CARDINAL Self Identity COLUMNS
F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 5
Defining Yourself Student Individuality at Fondy P.13
Transgender Discrimination? Acceptance of Trans Students P.19
Also Inside: Staying Healthy Valentine’s Day Diamonds In The Rough
Creating the Cover
The Idea
The Process
We wanted to show how different ways of self expression makes one seem. The photo we used gives multiple personalites to one student just by the way she represents herself.
Junior Autumn Vesper was a delight to work with for this issue’s cover. We went through multiple outfit/hair changes to get the right photos before merging them together for the cover.
Inside Cas Bacon was used as one of our feature candids for self expression. We made a spread displaying Cas as gender variant: how they express their identity. The photos were merged together to show how Cas can mesh easily into both expectations of what gender is known to be.
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Around Fondy P.3
contents
Cardinal Columns
Fond du Lac High School 801 Campus Drive Fond du Lac, WI 54935 920-929-2740
www.cardinalcolumns.org
Editorial Board Editor(s)-in-Chief Laura Engebretson Brittany Lange
New Years Resolutions, Technology and Relationships, Pet Peeves
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Sports P.7
Girls Basketball, Boys Swimming
Managing Editor Cory Scherer
Art Director
Katelyn Lavrenz
Sports Editors Katie Nett
Entertainment Editor Brittany Lange
News Editor
Laura Engebretson
Staff Writers
Zac Jaschob Madison Supple Molly Ramirez Mackenzie White Kay Sacasa Glenn Elmer Allie Souders Cas Bacon Cassie Groeschl Alexis Freund Katelyn Lavrenz Mykayla Anthony Mitchell Albertz Max Barbee Zoe Hayes Miranda Comeaux Shanelle Tucker Caitlin Hernandez Morgan Bloechl Shelly Faris
Adviser Matthew Smith To Advertise 920-929-2740 smithm@fonddulac. k12.wi.us Letters to the Editor Room 2610 smithm@fonddulac. k12.wi.us www.cardinal columns.org (click on “Contact Us”)
Entertainment P.9 Diamonds in the Rough, Staying Healthy
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Reviews P.25
Movies, Music, Books
Editorials P.27 Goodbye Miranda, Valentine’s Day, Freshman Advice
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Defining Yourself
P.13
Transgender Discrimination? P.19
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New Year, New Me Fondy students’ resolutions Kay Sacasa // Staff Writer
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s we’re waiting for the ball to goals they set two months ago. Acdrop in Times Square, many cording to CNN, 45 percent of peopeople make a New Year’s ple make New Years resolutions, but Resolution, to help only 8 percent them get their lives keep their prom“I just don’t see the point on track for the ise, so compared in saying that I’m going to new year. to the nation, we change myself when really, Out of 127 Fonare doing much dy students that the only difference is a single better at keepfilled out our suring the promises day.” Andie Baker vey, about 76 perwe’ve made cent of students to ourselves. made one, and 65 percent of students Of all the resolutions made, the are actually keeping up with those highest percentage of specific resolu-
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tions amongst Fondy is physical fitness with 18 percent, following with eating healthier with 13 percent. “I just don’t see the point in saying that I’m going to change myself when really the only difference is a single day,” junior Andie Baker said. For the people in Fondy that haven’t kept their resolutions, CNN recommends doing yoga to help, especially if your goal has something to do with the mind or the body.
Technological Gains or Technological Pains?
The Effects Technology has on Relationships Michelle Faris // Staff Writer
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n a world where we simply just have to push a button or check our devices to keep in contact with our friends, you’d think that friends would be closer; that we would all be more social. Technology is considered by most to be a blessing. You can stay in touch with friends, update people on your life and with what you are doing, have access to all of the information you could possibly ever need or want, get directions, read reviews on entertainment, etc., but what about the negatives? Does technology really bring us closer together? In a recent Cardinal Columns survey out of 192 students, 40% of students said that when they are with friends they only check their devices about half of the time they are together, 33% said they hardly check their devices, 20% said they checked their devices most of the time, and surprisingly only 5% said that they never check their phone or de-
vices. In the survey when students were asked what kind of impact that technology had on their relationships, 60% said that technology had made their relationships closer, 33% said that it did not make their relationships closer and 7% had no answer to the question. Sharon Ni Chonchuir, a reporter with The Irish Examiner, found that the average person checks their phone at least 110 times a day, but why are we so addicted to our phones and other devices? Well, according to Chonchuir, every time we hear our phones vibrate, a neurotransmitter called dopamine is released into our brains. Dopamine is the pleasure hormone. It makes you happy when you hear your phone go off. Dopamine is a very addictive feeling. “Honestly I think it’s okay so long as you know how to use it,” junior Andie Baker said. “Like with limits. It helps kids our to
age experience the world with just a touch or a click. It helps us to connect when we physically can’t. And most importantly it has helped me find myself in this crazy, hectic world.” “Technology is sweet,” junior Cholena Smith said “I love it because it helps me stay in touch with my friends and family. I can also go on Facebook and Instagram all the time. I love always having access to Internet, it lets me see what my friends are up to.” There are some bad sides to technology. Many people feel that technology does not make relationships closer. It makes it easier for you to feel left out and lonely, even when you’re physically with your friends. “The Internet is compulsive,” psychotherapist Lisa O’Hara said in The Irish Examiner. “It can have a stronger draw than the person beside you. You can be in the same room as a person, but at the same time you’re not really there.”
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Pet Peeves
Fondy has pet peeves. What are yours? Katie Nett // Sports Editor
Name: Corey Streblow Grade: Freshman Pet Peeve: “When people interupt me.”
Name: Kaleb Sabel Grade: Sophomore Pet Peeve: “When people take my picture.”
Name: Payton Torgersen Grade: Freshman Pet Peeve: “When people won’t stop moving.”
Name: Kyra Erickson Grade: Junior Pet Peeve: “Getting cut off in the hallway.”
Name: Max Templin Grade: Freshman Pet Peeve: “When people talk over you when you’re trying to talk to them.”
Name: Devan Johnson Grade: Junior Pet Peeve: “When people think that because I’m black, I do what the typical black people do.”
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Name: Wade Vaughan Grade: Senior Pet Peeve: “When people stand in front of every bathroom in the school blocking part of the hallway, and blocking the bathroom for people that actually have to go.”
Name: Bella Olson Grade: Senior Pet Peeve: “When people are driving five under the speed limit, but when you get to a passing zone, they speed way up.”
Name: Mrs. Joslin Grade: Science Teacher Pet Peeve: “When students don’t do their homework, but wonder why they don’t do well on their tests.”
Pet Peeves around Fondy High (213 responses) Poor Driving
42%
Chewing with mouth open
58%
Bad Grammar
48%
Movie talkers/Spoilers
49%
Getting Interrupted
54% 34%
Gossip
Name: Kiara Tabbert Grade: Freshman Pet Peeve: “Couples constantly touching each other. when people say my name wrong, annoying people, and people who repost the same pictures on Instagram.”
Getting Tickled
22% 32%
Technology Probs
42%
Cheating Poor Fashion Other
21% 28%
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Scoring for a Cause Girls basketball takes a stand against cancer Mackenzie White // Staff Writer
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s the girls basketball season progresses, the players are finding themselves pushing towards playoffs. Although their 3-12 record does not show it, they are continuing to improve and believe they are headed for a great end to their season. “We are fixing a lot of the little things, and when all those little things come together, I think we have the potential of being a very high ranked team,” senior Zoelle Reinke said. “We are like a bunch of pieces of a puzzle trying to figure out where we all fit in together,” senior Jordan Quackenboss said. “When we figure that out, we will be headed for a strong second half of the season and for strong playoff games.” On Jan. 30, the girls basketball program here at Fondy participated in a Coaches vs. Cancer game against Oshkosh North. For the game the team asked for fans and players to wear purple to represent the fight against all forms of cancer. The Cardinals pulled off a 42-39 victory over Oshkosh. “We have the potential to beat any team in the conference as well as to lose to them,” coach Bell said. “It all depends who shows up on game day, and more importantly who gives their 100 percent to get better in practice. If we do all the right things and work hard I feel the second half of the season could be completely opposite of the first half.”
Above,
senior
Brianna Hub-
bard goes up for a shot during wa r m - u p s .
Left,
Mckensey Hendrix, Brianna Hubbard, and Jordan Quackenboss
junior
senior senior
pose for a picture in front of their
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“ W all
of
H o p e ”.
Splashing into Sectionals Boys swimming advances towards sectionals Mackenzie White // Staff Writer
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urrently 2-5 in duals, boys swimming and diving has high hopes set for playoffs. With one returning state swimmer, coach Mcbride intends on sending
more. “I believe our team is working really hard together,” senior Matt Ryan said. “We have a lot of seniors this year that are being great leaders and are helping the younger guys out. We have a tough conference, but we are matching up really well.” “We are constantly working on technique and the ability to finish races. The guys have done a good job of that, but we can always improve,” coach Mcbride said. As the season comes to an end, seniors start to think of the qualities and advancements that swimming has brought to their lives. “I’ll miss just hanging with guys and making some great memories,” senior Matt Ryan said. “I’ll also miss the coaches and parents that put a lot of effort into this program.”
Pizzas, Subs, Party Trays, & Gifts! 196 N. Hickory Ph: 922-1230 368 S. Park Ave Ph: 921-9531 CARDINAL COLUMNS.ORG
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Diamo e Zahradnik g a G
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age Zahradnik, age 16, started wrestling in first grade. He was a mere 6 years old when he began. Ten years down the line he is getting tougher every day, and he says the sport has changed his life. “I really started working out freshman year,” Gage explained. “I’ve lost 15% of my body fat. Wrestling is one of the toughest sports in the world, and it has taught me that practice and discipline are some of the most important things you can learn”. Freshman year, Gage started to workout. Two years later, and he has lost 15% of his body fat and turned it into muscle. “Wrestling takes a lot of commitment,” Gage said. “There’s always room to improve, always something else you can do to get better.” Gage has been committed to wrestling for 10 years. The sport has become a part of him. It has taught him a lot about life, and his goals for losing weight and staying fit are stronger and more prominent than ever. “Wrestling is 10% physical and 90% mental. It’s a real grind,” Gage said. “Most people can’t handle wrestling because it’s so tough and personal. It takes a ton of conditioning and practice.” Gage’s arsenal of moves has been growing over the years. He admits to have had trouble with certain moves, but he practiced them at least “a thousand times” until he got them down. Gage plans on staying committed to wrestling and exercise. Among the other sports he plays, Gage said “wrestling will always be my favorite.” -Glenn Elmer
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nds
e h t h g u o r Everyone has a story. We set out to shine a spotlight on some of them.
M
A ng
any people feel fulfilled in their life learning one instrument to perfection, but senior Angel Ramirez feels differently. “Learning a new instrument expands my musical ability,” Ramirez said. “It gives me something to strive to get good at, something new.” For Angel, there is enjoyment to be found in many different instruments, and he’s been playing many for most of his life. Ramirez first learned how to play piano in third grade. When he joined the school band in middle school, he started out playing the flute. He later tried out the saxaphone for a while but ultimately decided to move back to flute. `“It comes with it’s own benefits,” Ramirez said. “I asked a girl to homecoming last year by singing to her.” In high school, Ramirez taught himself how to play guitar on his own time. Even after all that, he decided to also learn the baritone for the school band. “I started choir in sixth grade, and I’m in Music Theory right now to continue expanding my musical artistry,” Ramirez said. “It’s a nice talent, and I can connect to people through common interests.” -Max Barbee
el Ramirez
A Des ire
aG ie
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ccording to U.S. Census, one in every four high school students are employed. One of these students is Desirea Giese, a senior here at Fondy High. She works as a cashier at Menards and says she adores her job. “I love the people that come in almost every day,” Giese said. “They always have a positive attitude and usually have interesting stories about why they came in this time.” She says she likes how upbeat everyone seems and how sometimes, people will come in just to talk with them. It may seem that in every job there’s always a fair share of cranky customers, but Desirea says most of hers are very friendly, and throughout the course of a work week she says she hears many stories and jokes from her customers. “There’s this guy who comes in every so often and he always has the cutest jokes!” she said. She said that he asked her, “Do you know why I can’t ride my bike? … Because it’s two-tired!” Giese says it’s the little things like that that make her job fun. She thoroughly enjoys being a cashier and says she doesn’t plan on leaving anytime soon. -Casandra Groeschl
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ing
Healthy
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C a s s i e g r o e s c h l / / S ta f f w r i t e r
f you feel a cold coming on, avoid touching or coming in close contact with many people, even if they’re sick too. It’s a good idea to avoid touching your face after you have touched public surfaces, especially when there is not a sink around. Washing your hands frequently or using hand sanitizer will help significantly. Because we carry millions of germs on our hands it is recommended that you do not share phones, pens, pencils or keyboards to avoid spreading the germs. Acording to Nurse Sarah, sharing food and drink is one of the biggest culprits for spreading sickness. She said that people cough at 100 miles per hour and spray saliva and germs all over in doing so, so if you have a cough, be respectful to others and cover your nose and mouth. Bundling up in these freezing winter months is essential. Most body heat escapes from your head, so wear a hat when you go outside, and avoid going out with wet hair.
To prevent sickness, sanitizing door knobs, light switches and handles may be a good idea and could put your mind at ease. If there are youngins in your household, their toys should be cleaned and sanitized every 3 months. The number one key to prevent getting the flu is by getting an annual flu vaccination. A study performed by the Center of Disease Control and Prevention found that, “flu vaccination was associated with a 71% reduction in flu-related hospitalizations among adults of all ages and a 77% reduction among adults 50 years of age and older during the 2011-2012 flu season.” If you are sick with the flu, stay comfortable, sip on water throughout the day and get plenty of rest. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen will bring down a fever if you have one, but talk to a parent or doctor first. Staying hydrated is very important (even when you’re not sick), so Nurse Sarah recommends drinking eight cups of water a day.
What Consume too much sugar Drink alcohol Excessive lounging 11
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to do Consume excessive caffeine Smoke tobacco Oversleep
Tips to help keep you in A good diet with a lot of fruits and vegetables, proteins and grains is vital, along with enough water. Eating right is a good way to give us vitamins such as C, D, and E and nutrients that we need to help get you through the day. We can get vitamin D from the sun, which is essential because it helps us absorb other vitamins we need. It is recommended that we get 7-9 hours of sleep a day, so if you’re one of those people who take a while to fall asleep, putting your electronics away about an hour before bedtime will help your brain activity to slow so that falling asleep is easier. This hour should be “wind down” time, where you can do whatever you find most relaxing to help you to sleep easy.
Easy and healthy snacks 1 c sliced strawberries dipped in vanilla greek yogurt and frozen (200 cal.) 1 c frozen grapes (100 cal.) 1 c homemade baked kale chips (70 cal.) 1 serving of pretzels dipped in spicy mustard (120 cal.) ½ c fat-free cottage cheese w 1 cup berries (160 cal.) 1 oz. dried blueberries w 10 almonds (170 cal.) Information from dietrecipesblog.com
shape!
Visceral fat wraps around your organs. This type of fat is particularly bad for your overall health. According to WebMD president, Rockert Eckel, “A big waistline puts you at increased risk for many health problems -- diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke.” Exercise is the only sure-fire way to keep your body in shape and healthy in general. Nurse Sarah recommends exercising five times a week for about 30 minutes each time. Another factor that most people don’t realize causes a depressed immune system is stress. It is recommended that you make “me time” to de-stress by listening to music, doing yoga or meditating. Having a support network or people you know you can talk to also helps.
Foods to avoid Chocolate-Coated Doughnuts, Mini Doughnuts, Snack Pies/ Cakes examples: Entenmann’s, Little Debbie Microwave Popcorn examples: Mega-Butter, Movie Theatre Potato chips, crisps, and snacks examples: Ruffles, Pringles, Lays, Cheetos
Packaged Frozen Microwavable foods examples: Ore-Ida, Jimmy Dean, Hot Pockets, White Castle Information from webmd.com CARDINAL COLUMNS.ORG
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Defining
“I think what sets me apart from others is how much I’m willing to stand my ground. I get pressured to change how I look a lot. I’m strong willed and happy with how I am, most people never expect anything like that.“
- Julia Schmitz
Brandon Resop Shanelle Tucker // Staff Writer
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alking from class to class each day, you may have seen someone singing and playing a ukulele down the hallway. For those who don’t know who that person is, he is a senior that goes by the name Brandon Resop. His main interests include skateboarding and playing Magic, but the most important to him is writing music. “Music is important to me because it’s the best way for me to express myself. I let my feelings out in writing instrumental parts on guitar rather than writing lyrics to express my feelings.” “I first decided to play guitar when I saw my friend [Cole] start to get into it,” Resop said. “I had to teach myself everything I know, I’ve never had a lesson.” There is a range of different instruments Brandon plays which is the bass, drums, banjo, ukulele, piano and guitar. “I’ve probably played about 20 shows for my friends and also complete strangers,” said Resop. He is in not only one, but four different bands which go by the names Ten Year Old Cheddar, Canals, The Lady Hedgehog Project and Acoustic Beach. “I enjoy the feeling of people paying attention to the music and dancing to the songs that my friends and I write.” says Resop, “It makes me happy that I’m the reason these people are having a good time.”
“Dressing well (at least in my opinion) helps me like the person in the mirror a whole lot more which can be really hard sometimes. Love yourself; feel good about yourself.”
- Jacob Stadler
“I am a person who loves to be seen as myself, to show people that they don’t have to be afraid to walk in their own skin. I don’t want to be seen as someone who is not me.”
Joelle Thibadeau - -Joelle Thibadeau
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Recognizing
Self
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very generation has grown to express themselves in many different ways. Although it may not be the only reason to express yourself, self image can be easily affected by how we are perceived by our peers. Students at Fondy continue to try to express themselves, but it is not always easy to do so. “Some students express themselves through physical alterations like hair colors, hairstyles, how they dress, piercings or tattoos.” says Graphics teacher, Mr. Staerzl. Styles vary between many different types, whether it’s considered preppy, grunge, goth, hipster or any other stereotypical term in the book. “I think expressing yourself comes from values we were brought up with as children, being told that everyone is different, and to be your own person is awesome,” senior Eli Voss says. “Anybody can copy someone, but to be original is really something special.” “I have come to realization that other people’s opinions don’t matter.” Senior Jacob Stadler says, “Of course I would like everyone to like me, but realistically, this will never happen. There will always be people out there who hate me for everything I do and there is nothing that I can do about it.”
Expression At fondy Shanelle Tucker // Staff Writer
Many students here at Fondy admit they have judged others, which can affect how they truly express themselves. In fact, in a survey conducted by the Cardinal Columns, more than 60 percent of the students who responded to the survey claim they do not feel like they can express their “true colors” without the fear of being judged by others based on how they look. “Adolescence is a time to try on many different hats.” Mrs. Severson says, “Developmental psychologist Erik Erikson calls this stage “Identify vs. Role confusion.” This means that kids are trying to find out who they are. It is important that teens be allowed to express themselves so they can figure out their identity. Self expression is a way for an individual to visually showcase how and what they feel on the inside, how they see the world and how they see themselves through their eyes.” Self Expression is about how you represent yourself based off of your own interests. What is considered “socially acceptable” to one isn’t always approved by everyone. “I am all for self expression as long as it is truly an expression of the individual and not acting on a fad & that is respectful to both the individual and others.” Says Graphics teacher, Mr. Staerzl, “I feel it should show one’s inner beauty and not be a cause for violence or distractions.”
“What it means to express myself is that I get to be unique, I get to drop masks that cover me and my being, which makes me vulnerable but undeniable. I think it’s harder for others to ignore your existence when you are yourself.”
“I used to be so self conscious of the way I looked, and now I can wear no makeup and feel good because I know everybody is unique and should be able to express themselves the way they want.”
- Raelin Schreifels
I feel some people judge the way I dress because I “dress up” or dress “nicely” everyday, but that is just normal for me. I enjoy cute clothes and they make me happy!
- Johannah Georgeson
- Cas Bacon
(pictured on center fold) also see Pg. 19-22 CARDINAL COLUMNS.ORG
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Mahlik Carroll Mackenzie White // Staff Writer
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hroughout high school, many students aspire to obtain a mostly traditional or conventional job, such as a teacher or nurse. Most strive to make more money than happiness, but Mahlik Carroll has had a different mindset for his future. “Making music has changed my life in a lot of ways,” Carroll said. “It has given me a tool to be creative and express my ideas, and it has taught me a whole new skill set that not many people possess.” Carroll, a senior here at Fondy, is often found on his computer generating music through a program which may be confusing to an inexperienced eye. Mahlik experienced a serious interest in music in eighth grade and found himself wrapped up in the creation of the beats behind the voices. “I enjoy that moment right after you finish a song, and you finally sit back and enjoy your work,” Carroll said. After graduation, Mahlik plans to attend college for music production. He said that his favorite genre of music is rap, although he is experienced in others. He shares his work on Facebook, Youtube and also on Soundcloud. “Music is my friend, my support system, my entertainment, it’s really a part of me,” Mahlik said. “All in all, music has been a great part of my life that continually brought me happiness even in the darkest situations.”
don’t think there’s anything Special that sets me apart from others, but how I Reprepresent myself is me trying to do My best. I may not always be the greatest student, athlete or friend, but I feel as if I can only grow if I work on my mistakes and never give up.”
- Matt Ryan
f ursel Yo
“I
Discrimination is more than skin deep Following the prescense of trans students at Fondy Laura Engebreston Editor in Chief
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n January 22, 2015, senior Cas Bacon tried out for a spot in Mr. Fond du Lac, a traditionally males-only beauty pageant hosted yearly at Fondy. After a sophomore exited from his tryout, Cas entered the room apprehensive and shaky. In front of teachers and student advisors, Cas performed a rendition of the poem Modern Meltdown by Steven Boyle, which concerned the fear of being outed as a trans person. While the subject was heavy concerning Cas’ audition into a relatively lighthearted competition, it was with good reason: Cas is transgender. “I was interested in Mr. Fond du Lac even as an underclassman,” says Cas, who is a member of the Cardinal Columns. ”But I didn’t have the guts to try out and talk to the advisors running it until this year, because I was afraid of the stigma around asking.” “I hoped I would get enough votes for the other competitors to see me as their equal,” says Cas. “In the competition, the swimsuit part scares me because wearing a chest binder reminds me I can only live so authentically at this point.” Cas was originally 5th in the voting process, however a student was disqualified from competing, making Cas eligible to be in the running. Cas will be allowed to participate in Mr. Fond du Lac if she meets the academ-
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ic prerequisites. “Last year, Cas approached me about the possibility of participating in Mr. Fond du Lac,” says advisor Elizabeth Severson, who is helping organizing Mr. Fond du Lac for 2015. “I wasn’t at all surprised when they auditioned. But we talked a lot about how the student body may react, but I was pleasantly surprised when the reception was mainly positive. A lot of people talk about this generation not being accepting... I really think this is the most accepting on whole I’ve seen.” “As nervous as I was for Cas when I heard about the plan to enter the Mr. Fond du Lac contest,” Ken Bacon, father of Cas says. “It was minor in comparison to the feeling of pride in knowing that Cas was brave enough to even attempt to gain entry into the contest. I could not be prouder of Cas.” Being a gender-variant youth in today’s world is both scary and exciting. With civil rights being once again a hot topic and debate, there are states left and right legalizing gay marriage, a homeage to the 60s. Even President Obama has expressed unwavering support for gay marriage, and many other politicians are in fervent support for these rights. Students at Fondy are not an exception when it comes to types of people, especially
CARDINAL COLUMNS.ORG
those persecuted by people who can be well meaning, but misinformed.
the non-discrimination policy The non-discrimination policy for the Fond du Lac School District currently covers specific categories: sex, sexual orientation, race, disabilities, and nine others. The policy, however, has faced criticism for its
Pictured above: the symbol used to represent transgender.
exclusion of transgender and gender nonconforming students. Sexuality and Gender Equality, formerly known as GSA, or Gay-Straight Alliance, is seeking to change the non-discrimination policy to cover these groups and be inclusive for students who may not have found a footing before. “We wanted to change our name to advocate for all students,” junior Haruka Yukioka says, who is co-leader of SAGE. “There are many students who identify as different genders, and we want them to know that there is no reason to be ashamed.” “We are doing our best to push for the inclusion of the policy,” Haruka says. “But we would really appreciate more accounts of discrimination that we can compile and use to create graphics and statistics. We were able to hold the school’s first-ever Transgender Day of Remembrance, which is a huge step forward for trans justice in our school.” According to Principal Hagan, the bullying policy in place for the Fond du Lac School District covers anything a student may feel is bullying, including perceived gender and gender identity; however, gender identity is not listed in the non-discrimination policy for the district. If a student feels they are being bullied for any reason, she says, they may speak to a teacher or fill out the proper form in Student Services, to which the incident will be dealt with accordingly. “Our goal is to make the school a place where everyone feels safe,” Haruka says. “Things like unisex bathrooms and having a box on Skyward which indicates a person’s preferred gender. This helps to combat the embarrassment a trans student may face in everyday life.”
Identification
and Terms “Gender identification has different categories,” says Ms. Struck, a teacher at Fondy. “There is cisgender, which is when one identifies as the sex they were assigned at birth, such as a woman who was born as fe-
male. There is also transgender, which is when somebody identifies as a sex other than what they were assigned at birth. Another includes gender nonconforming, who do not fit into societal expectations for either gender.” Many of today’s students have grown up with the LGBT movement. Standing for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender, the LGBT movement originally focused on sexual orientation almost exclusively. As recently as the 1990’s, huge controversy was ignited when Ellen DeGeneres “came out” - being honest about her sexuality - in national news. It hasn’t been up until the past few years that gender identity has taken a front seat in America’s social issues, however, with various media personalities and actors coming out as genders not assigned at birth. One of the most popular is Laverne Cox, known for her role in “Orange is the New Black,” a popular Netflix-exclusive series. “There have been a variety of people around me growing up,” says senior Ryana Prus. “It was odd to me at first, though, I didn’t understand ‘transgender.’ I didn’t know what it was. It just wasn’t a concept. People were boys or girls. I still have trouble sometimes with that thought, but people should be who they are. I don’t have any say in their lives, they don’t have any say in mine. What’s the problem?”
The Policy Change “My goal is that the SAGE is able to make a positive change in our school,” Haruka says. “We would like to add the identities of transgender and gender expression non-conforming to our non-discrimination policy. Right now, our non-discrimination policy protects our students and staff from discrimination based on things like race, ethnicity, and pregnancy status, but it does not protect our trans-
Pictured above: trans actress Laverne Cox.
gender and gender expression nonconforming students.” She is not the only person in the building who feels strongly about changing the policy. “The need for this change is immense,” says Ms. Struck, teacher at Fondy. “Gender nonconforming students could be given respect with something as simple as their preferred name or their identified gender on Skyward, because while a teacher might know and respect these, substitutes in the building don’t - it’s a matter of feeling included and validated.” “I know a few who go by a different gender other than the one assigned at birth,” says Lesly Colon, a student at Fondy. “And honestly the transgender umbrella is so big chances are everyone one knows someone who identifies as trans. I didn’t know what SAGE was doing before, but it’s something we definitely need to see pushed.” “I was walking with music one day,” said Jacob, a student who identifies as male and has been renamed for this story. “And a group of girls told me to turn it off, and when I didn’t, they started harassing me about how I want to be a boy. I feel like it [the non-discrimination policy revision] wouldn’t help, because students wouldn’t listen to it. I haven’t had much trouble from staff members for this, but it’s definitely a big problem
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with students. I’m not entirely sure much can be done, honestly, because a lot of it is just how students are. They’re mean but I don’t know if it would actually help to change something they don’t even read.” One of the things SAGE wants to be pushed is the increased usage of preferred pronouns for students, and having something as simple as a box in Skyward to tell substitutes and teachers immediately the preferred pronoun of their student without the awkward conversation to prompt it, given the very personal nature of pronouns in a very public setting.
Why Trans Students Need Protection
According to Transequality. org, one-fifth people have been de-
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nied housing due to their status as transgender. One-fourth of transgendered peoples have lost employment, and three-fourths have faced discrimination in the workplace. Two-fifths of seniors in the transgender community have been denied health care or received inferior care due to their status. On December 28, 2014, Ohio teenager Leelah Alcorn took her own life after being distraught from her family due to her status as transgender. Leelah was taken out of school in her junior year, enrolled in an online school, and isolated from most outside contact for five months as a result of her original identification as a gay man. Leelah was sent to Christian conversion therapy, which is currently illegal for minors in three states. Leelah’s parents have faced criticism for using her birth name and gender in all statements regarding her death. According to a survey of
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LGBT Americans conducted by the PEW Research Center, 5% of the respondents on their survey identified as transgender, with an estimated .3% of Americans being transgender. This translates to just under one million transgender people in the United States alone. This is only accounting for those who will openly answer on the survey, instead of remaining in the closet on the topic. The amount of respondents was too small to accurately release statistics on the transgender community. In a report conducted by the Center for American Progress and the Movement Advancement Project, the GPA of bullied LGBTQ+ students is 2.8, with 3.3 being the average of students not affected by bullying. Relationships with parents can be damaged due to friction in the home environment when parents are not accepting of their child’s preferred gender, leading to reduced grades and potential trouble filling out the FAFSA. Even when parents are accepting, many students will have to be sent to another school to have their preferred gender used, which can put a burden on finances through transportation and tuition costs. “As much as many deny it, Fond du Lac is a relatively close-minded community,” says Tracy Abler, the President of the United for Diversity program here in Fond du Lac. “Prejudice and discrimination exists on so many levels, too many! We must do more to make Fond du Lac a truly open and welcoming community. A place where people want to come - and stay. Having said that, there are many making the honest effort to do just that. UFD has seen increased awareness and support, on issues of diversity, even at the government level. Still, there is much more work to do.”
Conclusion Although the road is rocky for transgender people, there is still a light at the end of the tunnel. Students and faculty are on the whole accepting, and this is the foundation of a good support system to help those who are struggling with themselves. “I think of an issue as a problem,” Lesly says. “And there is nothing wrong about questioning your gender or not feeling the same way about love as everyone else.” “It hasn’t been easy so far, but I’ve come this far,” says Jacob. “I do believe outing myself to the school has had a positive impact,” says Cas. “Because I came out on my own terms and now when people think of transgender people they won’t have a vague image, but an actual person. As for trans students that haven’t come out yet, there are so many people who are there for you and working to actively make sure you are safe. You are not alone. Gender is a lot more fluid than what others think it is.”
I
a note from the author
f you are bullied, especially like the students featured in this article, do know that you are not alone. Life in high school is scary, and sometimes it seems like it’ll never end. A recent survey by Fusion.com found that 50% ages 18-34 believe that gender is on a spectrum; the totals for those under 18 is probably higher. If you ever feel the need to discuss your feelings, please know that help is always there. Calling a friend or talking to someone over an anonymous hotline is always an option. If you ever need someone to talk to at school, you can attend SAGE meetings after school on Tuesdays in room 1225 in the English pod, talk to a counselor at Student Services, or Nurse Sara in the office. Many teachers will be wiling to aid you should you need confiding or help confronting a bully. Ad-
Resources Trans Lifeline 1 (877) 565-8860 Cas Bacon Co-leader of SAGE baconcas000@fondystudents.org Julie Rehfeldt Social Worker RehfeldtJ@fonddulac.k12.wi.us Laurice Snyder Support Staff freemanl@fonddulac.k12.wi.us
The people and hotlines listed are suitable for all students to use. Contact Cas Bacon for questions regarding gender, sex, and SAGE. They are always open to talk to trans students, or people wanting to learn more.
National Suicide Hotline 1 (800) 273-8255
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EMPTY THREATS, FULL SEATS H
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Glenn Elmer // Staff Writer
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any have heard of Kim Jong Un’s recent threats on America. Should they be shrugged off ? Or taken seriously. Would the North Korean leader really declare war on America over a movie? I guess we’ll see. In early June, 2014, the North Korean government threatened merciless action against the United States if Columbia Pictures went ahead with their movie release of The Interview as scheduled. “I didn’t really take the threats too seriously,” senior Jake Wesley said. “They seemed like empty threats. There’s no way North Korea would attack the United States over a movie.” The movies plot portrays actors Seth Rogen and James Franco as two agents hired by the CIA to assassinate North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Columbia Pictures eventually went ahead with the release despite the warnings, delaying it more than two months from its original October 10 release, to December 25. They had edited the film to be more acceptable by North Korea. In November, Sony Pictures Entertainment was hacked by a group following the name of “The Guardians of Peace”, a group the FBI believes has ties to
North Korea. “In my opinion, if another country threatens the United States, we should take it seriously,” junior Gage Zahradnik said. “I’m amazed that despite the threats, the movie was still released anyway, although I did enjoy the movie myself.” After leaking several other upcoming Sony projects and movie releases, the group demanded that Sony pull The Interview, which they referred to as an act of terrorism. On December 16, 2014, the Guardians of Peace threatened violent attacks against cinemas that played The Interview.
“I didn’t really take the threats too seriously,” -Jake Wesley
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“I wasn’t really afraid to go see the movie,” junior Mikayla Anderson said. “I mean, there’s no way someone would start a war over a film.” On December 17, 2014, after a number of North American cinema chains canceled screenings of The Interview for safety, Sony cancelled the theatrical release of The Interview, drawing criticism from the media, Hollywood figures, and the White House. Despite stating that they had no intentions of releasing the film, Sony made The Interview available for online purchase and rental on December 24, and had a limited release in select cinemas on December 25. The Interview has earned 31 million online so far, making it Sony’s most successful online movie, and 5 million in the box office.
Movies 7 Must See Films of 2015 Max Barbee // Staff Writer
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ike any other year, there will be many movies coming out in 2015. Since it’s still very early in the year, most announced films are big budget productions that movie studios need to make a lot of money, so people need to start getting excited as soon as possible. Because of that, there aren’t any smaller films on this list, as many have very little information out about them, or aren’t announced at all. Regardless, this is a list that will hopefully be worth your time.
Avengers: Age of Ultron
Star Wars: The Force Awakens The only film to out-hype an Avengers sequel is none other than a new Star Wars movie. Written and directed by J.J. Abrams, who recently wrote and directed Star Trek to new heights, The Force Awakens is a continuation of the original Star Wars trilogy from over 30 years ago. Little is known about the plot itself, but original characters like Luke Skywalker, Han Solo and Princess Leia will be returning. It’s the first canon Star Wars film in over ten years, and this time around it looks to be giving the fans exactly what they want. At least, I hope so.
The sequel to The Avengers, the first Marvel film to gross more than $1 billion dollars, Avengers: Age of Ultron is set to be the biggest event of the year for movies, let alone the Marvel Cinematic Universe. A cyborg called Ultron decides to try and destroy the human race, and the Avengers have to band back together to stop him. A plot very similar to the first Avengers film and just as simple, but writer/director Joss Whedon is never one to make unexciting films. This film has every reason to be great.
Spectre After the success of Skyfall, there is a lot for the next James Bond film to live up to. Spectre is once again directed by Sam Mendes and written by John Logan, the same crew behind Skyfall. The fictional James Bond terrorist organization called SPECTRE will be a center point in the story, as one might assume. Not much else is known about the plot, though it’s implied that there will be lots of cool action, cool spy investigating and plenty of cool snappy dialogue, as well as plenty of shots of James Bond looking very cool. For many people, including me, that’s all you really need.
Tomorrowland Tomorrowland is a movie about 2 people who travel to a place where their actions directly affect the world and themselves. Many of the details of this film are being kept a secret, which is unusual and hard to accomplish when being made by Disney. It has a pretty vague premise that could mean anything, but I’m particularly interested in this film because it’s directed and cowritten by Brad Bird, director of The Incredibles, Ratatouille, and more. Basically, he’s never made a bad film, and I can’t see this one being any different.
Photo courtesy of starwars.com
Ant-Man It’s clear Marvel Studios is doing well when they are comfortable making huge budget films about obscure superheroes. In this film, a con-man named Scott Lang, with a super-suit that can make him shrink in size and increase in strength, must pull off an important heist with his mentor, Dr. Hank Pym, in order to (you guessed it) save the world. Esteemed director Edgar Wright (The World’s End, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World) was set to direct this film, but signed off last May, citing creative differences. The fact that Wright wasn’t satisfied with where the project was going is troubling, so I’ll be curious to see how this one turns out. CARDINAL COLUMNS.ORG
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music artists to watch out for in 2015 Mitchell Albertz // Staff Writer
deM atlaS (Joshua Evans) is St. Paul based amateur hip-hop artist who signed to Rhymesayers Inc. He is slowly but surely proving himself by working with other Rhymesayers artists such as Atmosphere to get bigger into hip hop music.
Hustling to make his mark in Denver, Colorado’s electronic music melting pot, Late Night Radio is earning the respect of fans and peers through music production. Alex Medellin has put in his time in the industry, coming up in Texas and California, but his ascension in the Colorado scene speaks to his ability to create a stunning array of original tracks. Liquid Stranger is the project headed by Martin Sääf, launched in 2003 in Varberg, Sweden. Traveling in the uncharted terrains of music, Liquid Stranger’s creative output ranges from suggestive ambient soundscapes to movie scores, pop, dub, and electronica.
Miles Prime is a 19 year old unsigned hip-hop artist who, at the age of 17, was being compared to Kendrick Lamar, a rapper who was Rapper of the Year in 2013.
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music T-swift pops onto the pop charts Cas bacon // Staff Writer
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fter almost a decade of country twang, Swift has rolled into the pop scene with her new album 1989. With a new sound, very few songs feature her iconic acoustic guitar, and veer towards an 80’s synth-pop style. The title is both a wink to Swift’s birth year and a nod to that time of musical sound. With her work in full swing and the help of Max Martin as a producer, Swift was able to execute the perfect extreme with emotions flying and an intense instrumental background. 1989 is a polished finished product with twists like Wildest Dreams painting the man as the victim, and inverting the narrative that was seen as a staple in Swift’s songs. All of this has been shown in the numbers as well, According to Billboard, both pop and country took drastic turns statistically, in favor for pop. Taylor Swift knows that her time away from country music may not be embraced by everyone, but she’s okay with that.
Cas’ Faves
Taylor uses the range of emotions in Bad Blood, which often makes songs feel cluttered and like the storytelling is forced. The song goes against the norm, while still retaining the storytelling elements often found in her country roots. The storytelling of rage, betrayal, and loss through broken friendships. The compilation of these topics fluently have given Bad Blood a feel that’s truly unique. Welcome to New York starts with an iconic snare that was a staple of 80’s pop and transcending to a happy synth. Lines like “The lights are so bright but they never blind me” and “Everybody here was someone else before -- and you can want who you want, boys and boys & girls and girls” were some of the few quips that shone like the lights she sang about. CARDINAL COLUMNS.ORG
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E D I T O R I A L S
Miranda Moving Out
Miranda Leaving The Cardinal Collumns Staff Allie Sounders // Staff Writer
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iranda Comeaux is a writer for the Cardinal Columns. She is also a senior this year at Fondy High and will be graduating at semester, therefore leaving this team. Miranda has written stories about Christmas traditions and seniors graduating from high school. She has been a great addition to this class. “She always is giggly and happy and keeps everyone happy, I think that’s going to be what I’m going to miss most,” said fellow classmate, Alexis Freund. Even though Miranda is leaving us, she has a good reason. She has many plans and ambitions she is ready to get started on. Miranda plans to keep working at her current job, Backyard Grill and hopes to gain more hours or even go full time. In the next year or two, she hopes to begin going to college for cosmetology and even start up her own hair salon. She says her family is completely supportive of her decisions and think whatever plan she has will be awesome. She still plans on attending graduation and prom with her friends.
EDITORIAL POLICY The Fond du Lac High School Media Editorial Policy applies to all FHS media, including the Cardinal Columns News Magazine, CardinalColumns.org and the daily broadcast of Fondy Today. All student media referenced in this editorial policy are designated public forums written, edited and managed by FHS students as part of journalism classes tought by a certified journalism instructor. 27
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0“I’m gonna miss seeing my friends all day everyday and my favorite teachers that have helped me all these years,” Miranda said. Miranda is going to miss how close this class has become. She says it’s awesome to see how people can care so much about each other in a class. Her favorite stories that she helped write were the christmas stories because she had so much fun hearing about people’s Christmas traditions and the different things they all do. Miranda brought such a light to this team, and she will be missed. “She’s always so positive about every situation,” friend Brianna Badke said. “Its definitely going to feel different without her not being here second semester.”
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The Cardinal Columns newsmagazine welcomes opinions from students and faculty in the form of letters to the editor. Letters must be signed with a first and last name and be 250 words or less. Letters may be submitted using the form on the “Contact Us” page on CardinalColumns.org.
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The Fresh Life Alexis Freund // Staff Writer
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his year, many new things are happening at Fondy High: new teachers, new principal, new grading system. However, for the freshman, they are handed a brand new experience. I think all of us can remember our first days at Fondy. We were all scared of the upperclassmen, and didn’t know where any of our classes were. It was crazy, but for some students, it wasn’t so hard. “I was afraid of not being able to find all my classes, but after four days, I got the hang of it all,” freshman Ivan Angelov said. “I really didn’t need to worry about it.” Ivan is involved with concert band, marching band and soccer here at Fondy. Megan Prellwitz, also a freshmen here at Fondy, said that so far her experience here at Fondy has been pretty good. Her favorite teacher is Mr. Jacoboski. She is also involved in band, and is an ice skater.
When asking the teachers and upperclassmen what they think about the freshmen, I received many different responses. “You can’t judge them all by their class,” social studies teacher Mr. Barthuly said. Senior Bailey Beyer said that, aside from a few, they seem more disrespectful than past years. Going down the hallway, I hear different kinds of comments about the freshmen from “stupid freshman are always in my way” to “the freshmen class this year is worse than mine was.” I think all of us heard these things once or twice throughout our freshman year, and it can shoot down a freshman’s confidence, but then there are some people who don’t have a problem with freshman, and are even friends with some.
Some Tips for Freshman
get for help if you sk a d n a , lm . Keep ca men are scary ss a cl er pp u lost. Not all
For the first week of sc hool, set your class schedule as your lo ck screen on your phone. Then you don’t have to keep pulling out your crinkle d up paper. d le into what po u ed h sc r ou y Organize oor makes is and what fl m oo r ss a cl each ass. to find your cl er si ea t lo a it
Megan Prellwitz *Is an ice skater *Plays the flute *Her favorite teacher is Mr. Jacoboski
Look into diff erent kinds of clubs. There are so m any to choose from, and there is one fo r everyone.
Ivan Angelov *Soccer player *Plays percussion
*Likes the freedom here at Fondy
Get prepared the night before. Get a map of the school, and figure which classes are where, and that will make it a little easier to find your way around. CARDINAL COLUMNS.ORG
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Zoe Hayes // Staff Wrtier
alentine’s Day, is a day dedialso to family, friends and the greater cated to reminding your loved community. ones of just how much you The holiday is based on the idea care, showering them with candy, of getting along as a whole and giving cards, flowers and gifts. recognition to each and every persons’ All around the world, Valentine’s qualities. day is celebrated in cute and clever Valentine’s Day isn’t just about all ways that are sure to bring a smile of the material items received. Over to faces. Whether it be receiving time, this holiday has transformed a stuffed bear holding a heartfelt from a Christian holiday to a holimessage, or a witty card, the main day celebrated generally worldwide, goal of this holiday is to spread dedicated to gestures that go beyond love and joy. the day to day interactions. While acts Though commonly perof love should generally be shown ceived as a day solely for every day, Valentine’s day provides an sweethearts, Valentine’s opportunity to go above and beyond Day is a day set aside and make it a day even sweeter than for going that extra normal. mile to show your Price tags aside, take advantage of love and dedica- this Valentine’s Day to do something tion, not only special for the people in your life. If to your you’re not in a relationship, pass out partner, candy to your friends, buy your favorbut ite teacher coffee or pamper yourself Phys ician for the day. The holiday is what you reco s mme of the make it to be, so why not fill it with nded to e 1800’s e a r s e e h e a happiness. ofte ting their na, w d o n r e c V h d o n f espa c city o rs Romeo a 0 irs o olate n l a o i l v a e 0 f e 1,0 . lost The It eare’s lov about ery s p e s e v i k ev ce Sha In the Mi uliet ed, re J v i l o ddle Age t t e d e s, young s d Juli rew nam . res y d a men and d D a e s s f ’s r r e o m e n women i a bowl t be their lett o Valent s V e a e le who wou ntine. Th name pin ld ey would ned onto w ear this In medieval times, women ate their sle for ever eves for yone to one week bizarre foods on Valentine’s Day the e s e e . T h i s xpressio was the n o “to wear in order to make them dream of rigin of your hea r t their future spouse. o n your sleeve.”
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Brittany Lange // Editor-in-Chief
alentine’s Day is a day of love--a day to show appreciation to your loved ones, right? Wrong. Valentine’s Day is nothing but a consumer-based holiday...if you would even call it a holiday at all. It’s just an excuse for stores to put out chocolate and roses in hopes of making money, and it works. According to the National Retail Federation, Valentine’s Day contributed an estimated $17.3 billion to the economy, which is actually lower than the $18.6 billion from the previous year and the $17.6 billion the year before that. Maybe people are starting to realize how pointless Valentine’s Day really is. Society basically says that on this day, you have to buy your significant other chocolates and flowers, making it mean nothing. If you want to show your love and appreciation to someone, do it on a day where you’re not pressured to. If you’re single, Valentine’s Day is just there to remind you that out of the billions of people in the world, you still have not found “the one.” It’s especially fun for singles when they get to see all of the girls walking around with roses and teddy bears from their boyfriends when they got nothing, except maybe a box of choc-
olates from their sympathetic mothers. Though selling roses at school to send to friends on Valentine’s Day has good intentions and really is a great idea, it’s usually the same “popular” people receiving them every year. As if the single kids aren’t feeling bad enough that they don’t have a “valentine,” they get to watch everyone parade around with their flowers in their hands all day at school. Whether you decide to go out to dinner with your significant other, go to a friend’s house to watch movies and eat ice cream, or just lay in your bed watching Netflix by yourself, remember that Valentine’s Day is just another day, so don’t feel pressured to buy into society’s standards.
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