Blue Valley West High School, 16200 Antioch Rd., Overland Park, Kan.
SPOTLIGHT Volume 16, Issue 2 Oct. 26, 2016
Self Determination
How do teens decide who they are and what they believe? Do we allow our peers and society to determine our identity or are we self determined. Rebecca’s Belief................pg. 6 Conspiracy Theory..............pg. 12 Voting...................................pg. 16 Media Bias...........................pg. 18 Annie’s Art............................pg. 22 Sexual Assault...................pg.24
Photo by Ryan Barrett
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CONTENTS Pg. &16 17
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Photo by Coley Sullivan
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Senior Rebecca Lassen reflects pride in her religion, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Being a Mormon has an impact on every aspect of her life, including where she plans to go to college. Lassen hopes that her religion shows in all of her activities.
Drawings courtesy Tribune News Service
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On the cover
Sexual harassment and assault are prevalent in both the local and national news with accusations launched against presidential candidates and high school freshmen. Spotlight reporter, Rachel Pickett, wondered if Jags knew about BV district policies.
The 2016 Presidential election will go down in history as one of the most contentious. Yet, almost 70 seniors are eligible to vote for president for the first time. They’ve been waiting for at least 18 years but will they take the chance to participate in our democracy on Nov. 8?
PAWS provides spirit and support for teams and activities while teaching job skills Photo by Ryan Barrett
Photo by Anna Perry
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Photo of Annie Diemer’s art by Ryan Barrett
Sophomore Cooper Wilson is making the most of the fall sports season by being on both the varsity football and varsity soccer teams. How does he do it? Read the profile on page 14 to find out.
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The West Gallery may be absent her work but senior Annie Diemer’s talent is undeniable. The aspiring artist colored constantly as a youngster but is now on the brink of making a living with her talents.
Students carry water bottles throughout the day. The national trend of consuming more water has impacted Jaguars. Find out where our water comes from on page 24. Photo by Shayla Hicks
Photo by Audrey Fehnel
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Text messaging has changed the English language; our ELA teachers show us the subtext in books. Subtext in text messages can impact communication and relationships.
A change in philosophy resulted in big changes for the Red and Silver Brigade. Once a class, marching band is now and extra-curricular activity. Unique to BV West, band class is still offered and only those wishing to be extremely dedicated to the group put in the rigorous hours and travel to compete.
Photo by Delaney Burns
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Editor’s Note
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HAT IS A JOKE and what is offensive? What is art and what is obscenity? In this issue of the Spotlight, we take a look at the things that shape us, from our childhoods to our beliefs and values, in order to try and answer these difficult questions. Everyone walks these fine lines throughout life, and at times we have to make decisions place us firmly on one side of the line or the other. The point of our formative years is to try and learn as much as we can, so that we can make the best decisions possible when confronted with tough questions. However, the most important aspect of making those decisions is owning up to them, taking responsibility, and acknowledging that our actions have consequences, positive or negative. We are our beliefs, our experiences, and our actions, they are what make us unique individuals. We have control over some of those aspects, we have the power of self-determination. It is important that we realize the power that we hold, because it allows us to break from expectations and truly be free. Until next issue, Leah Zimmerli Editor in Chief
Spotlight is printed at least six times per school year for the BV West students and community. Its goals are to inform, entertain and interpret through editorials and bylined articles while providing an open forum of communication for the diverst student population and faculty members. Spotlight aims to be fair, accurate and impartial. The content of the print publication, online new site and social media accounts is determined by its student editors as determined by the Kansas Scholastic Press Act and may contain controversial subject matter as the sta exercises their First Amendment Rights. Spotlight does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the faculty adviser, the administration of BV West or USD 229.
spotlight staff Leah Zimmerli Editor in Chief Shaye Herman and Mikaela Schmitt Managing Editors Ryan Barrett Photo Editor Kaylee Alexander, Jack Anstine, John Byrket, Kristina Cripe, Jaden Dudrey, Liz Hernandez, Jesse Hoffman, Hannah Holladay, Stephen Kinder, Jonah Park, Rachel Picket, Lanie Render, Sydney Schranz, Nick Sisler, Rachel Zimmerli Contributors
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Contents 5 Party candidat Note: Green
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Unknown Famed singer Bob Dylan was
awarded a Nobel Prize in Literature. The Swedish Academy has attempted to contact Dylan, but he will not respond. The party will ensue without Dylan, as the unresponsive singer is currently on tour.
North Carolina
United States Swing states are those that have the same level of support for both
the Republican and Democratic presidential Florida candidates. Additionally, these states often have a lot of electoral votes. The final decisions made Swing state poll among likely voters by voters in these states will very likely determine Note: Green Party candidate JillClinton Stein is not the ballot in which candidate, Hillary oronDonald North Carolina Trump, become the 45th president of theNorth Carolina United States. Hillary Donald Gary Jill Clinton
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Important stories taking place beyond Johnson County’s borders
Ohio
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North Carolina 7% Clinton 47.4 Trump 43.8
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Mikaela Schmitt Managing Editor
Johnson
Oct. 16 Support Percentages as reported by Politico
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Qayyarah Airbase Source: ISW, BBC, AP Graphic: Staff, Tribune News Service
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Humans of BV West
Senior Rebecca Lassen exemplifies pride in her religion Hannah Holladay Contributor
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OUNTLESS STUDENTS HOLD DIFFERENT SETS of beliefs and ideals that make them unique from their peers, but the intricacy behind those beliefs can often go unnoticed in school. Faith plays a major role in every aspect of many individuals’ lives, and senior Rebecca Lassen exemplifies a love and pride in her religion both inside and outside of school. Lassen is a very involved member at school, managing to balance her passion for film on Jagged Edge, with other activities including Diversity Leadership Council, National Honors Society, homework, and church activities. Although all of these are important to Lassen, her church holds a special place in her heart. “I’m a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints,” Lassen said. “In my church, there is a group for girls [ages] 16-18. I’m the secretary of that class and since I’m one of the older ones, I’m kind of a leader in that whole group of all the girls.” As a Mormon, Lassen attends a three hour service at her church every Sunday and is involved with her church classes as well. Her faith plays a major role in her life now, but growing in her beliefs was by no means simple. Like many, Lassen had to explore what it meant to her to be Mormon and why the religion was important to her along the way. “When I was a kid, I just went [to church] with my parents because that was what we did,” Lassen said. “It was great because I had friends and it was so much fun. Then, when I was 14, we actually ended up splitting our church.” Change can be difficult, especially at a young age. Lassen’s experience with her church splitting was not easy for her, but opened her eyes to opportunities she may not have necessarily seen before. It was during this time that she truly began to embody her religion as her own.
Photo by Coley Sullivan
“I didn’t have any friends in my ward after that when I went to church,” Lassen said. “I really had to discover for myself what my faith was and I had to learn to go to church for myself and learn the real reason for why I have this faith. It’s not just because of my parents, I don’t rely on my parents’ faith. It’s my own, and I’ve had to learn that over the years.” As Lassen has developed her faith, she has become more focused on integrating her religion into every aspect of her life, and embodies her faith at school and outside of the classroom as well. “So many people know me for my faith, and I’m really happy about that because I really want to display my faith proudly and help people know about that,” Lassen said. “I’m glad people are accepting, especially at Blue Valley West. This faith is so important to me and people respect that and respect me for that. I’m so grateful for that. “ Above all, Lassen realizes the importance of standing proud in her faith and respecting others for doing the same. BV West is filled with students with diverse religions, belief sets, and ideals. Lassen’s faith has stayed strong over the years and throughout her time in high school, as she has grown and learned why being Mormon is so important to her. “There is not a day that goes by without me thinking of my religion, or without me acknowledging how much it has blessed my life,” Lassen said. “It is in every aspect of my life. It is in everything that I choose to do. I have to acknowledge my blessings every day.” The accomplishments Lassen has achieved in school and in her spiritual life have been monumental, and the prospects for her future are bright. After graduation, she plans to attend Brigham Young University-Idaho where she will pursue broadcast.
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PAWS-ITIVELY AWESOME STUDENTS Sharing school spirit and joy Rachel Zimmerli Contributer
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ROWING UP IS DIFFICULT FOR EVERYONE. Everything changes, whether it be your music taste, your friends, or your interests. Children with intellectual disabilities have it especially hard. Things others find easy or natural are difficult for them to understand. That’s why Life Skills class brings opportunities for these kids to grow in their own way. One opportunity is the PAWS club, which stands for Positively Awesome West Students. Students in Life Skills class get involved in the school and are trained for jobs they could have in the future. PAWS club makes celebratory gifts, locker decorations, signs, and banners for events around school. The students in PAWS learn how to take orders, collect money, assemble the items, and deliver the product, all while becoming more involved in BV West. “It provides us with job training for our students,” Life Skills teacher Patricia Knox desribed. “They have to do all the work.” A division of the PAWS club is called peer tutoring. Peer tutors aid the PAWS and its teachers by helping to organize activities during late arrival, take the class to homecoming with them. “They are all going together and the parents are so thankful, they are so happy,” Knox described with a smile on her face, “[Peer tutors] help our students be a part of afterschool activites.” Another way Life Skills students get involved in our school is by making staff lunches. This happens about once a month. Teachers order meals for $5, and the students collect their money, prepare the food all themselves, and then deliver it to the teachers. An example of a typical meal is chicken salad, chips, celery, carrots and a dessert. Students with intellectual disabilities are prepared for adult living by providing the students with an apartment like classroom. It is entirely their responsibility to take care of so they make the coffee, do the dishes, vacuum, do the laundry, etc. “It’s a program to help students prepare for independent living,” Knox explained. By taking care of their own space students in Life Skills class develop their independence so they can go on to live their own adult life.
Freshman Keaton Turner grins while makinging goods for PAWS Productions. Photos by Ryan Barrett
Scan the QR Code to visit the PAWS Twitter
recreating old memories Spotlight contributors review favorite childhood places ACK WHEN BIRTHDAY PARTIES WERE the pinnacle of childhood fun times, there were those specific locations that catered specifically to making kids scream with wonder. When bringing up a place like, say, Chuck E Cheese’s to a teenager in high school, they would probably say something like, “Wow, I haven’t been there since I was ten. I wonder what it’s like there nowadays.” Have you ever wondered what it
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would be like to revisit those places that once made you wet your pants in excitement? Well, we have, and so we visited three locations that came to mind when we thought of classic childhood memories (Deanna Rose, Skate City, and Chuck E. Cheese’s) and wrote about our experiences. We all have to return to our roots sometime, and you may be surprised at what we found.
deanna rose
Leah Zimmerli Editor in Chief
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SOURCE OF CHILDHOOD NOSTALGIA for Overland Park kids is Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. Many people remember bottle feeding the baby goats and fishing surrounded by ducks at the small pond. Deanna Rose opened it’s doors in 1978, named after a fallen Overland Park police officer with a passion for animals. Since then, it’s been a beloved place for local children to visit. Under beautiful trees, goats, pigs, cows, horses, chickens, and other animals are on display for all the visitors with interactive educational exhibits. There, special events are hosted, from birthday parties to fishing tournaments and public safety days. While I was there with the our staff, it was quiet, only a few families were following the trails around the Farmstead. We soaked in the sight of the changing leaves falling from the tall trees and the faint sounds of animals calling in the distance. We wandered through the peaceful butterfly garden where the only sounds were the crunching of leaves under our shoes and the deep tones of large wind chimes dangling from the branches. Along the path that crisscrosses the Farmstead, we saw new animals that I didn’t remember from my earlier days coming here. For example, a bald eagle aptly named Americus perched on a branch in his cage, watching us with an aloof demeanor. There were decorations up for one of my personal favorite events that the Farmstead hosts, “Night of the Living Farm.” During “Night of the Living Farm,” the park stays open after it typically closes, and children in all different costumes arrive as the sun sets. The paths are lined with carved pumpkins and twinkling lights, giving the place a warm glow when the sun goes down. Deanna Rose offers games in their wide open field, a haunted house, spooky hayrides, and a scavenger hunt
alongside the animals. When I was younger, I would go visit the Farmstead for “Night of the Living Farm” every year. Though it had been a while since I’d attended, when I returned, the Farmstead seemed to be just as it had been years ago, with just a few changes. Now, there are even more activities for visitors and something new for the regular visitors. Older kids can get involved in Deanna Rose as well. Their volunteer program keeps the Farmstead running and helps kids get community service hours for rewarding work. This coming weekend is the last that the Farmstead will be open this season before it closes for the winter. For those interested in volunteering, there are still opportunities available to earn community service hours. Check out the QR code below for details.
skate city
Shaye Herman Managing Editor
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E ALL REMEMBER THE WHIMSICAL neon carpeting and dimly lit rink of Skate City, and what I’m sure is the most universally accepted collective memory of the place, is that it’s a somewhat shady. There was always a guy with far too much hair running the snack booth, most of the arcade games were broken, and the rental roller skates smelled just a bit off. Needless to say, when me and my companion, Leah Zimmerli, rolled up to the desolate, abandoned parking lot on a dark Friday night, we had pretty much deduced how the night was going to go. It cost $10 each for us including skate rental, and after complimenting a grown man on his Ash Ketchum hat, we strolled in. It was much brighter than I remembered, not to mention the fact there were a good number of people there-kids, teenagers, and adults alike. We collected our skates, laced up, and made our way to the floor. What my companion lacked in enthusiasm, I made up for tenfold, as one of my many useless talents happens to be rollerskating. I went around at a moderate pace, passing by children and easily abandoning my friend, until muscle memory kicked in and I cruised almost as
Chuck e. cheese’s
fast as the professionals. My friend crashed into a child and sprained her wrist, effectively ending her wobbly rein after maybe half an hour. We decided to test out the arcade games with a game of skeeball (only one of the three machines was functional, of course) which yielded a grand total of- wait for it- one ticket. The very cheapest prize was a Tootsie roll, and it was five tickets. We elected to keep it as a souvenir (though, the $10 Skate City t-shirt that said “A wheely good time” was tempting, too.) I became acquainted with the staff in a few ways; the DJ declined all four of my song requests, which included “Take On Me” by a-ha, “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen, and “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley. While I was tempted to suggest “Sandstorm” by Darude, I decided to quit while I was ahead. My favorite individual there was the man who essentially looked like Ron Weasley if he joined a biker gang, complete with waistlength ginger hair, a bandana, a leather jacket, and lightup roller blades. Needless to say, he was my hero. We stayed for a few hours, eating some only-slightly overpriced snacks from the bar. The kids cleared out at around 9 p.m., leaving only the teens and adults. We left around 9:30 p.m. when the DJ decided it was a good idea to play the Kidz Bop version of “Trap Queen.” Needless to say, it was indeed a memorable night.
Stephen Kinder Contributor
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HUCK E. CHEESE’S HAS A special place in the hearts of children throughout the country, not because of their pizza or family friendly atmosphere, but simply because its catchphrase lives up to the restaurant; “Where a kid can be a kid.” I myself have only been to Chuck E. Cheese’s once, but going to the place once again certainly gave me some flashbacks of fuzzy and warm feelings that I had as a kid. Upon entering the restaurant, I felt kind of awkward and like an outcast, as I was a lone teenage boy during the lunch hour in a family area. Despite the odd looks while deciding on what I wanted to eat on my budget of $50, I ordered a small pizza and some tokens to play games to channel my inner child. While waiting on my delicious pizza, playing games were more or less fun. I could feel the judgment of parents pressing on me—I really did not mind, I was having fun for an assignment, could they say the same? Being a great baller, the super basketball game is what
consumed most of my tokens. After winning various tickets, I just left my tickets around for some kid to find, maybe he would get some cool prizes with them. If there was one thing I enjoyed most about this fun house, I would definitely say that their pizza is the best one could get. It has the right balance of dough and cheese, and it does not have pools of grease like some pizza places around. In general, Chuck E. Cheese’s is most remembered for their games, but adults still love it for the food.
Missing Halloween Past W 10 Feature
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Elizabeth Hernandez Contributor
A trip down Memory Lane (in a costume looking for candy)
AS ANYTHING BETTER THAN HALLOWEEN Senior Ryan Barrett in grade school? Batman, Disney princesses, Hannah Montana, Woody or Buzz, decisions, decisions. Which would be the most impressive for the Costume Parade before the Harvest Party? Which would be the coolest for trick or treating? Before getting turned into a holiday more meant for costumes and sweet treats, Halloween was a day that marked the end of the harvest season for the Celts and Day of the Dead for Hispanic cultures. This time of transition opened a bridge between the world of the living and the world of the dead. These older traditions are a far cry from Halloween as experienced today. Most can think back to those times when elementary students were allowed to travel to school and parade around in their costumes. Seeing students of every grade grinning from ear to ear as parents Sophomore Lexi Symonds crowded around for the perfect pictures was fun. Junior Mady Fancher Halloween is particularly special for senior Ashley Buehler. Not only does she celebrate the holiday but in the same month she gets to celebrate her birthday. One memory she recalls from elementary school was in 4th grade. She was Cleopatra. While she was walking in the parade, a ladybug got stuck on her dress. Buehler had fun trying to swat the insect off of her costume, although it refused for a while before flying away. Alumnae Renee Hernandez has a fond memory of the age of five or six. She really liked the costume. But even as a child, she had a few complaints. The costume was a little too big. And it had a funky smell to it. Other than that, she had fun trick-or-treating with her friends. Some people never grow up and senior Sydney Sophomore Anna Parry and Rasmussen believes that Halloween is the best time freshman Andrew with their brother of the year. Already fond of dressing up, as an elevenSenior Skylar Holsinger year-old she made herself into her own version of Lady Gaga. She donned herself in head to toe in silver and flashy accessories with the final touch of the carefully chosen makeup, she was ready to strike a pose and belt out Poker Face. Most every memory of Halloween is fun, exciting and maybe even embarrassing (like when you decided handing out candy was better than trick-or-treating and Senior Rachel Junior Katherine ending up giving candy to your peers). When it doubt, Kauss Edmonds go for the candy.
Senior Chloe Ennis
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A Critique of Humor
Opinion 11
Mikaela Schmitt Managing Editor
Do you mean what you say?
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ITERALLY IS DEFINED BY MERRIAM-WEBSTER Dictionary as “In a literal (completely accurate or true: not exaggerated) manner.” Yet, by Urban Dictionary as an “Adverb carrying the meaning of ‘figuratively’.” The development of teenage language and humor provides an interesting insight to their true emotions. The common over-exaggeration of one’s emotions function as a coping method to the extensive stress that students and young adults of Generation Z are experiencing. Hyperbolizing terms such as ‘I am literally drowning in homework’, provides an insight to the true emotions and struggles of overwhelmed high school and college students. Initially recognized as irony, upon further examination many comments may actually be true in the student’s mind. Although one is often joking, they may subconsciously recognized the layers of self loathing behind it, as they critique disliked qualities of themselves. Humor has evolved into a coping method for teens to relate their struggles to one another. For example, “same” has become one of the most frequented words in teenager’s language, to equate common struggles to one another. Through tools such as the internet, the broad connectivity necessitated a form of relation for those in different cultures who are feeling similar things. Thus inspired “tag-yourself” memes or “relatable posts.” In an age in which so much is expected of them, Generation Z finds safety in others who are feeling the same way. Modern culture has taken the language and humor of that of their parents and developed their own twisted meanings behind it. As seen in history, humor evolves around popular topics and important situations occurring in modern society. The prevalence of
depression, suicide, violence and death in the modern society has created a profound impact on the humor of Generation Z. Also prevalent on the internet and in real life are jokes about ‘wanting to die’ or ‘drinking bleach’, because of the immense stress caused by high school life. While the majority of teens do not literally intend to say they are struggling with suicidal thoughts, the prevalence of these jokes may mask those who are truly struggling with these behaviors. For many in it simply a coping method, however it may be possible to plant a seed of thought in someone’s mind. These new forms of humor are effective, as many students would struggle more without a supportive and understanding community. However, the jokes that are made have become focused on serious matter, branding Generation Z as insensitive and cruel. Yet from the generation’s view, the jokes are not too exaggerated, as they attempt to express themselves in an overwhelming and sometimes suppressing world.
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I am so dead.” I literally cannot do this.” I am drowning in homework.”
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Illumi-nutty Conspiracies
Stephen Kinder Kaylee Alexander Contributors
*Cue The X-Files Theme Song*
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NSANITY, LUNACY AND DERANGEMENT are some of the words that usually come up to mind when one thinks of conspiracy theories. Conspiracies used to be a turn off, because there was always that one guy who would tell you the same; “The more you listen to it, the more it makes sense.” Fortunately conspiracy junkies, it has now become socially acceptable to talk about them, as conspiracy documentaries have
provided endless hours of entertainment, and internet has played a role in romanticizing farfetched things. From “evidence” of an alternate universe, to the idea that reptilians run the political world, one can never tell what they will get when researching them. Absurd or not, it is time to put on our tin-foil hats and discuss possible theories that will throw you for a loop!
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ITH A QUICK GLANCE AT Wikipedia, “Chem-Trails” are deemed an “unproven suspicion,” but that is no fun! This wild ride of a conspiracy first started when an unknown source in 1996 spread the idea the US Airforce was “Spraying the U.S. population with mysterious substances.” This idea soon became popular with pseudo-scientists, who insisted that the government must do a full inquiry on the matter. Millions of tax dollars later, the US government finally confirmed that there are no chemicals or biological hazards sprayed from condensation trails of airplanes.
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S MUCH AS ONE WOULD WISH that this conspiracy was a joke, anyone can find auditoriums full of people that full-heartedly support the notion that a lost world of humanoid reptilians have returned to push their agenda in world politics. Unfortunately for historians, nobody can trace this ancient conspiracy. On the bright side, conspiracy theorist David Icke has brought back this madness with theories that many famous people are secretly reptilians—such as George W. Bush, Queen Elizabeth II, and our presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. We have our eyes on you, Hillary…
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T A TIME OF UNCERTAINTY AND the conclusion of the Red Scare, many people were eager to blame the assassination of our beloved president on Russia. This paranoia led to a branch of conspiracies related to President Kennedy—ranging from tampering of evidence to multiple assassins. One of the most popular conspiracies pertaining to his assassination was the “Magic Bullet” theory, which stated that Oswald could not have worked alone, because the bullet that punctured the president entered his lower back and came out his throat. Surprisingly enough, this conspiracy is widely accepted by people in the US, and the masses are waiting for documents to be released that will prove that Kennedy’s assassination was a big conspiracy.
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HARMACIES; ONE CANNOT SIMPLY LIVE without them. However, conspiracies theorists such as Kevin Trudeau beg to differ. People that endorse this conspiracy believe that there are already cures for diseases such as AIDS, cancer, and diabetes already have cures, but pharmaceutical are hiding them so they can continue to make money off of prescription drugs. Radical followers of the Big Pharma conspiracy even say that pharmacies give counterproductive drugs to keep people paying for their prescriptions. Neurosurgeon Donald Blaskiewicz, has been disgruntled by this conspiracy to the point that he made stabbing comment against it; “The Big Pharma conspiracy theory has four classic traits: first, the assumption that the conspiracy is perpetrated by a small malevolent cadre; secondly, belief that the public at large is ignorant of the truth; thirdly, that its believers treat lack of evidence as evidence; and finally, that the arguments deployed in support of the theory are irrational, misconceived or otherwise mistaken.”
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The Mandela Effect Alternate Universes?
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ANY REMEMBER NELSON MANDELA as a powerful activist that sadly died in prison in the 1980s, but these people were surprised to hear of news that Mandela died, long after he got out of prison, in 2015. There was then no mention they could find about Mandela’s first death. Confused, some of these people started digging, and they found a book. In this book was the only report they could find of the death in prison. This sparked a series of distinct memories being disproven, leading to a movement now referred to as the Mandela Effect, named after the late philanthropist.
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HICH LOOKS RIGHT TO YOU? More and more accounts are coming out stating how shocked people are to see their favorite fast food chain isn’t what they thought it was. These people recognize the top image as correct, but the bottom logo is the real one. Many mandela effects took place in childhood or many years ago, while this is recent. People have seen this logo recently, causing a lot of theories and speculation. One theory is that the world we used to know ended twice, once in 2000 causing a lot of the first, older effects. Then again in 2012 creating more recent ones.
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HIS IS ONE OF THE MOST popular mandela effects. So many of us remember this family of bears from the books our mom read to us as children. But what is this family’s name? Do you remember? If you don’t, text your mom and ask her. A huge number of people who read these books remember them as the Berenstein bears, but when looking at their old books they see Berenstain. This brings up a couple theories. One of which is that there are many alternate dimensions, and in one these books were in fact called the Berenstein Bears and at some point those of us who remember it this way were moved to this dimension. Another is that the name was changed because of anti-Semitist agendas, as stein is a common last name in Jewish families.
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R. MONOPOLY HAS ALWAYS BEEN famous for his top hat, mustache, and monocle. Or has he? Upon looking at the game’s mascot we can find no mention of the charming monocle that we all remember. Many think his face now looks weird and bare without the eyepiece. Even now, if you look up “Monopoly man costume” you will find people dressed in suits with a bowtie, cane, top hat, and yep, you guessed it, a monocle. How can they explain this broad memory being completely wrong? Maybe you had an active imagination as a kid, or maybe- you were just born in an alternate universe.
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kicking it up a notch
Lanie Render Contributor Sophomore Cooper Wilsion explains his role as a dual sport athlete
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INCE THE FIRST GRADE, SOPHOMORE Cooper Wilson has participated in both soccer and football. For years, being a dual sport athete seemed normal, but in high school, both sports take place in the fall, and Wilson faced a challenge. His freshman year, Wilson played JV soccer and suited up for varsity; football was out of the equation. This year, Wilson proves to be a key for both teams’ success. Wilson has found a way to play both football and soccer at the varsity level. With the asisstance of head football coach Josh Koerkenmeier and soccer coach Alex Aiman, Wilson is an important player for both varisty teams. “This past summer I asked both coaches if it would be possible for me to play both sports,” Wilson said. “And the coaches were willing to let me try and see if it would work out. I am very lucky that both coaches have supported me.” The summer practice and scheduling accomadations have allowed Wilson to be a an impact player for both teams. “He is a starting center back for our solid 2016 boys soccer team and he can kick the leather off the football,” Aiman said. Wilson does not take this unique oppurtunity for
Photo by Anna Perry
granted and works hard to ensure the victories of both teams. “I have always pushed myself in both sports,” Wilson said. “And I am always trying to get better.” Wilson practices soccer every day but leaves early on Wednesdays for football, allowing him to sharpen his skills field goal and kick-off skills.
However, an hour and a half of football practice is not enough for Wilson, he makes an effort to improve his game on his own. “I usually go out on one day of the weekend and try to kick a few footballs and I also have started private kicking lessons,” Wilson said. This impressive work ethic on the pitch and football field translates to the classroom, as Wilson remains a exceptional student throughout his atheltic career. “It’s hard to keep up with all of it but, I have just had
Photo By Justine Hayes
to learn how to manage my time better,” Wilson said. With experience, Wilson learned to deal with conflicts and heavy workload. As for dealing with game conflicts, Wilson will attend the soccer game, and if time permits, will kick for the football team. “Both teams could use his skills so the coaches got together and worked out a schedule that everybody could live with,” Aiman said. When there was a conflict on Sept. 1, Wilson finished assisting his team in the soccer game, then right before the BV Southwest game, arrived and was able to kick for the football team. “I try to make both games if I can,” Wilson said. “The first football game was on a Thursday and we had a soccer game at 4:30 and then I got to the football game about 30 minutes before the game started.” Both sports are a priority for Wilson and his presence is appreciated by both teams and the coaches. “Cooper handles the dual sport task with great ability,” Aiman said. In the winter, Wilson hopes to play basketball.Only doing one sport should be a breeze for Wilson as he has proven that he is not only capaable, but thrives under the challenge of particapating in two sports.
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15
the subtext of texts Deciphering what they say versus what they mean Leah Zimmerli Editor in Chief
“K.”
It appears to be such a simple message on the surface, but it causes a variety of symptoms. A queasy stomach, sweaty palms, a worried mind, all from one letter. The subtext of this text is clear to see for anyone who has received this message. They might as well have written “You’re the most boring person I’ve ever talked to,” or “I would rather eat broken glass than type a response to you.” Well, that might be a bit of an overstatement… or is it? The trouble with texting is the lack of other social cues that help us decipher communication, such as facial expressions and tone of voice. Without these, we are left to our own devices to interpret messages. Of course, humans are nothing if not resourceful, so we’ve adapted our written language to try to fill these gaps, making the way the message is written just as important as what it says. For instance, some people type in all lowercase letters to convey a friendly and relaxed vibe with their message, sometimes capitalizing words for Irony or typing in all caps FOR EMPHASIS. Even punctuation is up for interpretation, with multiple exclamation points conveying excitement and a lack thereof conveying apathy. Today, proper grammar can be easily interpreted as anger, which often makes texts from parents all the more sinister. Just in case adjusted grammar wasn’t complicated enough, emoticons and emojis add another level of complexity to our texting lingo. The smiley face, a once innocent colon and parenthesis combination has now become associated with passive-aggressiveness that strikes fear into your heart :). There are those of the opinion that texting has killed the written language with oversimplification and abbreviation (@ the BVW English Department). In reality, however, language over text is closer to what written language was based off of: spoken words. Acronyms and emojis all add layers of complexity and social cues that are typically lost in formal written communication. Reading into the subtext of texts is easier said than done, but there is no shame in asking for clarification if something doesn’t make sense. Even if it is mildy embarassing, it is worth the brief discomfort to avoid a miscommunication.
the Many ways to say okay ok This response is truly neutral, if not a little bored.
kk This is a rushed but friendly response from someone who might not have to talk right now, but wants to aknowledge you.
Okay. While this message is a common response from parents, coming from your friend, the proper grammar could indicate tension.
K. This is it, the conversation killer. Likely sent in anger, it might be best to let this person cool off for a while.
16 Feature
Feature
YOUR VOTE IS YOUR VOICE
Contributors: Jack Anstine, Lanie Render
With the 2016 presidential election drawing near, students and teachers discuss the views that many first time voters have towards their newfound responsibility
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OR THE FIRST TIME IN THEIR LIVES, seniors nation-wide will have the opportunity to help decide the next president of the United States. Throughout the course of this year’s election, many millennials have expressed their determination to secure the future of the nation, including BV West Senior, Kelsey Wannamaker. “I feel like if I don’t vote then I can’t complain about who wins and I want to voice my opinion,” Wannamaker said. Despite the enthusiasm that many young voters have, it remains unclear whether or not more young people will show up to the polls than in previous years. According to civicyouth.org, only 45 percent of young voters casted a ballot in 2012. Millennials have the opportunity to influence this election; however, if history repeats itself then it will be the older generations who determine which candidate will become president.
Permission to use photos by Tribune News Service
Aaron Anderson, teacher of the election class, gave his thoughts on the role that young people have played in this years election. “Bernie Sanders has brought the attention of young voters to the forefront of the election,” Anderson said. “I think there is going to be a bigger push to get the young vote out.” Despite the excitement that many millennials have, some eighteen year olds are unsure whether or not they should exercise their right to vote in the upcoming election. “Since I am about to turn 18 and there is a national election I feel like I should vote, but I don’t want to unless I’m well informed,” said Senior, Jessie Jacobson The reality is, many voters cast a ballot without looking into the policies and platform of the candidates. Due to the fact that the United States has two major political parties, many voters simply affiliate themselves with a party and vote without bothering to stay informed or form their stance on specific issues. Senior, Gage Cook argues for the importance of educated voting. “It’s your responsibility as an American citizens to
17
SPLIT
be an informed voter,” Cook said. “That’s the only way democracy works.” For some eligible voters, neither candidate is appealing, and they feel that there is no point in deciding between the “lesser of two evils”. “I don’t think that any of the candidates are fit to lead our country the way it should be led,” said BV West senior, Jon McElwee. Many members of the general public agree with McElwee and are unsatisfied with the two nominees. According to a poll by America Decides student Rachel Pickett, 59 out of the 112 people who polled did not support Donald Trump whatsoever, while 40 of the pollers did not support Hillary Clinton. Despite the general public’s negative opinion of the two candidates, some voters, like Senior Eric Carney continue to stress the importance of casting a ballot. “After going through everything that people have to earn suffrage, it’s really disappointing that people take voting for granted,” Carney said. “Even if you dislike the presidential candidates, you’re throwing away your vote that has a large influence on our lives.” Regardless if many young voters show up to vote in the polls or not, one thing is certain, this election will impact the lives of American citizens. Anderson had some advice to share. “Get involved, politics gets a bad reputation sometimes but it’s our responsibility as a U.S. citizen to be informed on issues and to question our authority,” Anderson said.
TING THE T A vote ICKET fo ent po r candidate so lit ballot, ical parties o f differin n of only stead of for the same candid one pa ates rty.
The BVW Spotlight ran a twitter poll asking 18-year-old seniors if they will be voting. While there were only 58 people who voted in the poll, there are only 69 BV West students who are eligible to vote, making the numbers a fairly accurate representation of how many eligible student voters.
Y JORIT A M E UT g ABSOL stitutin n o c s r ote umber ber of v A num n half of the n ha more t red. registe SWING STATE Two majo r politica lp similar le vels of su arties have pport am voters, v ong iew determin ed as important in ing the o ver a preside ntial elec all result of tion. GE COLLE L A R O ELECT ting presen e r e l ally p of peo o form A body of the US, wh of the on tes e electi ent. the sta h t r o f tes esid cast vo vice pr d n a t n preside
VOTE
18 Editorial
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ROM FOX NEWS TO THE NEW YORKER, from Facebook to Twitter, we gather information about the world around us. Since we can’t be there to experience every major news event, we rely on others to give us the facts that shape our opinions. This is why mass media is an extremely powerful tool that has the ability to shape everything from our opinions to history itself. Today, there is an overwhelming number of news outlets ranging from extremely conservative to extremely liberal reporting on current events. Consuming media from only one end of the spectrum has far reaching consequences. People are no longer challenged to consider another viewpoint, as they easily remain in their comfort zone by only consuming media that supports their preconceived opinions. This contributes to the polarization of politics and the perpetuation of ignorance. If someone is getting all of their information from a biased source, they learn nothing. They only reaffirm their own beliefs. If the American people become polarized, then the American Government becomes polarized as well to appeal to their voters which slows down the legislative process and prevents any meaningful government action. Media bias has the ability to shape our perceptions of the world around us, and it is more pervasive than many care to realize or admit. Bias is everywhere in the news, including what stories are selected, what stories are not selected, how headlines are written, and the “spin� put on the stories. News organizations want people like you
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to read their work, so they write headlines and stories that will pull people in, at times preferring the to tell the story that they believe readers will find more interesting than the truth. This issue is even more prevalent in the age of social media. Today, almost anyone can convey their opinions about anything on an international platform. They can freely express their opinions and bias without the restrictions that journalists typically have to a huge global audience. As journalists, Spotlight staff members have to seriously examine our own personal beliefs and how they might affect our writing. We are proud to have a wide range viewpoints on our staff, but we cannot see issues from every angle. We work to combat bias by giving a voice to the students at our school. We shape our writing around the quotes that these students give us, so that we reflect their beliefs and not our own. I challenge our readers to break out of your comfort zone. Read as many articles as you can and watch as many news reports as you can from as many different sources as possible. Form your own opinions. Do not let one source tell you what to believe, think beyond the bias. Think critically about what you read and decide for yourself what you think is true. If the Spotlight seems biased in any way to you, write to us. We take the opinion of our student body seriously, and our goal is to be as balanced as possible.
...more stories at BVWNews.com
Satire 19
I can’t believe bernie sanders is dead Our obligatory political satire piece
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WAS OUTSIDE LISTENING TO alternative indie music and applying more “Legalize Marijuana” bumper stickers to my Toyota Prius, when my galaxyprint iPhone 4 buzzed in the pocket of my acid-wash jeans. Upon taking it out and checking my Huffington Post news app, I received the shocking news that Bernie Sanders was no longer in the running for president in 2016. What on Earth was I going to do with all those “Feel the Bern” stickers on my Macbook? The only explanation for this phenomena is quite ghastly: Bernie Sanders. Must. Be. Dead. Between Bernie and Hillary Clinton, there is no logical way that Sanders would drop out unless he tragically perished from old age or who knows what else. I mean, where’s the proof that some corrupt opponent didn’t hire an assassin to have him killed and make it look like an accident? If you think about it, this is just like one big conspiracy, y’know?
Shaye Herman Managing Editor
It’s even more suspicious that all the major news networks haven’t covered his death AT ALL, which just proves that the government is COVERING ALL OF THIS UP. I’m heartbroken about this. Tons of tweets saying #FeeltheBern have gone to waste; sweaters with Bernie Sanders’ face unceremoniously are dumped into Goodwill donation buckets. And, sure, maybe I’m not going to be old enough to vote during the election, but it was the PRINCIPLE that really mattered. I think most of the bright, young people who unabashedly support him on social media can agree, since most of them aren’t old enough to vote, either. Alas, it was too good to be true. My heart goes out to all the other proud Bernie Sanders supporters who are just as lost without him as I am. Perhaps one day we’ll get to the bottom of the mysterious circumstances of his death, but until then, in memoriam, Bernard Sanders.
20
Water you talking about?
Nick Sisler and Kristina Cripe Contributors
According to a @bvwspotlight Twitter poll, 76% of students bring a water bottle to school every day. With this resource being such a necessity it is surprising that, according to The Nature Conservatory, over 77% of adults cannot identify their drinking water source. Do you know where your water comes from?
The water process in
Overland Park starts with the local water company, WaterOne, who collects water from two river sources, the Kansas and Missouri Rivers. This unique two river system allows for more security when it comes to a posible drought.
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Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Stabilization is the next part of the water process. This is done to help stabilize the ph balance. A water technician is also able to fine tune the water’s taste to balance the seasonal conditions.
After clearing the water of any debris
it moves to another basin where it is softened. This is done by removing natural levels of calcium and magnesium which also improves the water’s taste.
iver water is brought to a water basin where is undergoes a process called sedimentation and aeration. All of the imputites and debris settle to the bottom where they are flushed out.
step 4
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fter traveling the 2,800 miles of pipeline, the purified water is avaliable to
Step 5
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isinfection is the final part of preparing water for consumers. This is where the final touches to the water are made and any final impurities are filtered out. Depending on the season the process can take anywhere from eight to 30 hours to go from raw river water to high quality tap water.
more than 170,000 Kansas City residential and commercial customers. Everytime someone washed their hands, brushes their teeth, or even flushes the toilet, that water when through a lot to get to fill that water bottle.
step 6 Sources: www.waterone.org and www.jcwcss.jcw.org Photos by Shayla Hicks
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@bvwspotlight
Win $25 We want 1700 followers. Once we get that many we will draw a name to win a $25 VISA gift card.
Contents 21
Check out the BV West newspaper web site for more stories and several photo galleries.
22Feature
@bvwspotlight
art unseen A senior, a teacher and an administrator share their unique perspectives on the censorship of art
Jonah Park Contributor
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UDE ART HAS EXISTED FOR centuries, dating back to ancient Greek and Roman societies, and even the European Renaissance. The best artists depicted the human body, including Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci. Their works were praised as the purest form of art. Senior Annie Diemer also creates this kind of art, but it is absent from the West Gallery where other student works are displayed. Diemer’s interest in art began in elementary school and continues to play a large role in her life. She spends countless hours practicing her craft. “I was really into crayons all of elementary school and then I started copying characters from shows, animated movies and started drawing lots of photorealistic sharks and other animals,” Diemer said. “My artistic side was always prominent all throughout my life but I ran into an artistic lull in middle school. Everything picked back up and more when freshman year hit and my art snowballed.” Diemer’s art developed into what it is now through art classes. She finds comfort in depicting the nude human body, and her drawings and paintings are very realistic. “I love the human body; I love organic figures and forms. It’s comforting to me. I love drawing and painting nudes especially because it makes me feel content within my femininity and my body,” Diemer said. “Also, I’ve never just really been a fan of painting clothes. It gets in the way of the natural flow of the human body.” Because of the intimate nature of Diemer’s art, many of her works have not been displayed in the art hallway alongside her peers. She is disappointed about the censorship her art receives, but tries not to worry about it. “It’s kind of a bummer,” Diemer said. “They do it to protect other people’s innocence, I guess. And to avoid any complaints. I comply to be respectful but I don’t appreciate it. I put hours into pieces and can’t hang them up. Then again, it’s just high school, so I can’t sweat the small stuff.” Principal Dr. Brett Potts and the administration strive to maintain a comfortable learning environment for all students, and everyone’s beliefs are considered. He does not intend to discourage artists from creating
A self portrait of Annie Diemer displays the realism and expressiveness of her art. what they love, but he wants to prevent anyone from being offended. “This is not our intent to censor or keep people’s art and keep people from creating beautiful things,” Potts said. “We just have to consider the captive audience, and what would be a reasonable expectation of what you would see, hear, or experience in this building.” Art teacher, Deb Waldorf, has been teaching Diemer since she was a freshman. She supports Diemer and her art, and expresses respect for what she does. She wishes the rules were different, but she understands the possible reactions of displaying nude art in a public school. “In a perfect world, it wouldn’t be an issue, but we live in a very public institution.” Waldorf said. “Students here are a captive audience. They have to be here and don’t have a choice. Many have to walk in this hallway, especially bus riders. As a public institution, we are here to be a safe place and a respectful place for all of our students.”
Freshman come as young as 14-years-old at the beginning of the school year, and the school plays hosts to people of a wide range of differing moral and religious beliefs. This variety could cause mixed reactions, especially in a school where all kids are required to attend. Patrons might expect to see nude art in a museum but not in the halls of a public high school. “When you pay to go to a museum, you expect to see nudity, because that’s just part of the art world,” Waldorf said. “When I teach art history out of a book, you will see nudes, but that’s a choice. You can make the choice to take that class or not.” Additionally, visitors come to BV West for the many events. Concerts, debates, sports, contests, concerts, dances, and many other activities take place on a daily basis, bringing visitors just as often. “Parents are dragging their little kids along for their older brother or sister’s stuff. They don’t expect to see nudes in public schools,” Waldorf said. “If you’re confronted with that all of a sudden, and it’s unexpected, what are you going to do? You can earmuff bad words, after it’s too late generally. You can’t put your hands over a little child’s face and say ‘You can’t look,’ because then they’ll say ‘what?’” Likewise, because students are considered a “captive audience” that must see the art displayed in the hallways, Diemer’s nude art is not permitted to be displayed. “Do I wish it was different? Yeah. I wish our country didn’t have these conflicts,” Waldorf said. “But I do respect the moral and religious opinions from anyone. And just because I think it’s okay doesn’t mean I can call the shots.” Potts also explained that students are considered a “captive audience” who do not have a choice about coming to school. Although there is not a specific procedure that is followed prior to displaying art in the hallways, the audience is
...more stories at BVWNews.com
Feature 23
A chalk drawing by senior Annie Diemer shows her attention to detail while creating the human form and unique use of colors and pastels. considered, and any reactions they might have upon seeing them. “When a student wants to hang something up in the hallway, or a teacher wants to bring in a guest speaker, if something is going to be brought into the school, we have to consider the audience,” Potts said. “For example, it would not be unreasonable to see nude art if you were entering an art gallery, but it may not be an expectation for someone who has to be at school by law. Even though that is truly art, it’s beautiful, it’s great, it just might be offensive to some people.” There is no step-by-step procedure in determining what can be displayed in the West Gallery, but teachers have some say in it. When there are concerns or questions about what is being displayed, Potts becomes involved. “Ultimately, I think it all falls on me. If it’s in the hallway and offends somebody, it falls on me,” Potts said. “If it’s not in the hallway, and if that offends somebody, it falls on me, and I accept that and I understand that. If it comes to something that is questionable, or we have some concerns about
deciding if it’s appropriate, ultimately that ends up being my decision.” Even though Diemer’s nude art is not being displayed in the hallways, she plans to continue her art career into college and beyond. The censoring of her art is done by considering what is reasonable for a public high school, and prevent any conflicts, while aiming to consider the moral beliefs of the entire community. Diemer is disappointed, but she knows that after high school her art will not be subjected to the same censorship. Instead of being motivated by displaying her art, Diemer finds personal refuge in producing it. Her art has a message, and she hopes to spread it to the rest of the world. “[I am inspired by] wanting to express my emotions and views to the world. [I want to] spread the possibility of an unsexualized view of the nude figure, and more intimate qualities within that.”
24 News
@bvwspotlight
STUDENTS AND ADMINISTRATION DISCUSS SEXUAL ASSAULT Conversation sparked by local and national news events
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LACK SHIRTS FLOODED THE HALLWAYS of BV West and other Kansas City schools on Sept. 21. After the Kansas City Star reported that a freshman student at Shawnee Mission East reported being sexually assaulted in the boys bathroom, students wore black and used the hashtag ‘WearBlacktoStopAttacks’ to spread awareness on social media. The student accused of the Sept. 14 1assault, is now charged with three counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child and one count of lewd and lascivious behavior. “I participated [in the awareness movement] because I had heard what had happened to the student from Shawnee Mission East,” said junior Jacob Braun. “And I realized that being a leader at West, I should help show that another high school in the area stands with the student, as well as anyone else who has been assaulted.” As news of the alleged assault began to circulate among students, one common theme came about: frustration. While students were frustrated that a sexual assault occurred on a school campus, many were specifically frustrated with the way that the Shawnee Mission East administration apparently handled the assault. “I think they [Shawnee Mission East administration] did a poor job with controlling the situation,” junior Julia Nichols said. “Reading the Kansas City Star and other news outlets, it didn’t seem like the administration at SME took
the situation seriously.” While some students believe that the punishment apparently given to the accused was not enough, others thought that the administration should not handle situations of this severity. “I don’t really think that they [administration] should’ve
handled it because that’s sexual assault, not a cheating scandal,” junior Annika Jensen said. “I think that that’s a serious thing and administration can’t give a punishment that the crime is worthy of.” While most students heard about the punishments that the accuser received to date from the Prairie Village Police Department, the action that the Shawnee Mission East administration took is an entirely different aspect of the alleged assault. “When a crime occurs at school,
Rachel Pickett Contributor the school is required to call the Overland Park Police Department and the situation is dealt with in two separate aspects,” principal Dr. Potts said. “On the one hand, the police department handles their investigation and on the other hand Blue Valley West would handle their side of the investigation. The administration would work with the police, but the way a situation is handled and how much punishment is given at Blue Valley West is different than what the police would be doing.” Although the prevailing impression about the SME sexual assault case is that the accused did not receive enough punishment, because the accused is a minor, no one knows exactly what kind of punishment was given by the administration. “The only people who can know about disciplinary situations and how they’re being handled are police, parents, and the students involved,” Potts said. “If a sexual assault were to occur we [administration] aren’t even allowed to tell the parents of the victim how the person [accused] is being punished, and that creates a lot of frustration because then parents don’t know if the situation is being handled in a way that they deem appropriate.” The conversations that have occurred surrounding sexual assault and how it is dealt with on high school campuses has lead students to wonder how BV West would handle a case of sexual assault. ...continued on page 25
“The number one priority is always the safety of the student,” Potts said. “The first thing we [administration] do is make sure that what occurred won’t happen again.” After a claim of sexual assault is verified, administration contacts the police and then the administration must figure out how they are going to punish the alleged offender and how the victim can learn in a safe, respectful environment. While policies of how teachers should report “unsafe behavior” such as sexual assault can be found on the Blue Valley School District’s website, the district website gives no concrete, uniform policy that states how a sexual assault incident would be handled. “Each situation that comes to administration is handled differently based off of the details of that particular situation, so there isn’t one specific way that we [Blue Valley] can say that we would handle it,” Potts said. “The district policy is actively being worked on so that it is more straightforward and accessible on the Blue Valley District website.” Under current Title IX laws, schools are required to make arrangements for a student who has filed an assault complaint, so that the accuser can still attend school and can be separated from their attacker. “We [administration] would create an intervention plan for the victim so that they could still go to school, be protected from harassment to the best of our abilities and be separated from the alleged attacker,” said Potts. “We would move schedules around so that the accused and accuser wouldn’t be in the same classes or lunch periods together.” Some BV West students expressed irritation with administration because they feel
that issues like sexual assault are dealt with reactively instead of proactively. “A student at West receives different types of training regarding sexual assault throughout their four years here at West,” said Dr. Potts. “Whether that’s enough, I don’t know. I don’t know how much is ever enough but there is always more that we could be doing to address these
issues.” According to a poll taken on the BV West Spotlight Twitter page, 61% of students feel they are not informed about policies regarding sexual assault at BV West. “The fact that I, a female, haven’t heard a word about a way of defense against this or even a change in the system to prevent this is pretty outrageous,” junior Katherine Edmunds said. “It’s a very scary and challenging thing to be a girl and the lack of action that was taken is a very serious problem.” Student Resource Officer Jimmie Neal believes that some sexual assaults occur without the victim or the perpetrator
News 25
understanding what happened. “I’ve had it [sexual assault] happen more than once on a high school campus,” said Neal. “If a sexual assault occurs most students are not educated enough to realize that they’ve reached that level or threshold where know what they are doing is a crime.” Some staff members also think that the school can do a better job with the way that sexual assault training occurs. “It [sexual assault] works better as a small group lesson rather than having 400 freshman students in the PAC,” counselor Kim Urenda said. “It’s hard for me as one person to go around to every advisory and give a lesson about sexual assault. But that would be my hope is that one day we could do individual advisory lessons.” After serious incidents like sexual assault occurs, Neal thinks that BV West does a good job of providing the students involved with as many resources as possible. “In any type of serious situation the administration and I try to ensure the student, parent and anyone else involved that we are here for you and anyone thing that we can do for you, we will do it,” said Neal. Neal, Potts and Urenda all urge students to come forward if an incident like sexual assault occurs. “If something is going on, you need to reach out to me or your administrator,” said Neal. “If you see something, you need to say something. This schools is it’s own community and there is only one police officer, so you guys are going to see things and know things way before I do, so if you know something make sure you inform someone. The best thing that West can continue to do is to have each other’s backs and support one another.” Photo Illustrations by Ryan Barrett
26 Editorial
@bvwspotlight
Halloween Role-Reversal: An Editorial Photo Essay Guys experience what it is like to wear female Halloween costumes As Spotlight staffers discussed the issue of sexual harassment and assault and the approaching of Halloween, women’s costumes were discussed. The male staffers and some of their friends tried on costumes and pieces that belonged to a few of the girls. What started out as hilarity quickly revealed more interesting and profound reactions.
Tears well up in senior Jesse Hoffman’s eyes as he laughs off the awkwardness of wearing the bikini top.
“I felt very uncomfortable at first, but I got used to it after awhile.” junior Stephen Kinder
So overcome he cannot speak, senior Caleb Jones’ face turns a bright red.
Overwhelmed by the shortness of his shorts, sophomore Nick Sisler told the group, “I regret everything.”
more stories at BVWNews.com Jesse Hoffman Contributor Photos by Mikaela Schmitt
“I feel naked.” senior Cameron Burris
“It took three guys and help from one girl to figure out how to put this on.” junior John Byrket
“I felt very exposed, particularly my upper body. I was also more self-conscious about how my legs looked because of the tights. ” sophomore Jonah Park
“I felt really exposed, I’m not used to that.” senior Jack Anstine
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28 Feature
@bvwspotlight
Banding together
Hannah Holladay Contributor
Competitive marching band adjusts to changes in program
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ROM PEP ASSEMBLIES TO FOOTBALL games, the amount of school spirit BV West prides itself on would be drastically different without band. Band brings an unparalleled amount of energy to school events, playing wide varieties of music ranging from the traditional alma mater and fight song, to classical composures and entertaining pieces that never fail to capture the attention of listeners. The band’s presence at so many of the events the student body loves most seems almost effortless, but the amount of commitment and hard work that goes into perfecting each component of the program often goes unrecognized. “It can get pretty gruesome in regards to time management just because we go year round,” band director Cheryl Lee said. “There’s always stuff going on. We’re in season all the time, just different seasons. So, for the students that participate in every facet of the program, which is a lot of them, they’re busy all the time.” Competitive marching band practices nine hours a week outside of school, drilling the music, timing, unity and various other skills needed to make their performances come together. However, the band program has undergone some significant changes this school year, and has lost six hours of weekly practice from last year. The time constraints have been difficult, but the members have adapted and make the most of every practice, managing their time very effectively. “The schedule does seem a little scary,” said senior Nick Pfieff, drum major. “But, this way we can focus on skills both in a wind ensemble setting and a marching setting that are separate. We can really hone in those musical skills in the first block wind ensemble class
and then after school, we use our time to work on the more visual part of marching, rather than focusing on both.” Although the time changes have been one of the most significant adjustments for members, they have also brought about a greater sense of unity in the group. Overcoming obstacles and working towards the strongest show possible have been common goals among the members, who have all worked tirelessly to achieve them. “There’s a lot less rehearsal time, so everyone has to be more on their game and more willing to really be there when they’re there,” said sophomore Ella Kempker, clarinet and oboe player. These changes, while difficult in some regards, were made with the intentions of allowing students as many different ways of getting involved in the program as possible. There are various opportunities available for students in the band department, and the modifications to the program help make it possible for students to take a path in band that they feel best suits them. “The way it used to be was that everyone in the band program was in marching band,” Lee said. “That class was first block, and we’d meet at seven a.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Everyone had to do the grueling schedule, pay the money, and do the traveling that we do. We were losing members because not everyone wants to do that. Not everyone likes marching band and that’s okay. We wanted to cater the program so that each student could customize their experience here. They could do as much or as little band as they wanted, but still be in band.”
more stories at BVWNews.com For the students that choose to participate in the extracurricular marching band, there is a much more significant amount of time and preparation that goes into perfecting the show for competitions. However, the dedication and passion for marching is evident among the members as they perform their competitive show.
“Pageant is our competitive show,” Lee said. “It’s as challenging as we can make it but still achievable. They’re playing music by Sergei Rachmaninoff, who’s a famous Russian classical composer. He plays notoriously expressive, beautiful, passionate music, which is hard for teenagers to play. Teenagers don’t play that level of classical music very often, so it’s something we’ve worked very hard on.” The band takes their show to four competitions per year, and competes in the highly esteemed Bands of America circuit. The locations and number of bands at each competition varies, but some of the most competitive marching bands in the nation attend each competition,
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all with the hopes of making finals. Although a strong desire to succeed is apparent at competitions, members thrive off the atmosphere of performing in a competitive setting. “[Competitions are] so much fun,” said Junior Emma Faye Sylvester, color guard member. “People all around are cheering you on and you have no idea who they are. You meet a ton of new people from different schools and different areas. It’s just a feeling of being home and also of excitement. It’s a really good feeling.” The perseverance of each and every band member, especially throughout the changes the program has undergone and difficulties the group has faced, has made band a huge success throughout the school. Undoubtedly, the commitment of the members to the program has served as a driving force in making their performances so seamless and rallying the support of the student body. The band puts a great amount of hard work into making their music the best it can be, but ultimately seeks to make the school and students as proud as possible. “I’m so proud of the dedication of the members,” Lee said. “A lot of the kids that are in band are some of the top academic kids, or are winning awards in other things. We have students that are great at other things that are so dedicated and work so hard. We try and do well for this school and this community, not only in our performances, but in the way we treat people and in the way we carry ourselves. That’s all for the school as a whole. We’re just trying to make everyone proud.” And they do. Photos by Diane Kershaw and Delaney Burns
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choose your own adventure: election 2016 John Byrket Contributor
On behalf of the American Government, the new President of the United States is ____ (noun). President ____ (noun) will try to make America a(n) ____(adjective) place to live than before. In order to make it a ____ (adjective) country they will ____ (verb) so it outshines the rest of the world. You see President____(noun) standing there on the ____(noun). You walk up to President____(noun) and shake hands. You decide to say to the President “Wow I am so ____(adjective) that I finally got to meet you.” The President doesn’t know that you secretly are about to _____(verb). You don’t know what to do so you ____ (verb) and panic so you run so ____(adjective) away and go and hide. Everyone in the world knows your ____(noun) and is looking for you. You cant_____(verb) so you have to create a_____(noun) in order to hide. You get the ____(noun) so you can make it. When it’s complete everything goes _____(verb). The only thing left to do is ____(verb) and try and make a ____(noun). The first person to finish this MadLib and bring it to Room 233 with the most creative responses will win a prize!
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Jaden Dudrey Contributor
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