Craze Issue 4: Cryptic by Craze Magazine

contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

7-8 DEFINITION

28-31 SAD INTERNET TEEN

9-13 FIGHTING FOR THE FUTURE

32-37 SPRING FASHION 38 RECUPERATION

14-15 CONSPIRACIES 16-17 HE HAS BIG FEET

39-43 GEMS OF SOUTH OMAHA

18-21 GLITCH IN THE MATRIX

44-46 LENDING A HELPING HOOF

22-23 LEARNING TO COPE

47-50 HOLY SPACES

24-25 GRADE VS. LEARNING

51-52 THE LIFE OF PABLO

26-27 WHITEWASHED

53-54 ALL THAT JAZZ

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS...

ll year, Craze has been trying to reinvent itself. We’ve established ourselves as an innovative generation: Generation Z. We’ve given a voice to the unspoken. But this issue was different—instead the unspoken, we went for the unfathomable. Aliens, Bigfoot, rap music, and everything in between. In this issue, we pushed ourselves to channel our inner Scully and Mulder, to explain the inexplicable. Our staff began to question: what really lurks in the woods after sundown? What is it really like being held in a psych ward? Who are we? Well, we are Craze, and we’re here to bring you the facts. Remember, the truth is out there.

contributors

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF: PHOTO EDITOR: DESIGN EDITOR: MANAGING EDITORS: COPY EDITOR: STAFF:

kirsten mccormack & jenna hynek abegale headlee abby hack grace wolfe, lauren chesire, & audrey mccann bridget mizener lilli marvin emma kopplin emma moldin aaron casey maddie look colin coory kati stanzel anne stephanek stephanie dong meghan murray ivan reyes erin kruger nikki saner elisabeth facer elisabet tucker kyndall goodwin monica jansky grant gaden harper newell

intro // definition

cryptic [ KRIP - TIK ] design by kirsten mccormack illustrations by kirsten mccormack and kati stanzel

(ADJ.) 1. SOMETHING THAT’S MYSTERIOUS OR PUZZLING TO YOUR MIND 2. WHEN THE TRUTH IS OUT THERE, BUT IT’S STILL UNDISCOVERED

There's no better time to be a

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feature // military bound

Fighting for the future WESTSIDE STUDENTS PLAN ON JOINING THE MILITARY story and design by erin kruger, photos by kyndall goodwin

y great-great-grandfather fought in World War I… not for the United States, but he fought. While I am not proud of his service because he fought for the German Empire, I am proud of our country and its military. The U.S. military has been the protectors of our nation since its inception—inspiring young men

and women to serve our country. Some want to follow in the footsteps of their family members, while some enlist out of pride for their homeland. Others join to prove themselves as strong and brave members of American society. Senior Justin Garvey-Lease and junior Emily Torres have made this decision to enlist in our nation’s armed forces.

feature // military bound

10 01

emily torres JUNIOR U.S. ARMY

any students are athletes, but junior Emily Torres soars above and beyond. Torres has been on the varsity girls’ soccer team since her freshmen year, and has already been committed to playing soccer at the United States Military Academy at West Point in New York, a historical and extremely selective service academy. “It’s a really good opportunity for me to play the sport that I love in college. It’s also a good, high-quality education,” Torres said. “I also have the opportunity to serve my country, too. I’ll be surrounded by people who have a lot of the same goals and values that I have.” Along with Torres’ selfdetermination and work ethic— which is shown through her sport—she also has been influenced to join the Army through her family and friends’ military history. Currently, a close friend of Torres’s is playing soccer at the U.S. Military Academy, and another friend of hers is also committed to the West Point soccer team. After Torres’ high school season last year, the coaching staff at the U.S. Military Academy would come to soccer tournaments across the United States to watch Torres play

through connections with her club coach. Torres felt pressure to leave a good impression on the coaching staff at West Point. Torres will serve in the Army and play soccer for five years, and she’s interested in a career in military intelligence. She hopes to eventually be a part of the FBI or CIA. When she was younger, crime television shows sparked her interest in this field. Now, she’s working hard in academics and sports to achieve her dream of playing soccer and working with an intelligence agency. “I’m a person who is really determined. It’s good to surround yourself with people like that,” Torres said. Torres likes the people and atmosphere of the U.S. Military Academy, and thinks they will help her reach her goals. The students there are driven and determined to serve their country. “At first I was hesitant because I wasn’t sure if I could do that, but it’s a challenge that I’m up for now,” Torres said. “There will be things that I encounter along the way, but I know that in the end, it will feel amazing when I graduate and give my service to my country.”

feature // military bound

Justin garvey-Lease SENIOR U.S. MARINE CORPS

oining the military has been a tradition in senior Justin Garvey-Lease’s family for generations. Since his childhood, he has heard stories of his family’s history and legacy. His great uncle was presented with the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Vietnam War. In addition, his grandfather, uncle, and aunt were in the Army, and his father was in the Navy. These influences sparked GarveyLease’s interest in the U.S. military at a young age. After hearing the stories of his family and the military, Garvey-Lease inherited a strong sense of pride in his country. “I’ve always felt like my country has provided me with the tools that I’ve needed to succeed. I’ve had a pretty great life when compared to the lives of many others,” GarveyLease said. “My country has served me in amazing ways so I feel obligated to serve my country back.” For the last two years, Garvey-Lease has been meeting with Marine Corps recruiters in order to enlist. Garvey-Lease attends required workouts twice a week, working with his recruiters to build strength and endurance. He works countless hours building his physical fitness while also learning what it means to be a Marine. He scored an impressive 90 out of 99 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a sort of the ACT for the military. His score is made even more impressive considering the national average is a 40—opening a wide variety of jobs within the Marine Corps. After passing the ASVAB, Garvey-Lease continued on to the Military Entrance Processing Station. Although he passed the physical, mental, and emotional tests, one came back positive: the color blindness test. Failing this test restricts Garvey-Lease from doing

any sort of mechanic or maintenance work. Previously, he was interested in working on a Marine Corps air crew. “You can’t do any mechanic or maintenance jobs, and I can’t be a door gunner. It limited me a lot, so I was back to infantry,” GarveyLease said. “However, they told me they have a position for intelligence. I would gather intelligence on certain things we have to do, or on enemies. It’s probably what I’ll end up doing.” With a possible job in place, Garvey-Lease will travel to the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego for 13 weeks for boot camp this fall. He will train his mind and body to learn the core values of the Marine Corps: honor, courage, and commitment. A person’s endurance, motivation, and heart are evaluated at this level so they can successfully protect the United States. “It’s very stressful on your body, and it’s emotionally and mentally stressful. They’re screaming at you the whole time. They’ll tell you that you’re worthless,” Garvey-Lease said. “They break you down, and build you back up a better person than you were before.” Marine Corps stories of strength and courage have encouraged him to enlist wholeheartedly. The self-sufficiency and poise of the Marines have instilled a sense of American pride and patriotism in Garvey-Lease. On the other hand, many current U.S. high school students couldn’t even imagine serving in the armed forces, but Garvey-Lease is determined to be a part of this noble group of people. “They are probably the cockiest people you’ll ever meet. It’s annoying, but it’s true,” GarveyLease said. “They are very prideful in what they do, and they are convinced that they are the best at what they can do. And, so am I.”

roundtable // debating the unknown

CONSPIRACY THOERIES BUSH DID 9/11 AND THAT’S THAT story by lauren chesire and maddie look, design by stephanie dong

ush did 911. Bigfoot is real. Aliens crashed in Roswell, New Mexico in 1947 and the government covered it up. No matter how big or controversial, conspiracy theories are intoxicating. There’s just something mesmerizing about the theory that huge forces

could be at work while we’re left completely unaware. No matter how skeptical you may be, conspiracies make you devour every scrap of information on the topic until you can make a judgment for yourself. Craze gathered the foremost minds on conspiracy theories to discuss the finer points of

MOON LANDING?

Teddy: Alright. whew. The moon landing. Nick: Where do we begin, right? Teddy: Well, why don’t we start off with the fact that there’s only one sun in our solar system, alright? And as you can see pictures [of the moon landing] that all those shadows are pointing in different directions. There’s only one light source on the moon. Now—on a film set—there’s multiple light sources. Jack: It was directed by Stanley Kubrick, who filmed 2001: A Space Odyssey and it was so realistic that

they had to call him up to do the moon landing. Aaron: And just to make things clear: allegedly— Nick: That’s a fact Aaron: —filmed by Stanley Kubrick. Nick: That’s a fact. Proven, backed up.

9/11? Jack: Some surveys show that 42% of people think that 9/11 was a hoax. Aaron: 42% is a big number—why do you think that so many give into that idea? Jack: Because there’s so many questions, and there’s been a lot of films and evidence presented that maybe just two planes couldn’t have taken down the towers. Teddy: Thermite. There was thermite found at the crash site, which is a powder: you mix iron oxide and aluminum together and it burns at like 13,000°. Jack: And they found liquid pools of metal at that

temperature. Nick: It’s a fact: jet fuel cannot melt steel beams. It just can’t be done. Aaron: Is that an actual fact? Teddy: Yes Nick: That jet fuel can’t melt steel beams? That’s a fact. Aaron: My thing is, that even though it may not have been hot enough to melt steel beams, that have been some ability to bend them to a point enough pressure could exist so the building to collapse.

DEAD OR ALIVE? Nick: Pablo Escobar? He’s not dead. He could come back and kill you. Teddy: Osama? Not dead. Tupac? Not dead. Audience Member: Biggie Smalls? Teddy: Not dead! Nick: All alive! Teddy: Elvis?! Not dead. Nick: Anybody that’s like a public figure that’s said to have been “killed” or is “dead—“ Audience Member: What about JFK? Nick: He’s—he’s dead... Oh he’s dead. He’s really dead. Nick: Besides him, I’m sorry. Everyone besides him: they’re not dead. Teddy: Well except Paul McCartney! Jack: Paul McCartney’s dead. Aaron: Can you give some background? All the girls were in love with Paul McCartney. Aaron: And the Beatles as a whole. Except for Ringo. Jack: But Paul McCartney was kind of the center— Nick: Pretty dreamy guy. Jack: —and he died. Teddy: Back in the day. In 1963. Jack: And they were so scared that people were going to kill themselves, especially girls because they loved him so much, so they made a clone. And ever since, it’s just been a clone. Teddy: Robot. Robot clone. Jack: I just heard a clone Teddy: Well, no, some new information was brought to light that said it was actually a robot. That’s why the skin matches so perfectly.

Teddy: It’s a sad thing that the government hides this. This should be taught in schools! This should be taught in elementary schools! If the government would just declassify all this stuff and let the people know what threats are out there we wouldn’t have Mothman abducting people! Maddie: Don’t you think if they released all this information that would cause chaos? Jack: I think so. Maddie: Do you think they’re protecting us? Teddy: The world’s already in chaos.

journal // finding bigfoot

The Truth Is Out There THE SEARCH FOR SASQUATCH CONTINUES story by maddie look and design by grace wolfe

he team of myself, Audrey McCann, Jake Hershiser, and our cinematographer, Nick Gross, arrived at Two Rivers State Park prepared to capture a glimpse of the man, the myth, the legend; Bigfoot. Everyone on the expedition is a strong believer in the ape-man. Well, almost everyone. Audrey just had to drag

Jake, her boyfriend, along. Apparently he only came for the s’mores and made every attempt trying to prove us wrong. However, despite his attempts to deter us, we knew we weren’t wrong. There have been many accounts of a Sasquatchtype creature roaming around the U.S. Most of the sightings have been in the Pacific Northwest, but there have also been reports in

our neck of the woods. Most people have seen the famous Patterson Gimlin film depicting what has to be Bigfoot walking sluggishly across the camera. There has been extensive research done proving that the hairy beast wasn’t a hoax for countless reasons. Myth busted! We’re right, Jake’s wrong, Bigfoot is real, the end.

1. A human walks completely different than the creature in the video (humans walk heel to toe and the animal in the video walked flatfooted). 2. The arms are much too long and Hollywood costume design was not advanced enough to produce it in the sixties, when the film was taped. 3. The torso of the Sasquatch was just too long to be a man in a costume.

Campsite, 8:07 p.m. We did everything in our power to get all of our supplies to the campsite in one trip. Sacrificing the extra sleeping bag, we accomplished our first task. Now it was time to set up camp, make a fire, eat dinner, and poke around the woods as much as we could. We have to find evidence that the hairy ape-man is lurking around rural Nebraska or we will look like fools. I will owe a lot of people a lot of money if we come up dry at the end of this expedition.

Campsite, 8:27 p.m. Nick went into the woods to set up our tent. We made him go by himself because, honestly, setting up tents blows. So, now I’’m sitting over on the picnic table cutting potatoes and meat for our hobo dinners while Audrey and Jake fight about how to start the fire. Relationship goals to the max! I don’t care about how to start the dang fire I just want the fire started. However, I’’’m not about to get up from my comfy seat and intervene. I’’’m sure they will figure it out on their own. I need to get food in these people before the hunger completely ruins their mood’’s! We have a mission to complete.

9:22 p.m. I am a master chef. No one is pissy any longer because my dinner satisfied everyone’’’s hunger. Now, we can get down to business. We are currently gathering supplies from the main campsite and heading into the woods where our cozy tent is waiting for us. It’’s pretty dark out, so we’’l look around for signs of the Pacific Northwest Yeti and get to bed soon!

10:02 p.m. Nothing. We haven’’t found anything yet, but I’’m not worried. It’’s been a long day of driving and setting up, so I think it’’s time to settle in and rest! We’’l start our big hunt in the morning. We’’l look for not only Bigfoot in the flesh but a nest of some kind, scratches on trees, or possibly carcasses of prey. Now that I think about it, is Bigfoot a carnivore or an herbivore? Hmm.

12:27 p.m. I woke up to a horrible rumble that left me nervously shaking and sweating profusely, thinking we were under attack. It turns out it was just Jake’s flatulance. I literally had to open the tent door and stick my head into the fresh air to save myself. Those hobo dinners are not agreeing with him.

3:26 a.m.

Something’’s not right. Jake and Nick went looking around outside because we all woke up to a loud growl. I’’m scared and don’t know what’’s going to happen. 17

photo // glitches

Glitch in the Matrix story, design, and photos by Lilli Marvin Our generation is plugged in. Technology is prevalent in—perhaps even rules— nearly all aspects of our lives. It dictates our future and determines our life. We have become so reliant on computers that without them, society would collapse. Constantly scanning our profiles, accounts, screens, and timelines, technology has transformed from a luxury to a daily necessity. Movies like “The Matrix” become less science fiction and more reality. In these photos, we push the limits of the world as we know it and mix the digital universe and our reality—creating a twisted photo essay that pushes the boundaries of the unknown.

18 01

19 01

photo // glitches

mia garret, freshman

kendall brekke, sophomore

alex bortolotti

feature // anonymous

learning to cope TRIGGER WARNING: this story details a student’s struggle with an eating disorder, self-harm, and sexual assault story and illustration by audrey mccann

ugust 8 2011: Laura* zips her sweater up higher, burrowing her face in its protective shield. She’s just moved to Omaha and is starting the sixth grade. Coming from Boston*, she was used to tall buildings surrounding her and the constant stimulation that comes along with living in a city. But when she reached the Midwest, everything suddenly slowed down. For the first couple years, her family lived happily. Laura tried her best to fit in: buying new clothes, using speech therapy to fix her thick Bostonian accent— anything to conform. And yet, her classmates would point out every flaw she already saw in herself. From picking her last on the playground to giggling behind her back, anything they could do to make Laura feel worthless, they would. This wasn’t an isolated event with a schoolyard bully, this was malice—and Laura felt it. At just twelve years old Laura already had a sadness in her that she just couldn’t shake. It weighed on her as the girls around her flirted with the boys, batting their heavily mascara-ed lashes in

the hopes of gaining attention. While they were exploring new social circles, Laura sat by and watched from afar, detached. Her solitude continued into junior high; even though she was surrounded by more students, Laura struggled silently. Not only did she feel victimized by her classmates, but also herself. It was then that she began to lash out. “I was terrified they would

“The most important thing is that I’ve let go … I can’t change [what happened]” find out I was insecure, so I acted like a bitch,” Laura said. She put up boundaries and isolated herself from her peers. If anyone showed a little affection toward her, she would push them out of her life and retreat. September 2013: Laura tugged on her leotard,

looking at the girls around her. Their wafer-thin waists and flat chests were exactly what the ballet company praised. Laura looked down at her body—round hips and growing chest. Again, she felt out of place among her peers. She was losing interest in dance. The strict diet the other dancers followed weighed heavily on her; evenings were spent quietly eating her pre-planned dinner with no complaint. But secretly, she would sneak to her kitchen at night quietly rummage through cupboards, and eat. She relished the food that she was torturously denied in the daylight, eating until there was nothing left. This was the beginng of Laura’s struggle with Binge Eating Disorder. For two years, Laura battled this disease. She was taken off of the strict dance diet and began the road to recovery. Healing was a never-ending process; she attended group therapy, worked with her parents, and constantly checked in with doctors. However, Laura was far from beginning to heal. “I would ask myself, what’s the point?” Laura said.

*names and places have been changed to respect student’s privacy

With every day that passed, she felt more and more lost, wondering why she was here in the first place. She would look at her collection of broken pointe shoes, each a reminder to work harder, to strive for the unattainable perfection for which she so desperately longed. November 2015: Laura pulled her long sleeves down past her hands. She nervously adjusted them farther and farther—covering rows of small cuts that lined her arms. Laura had found a replacement for food. For weeks, Laura would place bandages anywhere she could, desperately trying to cover the damage she had done to her body. Through the second half of her sophomore year, she worked to respect herself and she spent the rest of the school year relatively healthy. She enjoyed her time dancing, making friends through theater and other activities. Finally, she was part of a community, and the loneliness left. Her body felt lighter, her eyes shined a little brighter. Even though the sadness Laura had always carried wasn’t so heavy anymore, something was still there. She still felt pain, regret, and self-loathing, all because of one event for which she held herself accountable. July 31, 2015: The summer was drawing to a close. The nights were cooling off, and Laura and her friends decided to take full advantage of

their last days of sweet air filled with freedom by heading out on a camping trip. It was a sunny day, and Laura had been briefly separated from her friends. She saw an opportunity for a moment alone to enjoy the weather. Laura grabbed a glass of lemonade left by her friends, gripping it carefully as to not let it slip from the condensation. She took a long drink, feeling the tangy flavor fill her mouth and rush down her throat. She sat, taking in the summer air, the warm breeze blowing through her hair. She inhaled deeply, her eyes suddenly grew heavy; a peaceful, tranquil feeling washed over her as her thoughts slowed. She slumped on the table and fell asleep. She jolted awake to a hot, heavy weight on her chest and a jabbing pain lower in her abdomen. She looked up at the now-twilight sky, the moon casting a light shadow over their bodies. A fifteen-yearold girl was trapped under a man in his early twenties. As she was sleeping, an unknown man had sexually assaulted her. Laura believes that after seeing her friends drinking lemonade, he drugged the drinks. “[It was] just plain pain,” Laura said. For months, she wondered what she could’ve done

differently. After the assault, Laura’s depression worsened. She felt responsible, that she deserved what had happened to her. When she looked in the mirror, she could only see who she used to be: the insecure sixth grader, alone and angry. Eventually, Laura began attending group therapy with kids who had been through similar experiences, and she reported her assault. But she never got any answers. The man who hurt Laura is still out there. Although this scares her, Laura’s comprehended what’s happened, and understands it’s not her fault. “The most important thing is that I’ve let go … I can’t change [what happened],” she said.

opossing opinions // american grading

GRADES RULE GRADES LEAD TO COMPARISON, AND THUS COMPETITION story and design by abby hack

inety percent of my school-related stress is rooted in my fear of bad grades—and I’m not alone. Whether it’s cramming for a test or pushing through busy work, I’ll do pretty much whatever it takes to earn that sweet, sweet A+. We know focusing on grades defeats the purpose of learning, and it’s definitely not healthy. Yet, here we are, a bunch of gradegrabbing teens. So why do we stress so much? Missing a few points on an assignment or failing a test is not the end of the world. The stakes to succeed seem so high and the pressure can feel so crippling that we get caught up in the stress and forget why grades exist. In the end grades are actually useful for two things— standardization and quantification. Though grades don’t always reflect students’ intelligence, they are the easiest way to quantify and predict students’ success. According to EdSource, grades are actually a better predictor of college success than college entrance exams like the ACT or SAT. When you consider what grades actually represent, it makes sense. The marks we receive in class indicate the effort, time management skills, and drive needed to complete tasks—or at least they’re supposed to. The habits we form in high school can be applied to college courses, and our study habits and work ethic aren’t likely to change quickly. Those darn grade letters are good for another thing too—standards. Grades provide tons of helpful information about the kind of student you are and your place in the high

school success ladder. They help with class placement, college admissions, and academic first impressions by providing the means for comparison. From a university admissions perspective, it’s much easier to pick and choose the best applicants when the mode of comparison is universal. Letter grades carry similar meaning no matter where you attend school. Having standards in the academic world also separates students into clusters of merit. The exact groups vary from place to place, but there’s always a group of high achievers, the average or “good enough” students, and the slacker crowd. These categories don’t mean much, but are just an additional way to classify students. Without grades, there wouldn’t be a universal way to compare students. Comparison unfortunately leads to competition—the root of our worries. I’m a competitive person. For me, grades give me confidence in my intelligence and motivate me through my fear of failure. My grades reflect exactly who I am—a hardworking gal in constant need of praise. But let me make something clear: you are not your grades and your grades don’t define who you are. Focusing too much energy on grades is bad for the brain and in many cases distracts from actually paying attention to the content taught. As we finish out the year, keep in mind that grades are simply a tool for comparison and standardization—don’t stress about them. Instead, enjoy the material and try to soak it all up while our brains are still eager to grow.

“GRADES GIVE ME CONFIDENCE”

GRADES Drool GRADES DIMISH MY LOVE OF LEARNING story by lilli marvin

rowing up in our school system, I was always told I was perfect. Throughout all of elementary and middle school, I never received a grade lower than an A. While I coasted by on success, never breaking a sweat, there were kids staying up late into the hours of the night, absolutely devoted to their work—yet still earning a D average. Did I really deserve those A’s? Probably not. Most 4.0 students don’t. Highschoolers can be broken down into three general categories: the kids who don’t care whatsoever, the kids who care about grades, and the rare fraction who genuinely care about their education. Those last two groups of students are misidentified as one in the same, but they couldn’t be more different. Until junior year, I never genuinely studied a day in my life. I didn’t know how it felt to be up so late that you fall asleep on an open textbook. As long as I could retain the information well enough to get my reward of points, it didn’t matter what I got out of the material. My education was settled around a single number, my GPA which determined my self-worth and success. My obsession with grades became so intense that failing wasn’t an option, any docked point a stab to the gut. Whether it be the time I got a “1” standard grade in Algebra and proceeded to be on the verge of tears for the remainder of the week, in

seventh grade or the time I forgot to do a homework assignment and genuinely feared I wasn’t going to be accepted into college. Grades ruined my education. While my obsession heightened, my love of learning dwindled. I no longer saw class as a tool to expand my knowledge or understand the magnitude of the opportunity I was being given through free education. I feared going to school. I despised it. Our current grading system robbed me of my love of learning, of my desire to enrich my knowledge. Grades taught me that it was more important to earn an A than to understand the content. The problem with our current grading system is the dedication required to make it worthwhile. By the time you suffer through the four monotonous years, many of us are left with a big question mark above our heads, wondering what was the point. Either we need to reform our grading system, or raise a new generation of kids more dedicated to their learning. If we continue to allow generations of potential slip away because of a flawed education system, we will be doing a disservice to the world. Students need to stop focusing so much on the grades and the points, and more about their education. Take control of your curriculum, be driven in your work, and learn to just let it go sometimes. Enjoy yourself. Learn all that you can. After all, that one calculus test won’t make or break you.

“Grades ruined my education.”

opinion // diversity

someone to relate to STUDENT COMMENTS ON LACK OF DIVERSITY AT WESTSIDE guest column by pheobe yuelle, design and illustration by grace wolfe

ebruary is an awkward month for me. I sit in classes and learn about the history of black people—my people—from white people. It’s ironic to learn black history from a white person’s perspective. My teacher’s well educated, and certainly knowledgeable, but he will never understand the emotions behind the history. No matter how genuine our teachers try to be, it’s impossible to preach information about another person’s heritage. A white teacher can tell us about “whites only” lunch counters, but what real life experience

do they have? To make it real, they have to bring in a guest lecturer. We need someone who can speak for my people, black people. People of different races can see the exact same thing, but can express entirely different

“The color of our skin colors our world.” interpretations of what they saw. An example is Beyoncé’s “Formation” performance. This triggers emotions for all people— black or white. Some

people saw it and felt it was anti-white, stirring a huge controversy. Black people (myself included) saw it as a history lesson—an expression of black pride. It’s not about white people, which is the exact same video, interpreted differently. It’s the same for history lessons and current events and literature.We read Huck Finn, but only a few of us can relate to the controversial word in the book: the “n word.” We should have discussions of what that word feels like to a real person today. A black teacher could best lead these discussions— and they aren’t possible without diversity.

Westside High School doesn’t tolerate racism of any kind. However, enforcing a policy doesn’t prevent the sting of a slur. Although we stand side by side, no amount of empathy can compensate for the lack of experience when is comes to racial discrimination. My race affects my life experience. I know my teachers mean well, but living as a person of color is not their reality. They can never relate, but they can only “imagine” how I feel. I want someone who knows how I feel. There was a black student teacher at the high school for a while, and even though she wasn’t my teacher I spent as much time with her as possible. She understood how uncomfortable it is to be the only black kid in a class talking about slavery. The student body is religiously diverse, and

has achieved modest economic and racial diversity through the busing system. And yet, I still don’t have a single black teacher, counselor, or dean. The only black staff members are non-faculty; my only interaction with nonwhite staff is at lunch. There must be qualified teachers of color in the Omaha area. Kevin Gilbert, Coordinator of Teacher Leadership and Special Projects for Clinton Public Schools in Mississippi stated, “It becomes easier for students to believe they can achieve when they can look and see someone who looks just like them, that they can relate to.” Who can I relate to? Having a racially diverse staff would benefit not only

me, but the entire black population at the high school. It would allow for firsthand experience of a different worldview, and we could access a unique culture with a fresh interpretation of current and historical events. Classes would have deeper discussions, and if we had a greater diversity in the staff, students could be more prepared for reality. The color of our skin colors our world.

fashion // bold graphic patterns

IAN WEAR, JUNIOR

FINDING YOUR INNER ARTIST THROUGH STYLE story and design by kati stanzel, photos by ivan reyes

y life has been filled with a series of ups and downs—a rollercoaster of highs and lows. There were times when I felt as if I could conquer the world, and other times the only thing I could feel was judgment from my peers. I was so self-conscious about my appearance that I wore baggy clothing and sweatpants—I was too afraid to be bold. When high school came, my world flipped upside down. During my freshman year, I learned nobody really cared what you looked like. You could be wearing Nikes or New Balances and no one would blink. I was living in a dream world. I could finally find the style I’ve always been searching for. Fashion had never been a big part of my life—I’ve always channeled my creativity into art classes instead. I never tried because I thought people would make fun of me for wearing unique outfits. I was too scared

about others’ opinions to wear anything that truly represented who I was. Then my friend showed me INU INU: an adorable, graphic-inspired online store. The little Microsoft WordArt graphics hooked me and I instantly could envision myself sporting this relaxed-but-cute style. Online stores like INU INU are convenient and easy to shop at because the clothes are already picked out for you, and they’re adorable. Instead of digging through piles of clothes at the Goodwill, you can by anything with the click of a button. The plethora of graphic tees, sweaters, and fuzzy socks pulled me in and changed my style forever. I learned that I didn’t have to be a fashionista or wear uncomfortable clothes to show off my style. INU INU is quirky and fun, comfy and cute—it’s the perfect place for teenagers to shop and express their inner artist.

fashion // bold graphic patterns

fashion // pastels in bloom

sunny seams SPRINGTIME FASHION FOR EVERY STYLE story and design by elisabeth facer, photos by kyndall goodwin

arch can be an unimaginative black hole when it comes to personal style; the everchanging forecast makes it difficult to create practical outfits.The only thing that keeps us holding onto our hope (and our leather gladiator sandals) is the fact that spring is just around the corner. Unlike fall, winter, and summer, spring is a time for patterns and pastels. The transitional weather allows you to wear light cardigans and tees while also being cool enough to wear your favorite skinny cargos and canvas overalls.

Spring not only allows your outfits to become more complex and creative, it’s also known as the season of rebirth. It’s when we start looking for the new year’s trends and accepting the ones that are here to stay from previous seasons. As we start to put away our winter coats and fur-lined boots, there’s one trend that’s survived nearly every season: distressed denim. It’s extremely versatile, making it a constant staple in our closets. From patches to holes, you can add anything to your denim to make it totally unique and achieve a look that best expresses you.

Sequyah Garvais

// Junior

fashion // pastels in bloom

Sarah Harrison

// Sophomore

DIY // distressed jeans

get out your distress

SAN

DPA

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PERFECTLY DISTRESSED JUST FOR YOU story and design by elisabeth facer photos by kyndall goodwin

CARDS

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Grab any pair of pre-washed 100 percent cotton jeans or shorts. They must be 100 percent cotton so the holes wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get stretched out and ruined.

Decide where you want to distress the denim. The knees, back pockets, and thighs are common places for holes. For holes on the knee, simply fold the pant leg to meet the top of the inseam; wherever it creases is where your kneecap will be. Make sure to outline where you want the holes by marking the top and bottom of the area with chalk or pencil.

Fold a piece of cardstock in half and place it inside the leg of the jean under the area of the hole youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve marked (the cardstock will stop the knife from cutting through the other side of the pant leg). Then take the knife and start to make slits about one-quarter of an inch apart between the pencil marks for the top and bottom of the hole.

IFE

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100% C

OTTON JEANS

PENCIL

After youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made all the holes, take the sandpaper and sand along the hems of the coin and back pockets. For a more worn-in look, nick the hem of the pockets and the bottom hem of the legs with the knife (make sure to not cut all the way through the hem) and then sand those cuts.

Wash and fully dry the denim twice and the holes and frays will be perfectly destroyed!

anonymous column // recuperation

Recuperation HOW I FOUND MYSELF AGAIN THROUGH SOGGY SANDWICHES story by anonymous, design by grace wolfe *TRIGGER WARNING: this story you’re about to read contains content relating to suicide and mental health

don’t know what I was expecting when I was admitted into the psych ward. Images of words scratched onto the walls and padded rooms filled my mind; I imagined I would have no control over my life, forced to socialize with strangers who suffer from an array of issues that run much deeper than mine. However, when I actually arrived, everything was far from my imagination. I found some real, genuine friends while locked up. I also wasn’t expecting having nightly relay races around the fourth floor. I didn’t think I would spend days laughing with people who have issues similar to mine. The amount of confusion I experienced when I woke up in the psych ward after trying to kill myself is—strangely— equivalent to that of when your parents first tell you that Santa isn’t real. As I lay

awake at 7:40 on a Tuesday morning, I looked around the dimly lit room trying to piece everything together. I questioned my entire life, the thoughts persistently bumping around my head. I tried to reason with myself. Is this heaven? No, heaven wouldn’t allow this headache or a bed this uncomfortable. Is this hell? Hell would be warmer, Hell wouldn’t have a nurse trying to get fluids back into my system. If I’m alive, where am I? Luckily, my nurse had seen the same look of confusion on other patients too, and slowly explained what I’d done. After spending hours throwing up in the emergency room, I was now in the psych ward at Immanuel. This was to be my home for the next few days until I start to “feel better.” Can I just start off by saying that’s total BS? Someone who

just tried to end their life is not going to “feel better” by staying in the hospital, allowed no contact with the outside world. Even worse, I ate food at about the same quality of a prisoner’s meal. Take it from someone with experience: the food in the psych ward is going to be the worst part of the whole experience. You get a variety of choices from “soggy turkey sandwich” to “dry French toast, no syrup.” Don’t get me wrong, though. The psych ward is one of the best experiences I’ve undergone. It sounds daunting, but it really puts things into perspective when you realize that everyone there is going through issues similar to yours. In the psych ward, you realize your life in fact is not as bad as you believe it is. I’ve realized that life is incredibly beautiful and I—along with everyone else— need to stick around to see it.

feature // south omaha

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Every section of Omaha has their own reputation and South Omaha seems to be a melting pot. The Czech, Russian, Greek, Polish, and the growing hispanic cultures all came together to create a unique community, but even in this vibrant community are places that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t quite fit in with the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s popular culture. These places are hidden next to the many bright mexican restaurants, or in partially abandoned strip malls in need of a loving entrepreneur. People tend to love their familiar surroundings, but the only

way you can find these sweet secluded places is by exploring the different communities and characters there. These people and their communities are so diverse and welcoming to anyone who dares to get out of their comfort zone and experience something new. They love to know that others want to get to know them and the community they have built. After all the people make the place and the place makes the people and the overall welcoming feeling in South Omaha reflects the people there perfectly.

photo essay // south o

2212 S 13th St, Omaha, NE 68108

riving down 13th street in Historic Little Bohemia we wondered where our South Omaha adventure would take us. The Lucky’s Vintage signs coloring of pastel blue and pink grabbed our attention. So naturally, we had to see what this vintage store was all about. As soon as we walked through the door we were enveloped in massive amounts of vintage clothing and jewelry hanging on racks, ladders, and everything in between, along with collectible furniture and a large collection of various knick knacks. The walls were covered in framed paintings, maps, and an assortment of metal art. Listening to Dolly Parton’s soulful songs, we sifted through the collection of records and items, constantly finding something that grasped our attention. Jeanine Dickes has owned and operated Lucky’s Vintage for 5 years, but even before she opened her shop she has been selecting vintage clothing with an eclectic and soulful history. “I have been a serious clothing collector all my life,” said Dickes, and boy can you tell; the shelves and racks are full of shirts, dresses, boots, bags, suitcases, and everything inbetween. Her collection began with clothes mostly from her relatives or her own closet. Dickes is a learned

hoarder and she flaunts it in the best possible way. “[my grandparents] lived during the great depression and I swear that’s why I’m such a hoarder,” Dickes said. With her undying need to keep any clothing with a history Dickes has added to the eclectic community around her. “I love the characters that come in and the neighborhood. It’s really sketchy, but I love it,” said Dickes. Embracing her neighborhood and the people within it she helps the less fortunate through selling their finds or leaving warm clothes by the door during the winter months. In return Dickes, has found gifts outside her door such as a stack of quarters, tuna fish (for the cat that takes residency there), and a gold cat statue. Each item or piece of clothing in the shop has a history, whether the item is one of Dickes’s own or if it was given to her by friends. “I’m the last vintage store in Omaha that actually has vintage,” said Dickes. The world of true vintage stores is fading fast, but it’s people like Dickes and stores like Lucky Vintage that help keep the nostalgia of the past alive and the community more tightly-knit.

photo essay // south o

1414 S 13th St, Omaha, NE 68108

ocated in a nearly abandoned building is every Nancy Drew lovers’ dream bookshop. The wood shelves are filled with printed novels of broiling mysteries. Each story is capable of keeping you up all hours of the night giving you a burning hatred for whatever author is making you look like a bum the next day at school. Every good mystery book is a reading induced hangover waiting to happen, and The Mystery Bookstore has plenty mysteries to supply your obsessive need to sleuth. The walls of books plus the two cats hanging by the front counter reminded me of those quaint small town bookstores from the movies. This lone and quiet shop is just the right fit for those looking to find the perfect book for an afternoon (or a weekend) at home. Kate Birkem has been the owner and operator of the The Mystery Bookstore since 1995. Birkem’s love of books is what drew her to create her bookshop. “I’ve been a bookaholic all my life. Every time I get a box of books it’s like christmas,” said Birkem. Mystery books tend to be a genre that people, whether they are a bookaholic or not, can dive into. With thrilling plots and enrapturing twists mysteries keep your curiosity on its toes. The shop’s focus on mystery books gives it a more particular quality that most bookstores don’t have.

“What makes it so unique is the cat’s, the fact that I’m a specialist, and probably the location,” said Birkem. Most don’t expect such a picturesque and curious bookstore in South Omaha, however the unique location attracts a crowd of people who genuinely support small businesses and enjoy suspenseful books. “I think the thing that excites me the most are the people that come in,” said Birkem. They’re the type of people who get lost for hours in the library, who always have room on their shelf to squish in one (or two) more books, and who obsess over the fictional or real characters for years to come. However, even if you don’t go crazy for every freshly bound book you see, the shop has something for everyone, even for those in need of a quick craft. One half of the book shop is dedicated to supplies for making jewelry as well as already crafted jewelry handmade by Birkem herself. There is an array of colorfully beaded necklaces, earring, and bracelets perfect for a cute gift to a friend, or for yourself. If you can’t tell already, the Mystery Bookstore is not you every day bookshop; it’s not an experience you want to miss out on, even if a suspenseful captivating novel is not your cup of tea. But then again who doesn’t have an inner Sherlock Holmes waiting for the perfect mystery to solve?

feature // hetra

LENDING A HELPING HOOF GRETNA BARN USES HORSEBACK RIDING THERAPY FOR PHYSICALLY DISABLED story, design, and photos by emma kopplin

obility is something that’s taken for granted. Most people don’t think about their movement, they just do it. Running, walking, kicking—all done without a thought. But it’s not that simple for others. According to the CDC, 75.4 million people in the United States have a physical disability that prevents them from being able to participate in simple activities. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and medication can aid people, but there’s also another, less popular type of therapy that can be utilized. Hippotherapy is the use of horseback riding as therapeutic or rehabilitative treatment to improve coordination, balance, and strength. There’s a local service in Gretna that takes this practice to heart. Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA) is a non-profit organization that offers riding or carriage driving therapy sessions to children and adults with physical disabilities. HETRA was founded in 1989 with one client, one horse and a few volunteers. Today, they’ve grown to serve over 115 clients per week and draw committed volunteers who give over 18,000 hours of service a year. “It gives an opportunity for people with physical disabilities,” Robin Manning, an instructor with HETRA, said. “The horses help them. Even if they’re not able to walk, they’re able to get up on a horse and move around on their own.” Clients who come to HETRA are matched with a horse and play different games, such as follow the leader, a specialized form of polo, or fetching rings or horseshoes from around the arena. Even though they’re not running or jumping, according to the Chatham

Area Network for Therapeutic Riding, the combination of the repetitive, rhythmic moving of the horse and stimulation of muscles when reaching for a ring or to get a ball loosens muscles and helps improve motor control and balance. In addition to physical changes, volunteers have also witnessed other benefits. Amanda Rector, another instructor, said, “I’ve seen [HETRA] change a lot of lives. I’ve seen really timid kids become more outgoing, social skills increase—

special wand the horse was trained to follow. Two more volunteers flanked the horse and assisted the rider. Several of the riders were clutching pool noodles, which were then used to swat whiffle balls off the tops of traffic cones. Others reached for rings that were hanging around the perimeter of the arena on the walls. In the center of it all stood certified instructors who orchestrated and guided the lessons. On the far side of the open arena sat a special structure that consisted of two platforms with stair “The horses help access on both sides and a wheelchair ramp. Attached them. Even if to the structure was a special custom-designed to help they’re not able lift, clients who aren’t able to walk to walk, they’re mount a horse. In the stalls, volunteers groomed and able to get up tacked horses. They brought them out to their clients, on a horse and smiled and squirmed in move around on who excitement to see their horse coming out to meet them. I their own.” felt a genuine happiness in -robin manning, HETRA instructor everyone—volunteers, clients, and horses alike. I’ve seen physical changes.” The HETRA horses are also I visited HETRA on a Tuesday considered to be volunteers— night in early March. As I drove albeit four-legged ones. Each has a along the rugged gravel road, a unique personality and some have bright red sign appeared over a even reached “legend” status at the small hill that read “HETRA”. A barn. However, all have passed the giant beige barn that was bigger rigorous training course and are than a football field sat at the gentle partners. The bond between bottom of the hill. When I walked everyone at HETRA is something in, volunteers were laughing and special. talking with clients. Meanwhile, “It’s a great community horses were led up and down the organization that allows people long hallway of stalls and in and to come and volunteer,” Maggie out of the arena. The giant, dirtOlson, a barn manager, said. “It’s filled arena was littered with bright a great opportunity for everyone to come together in one place and orange cones and toys, and was work towards something.” busy with four riders enjoying Physical disabilities are hard and their lessons. Numerous volunteers frustrating for anyone they affect, accompanied each horse and rider. but HETRA does a great job of One was tasked with leading and guiding the horse while also using a helping them.

feature // hetra

come discover your new spring wardrobe! located right across the street in countryside village

Nail Spa Village

Manicures, pedicures, acrylic nails, shellac and much more!

8716 Countryside Plz. Omaha, NE Mon-Fri: 10 am - 7 pm Sat: 10 am - 5 pm Sun: closed

snapshots // holy spaces

SACRED SITES EXPLORING THE HOLY SPACES OF OMAHA story by elise tucker, design by harper newell, photos by kirsten mccormack and harper newell eligious tensions are a historical constant. Recently, the conflicts in the Middle East have been a topic of discussion here at Westside, and with the recent attacks on Paris, the nation has come face to face with Islamophobia. Right here in Omaha, our area mosques were vandalized. Catholicism, too, has had its share of controversy. Priests sexually assaulted young Catholics and the Church covered it up repeatedly; this year’s Academy Award-winner

for Best Picture, “Spotlight,” illustrated this scandal to the masses. But instead of focusing on the battles that have shaken all of these religions, Craze wanted to show the beauty of each religion and give their places of worship a little time in the limelight. We visited churches, temples, and mosques to get a different perspective of each building. Instead of violence, we need to come together to admire the brighter side of each religion.

photos taken at temple israel, student pictured: senior solomon marburg

snapshots // holy spaces

photos taken at hindu temple omaha, student pictured: senior sujata sapkota

photos taken at st. joseph parish, student pictured: senior katie germany

album review // life of pablo

THE LIFE OF KANYE LIFE OF PABLO SHOWS KANYE’S NEW ‘GROWN-UP’ STYLE story by grant gaden, design and illustration by grace wolfe

anye is the king of public controversy. Whether it’s on Twitter or at music awards, he tends to cause a scene. Despite his unruly history (or maybe because of it), Kanye is one of the few rappers who has remained relevant from the early 2000s to now. He’s always quick to speak his mind, and is known as a trendsetter. That’s what makes him so “Kanye.” His previous album, Yeezus, addressed major issues concerning race in America. However, he deviates from that pattern with his newest release. True to classic “Kanye” form, there has been plenty of buzz about it; he is still in the process of releasing new tracks and editing the

content of the album—after it has been released to the public. All the drama aside, The Life of Pablo is a more introspective piece that focuses primarily on Kanye’s own accomplishments and problems. Themes of faith and his devotion to God play an important role in many of his tracks including “Ultralight Beam,” which features gospel samples. There are multiple allusions to religion, including the title of the two-part song “Father Stretch My Hands,” which refers to stretching one’s hands out in prayer. He doesn’t only delve into his relationship with relgion, but also with his family. “Wolves” presents a version of Kanye we don’t often get to see. His wife,

Kim Kardashian, and the rest of the clan are subject to unabating media scrutiny from the predatory media. On this track, Kanye is a man who wants to protect his family from the wolves of society. In addition to the meaning of the album, the technical aspects hold up as well. The production on this album is fantastic and has some of the best beats of any Kanye album. The guest features add a layer of depth, with upwards of 20 collaborators, including Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, and Chance the Rapper. I would give this album a seven out of 10 because regardless of your personal feelings toward Kanye, this album deserves a listen.

49 01

music // all that jazz

MAYJO GIRLS! OMAHA BAND PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPLORE JAZZ story by anne stepanek, design and photos by kirsten mccormack

o other music has the same sensation as jazz. The genre facilitates creativity through improvisation, which allows the musician to play anything he or she wants. Because there’s no specific type of jazz, it requires a lot of skill in music theory. For those students who are dedicated to the art of jazz, the Metro Area Jazz Orchestra (MAYJO) offers the chance to work as a group and put on performances. MAYJO works yearround, with rehearsals twice a week and seven to

10 performances a year. Running the program is Dr. Pete Madsen, professor and coordinator of the jazz studies graduate program at the University of Nebraska Omaha. Many talented Westside musicians are members of the orchestra, including sophomore Grace Calderon and sophomore Kate Hamann. MAYJO provides students with opportunities, community, and ways to improve their skills in music.

WHAT’S ONE PERFORMANCE THAT STICKS OUT TO YOU? “Last year MAYJO played at the Jazz Education Network by going through a very selective audition process. We went to San Diego and met many famous jazz musicians and heard awesome concerts. We played some of my favorite music, songs such as “Brazilian Love Affair” arranged by Eric Richards and “Live and Let Die” by [Paul McCartney and Wings].”

WHO ARE SOME FAMOUS JAZZ MUSICIANS YOU LOOK UP TO AND HOW HAVE THEY INFLUENCED YOU? “Some of my favorite jazz big bands and the Count Basie Big Band, the Dave Holland Big Band, and jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. My favorite jazz trumpet player is Chet Baker. [Those] big bands have been some of the best in the country, if not the world, and they’re from different times and play different stuff. Chet Baker is my favorite because his soloing is very melodic and he has a beautiful dark sound. He can make any song sound absolutely gorgeous.”

HOW HAS MAYJO CHANGED YOUR LIFE? “Joining MAYJO was the best decision I’ve ever made. The first year I was very intimidated because [the other members] were such talented people. This helped me grow as a musician and build confidence in myself. It has given me countless opportunities to perform and improve my jazz abilities. I have learned so much in MAYJO and I’ve become twice the musician I was before joining.”

HOW HAVE MUSIC TEACHERS INFLUENCED YOU IN MUSIC? “[Dr. Madsen] has been an extremely influential mentor for me since elementary school. During sixth grade, he asked [my elementary school teacher] if she had any talented musicians that would be interested in the UNO Jazz Camp. Usually the camp isn’t open to middle schoolers, but he made an exception and put together a group of Westside sixth graders to attend. [Dr. Madsen] has shown me opportunities I wouldn’t have ever got, such as performing at the summer arts festival, music competitions, lounges, and also with the opportunity of being in MAYJO.”

WHAT’S YOUR RELATIONSHIP LIKE WITH THE REST OF THE GROUP? “At the beginning of my freshman year I was so intimidated; I was surrounded by musicians I knew were so much better than me. The sheer amount of talent around me was overwhelming, as well as the fact that all the returning members were tight-knit and knew each other well already. But, throughout the year, performing with these people, [we] created bonds. There were a couple of gigs that were extremely important to the relationships in the group, such as the performance at a swing dancing club and [a] trip to California. I’d like to say we’re all pretty close.”

WHY IS JAZZ IMPORTANT TO YOU? “There’s a certain kind of creativity that doesn’t come with any other type of music. There’s a lot of improvising, which means you stand up and solo without a sheet of notes in front of you or without anything memorized. You make a lot of things up. This not only applies to the music, but with the culture. There are some gigs where I don’t even know what song I’m playing until 10 minutes before the performance.”