUNE

Joe Biden is formally nominated as the Democraitc party’s candidate for President.

The BVNW foot BV High in the season

Kamala Harris accepts her nomination as Biden’s Vice President.

22 America’s

10 U.S. COVID-19 cases reach 2 million. 12 The BVNW BSU (Black Student

22 Fires in Northern California are

from operating in the U.S.

8 The World Bank says COVID-19 will shrink the global economy by 5.2 percent in 2020.

Union) organizes a peaceful protest.

15 U.S. Supreme Court rules 6-3

that gay and transgender workers cannot be discriminated against in the workplace.

25 “The Dixie Chicks” change their name to “The Chicks” in effort to remove confederate connotations.

The CDC estimates that 20 million people in the U.S. had been infected with coronavirus, 10 times higher than confirmed cases.

U.S. Supreme Court rules 5-4 that abortion restrictions in Louisiana are unconstitutional, striking down a 2014 state law.

support of playing fall sports and going to school in-person.

21 Actress Lori Loughlin is

Trump nom Barrett as an Asso Suprem

sentenced to two months in prison along with her husband for their role in the U.S. college admissions bribery scandal.

28 The global C passes

declared to be a major disaster as they are among the three largest wildfires in state history.

29 Biden and

first preside

23 A black man named Jacob Blake is shot by police in Kenosha, Wis; protests follow.

28 Actor Chadwick Boseman

toll passe

1828

dies of colon cancer.

30 Global COVID-19 cases pass 25 million with 843,000 deaths.

31 U.S. COVID-19 cases pass 6 million with 183,000 deaths.

Photo

NOV

3028

1 The girls cross country team

takes 2nd place at State, senior Riley Beach placing 2nd overall.

City Chiefs receive Bowl rings and Patrick Mahomes his girlfriend, Matthews.

The BVNW football team loses to BV High in the substate game, 24-7. Photo by Jessica Witt

of the Black Lives ment reach 100 ts in Portland, Ore.

OCT

million acres of reported burnt. begin virtual school.

Bader Ginsburg dies.

tball team defeats first game of the n, 24-17.

COVID-19 death es 200,000.

minates Amy Coney ociate Justice of the me Court.

2 Trump announces he and Melania tested positive for COVID-19.

The LA Lakers win the NBA championship against Miami Heat.

21 Pope Francis shows support for same-sex civil unions. 22 The final Presidential debate is held. 24 The girls cross country team places 1st at regionals.

27 The U.S. Senate confirms Amy

COVID-19 death toll 1 million.

Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court.

Trump have their ential debate.

their first playoff game in 11 years, defeating SME 42-14.

30 The BVNW football team wins

7 Joe Biden is declared the winner of the U.S. Presidential race.

9 Pfizer says its vaccine appears to be 90 percent effective.

Senior Will Vancrum wins EKL midfielder of the year and coach Brian Pollack wins EKL coach of the year.

BV announces middle and high school students will return to all remote learning after Thanksgiving break.

the Greater Kansas City Cross Country Coaches Association named senior Riley Beach the Girls Runner of the Year. The U.S. COVID-19 death toll passes 250,000 with 11.5 million recorded cases.

The BVNW newspaper, The Express, receives the 2020 NSPA Pacemaker Award. The BVNW cheerleading squad takes 2nd place at the 6A KSHSAA Game Day Spirit State Competition.

2128

23 Charli D’Amelio becomes the first person to reach 100 million TikTok followers.

by Mitri Krishna

Photo by Savannah Bridges

The KSHSAA Board of Directors votes to allow winter competition to begin Dec. 1.

A&E | 12.10.20

OUI LOVE THESE CRÊPES!

Three of Kansas City’s top crêperies are reviewed as staff writer Julia Moser looks for the best. Written by Julia Moser, Design by Erin Reece, Photos by Rachel Sarff

SEVEN SWANS CRÊPERIE 1746 Washington Street, Kansas City, MO 64108 Crêpe: Paris ($8.00) Seven Swans is a classic French crêperie that presents an assortment of delightfully savory and sweet crêpes. Drawing customers in with bright teal green accents and a large assortment of greenery, Seven Swans is the ideal place to relax, study, and hang out with friends. Seven Swans’ vibe is by far the best and was my personal favorite to be in due to the overall energy created in this peaceful and whimsical restaurant. Their most popular crêpe is the Paris, which includes a Nutella and banana filling inside a large crêpe topped with Nutella drizzle, banana slices, powdered sugar, candied almonds and a side of whipped cream. The taste of this crêpe is mouthwatering, as the banana perfectly complements the Nutella. The only issue is the texture of the crêpe. At some points, it became soggy due to the thinness and warmth of the crêpe. This crêpe filled the entire large plate and was much fuller than the French Market’s dish. Due to this crêpe’s plentiful proportions, it is worth the money. When comparing the crêpe from the French Market and at Seven Swans, which are the same price, this one is much larger and worth the money.

4/5

12.10.20 | A&E

CHEZ ELLE 1713 Summit Street, Kansas City, MO 64108 Crêpe: Au Chocolat ($8.95) This old style French coffee house is the place to go if you are looking for the perfect crêpe. Chez Elle has more than 27 different crêpes, by far the largest selection among the other crêperies. A popular dish from Chez Elle is the Au Chocolat, a crêpe with chocolate batter filled with a thick chocolate mousse topped with raspberry sauce, chocolate sauce, powdered sugar and a side of whipped cream. The raspberry and chocolate complement each other very well. The crêpes’ flavor was well balanced as the chocolate mousse was not overwhelmingly sweet. The crêpe batter was much thicker than the other two, preventing it from getting soggy. The overall texture was perfect as the

4.5/5

mousse did not melt therefore not making it soggy. However, the interior of Chez Elle was rather dull and not as enjoyable to be in, but the crêpe made up for the lack of environment. Inside, Chez Elle felt dark and negative. This rating would be perfect if the setting was more peaceful and calming such as Seven Swans. You are paying a little more for this crêpe but the taste is worth it. Chez Elle takes the number one ranking among the other two crêperies.

FRENCH MARKET 6943 Tomahawk Road, Prairie Village, KS 66208 Crêpe: Citron Amande ($8.00) The French Market offers a variety of sweet and savory crêpes, French foods, and more. Located in the Shops of Prairie Village, the French Market is the perfect place to enjoy a flavorful crêpe. When entering this classic French café, you are welcomed by employees and drawn in by the authentic French decor, including natural wood features and rustic elements. The most popular

sweet crêpe is the Citron Amande, a crêpe with a thin layer of lemon curd topped with powdered sugar, thinly sliced almonds, and a side of whipped cream. The lemon curd has a delightful flavor, fairly sweet but with a little bit of a zesty lemon kick. The thin almond slices on top add a nice crunch, but the amount of filling is lacking. This crêpe has a pleasant ratio of sweet to

3.5/5

sour, and is a good option for someone who is typically not drawn to lemon desserts. However, the proportions of the crêpe was smaller in size, which may not be worth the price of $8.

FEATURE | 12.10.20

A HOLIDAY RECIPE HOW-TO

As the holiday season commences, teachers Jamie Finical, Ken Thomas, Elizabeth Warren, and Jon Ohlde share their favorite traditional holiday recipes and the significance of the food. Explore these teachers’ special recipes in a step-by-step guide at BVNWnews.com. Written by Reagan King, Design by Courtney Krebs, Photo by Mitri Krishna

Green Bean Casserole

ACS teacher Elizabeth Warren said she always makes her special Green Bean Casserole recipe for Thanksgiving and Christmas. “It feels weird to eat it at any other time,” Warren said. “We never make it for anything other than [Thanksgiving and Christmas], so it's special.” Warren said this recipe is traditional to her because it is what she and her family always made growing up.

“We’ve made it since I was a kid and anytime we go to other family members' houses we always have it too,” Warren said. The Green Bean Casserole is a baked casserole made up of a mixture of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and many spices that are all mixed in together with fried onions sprinkled on top. “It’s really easy, it’s not that difficult to make,” Warren said. “[The recipe] is just something we’ve always had.”

Ethel’s Sugar Cookies

A fresh batch of Ethel's Sugar Cookies.

round the holidays, math teacher Jamie Finical, said she makes her favorite traditional sugar cookie recipe, called “Ethel’s Sugar Cookies.” A long standing tradition, Finical said she has made these cookies with her family ever since she can remember. “When I was a little girl, my mom and my brother and I always made them for Christmas,” Finical said. “I carried on the tradition with my daughters, but we started making them for all holidays.” To make the cookies, Finical said she rolls out the sugar cookies, cuts out different figures for the holiday she is making them for, and then ices and decorates them. Not only are these cookies special for the holidays, but they are used year round for multiple traditions,

Finical said. “We would get cookie cutters for Halloween and Easter, and the most recent one I did was Chiefs themed cookies,” Finical said. “If you take a Christmas tree and you turn it sideways it makes an arrowhead.” The best part about making the cookies, Finical said, is that it provides good-quality family time. Finical said she does not do a lot of cooking or baking, so she enjoys making them with her family in addition to eating the cookies. “They’re really yummy cookies,” Finical said. I don't know why they're so much better than any other sugar cookies, but they’re just really good ones,” Finical said.

12.10.20 | FEATURE

Lasagna Rolls

or the last five years, social studies teacher Jon Ohlde has been making lasagna rolls for Thanksgiving and winter break. He said he and his family like to make the recipe around the holidays because there is time to cook and they do not not make it very often. “It’s kind of a comfort food,” Ohlde said. “It just fits in with the holiday [theme] of eating good food that you don’t eat all the time.” Originally, Ohlde said, the dish was introduced to his family through

2 3

his oldest daughter. Ohlde said she made it in a cooking class she was taking at school and liked it so much she brought the recipe home. “It was really delicious, and it’s easy and fun to make. It has become a family tradition to make lasagna rolls over Thanksgiving and winter break,” Ohlde said. Ohlde said the recipe includes lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, and whatever toppings are prefered. “Spinach, italian sausage, or any of your favorite lasagna fillings are good,” Ohlde said. “If you like

mushrooms, you could dice up and saute mushrooms to add. There's a number of different things you could put in it.” Ohlde said he and his kids enjoy cooking together and making food that they do not often eat. “We like food that’s good,” Ohlde said. “The original recipe was for spinach in the lasagna rolls. I kicked that up a notch, and put in some spicy Italian sausage and it was good.”

Pfefferkuchen and Pfeffernüsse

very year, social studies teacher Ken Thomas makes two traditional German cookie recipes around the holidays, Pfefferkuchen (pfeffer-ku-cen) and Pfeffernüsse (pfeffer-nusse). The recipes were passed down from his parents, who immigrated from Germany in 1952 and became U.S. citizens in the early 1960s. Because of his parents’ German roots, Thomas said a lot of his family’s holiday traditions are German. “I remember eating them when I was a little kid,” Thomas said. “We would eat the Pfefferkuchen and put

them in holiday tins, and they would always be in the cabinets and we would steal the cookies out of the cookie jar.” Typically, Thomas said, his family makes the cookies over Thanksgiving break, and are ready to decorate for his father’s birthday on Dec. 12. “That was our decoration day. We wanted to make sure we always had the cookies there to help celebrate my father’s birthday,” Thomas said. Pfefferkuchen and Pfeffernüsse are spice cookies. Pfeffernüsse are one inch round balls of dough that are rolled in sugar. Pfefferkuchen are softer, more typically-shaped

cookies that can be cut into various traditional holiday shapes. Thomas said his parents did not follow recipes exactly, instead taking basic recipes and perfecting them. “My parents were very much into taste as far as cooking goes. So they would take a basic recipe and then go beyond that basic recipe and they would make it until it tastes perfect,” Thomas said.

PF E F F E R KU C H E N R E C I PE : IN BOWL 1, SIFT TOGETHER: 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour ¾ teaspoon double-acting baking powder 1/8 teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon nutmeg ¼ teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cardamom seeds

IN BOWL 2, MIX TOGETHER: ½ cup butter or shortening 1/3 cup sugar 1 egg, well beaten until light

FOLD INTO BOWL 2:

¼ cup finely chopped almonds 1 tablespoon finely chopped citron ¼ cup finally chopped orange peel

4 5

MIX ALL INGREDIENTS FROM BOWLS 1 & 2 WITH:

1/3 cup molasses 1 tablespoon corn syrup 1/3 Brandy or flavoring 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind 1 tablespoon lemon juice

FINAL STEPS:

1. Beat mixture well 2. Let mixture rest overnight 3. Preheat oven to 360 degrees 4. Shape dough into 1-inch balls 5. Bake on a greased cookie sheet for 10-15 minutes 6. Roll in confectioner’s sugar and serve

LOOKING FOR MORE?

Visit BVNWnews.com for the step-by-step recipe guides to each of these teacher’s traditional holiday foods.

HUSKY HIGHLIGHTS | 12.10.20

30 Senior Paige Rigdon and the BVNW cheer team strike a pose in their final routine during state cheer competition, Nov. 14. “I think that we performed really well at state, and I’m really proud of all the girls. I wouldn’t have changed a thing,” Rigdon said. (Photo by Savannah Bridges)

Senior Delaney Granholm receives a Distinguished Senior Award from Student Government teacher Sarah Derks, Nov. 5. “It was nice to know that my teammates and coaches saw my hard work in the classroom and on the [volleyball] court. I never expected to get an award for just doing what I do, so I was definitely surprised. I’m happy that normal students got the opportunity to be honored because it doesn’t happen often,” Granholm said. (Photo by Richa Laddha)

DECEMBER 2020

12.10.20 | HUSKY HIGHLIGHTS

31 During class while in hybrid learning mode, freshman Kurtis Rephlo goes over his test with math teacher Nicholas Titus, Nov. 9. Despite the restrictions COVID-19 may impose, Rephlo said he maintains a positive attitude throughout the changing learning modes. “I enjoy the amazing people in this class, they brighten up my day,” Rephlo said. (Photo by Jessica Witt)

Junior Nick Cusick carries the ball in the game against Blue Valley High School, Nov. 6. “High school football has given me the ability to work and build relationships with some great guys I otherwise would have never met,” Cusick said. (Photo by Rachel Sarff)

HUSKY HIGHLIGHTS

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