Livewire Vol 8 Issue 4 May 2017 by Livewire

The Role of Religion GROWING PAINS Part 5 in a series

Contents

May 2017 Volume 8, Issue 5

STUDENT LIFE

4 6 7 10

Senior Events | A preview into the remaining events for seniors.

Derby City Fun | See all of the upcoming events in Louisville that students attend.

Livewire Teacher of The Year | The Livewire congratualates Mrs. Amanda Bohnert on winning teacher of the year. On To Brighter Things | Student’s plans after graduation.

6 SPORTS

16 18 20

Lady Chargers Are Having A Record Year | A look at the Lady Charger athletes that have made history and broke records this year. Coach Couch Surgery | A feature on the boys basketball head coach getting kidney surgery and the reactions from his students. Alumni Making The Cut On The College Level | A feature on three Bullitt East alumni that have moved on to play college sports.

ACADEMICS

28 30

Freshman Survival Guide | Seniors give advice to incoming freshman.

Choosing the Right College | As the school year comes to a close, it’s time for the seniors to choose a college.

Governor’s Scholars Program | Staffer Grant Skaggs discusses the program with interviews from previous GSP participants.

in a series

ON THE COVER

GROWING PAINS

PART 5

The Barrier Between School And Religion | As a new religion bill has passed in Kentucky, many people have mixed emotions about it. The school system is meant to prepare the students for a future of facts as well as opinions. If teachers, meant to teach things like the location of countries, begin teaching their beliefs, this will skew the students’ perception of fact and opinion.

POLITICAL

36 OPINION

40 42 44

Prom Nominations, Not A Popular Vote | An opinion piece by staffer Lauryn Smith on why prom king and queen should be chosen by teachers. Right Up Duvall’s Avenue | An opinion piece on 2017 Miss Kentucky basketball receiving her own street. Protest: Making America Great Again | A look into some of the protests and how they are changing society.

Trump: Billion dollar businessman to our country’s leader | Owen Jagielo

Dan Johnson: Who Does He Represent? | Luke Young provides insight

compares the two roles our president plays.

on the controversey surrounding Dan Johnson.

Editorial Board | The Editorial Board’s view on forming your own opinions on religion.

adviser editor-in-chief executive editor website editor co-website editor business & advertising special events manager copy editor copy editor copy editor copy editor copy editor sports editor creative editor creative editor photo editor social media editor

Larry Steinmetz Lindsay Renneisen Jessica Mattingly Taylor Hollifield Abbie Alstatt Zach Combest Sydney Riley Ainsley Gordon Derek Rogers Kim Houchin Grant Skaggs Abbie Alstatt Grant Skaggs Haylie Jenkins Haley Snyder Sarah Allen Kelsi Sego

staff writers Jeremy Antle Erika Bolton Matthew Childress Dustin Douglas Haley Grether Brandon Hall Nick Jackson Owen Jagielo

Jaydrien Jarrett Jasmine Meeks Ethan Neutz Jeremy Riggs Lauryn Smith Tyler Steinmetz Jaeden Yarbrough Luke Young

Livewire was re-founded in 2001 by journalism teacher, Larry Steinmetz. In the past, the Livewire has been a weekly newspaper, but moved to a newsmagazine published five times a year in 2011, and increased to six in the 2016-17 school year. The staff remains committed to bringing the Bullitt East community the most up to date news in a quality format and timely manner. To get breaking news, sports updates, and more go online to belivewire.com. The staff appreciates your patronage and, as a public forum, encourages any feedback you care to offer. Letters to the editor must be typed and submitted via e-mail, to Mr. Steinmetz’s mailbox, or directly to room 324 within one week of the publication to which you are responding. Letters will not be censored, but must be deemed appropriate by the editor and advisor in order to be published. In order to be eligible to appear in the paper, all letters must be signed and verifiable. Names can be withheld upon request, but must be submitted with the original letter. Livewire is published by the students and for the students of Bullitt East High School, E-mailing Mr. Steinmetz directly is the best way to reach the staff. His address is larry. steinmetz@bullitt.kyschools.us. The Livewire is printed by Aprintis Printing Company. Bullitt East High School 11450 Highway 44 East, Mount Washington, Kentucky, 40047. (502) 869-6400.

SENIOR EVENTS: What’s in store for the seniors in the upcoming weeks. BY DEREK ROGERS Copy Editor

Baccalaureate:

Graduation:

Project Graduation:

May 23rd

May 27th

May 27th- 28th

There is one event that often times touches students emotionally more than any other. Baccalaureate is an event all graduating class members to reminisce on their time together. The ceremony includes many commemorations from the high school career of the class of 2017.

The moment everyone has been waiting their whole life for. Although everyone may have different feelings, whether that would be relieved, scared, or excited. The night will be a milestone for every name that is announced.

One tradition that is a little newer than other is project graduation. It is the alternative of high school parties that include drinking or drugs. Money raised for the event goes to items that students can win in drawings.

High school graduation is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. It’s the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. It’s a day that no one will ever regret in their lives.

The idea behind project graduation is very smart. It gives students a chance to participate and be involved in safe fun. Although it may not have as long of a history as a few of the other events associated with the graduation, it is still a fun a heavily attended event.

It’s known foremost as a religious service focused on each student’s spirituality. The ceremony takes place at Saint Francis Xavier Church. It includes a prayer lead by a chosen senior. Although more students traditionally attend the graduation ceremony, it is still a pillar of the senior’s graduation process. “It’s time to congratulate us seniors on the nearing of graduation. All of us being together as a class, to experience this time as one,” said senior Brooke Stivers. There will be a senior video played that will include highlights from the classes time at Bullitt East. As well as a speaker chosen by the students.

page by Haylie Jenkins May 2017

For some, the ideology of school doesn’t match up well with their opinions. They may never take another class in their lives. They may go straight into the workforce. Others have just reached a mile marker in their educational career. They will continue to use the knowledge learned up to this point to help them prepare for the future. Some have two years, four years or maybe more of classes that will continue to provide a challenge. In this moment, it is important to focus on the achievement. You only graduate from high school once and the memories from this time of your life are priceless.

“I think it’s a nice idea because it gives people who may not be able to afford college essentials a chance to get them for free. While also keeping us from making bad decisions on graduation night,” said senior Michael Tandy. It is always important for high school students to make a good decision. The opportunity presented at project grad gives students just that. It is an event that gives students a safe place to be with friends, away from any drugs or alcohol. There are many fun things included at project grad. Items such as laptops and televisions are often raffled off. There are also bouncy houses included and a new addition this year could possibly be a mechanical bull.

>> student life

DEALING WITH STRESS 101 BY AINSLEY GORDON Copy Editor

he rain before the shine. Summer is almost here, but before school is officially over, the students will have to endure the stress of finals week.

As the school year is ending, finals, AP tests and EOCs are approaching fast. All of these final examinations and projects are very stressful for the students as they are ending the school year to transition into summer. Not only do these students have to worry about their schoolwork, but outside factors also take a toll on the sanity of the teens.

1. What in your life brings you the most stress? 2. Which brings you more stress school or outside factors? 3. How do you personally deal with stress? 4. What is your best advice for someone going through a lot of stress in these final weeks of school?

Lexi Lutz (9)

Jared Riordan (12)

1. “The college decisions. It’s senior year, so we have to get ready for college and decide where we’re going.”

1. “My parents, stuff at home and school.”

2. “School because teach-

ers put a lot of pressure on us, especially with finals coming up to do well.”

2. “School because with the outside factors, there is always a way to get around it, but with college, it’s a big deal.”

3. “I just try to balance

everything out and get help from my friends and family if I really need it.”

4. “Try and manage your

time as best as you can and try to do the most important things first.”

3. “I’ll probably vent or just tell myself to calm down and that it’s going to work and get through it.” 4. “You’re always going to live another day, so you just gotta man up and do it.”

William Smith (11)

Charisma Cornell (10) 1. “In general, school, ob-

viously, and sports. It can kind of be summed up as expectations bring up a lot of stress. Expectations for yourself or from others.”

2. “Probably school be-

cause even when I have a handle on the outside factors, school is the constant underlying thing.”

1. “Being the athletic

trainer for the baseball and football teams takes up the majority of my time. This means that a lot of nights I won’t get home until like nine. I’m also on the archery team. I also take lots of challenging classes. All of this combined with the pressure on me to do the best that I can really causes my stress.”

3. “I just deal with it. I do a lot of thinking and kind of try to rationalize my issues and think, ‘you can handle, you know how to do this, you’ve done it before.’”

2. “Outside factors because I have about 50,000 things to do outside of

4. “If you have a bunch of stress, a lot of people say you just need to

3. “I make sure to use my planner so that way, I know what I’m doing

take a break and sit back for a little bit. But I don’t think that’s necessarily the case because you’ll dwell on it a lot and think ‘Oh God, this is worse. I’m not doing anything.’ So just start working, but don’t overload yourself. Work at a pace you’re comfortable with and continue to think about once it’s done, it’s done, I never have to worry about it ever again. I’m going to feel so good, it’s going to be great and just realize it’s not the end of the world regardless.”

school and they take up all of my time and then I can’t work on school stuff.”

all of the time. And I like to walk my dog around the neighborhood.”

4. “Make sure to use a planner that includes all of your homework for

each night. Make time to study but also allow study breaks so you don’t overload your brain. And take some time to just sit outside and listen to music or go on a walk to chill out.” page by Ainsley Gordon

DERBY CITY FUN BY HALEY GRETHER Staff Writer

t's the most exciting two minutes in sports.

Students and adults that live in the state of Kentucky have an opportunity for fun and excitement during the month of May that no one would want to miss out on. Hosted in Louisville, KY, during the first week of May is the Kentucky Derby Festival. Many travel far and wide to our small state during this time of the year to enjoy the festivities.

Photo credits to Shawn Skriver

Senior Christian Foster attended the Oaks last year, and plans to come back agaimn this year. “It’s a Kentucky tradition, people in other states dont have the same opportunity to experience it every year like we do.“ Photo submitted by Christian Foster

Close to a month jam packed with fun events for friends and family, the Derby Festival blasts off each year with one of the largest firework shows in the nation. Known by many as Thunder Over Louisville, held this year on April 22, the event consists of one of the best air shows in the nation along with food, music and fun for people of all ages. The event ends the day with a firework show that is sure to amaze the eyes of all. As almost two-thirds of the events at the festival are free of charge, families can enjoy many entertaining and fun activities without breaking the bank, making the events especially appealing to teens who always seem to be broke. Also included in the two weeks before Derby there is the hot-air balloon show, The Great Steamboat Race on the Ohio River, and the all exciting Pegasus Parade that marches down Broadway. All of these festivities are just the start to an even more fun time. The Friday before Derby is the infamous Oaks horse race where threeyear-old thoroughbred fillies race at Churchill Downs. This event is famous among teenagers in high schools around the area. Christian Foster, senior, had her first experience at the Oaks last year. “It's a fun day to spend with friends while also getting some sun! I bet on one horse last year and actually made some money so that was cool too,” said Foster.

Senior Sydney Riley attended the Oaks for her first time last year. She has made plans to come back again this year. “I’ll go again this year because it’s an event that no one in Kentucky would want to miss, if you dont go at least once, you’re missing out.” Photo submitted by Sydney Riley

infield, which is where most high schoolers go because we are too broke to get actual tickets, and there were thousands of people in just the infield,” said Riley.

narrows down its numbers until the 20 horses who have the most points gets a spot in the starting gate in the actual Kentucky Derby race.

Though the overcrowding may be a bit discouraging, it's not anything new for students at East, as we already have so many growing pains.

As far as new experiences and fun times go, the festivities at the Derby are a can't miss. “The Oaks and Derby are popular events because they are well known around the entire country and we have them right here in our backyard. After you go once, you have to keep going because it's something you don't want to miss out on. People want to keep coming back because it's unlike anything you've ever been to. The experience is unexplainable,” said Riley

Life is about meeting new people, having new experiences, and trying to make life as much fun as possible. “Going to Oaks is a great way to meet new people and it's so cool seeing everyone dressed up. I'll go again this year because it's an event that no one in Kentucky should miss. If you don't go at least once, you're missing out,” said Riley. The big event held this year on the first Saturday of May is the actual Derby races.

For those who aren't old enough to play the lottery but still have the urge to gamble, the Oaks and Derby races are a good way to satisfy these urges, while also supporting our state and the horses themselves.

The Kentucky Derby is a race where 20 threeyear-old thoroughbred horses run the distance of one and one-quarter miles around a dirt racetrack at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.

Last year was also senior Sydney Riley’s first time at Oaks. “Oaks is crazy, I was in the

Consisting of a series of 35 races the Derby

page by Haley Grether May 2017

Photo credits to Bill Brine

At Charger Nation, tradition is an important factor to our community as a school. The same goes for the community as a whole in the state of Kentucky. “It's a KY tradition, people in other states don't have the same opportunity to experience it every year. I think people like to go because it's also a fun thing for friends to go to because you can't do it every weekend,” said Foster. Early May and late April is a busy time for those who live in Kentucky. Make sure you don't miss out.

>> student life

LIVEWIRE TEACHER OF THE YEAR BY KIM HOUCHIN AND SARAH ALLEN

ongratulations, Amanda Bohnert, you’re Bullitt East’s teacher of the year!

It was a close race between many beloved teachers, but Bohnert still managed to pull through with a nine point lead. As the school year comes to a close, the time nears when students get to choose their favorite teacher. Whether it be for their personality or their teaching styles, everyone had their pick. Many teachers spent the year working tirelessly to improve their chances of achieving this well renowned award. For Alyssa Huen, a senior, the choice was easy. “Mrs. B is honestly so fun to be around. She is hilarious but she also cares about her students. Her class is one of the few classes I don’t dread going to everyday. Going through seven periods a day can be very annoying but she is my last period teacher and she still manages to make it a good class.” said Huen. She believes that Bohnert deserves the award completely and appreciates everything she has done for her. Bohnert has made her year “10 times better” because of her constant reassurance. Bohnert started teaching at BE at the beginning of the 15-16 school year. Though she is new to Charger Nation, her students have fallen in love with her quirky personality and her effective yet humorous teaching methods. Junior Madison Covyeow began appreciating Bohnert as a teacher sophomore year when she had her for biology. When she got the ballot, it didn’t take long for her to choose who to put. “She taught me better ways to stay organized and how to study for tests,” said Covyeow.

As far as her teaching style, Covyeow believes that Bohnert is very different from any other teacher she has had in the past.

She won for many reasons, but the one most prominent one is that “she absolutely deserves it,” (according to Battcher).

For Bohnert, teaching has always been a passion of hers. She believes that the award is a humbling honor. It keeps her going throughout the school year. “To know that, over the course of a year… that students have been enjoying the things that I’m doing for them,” said Bohnert. Lauren Battcher, a chemistry teacher, enjoys working side by side with Bohnert. “She is very positive, energetic, and very very intelligent, she knows her stuff...she is one of the teachers that truly cares about her students. She just loves to learn about their lives, and support them in wherever they are wanting to go...she just goes above and beyond,” said Battcher. Hard work is something that comes natural to Bohnert, and she doesn’t take anything less from her students either. “She brings out the work ethic that students are capable of, but doesn’t always give, she helps them kind of rise up to that level to prepare them for college,” said Battcher.

Bohnert continues teaching after thanking her students for voting. She will strive to inspireher peers to do great things. “It keeps me reminded I should continue doing crazy fun things because students enjoy them,” said Bohnert.

One reason that many students like Bohnert is her constant caring and loving personality. She makes sure that each student knows that she appreciates and cares for them individually. When it comes to giving advice to other teachers, she has a teamwork approach to being successful. “Take the time to get to know them, take time to ask the questions…it’s worth it...and has made a lot of difference, let the students know that this is our classroom not ‘MY’ classroom, and I care about you,” said Bohnert.

Bohnert is very grateful for winning teacher of the year. She wants to stay close to all of her students. “It’s all of the little moments...with the students,” said Bohnert. page by Kim Houchin

LONG DISTANCE FRIENDSHIPS BY ZACH COMBEST Business Editor

aying goodbye to Bullitt East and their best friends.

Seniors are getting ready to graduate, but it’s not all fun as they are leaving behind their underclassmen best friends. Going to college and leaving Bullitt East may make it hard to keep friendships. Friendships in high school grow for many reasons, like playing the same sport or having the same class as someone. Relationships can also be affected from being distant. Friendships are hard to keep once your friend moves away for college or goes in the coast guards. Senior Alyssa Heun and her best friend, sophomore Maddie Saylor, will be splitting apart next year as Heun is going to Western Kentucky University. It will be harder to keep their friendship since they will not be able to hang out on the weekends or hang out at school.

“It doesn’t feel good to have to leave one of your closest friends. But at the same time I know we will still talk and stay close. I will be able to come home on breaks so I’m sure we will see each other then too,” -Alyssa Heun Both cheer together at Bullitt East and cheerleading started their friendship and has also brought them closer. Heun plans on coming back and visiting Saylor when every she can.

to be friends now because we won’t be able to hang out much and do stuff on the weekends like we usually do,” said Crum. Carlisle is planning on going into the coast guard after high school. He will be stationed in Alaska. Crum thinks it’s cool that his best friend is going to be serving our country. “My friendship is very close with my underclassmen friends. Jeremy Riggs, Rece Watson, Zach Crum, and Logan Calhoun are the ones I’m closest with and also my girlfriend, Jadyn Smith is the main reason I will be coming home,” said Carlisle. He will be in Alaska for eight months for training. He will keep in touch with his friends by talking to them in group chats. Smith thinks it will be a huge change when he moves to join the coast guard. “I know it’s what he has always wanted to do and I know how excited he is for it. I’m excited for him as well and I support him 100 percent,” said Smith. She wouldn’t want to trade their relationship for the world.

Senior, Alyssa Heun and sophomore Maddie Saylor at the cheerleading bandquet. They have been cheering together for two years. “It [their friendship] started because of cheer. She came in as a freshman and I talked to her one day at cheer and it just started there,” said Heun. Photo submitted by Maddie Saylor

Senior Jordan Goers will miss her best friend, Quinton Lanham, junior, next year when she goes away to Jefferson Community and Technical College and then the University of Louisville. “I got close with him from having classes together and doing group projects together in Tackett’s class,” said Goers. Overall, having a bestfriend that is moving away to college or joining the military is hard and can be scary. They want to keep their friendships strong and hope to stay in touch and communicate while they are miles and miles away.

Senior Jordan Goers with junior Quinton Lanham in Mr. Tackett’s class. They have been friends since the beginning of the school year. “We grew really close this year when we had two classes together,” said Goers. Photo submitted by Jordan Goers

Heun and Saylor have a good friendship that they hope will last a lifetime. “Our friendship is fun. We are constantly laughing and we always go eat together which is the best part,” said Heun. Saylor is sad that she will be leaving. She plans on keeping in touch with her and go visit her at Western Kentucky University. Sophomore Zach Crum is best friends with senior Ethan Carlisle. “It’s gonna be a lot harder

page by Zach Combest May 2017

Senior Ethan Carlisle with his girlfriend, Jadyn Smith. They have been friends for years. “It will be a huge change for us for the next two years,” said Smith. Photo submitted by Jadyn Smith

>> student life

15 THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER Don’t sit on your bum, go out in the sun! A detailed list of 15 things to keep entertained during the two-month long summer break. 1. Kentucky Kingdom Price: $49.95 Address: 937 Phillips Lane, Louisville, KY 40209 Freshman, Aubrey Lamkin said that her favorite part is “the big slide.” “It’s fun, I’ll go back.”

2. Bernheim Forest Price: $0 Address: 2075 Clermont Road, Clermont, KY 40110

3. 21C Museum

7. Night Racing at Churchill Downs Price: $10 Address: 700 Central Avenue, Louisville, KY 40208

14. Waterfront Wednesday

Price: $0 Address: 1101 River Road

Price: $0 Address: 401 River Road, Louisville, KY 40202

9. Steel City Pops Price: $3 -$4.50 per pop Address: 1021 Bardstown Road, Louisville, KY 40204

Price: $0 Address: 700 W Main Streer, Louisville, KY 40202

10. Broad Run Park

4. The State Fair

Price: $0 Address: 11551 Bardstown Road, Louisville, KY 40291

5. The Louisville Zoo Price: $16.25 (adult admission) Address: 1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville, KY 40213

6. Falling Rock Park Price: $10 Address: 2201 Fendley Mill Road, La Grange, KY 40031 Age Limit: 18+

Price: $169.50 (general admission level two) Address: 401 River Road, Louisville, KY 40202

8. The Big Four Bridge

Junior, Lexie Fisher’s favorite part is “the fresh flavors... good quality, friendly, refreshing, and cheap!” Strawberry Lemonade is her favorite pop.

Price: $8 (when you buy tickets at Kroger) Address: Crittenden Drive, Louisville, KY, 40209

13. Forecastle

15. Rough River Price: $0 Address: 450 Lodge Road, Falls of Rough, KY 40119

11. Louisville Bats Games Price: $10 Address: 401 E Main Street, Louisville, KY 40202

12. Color Run Price: $55 Address: 401 River Road, Louisville, KY 40202 “I have participated in the Color Run once and I am doing it again this summer, it’s literally the best time of your life. You’re surrounded by so much happiness, the people, music, pretty muh everything,” said senior Alexa Valdez

page by Lindsay Renneisen

ON TO BRIGHTER THINGS Seniors look to take on a new road after graduation as they get accepted into college.

1.) Why did you decide to go to ... ? 2.) What do you plan to major in? 3.) How has being a student at BE helped prepare you for college?

page by Lindsay Renneisen May 2017

>> student life

Sarah Crenshaw University of Lousiville

Amy Gentry Bellarmine University

Gabby Lawson

1. I chose Louisville because my family has always been Louisville fans so I’ve grown up attending games and it holds a special place to me, it is also close to home and I can get help from the Metropolitan College Program to pay for it. 2. I’m majoring in forensic psychology. 3. Being a student at BE has helped me prepare because I was offered AP classes that introduced me to the amount and difficulty of school work that I will experience in college.

1. I decided to go to Bellarmine because I love the smaller campus and the location of it being so close to Louisville. Also, it is known for having a great physical therapy and nursing program and those were the two paths I was looking at originally. It was the best fit for me in every aspect. 2. I plan on majoring in exercise science on a prephysical therapy track. 3. Bullitt East has prepared me for college because of the way I’ve applied myself in high school. I’ve taken challenging classes and pushed myself to be the best student possible and that’s prepared me for a successful future.

1. I decided to go to NKU bc I knew I wanted to get out of Mt. Washington but not too far. They have all these clubs and activities going on at all times. The students there really seemed like they were involved a lot within the school. They offer a lot of financial help and the price to go there isn’t as bad as say other colleges like UK. On top of all of that I somehow talked my best friend Bri Poole into looking into the school and she, like me, fell in love with NKU as soon as she stepped foot onto the campus. So now my best friend and I get share another 4 years together not only as friends but as roommates too.

Justin Defler University of Kentucky

Michael Tandy Murray State University

Austin Carte Western Kentucky University

1. I chose U.K. because of their Honors Engineering and Management program. 2. I want to major in mechanical engineering. 3. Bullitt East’s Project Lead The Way program ran by Mr. Vincent has prepared me for this moment.

1. It’s really cheap and I didn’t wanna have to worry about student loans. 2. My major will be accounting right now but I’m thinking about switching to something else in business or finance. 3. The teachers did a great job of getting me the grades and test scores I needed to go to college free.

Northern Kentucky University

1. It is just a home like environment for me and I know it’s just somewhere I want to be. 2. I want to major in secondary education social studies. 3. Bullitt East has prepared me by allowing me to apply myself to real world situations and be able to truly find what I want to do in the real world.

page by Kelsi Sego

SPRING SPORTS: BASEBALL BY TAYLOR HOLLIFIELD Website Editor

he baseball team will be a returning veteran group this season, but while each individual plays an important role on the team there was just two boys whose dedication has shined more than others. Senior Matthew Bryant and underclassmen Jarrett Wantye’s motivation to play has made them this season’s players to watch. The baseball team hopes to return to the state tournament this season. This seasons returning seniors will be Bryant, Jared Riordan, Michael Lobred, Jake Reece, Zach Jones and Mitchell Langley, along with first time player Zak Kessler. All of these players have contributed significantly to their state tournament run last season. Coach Jeff Bowles will be asking juniors Sean Johnson and Peyton Meredith to produce on a daily basis this year. There are several sophomores that will be asked to step in on the varsity level and fill voids left by last year’s seniors, such as Mason Kelley, Harrison Vereb, Garrett Simpson and Wantye. The majority of the players have been apart of Bullitt East’s baseball team since their middle school or freshmen year. “The seniors are key parts from last year’s team. The juniors and sophomores are still yet to ‘earn their stripes.’ Our best quality as a team is work ethic. We like to believe that no other team will outwork us. That’s a standard left for these guys by the players before them. We like to think that’s the foundation of our baseball tradition here at Bullitt East,” said Bowles. Bowles believes his players separate themselves individually from their teammates by the level of trust that they instill in their coaching staff. Through their performance at practice and games they have shown that they are ready

Matthew Bryant is up to bat while Jarrett Wantye is controlling the mound. After a disappointing loss at state last season, both players look to bounce back this season. Photos taken by Bryce Stewart.

page by Taylor Hollifield May 2017

to be given responsibility that’ll help them be successful individually and together. Every single one of this guys are either proven contributors on this level or are young and talented enough to produce at a level where they can be competitive on a daily basis, but some individuals have shown major improvement over the years not just to their coach but their teammates as well. Bryant was chosen because he is a team player that gets along well with everyone and because of his hard work. At the end of the day winning is the only state that matters to him. He has been practicing and conditioning with the team everyday, while doing some lifting and hitting on his own time. He has committed to play baseball at Union College in Barbourville, KY, on a baseball scholarship. “I am going to give my full effort to help the team to victory every day. We each have a job to do, and I am going to do my job for the team everyday. I have to be flexible because we have a lot of different possible combinations. I just have to do whatever the coaches want and ask me to do each game. I am very honored that my teammates chose me. I’m also thankful that they chose me. There are many different seniors that could’ve been granted this, and I would’ve been happy with whoever got it. This doesn’t change me or make me any better. It’s nice to have, but it wouldn’t been the end of the world if I wasn’t chosen,” said Bryant. Wantye’s fellow senior teammates chose him as the underclassmen to watch because of his hard work and ability to be a leader to the team. Last year, Wantye stepped up when some of the other players got in trouble,

so he had to fill a big role in some of last year’s games. He continues to practice six to seven days a week every week on his hitting and pitching, because he believes he will be needed a lot this coming season. He hopes to help benefit the team with his pitching and his bat in the lineup at first base. Wantye feels very honored to be chosen as the underclassmen to watch but feels there is a lot of pressure that come with it. His main goal this season is to play to the best of his ability and be as much of a help to the team as he can be possible. Wantye plans to continue playing outside of high school with Kentucky Sports Academy (KSA) and hopefully go on to play at University of Louisville. The team has several vocal leaders that help jump start the players whenever necessary, so the veterans just try to help lead by example by going about their business and preparing for the season the best way they know how. Through the coaching staff and practice there has been significant improvement made through the polishing of their baseball skills with offseason and pre-season work at KSA. “I expect us to make another run for state and to play one more day than we did last year, and get to the state championship and win,” said Wantye. Each season the chargers expect to win district, region and compete for the state championship. “These guys are our program’s foundation,” said Bowles. Without each individual they wouldn’t just be a team of guys playing baseball. They are what makes the baseball program and they take a lot of pride in that.

>> sports

SOFTBALL BY TAYLOR HOLLIFIELD Website Editor

he Lady Chargers work hard everyday physically and mentally. There are two specific players, senior Lindsay Renneisen and sophomore Karley Dawson, who have either grown or performed every game. With the help of these players the team is expecting to go to the state tournament this season. Coach Ricky Hoffman considers all the seniors players to watch, which are Renneisen, Hannah Dahl, Jordan Goers and Jenna Rueve. While there are several underclassmen, there was just three that really stood out to Hoffman: Dawson, junior Taylor Roby and eighth grader Alanna Pierce. All of the girls on the softball team have worked extremely hard to earn starting spots. “They have all grown mentally. Knowing now what needs to be done to get to the state tournament. They know it’s not physical, it’s mental,” said Hoffman. In a way every girl on the team is considered to be a leader to their teammates, while they may not be very vocal they do lead by example. The Lady Chargers help other rise and exceed their roles as individuals and as teammates. Hoffman considers the team’s best quality to be their hard work and dedication, and with the help of certain players they will have a “perfect recipe for success.” “None of these players have been the ones to watch other than Renneisen, they were just good ball players; now they are the ones to watch because we expect great things from them. Renneisen has always performed when playing, so we expect better than the norm from her,” said Hoffman. Renneisen has acted as a leader in previous years and has always worked hard every chance she gets. The team

has practice six days a week where they work hard as a team and continue to improve from last year, but on top of this Renneisen has been working out at the gym on becoming more in shape and getting stronger. She hopes to help benefit the team this season by getting runs batted in (RBI) when they are needed for the team and not making any field errors. Being the senior to watch means so much to her and she is so thankful for everyone on her team. She respects each and every one of them, and is beyond blessed to play with such a “awesome group of girls” that she is able to call her best friends. Renneisen plan to continue playing softball at the University of Evansville. “I committed there the summer before my junior year because I knew that was where I needed to be. I love the coaching staff and the facilities there,” said Renneisen.

ing on the field. It is a great honor and I hope big things happen for the team this year,” said Dawson. After high school Dawson plans to continue playing at a smaller school. She prefers something close to home like Bellarmine or Campbellsville because she has a close bond with her family. Either way it works out for her in the future she knows she will enjoy playing in college regardless. Hoffman hopes with the help of these two players the team will go to state this season. “I expect us to do very well this season. We have a real shot at state and going really far. As long as we continue to work hard as a team, there is nothing that will be able to stop us,” said Renneisen. Their plans overall are to win districts in May, go to region, and play in the state tournament early June.

Dawson believes she was chosen because she is the player who strives to be the best she can be. Last year Dawson was pitching, but this year she is starting out as a catcher. Catching is a new position for her, one that she has little to none experience with. She has experienced several changes in the past but seems to always play the new position to her best ability. She has been working hard to push herself outside of practice this season. She has been going to the batting cage with her dad, eating healthier and striving to get into better shape. She will work hard, have a good attitude and give her all this season whether it is on or off the field. “To me, being the player to watch this season means that I have expectations placed upon me that says we plan on succeed-

Lindsay Renneisen is up to bat, while Kalley Dawson waits to make a play behind the plate. After a winning season the Lady Chargers hope to repeat this year. Photos taken by Zach Combest. page by Taylor Hollifield

TENNIS BY TAYLOR HOLLIFIELD Website Editor

he girls tennis team doesn’t have any seniors, but there is one underclassmen, Savannah Kruse, who has stepped up and fulfilled a big role on the team. For the boys they have one senior, Luke Young, and a junior, Harrison Glauber, who is believed to have improved over the years. Both teams hope to continue improving every week and hope to see individuals go far on a competitive level. Most of the girls tennis team are first year players, so basically this season they have been focusing on building skill sets and enjoying sportsmanship. This is the first year since their coach Chris Marsh has been coaching at Bullitt East that they have had a full roster. Kruse is not only the top player but the team captain as well. She made it to semifinals in the regional tournament last year and advanced to second round in state. Kruse was just named team captain this year. She has been playing tennis since sixth grade, which makes her the player with the most experience. She improves her talent by playing tennis all year round. In the winter she plays indoors at a place called Advantage. She also workouts which has helped her a lot this past year. Mainly, Kruse does a lot of stuff on her own rather than just practicing on the court. This year Kruse is going to lead her team and help them in any way possible. Some of the girls have never played before so Kruse has stepped up to help them learn the game of tennis. “Being the player to watch this season is really neat. Not many people know Bullitt East has a tennis team, and to be the player to watch is awesome,” said Kruse. Outside of high school Kruse would love to continue playing tennis. She would really prefer to play at University of Louisville, Bellarmine or Lindsey Wilson hopefully on scholarship. For the boys team, Young is the only senior. He has been playing for four years making this his last season. Young has been working to improve everything that he can. He says

that it’s frustrating because some days he plays fine, while other days it’s like he can’t hit anything. “Hopefully I will help win matches. Being the player to watch gives me a lot of expectation to live up to,” said Young. As for Glauber, every day he goes to practice and focuses on getting better in all aspects of the game, as well as addressing specific things he can improve on. Glauber has a desire to improve, which he believes sets him apart from the rest of the team. To prepare for this years season he has changed his diet to lose weight and he has gotten one on one lessons from multiple coaches. Focusing a lot of his time on improving, Glauber is hoping to be a consistent victory for the team during matches and advance past regionals. “It’s a huge honor to be the player of the year. I haven’t been playing as long as some of the guys on the team, so the fact that I have excelled enough to be the player of the year is a great feeling,” said Glauber. Glauber would like to attend the University of Kentucky and would like to continue playing tennis if he is given the opportunity. This year is the first year in a long time the girls have had a full team. They have a total of 13 players and their main goal is to just have fun. Kruse hopes they enjoy the game as much as she does, to where they’ll come back next year. She also hopes that not only will they have fun but that they come out with as many wins as possible. “The game is constantly evolving. Even Federer has tweaked his game and still is a great champion. I see my team improving every week,” said Marsh. He is very excited about the upcoming season and its possibilities. A lot of the boys will have to step up this season considering the team lost their best player last year. The boys tennis team has a lot of talent this season, so they expect they will do very well. They hope to even do better than last season. Savannah Kruse prepares to serve during a match. While Luke Young and Harrison Glauber hit during practice. Kruse dominated the tennis floor and plans to do it again this season, while the boys look to improve after season. Photo submitted by Savannah Kruse, photos taken by Kaleb Perdew and Kasey Markwell

page by Taylor Hollifield May 2017

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ARCHERY BY TAYLOR HOLLIFIELD Website Editor

he archery team is full of a lot of talent this year, especially with the underclassmen. Senior Will Spencer has really stepped up this season to be a leader for his team. The archers hope to continue improving their team through practice and tournaments. All of the shooters have been apart of the team every year they’ve been at Bullitt East. Spencer and Lexi Nation are seniors, KC Corum and Jaque Morsey are juniors, Chandler Paul and Megan Culver are sophomores and Michael Atwell is a freshman. All of these archers have been considered good, but they are just now beginning to be consistent top shooters according to their coach. As of right now Coach Jason Waddle believes Atwell, Paul, Morsey, Culver and Corum are the anchors on this team and the ones to keep an eye on. “We have a lot of talented underclassmen, too many to mention but we have a lot of young talent. Each one has gotten better and better each year and continue to show great promise as they consistently improve each tournament,” said Waddle. Each individual adds something different to the team. All of the archers have taken on a leadership role this year. While some are vocal, others are silent but they all have their own way of leading. Morsey is the vocal leader of the team and the rest of them are silent leaders in how they represent themselves and the Bullitt East tradition. Morsey leads by letting others know what is expected of them, while the majority of them lead by example.

“I’m glad that my teammates are seeing how hard I work and I hope to inspire them to work hard and reach their goals,” said Morsey. Morsey is a consistent shooter with 280’s, which she takes pride in because she has worked hard to get their and be one of the top five shooters on her team. The team’s practices are two hours optional for three days a week and Morsey stays both hours to work and improve her skill. Morsey does not plan to continue archery outside of high school competitively. Waddle said, “One senior has really stepped up this season to be a leader of this team and that is Will Spencer. Will has become determined to be one of the top shooters on the team and let the underclassmen know what is expected of them. Lexi Nation is another senior who has stepped up to the plate and decided to make her senior season the best it can be.” Spencer has learned a lot from the seniors last year. He tries his best to keep people positive and not get aggravated. At every practice Spencer goes goes through the steps and tries to relax and remember everything he needs to do in order to shoot his best. He is also a coach for archery at Pleasant Grove Elementary, which he believes helps him communicate with his teammates and guide them when they are doing something wrong. He watches his teammates and if he sees anything hindering them he tries to talk to them and notify coaches so they can watch them as well. “As a senior you have a lot of kids and teammates that look up to you so it

is a very big responsibility, and to show them and take my advice if they choose to so that they can better themselves and learn from me,” said Spencer. He plans to continue shooting at home or with his friends. The team has lost a really good shooter last year, which at the beginning of the year really made their team suffer. The archers are just now starting to understand they have a chance this season because their scores are steadily improving. The coaches and Morsey came up with a plan to help and keep shooters accountable for what they do in school and what their scores are. Morsey believes it has really helped and she has seen improvement already. The team’s best quality is their scores and the way they represent Bullitt East. Each individual has improved on their scores this season. Waddle expects his team to continue improving each tournament and put this team on their backs. Spencer expects everyone to try their best and for them to get frustrated with themselves. As Waddle said, “You are only as strong as the leaders on your team.” All the shooters have stepped up to be leaders and hopefully that’ll take them far.

The team prepares to shoot at Central Hardin. After their shoot at Central Hardin, the team looks to improve. Photo taken by Morgan Grant page by Taylor Hollifield

LADY CHARGERS ARE HAVING A RECORD YEAR BY HALEY SNYDER Creative Editor

Foster has also been extremely successful as a Lady Charger Soccer player, as she holds two records on the team. “I hold the record Senior Lindsey Duvall, Lady Charger and for most goals scored in a single season (63 in future Louisville Cardinal, has had a recordFoster became not only the first female foot2016) and the record for most career points, breaking senior season, scoring the most over(186 from 2013-2016).” Foster’s background all career points in Bullitt East history, 2,566. as a club soccer player with Javanon has "Winning a State Championship boosted her confidence, while also physically Duvall believes this is something she could mentally preparing her for the tribulais truly a feeling like no other... and tions of a high school athlete. not have achieved without the continued love but winning three... in a row... and support of her teammates. “I’ve worked really hard this season, and my teammates Bullitt East Cheerleading team has conit's indescribable. It's something The have really been there for me through the tinued to break records, winning their third whole thing.” said Duvall. you never get tired of, the feeling straight state championship this season. hese ladies at Bullitt East are making history.

Senior Christian Foster became the first female football player in Bullitt East history, First female kicker, and the first female to score. When Coach Mark Sander approached Foster about kicking for the team, it was an offer she couldn’t refuse. Foster’s elite background in soccer has definitely put her at an advantage on and off the football field. “My background in soccer definitely made my transition onto

page by Haley Snyder May 2017

the team more seamless, but kicking a soccer ball and kicking a football are two completely different things.” said Foster.

never gets old." -Brooke Stivers

ball player in Bullitt East history, but also the first female to score in a home game versus rival Shelby County, kicking and scoring all eight attempted XP and even recovering an onside kick off of an opposing player. “I caught it in my chest and fell on top of it, and i just thought ‘If someone falls on top of me, I’ll just take it.’”

In 2014, the cheerleaders became the first two state champion teams at Bullitt East, beating out rival Southwestern High School. “Winning a State Championship is truly a feeling like no other… but winning three.... In a row… it’s indescribable.” said senior Brooke Stivers.

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Top: Lindsey Duvall dribbles past a defender to score. Duvall now holds the record for most career points scored as a Lady Charger basketball player. Bottom: Coach Mark Sander shakes Fosterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hand to congratulate her on her first game.

Top: Christian Foster makes her way around a Mercy defender. Foster now holds the record for most casreer points as a Lady Charger. Bottom: Bullitt East Cheerleaders win their third straight state championshiip. Bottom Right: Senior Morgan Gentry holding her third State Championship trophy.

page by Haley Snyder

SIDELINED FROM TEACHING AND COACHING BY ETHAN NEUTZ Staff Writer

e’s down, but definitely not out.

Teacher and head boys basketball coach Jason Couch is sidelined until the next school year because of a disease that forced him to get a kidney transplant. Couch was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease 10 years ago.. This had had a big impact on his family life. This also affected the school and his students in a big way. The transplant went well and now the recovery process begins, and his kids, both his own and the ones in the classrooms, can't wait to see him back. Couch’s cousin, Kelly Moyer was the first person tested and she was a match and was able to be used for the transplant. “At first it wasn't bad at all because my kidneys were still functioning well, the only issues were my blood pressure was high and the cysts starting to make my kidneys enlarge and I began to get some back pain and gain weight. However, when my kidney function dropped below about 20% I really started to get fatigued and I would get short of breath if I exerted a little bit of energy. The BP and back pain got much worse,” said Couch. Couch is a part of the math department and he teaches geometry. He is also the current head boys basketball coach and he lead his Chargers to the district tournament. “I don’t think that it will negatively effect the team, I think that it brought our guys closer. As far as my situation goes, i took the respnsibility to focus on how much schedules and diferent things that the head coach does and as an assistant you should have multi[ple roles,” said assistant basketball coach, Robert Troutman.

Couch’s last day was Mar. 9 and he is looking ahead to make a return in around 12 weeks but he could not be able to return until the start of next school year. His original plans were to be back before the end of school and graduation. “My doctors don't want me around large groups of people for the first three page by Ethan Neutz May 2017

months after the transplant and when I can start getting out more I have to wear a mask. “The reason is I'm on a variety of antirejection drugs to help my body not reject the new kidney, these drugs bottom out my immune system so if I'm exposed to an illness or infection my body won't be able to fight it like it used to and I could end up back in the hospital. “So I probably won't make it back this school year,” said Couch. With these factors and setbacks Couch does not believe he will make it back to school before the end of this year. He is still making the best of his absence and said this about his classes, ¨right now, I miss being around the kids. The relationships you build with them are so much fun! They say and do some of the most ridiculous things and they make me laugh.¨ In the meantime, the students in his classes have a long term sub and she will try to continue with great teaching according to many, no one will ever replace Couch. Sophomore Katie Armour is in one of Couch's geometry classes and said, “there is no one that is as funny as him, he tells jokes while helping us learn a bunch.” Couch knows that with him being gone his classes will definitely be affected, ¨I know it will be tough on them because they have to get used to a new person and new routines but we were able to get a great, more that capable sub to be in there for them long term so that made me feel much better about it,” said Couch. The surgery has impacted his family and the daily routines in and outside of the house, “I can't go to any of the girls school functions or we can't go to the movies or eat out at a restaurant as a family which is tough.” “My wife Katie has to be my caretaker and she has been selfless. She is an amazing woman and never complains about all the work she has to do for me right now. She has to drive me to all my appointments,” said Couch. He is restricted from driving for six to eight weeks

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PREPARATION FOR DOMINATION OF THE GAME because of the surgery.

BY TYLER STEINMETZ Staff Writer

In addition to all the restrictions, Couch is on a regimen of anti-rejection medications, ¨I'm on a variety of anti-rejection drugs to help my body not reject the new kidney, these drugs bottom out my immune system so if I'm exposed to an illness or infection my body won't be able to fight it like it used to and I could end up back in the hospital.¨

WHAT IS YOUR PRE-GAME ROUTINE? BASEBALL:

Jarrett Wantye-

“I Stretch, throw, hit, pre-game protocol.

TENNIS:

Savannah Kruse-

“My dad and I go out and hit right before a match so I can serve and just loosen up. I usually listen to music right before I go and play.

SOFTBALL:

Maddie Klefot-

Coach Couch has been the head coach of the Chargers for one season. He previously coached at Eastern High School.

“Stretch, listen to music, and goof around with my teammates to lighten up so there’s no pregame nerves.”

ARCHERY:

Dalton Smith“Before any sporting event I say a prayer. I also like listening to pump up music because confidence is key. Nine times out of ten I will drink a monster on tournament mornings.”

TRACK:

Coach Couch giving his Chargers the gameplan as they come into the game against the Australian traveling team. They won the game 76 to 31.

Connor Green“Usually a quick 5-10 minute run about 35 minutes before I run then I start drills and stretching and some sprints to warm up.”

page by Ethan Neutz

ALUMNI MAKING THE CUT ON THE COLLEGE LEVEL BY ZACH COMBEST Business Editor

Photo Credits Endeavor staff

ontinuing the dream at the college level.

port wanted to attend Spalding ever since his sophomore year at Bullitt East. After seeing former Charger baseball players going to Spalding like Woodruff and Chase Patton, he realized how great of a program they have there and the opportunity he had.

Bullitt East alumni have made it to the next level in their athletic careers as many have moved on to play on collegiate teams locally and around the country.

The transition from high school to college baseball can be a challenge for many athletes. “The biggest change I endured during my first year of college baseball was the speed of the game. The game as a whole moves at a much faster pace than it did in high school,” said Woodruff.

Many players at Bullitt East hope to have the chance to play in college and many have reached that goal. Several athletes that has moved on to play a college sport has had successful and exciting careers while wearing a Chargers uniform. There is a big transition from high school to college athletics. Jacob Woodruff and Hayden Davenport played baseball for Coach Jeff Bowles while they were at Bullitt East. Woodruff played from 200913 and Davenport played from 2011-15. Even though they played baseball in different years, both ended up attending Spalding University in Louisville. “I chose to attend Spalding because I felt that it was the best possible fit for me. The coaching staff was very interested in me and they showed that from day one. To me, that was something I felt was very important. I also felt that I could make an impact on the field right away. Unlike most, I really like that it is a small campus with small class sizes. Being a kid from Mount Washington, I wanted my family to be able to watch me play,” said Woodruff. Woodruff is entering his senior season and will be handling the pitching duty for the Eagles and chases down fly balls in the outfield at Spalding. In his junior season, Woodruff appeared in 35 games finishing the season with a .226 batting average tallying six doubles and one home run, and was a perfect 9-for-9 on stolen base attempts. Davenport is a sophomore at Spalding and is a left handed pitcher for the Eagles. Daven-

Jacob Woodruff standing on the mound, looking at the catchers signs and prepares to pitch. The Chargers went to Orlando, Florida to play at the ESPN World of Sports complex. “The most exciting thing is winning! It’s just a great feeling to go out there and win games with my best friends,” said Woodruff.

Meghan Roby running during a meet as a competitor closes in on her. Roby had a successful senior season.

“College baseball is a lot more fast pace, the game can speed up on you if you aren’t careful. Always being prepared mentally and physically is a big part of being successful. Guys are bigger, faster, stronger, smarter. You just have to adapt in high school. College baseball brings a lot more competition. You travel all the time on weekends, have long nights in hotel rooms, making sure you get your schoolwork done, and then getting up early the next morning making sure you’re 100 percent focused on the game can honestly be hard to do sometimes. But those are just some of the ways it’s different,” said Davenport, class of 2015. Meghan Roby graduated from Bullitt East in 2014 and ran track for the Chargers. Roby is attending Bellarmine and running track. “I picked Bellarmine out of all of the other colleges because I knew I wanted to go somewhere small. I plan to pursue a degree in Biology with a minor in exercise science and biochemistry. I loved the team and the coach better than all of the other schools I looked at. Having a great bond with the team and coach, I feel like, is one of the most important qualities to keep in mind when looking for a school that you will attend for the next four years of

Peyton Maki

Tyler Sharpe

Garrett Wilson

Alex Elkins

Christina Daugherty

Brandon Wiseheart

Jared Farris

Cole Stump

Morgan Vaughn

Olivia Napier

page by Zach Combest May 2017

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your life,” said Roby. Being a student athlete in high school can result in long lasting friendships and chances to play at the next level. Coaching at the high school level in any sport can change an athlete’s life in many ways. “I would describe my high school baseball career as a simple word.. coaching. I was taught by Coach Bowles, Sharpe, and Minogue about how to grow up, pay attention to detail not just in baseball but in life, how to be responsible, and have fun. There aren’t too many great coaches like them. I made some of my best friends through the game of baseball and I’m still friends with them today (Jacob Bowles, Brayden Blair) it’s something I won’t ever forget. The game of baseball is amazing and it was definitely what I think about when I think of just my high school career in general,” said Davenport. Woodruff had a successful baseball career at Bullitt East.“My baseball career at Bullitt East is something that I will cherish forever. I was very fortunate to be able to play on the varsity team as an 8th grader. And from those moments on I think it helped me grow up quickly. Coach Bowles, Coach Sharpe and the rest of the coaches at Bullitt East taught me things that I still hold close today. I enjoyed every second of my baseball career at East,” said Woodruff. He graduated in 2013 and pitched and played center field. “I started running high school track to get in shape for soccer because originally that’s what I wanted to do in college. My junior year, Coach Raley and Coach Floyd finally convinced me that it would benefit my soccer performance if I ran during the spring,” said Roby. Roby’s sister Taylor is a junior and plays softball at Bullitt East. She is currently committed to the University of Louisville softball team.

perfection day in and day out. Learning teamwork is everything. It taught me how to love the game more than ever,” said Davenport. “Playing high school ball has 100 percent made me the person/player I am today. Every coach that I’ve ever had is responsible for teaching me something that still influences me today,” said Woodruff. Roby agreed and track allowed her to go to a lot of places and has made her learn more about herself mentally and physically. Woodruff had a rewarding baseball career at Bullitt East. Woodruff was awarded to the All District Team and All Region Team. He was also an All State honorable mention. Hayden Davenport throwing the ceremonial first pitch during senior night. Davenport was the starting pitcher for the Chargers and picked to play at Spalding University. “High school baseball shaped me in the person I am,” said Davenport.

Many high school athletes have been playing since they were young and it’s the same situation with Woodruff and Davenport. “I started playing baseball in high school because I had a dream of what I’m doing now. Playing in college. My brother and I started when we were three and ever since then I was addicted to it, couldn’t really stop so that’s why I played in high school,” said Davenport. Woodruff first picked up a bat when he was also at the age three and fell in love with the game after that. High school is the time in a young adult’s life when they start to change and learn who they are as a person and what they want to pursue once they graduate. Sports help some people find themselves and shape them to be the person they are today. “High school baseball shaped me in the person I am as I said before just to grow up, no matter what you do in life to do it 100 percent and to always strive for

At Spalding, Woodruff placed third in The St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference for triples in a season during his sophomore year. A piece of advice Woodruff would give any student athlete would be to always work hard, trust your coaches and be a coachable player. “Be humble and respectful on and off the field,” said Woodruff. Bullitt East held over 40 signing days last year for student athletes that have had the opportunity to move on to play a collegiate sport. In 2013 Bullitt East had over 1 million dollars in athletic scholarships earned by athletes. Many colleges come to Mount Washington due to the success in producing great athletes at Bullitt East. 10 years ago Bullitt East had never produced a Division l athlete that received a scholarship, but now it is very common.

Rhett Troutman

Bailey Rakes

Brandon Klefot

Zack Napier

Derek Willis

Sierra Poppell

Cruise Coulter

Trey Rakes

Rusty Elliott Young Troutman page by Zach Combest

Farew 32

BY LINDSAY RENNEISEN Editor-in-chief

ooking back on all my time in room 324, I would not change a single thing. I started out as a shy freshman, scared to talk to anyone. Coming into the intro to journalism class I was terrified. The thought of having to get interviews and actually talking to people made me want to throw up. I will never forget that year because I finally started to come out of my shell. It was painful and so scary, but I learned that I had to communicate with people in order to do anything in life. After freshman year, my friends and I decided that we were going to take journalism and see how it went. So here we were at the beginning of sophomore year, completely overwhelmed by what this class required of us. It is not as easy as you think to go from being this shy and conservative person, to someone that had to talk to a lot of students and teachers in this school. Last year, it really hit me what this class was all about. We were not just a class, it was more like a family. I spent more time with some of the people in journalism than I did anyone else. We were always doing bake sales at football games or selling game days or doing car washes in order to raise money. I, as well as many others, spent countless hours in room 324 working on finishing everything that needed to be finished. It feels so wonderful to be apart of something like the Livewire. A lot of people don’t really understand how much work has to go into something like this. I have made friendships that I will never forget in this classroom. I have been apart of the journalism program in some way, shape, or form for all four years that I have been at Bullitt East. I can honestly say that it has

page by Lindsay Renneisen May 2017

changed me into the person I am today and I could not be more grateful for that. If you asked me freshman year if I thought I would be editor-in-chief of the Livewire, I would have looked at you like you were crazy. I would not be where I am if it wasn’t for the love and support from so many people in this class. I will never forget the first magazine that I had to plan out and assign articles in. I was freaking out. This was junior year when our current editor-in-chief was Haley Steinmetz. She kept me from having a meltdown and assured me that everyone else would have my back and they did. I can always count on every single person in this class to be there if I needed them to do something for whatever reason. Haley is a huge reason as to why I am where I am. She gave me the confidence that I needed to get through this year and I am so thankful for that. This year has been a whirlwind of different craziness. At the beginning of this year, I honestly was lost. I had no idea how exactly things needed to go and I would not have gotten through it if it wasn’t for Jessica. She has been here EVERY time I needed something or we had to figure something out. It has been a lot of new for the both of us. We went from publishing a 28-page magazine to a 48-page magazine and that is a huge difference. I have relied on her to help me put things like this together, plan everything out, and just to be there when nothing seems to be going right. We’ve managed to make it through this year and I’m so thankful that I had someone as awesome as her as my right hand. I also could not have done it without all 29 of the students in journalism. It is a relief as the

editor to know that I can go down my roster and pick any person if I needed to and they would get the job done. I’ve learned so much about many new people this year and I’m so sad to have to leave all of these amazing students. They have all had an impact on my life, even if they don’t think they have. Some of them may have driven me crazy sometimes, but I love each and every person in this journalism class. I don’t think that it has truly hit me that I will never be able to be apart of this class again come May. I have come to know Steiner better than I have any other teacher I’ve ever had. We get on each others last nerves sometimes but I know that he will always have my back. I am forever thankful for him and the relationship that we have. I am not ready to leave all of that behind. So thank you Steiner for being the best mentor I could have ever imagined. You have truly made such a huge difference in the person that I am. As I pass this position onto Kim Houchin, I have all the faith in the world that she will do great things in this room. Things that go on in journalism can be crazy and stressful, but it all ends up working out in the end. I wish the best of luck to Kim and the staff after me, it will be awesome. Don’t take for granted what this class has to offer. Thank you for everything room 324.

ewell 24 I

have been in the journalism classroom in some way, shape, or form since the first day of my freshman year. From the time I’ve walked in until the time I walk out, I will have been a part of 19 Livewire issues. The hours upon hours I’ve spent in room 324 have made me grow as a person. I’ve learned endless things about myself as a writer, but more importantly as an individual. I’ve met some of my best friends and have had some of the best memories come from this classroom, and the thought of having to walk away from it all this May absolutely breaks my heart.

BY JESSICA MATTINGLY

Executive Editor

a few people tweet defending me and my writing. I spent countless class periods with the editorial board discussing the best way to cover transgender rights in our school, which at the time was a huge controversy within our halls. As a 16 year old, I sat down and interviewed people in their 30’s about their heroin stories, which rightfully got very emotional. These opportunities are things that I can look back on and be proud of.

My experience in 324 is something that I would never change for the world. Trust me when I say there were times where it would be much easier for me just to walk away from journalism. There were times where things were not running smooth for our publication, which in turn added pressure and stress on my job. But on the flip side, of course, there were times where there was no other place in the world I would rather be. There’s just a bond in our classroom that you truly have to see for yourself to understand.

This year was a huge transition year for me and Lindsay, but I can gladly say we did it. We started the year with absolutely no way to fund or print our magazine. Our first few magazines ended up online, which was so strange to a four year journalism student that’s always had the Livewire in actual magazine form. We spent unimaginable periods of time working together to figure out exactly how to eventually print our 28 page magazine, which resulted in morphing our works into a 48 page magazine. This was beyond stressful for me and Lindsay, but we got through it and had (for the most part) a smooth sailing end to our journalism careers.

Within my four years, I’ve watched our publication morph and change before my eyes. Within my years I’ve been given the chance to do things not many high schoolers get to do. I mean, what other Bullitt East student gets to say they’ve sat down and interviewed Kalin and Myles before their performance? On the more serious side of opportunities, I’ve been a part of covering controversial topics that I never would have guessed I would be able to. I covered homecoming in one of my very first editorials and watched it blow up in our school. I sat on Twitter and watched people actually fight against my article, and watched

When I think about attending my last Journalympics, my last banquet, and my last end of the year party, I would 100 percent be lying to say I was completely okay with it. Sure I’m ready for my next chapter after high school, but sure I wish I could somehow bring room 324 with me. I don’t want to leave behind the daily fights in fifth period about who’s going to make the next student I.D. or who’s going to be the next one to clean out the microwave. I don’t want to leave behind the arguments over who’s going to grade and average the endless stack of current event quizzes. I don’t want to leave behind team building Tuesday. I

don’t want to walk away from my desk, and I don’t want to leave behind my computer (even though it NEVER works and Steiner NEVER helps me with it). I’m sorry to whoever is the next executive editor, but I hope my desk is always referred to as MY desk. And last but (I guess) not least, I don’t want to leave Larry Steinmetz. Sure, he will never get rid of me, and sure I’ll be at his house with his daughter all summer, but I don’t want to go through school without the nagging voice with me. I have fought and been unbelievably annoyed with Steiner, but trust me when I say he turned out to be my best friend and my number one fan at BE. He has picked on me, nagged on me, and actually threatened to kill me if I don’t stop procrastinating, but at the end of the day we have laughed together, and we have cried together. To the classes for years after me, take care of him. And to Steiner, thanks for the best “FAR” years. And to the staff after me, and to the next executive editor, I wish you all the best of luck. I know you all have potential to make the Livewire the best school publication that our times have ever seen. So thank you, room 324, for making me who I am.

page by Jessica Mattingly

THE BARRIER BETWEEN SCHOOL CHURCH VS. STATE AND RELIGION The line separating church and state grows dimmer. BY KIM HOUCHIN Copy Editor

pinions are like (insert body part here), everyone has them...unless you don’t.

With the new religion bill passing, opinions have the potential of being taught as fact to the impressionable minds of teenagers.

FOREWORD When this new religion bill was passed, I had mixed emotions. Just like every bill, this has potential for good. Unfortunately, like every bill, this also has potential for evil. This bill opens a fresh can of worms that spells trouble for all community members. With the first amendment firmly in place, the statement “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof ” covers this entire bill already. As for the aforementioned can of worms, this bill allows for discrimination, plain

and simple. If your religion says it can happen, you can commit the action and still be protected under that law. For instance, if a school has a club and a Muslim wants to join, but the club is led by a Christian member, the Christian can turn away the Muslim simply due to their religious differences. Is this morally correct in our current society? No, it is not. As we jump over the barriers of race and religion, this is pushing us back even more. This is allowing for us to accept and protect those who express discriminatory behavior.

After 11 days of endless trials and endless testimonies, the court finally came to an agreement. The jury declared Scopes guilty and fined him $100. Almost a year later, Scopes’ appeal hearing began. When it was taken to the Tennessee Supreme Court, the jury determined that Scopes did no wrong, but the Butler Act would remain in place.

With this bill, not only are we allowing our teachers-who teach fact-teach their opinions, this will skew the students’ own opinions. They will be taught opinions disguised as facts, distorting their perceptions of opinions and facts during their adult life.

After over four decades of the Butler Act being passed and in place, the Tennessee Legislature finally repealed the anti-evolution law.

CHURCH VS. STATE: AN ONGOING BATTLE This has been a long battle since the Scopes Trial in the mid-1920s. The trial debated whether a science teacher, John T. Scopes, would be allowed to teach evolution rather than creationism in his class. Scopes wanted to teach his students pure fact rather than the ideas that the predominantly Christian society pushed onto its people. According to the charges, Scopes was

page by Kim Houchin May 2017

If a teacher was found violating this law, they will be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined no less than $100 and no more than $500.

Just like the idea of prayer in schools, most only have one certain prayer in mind: the Christian kind. When legalizing religion in a public school setting, you have to allow all religions. It’s none of them or all of them.

In the end, this bill simply attempts to solve a problem that does not even exist.

violating the law known as the Butler Act. This law was House Bill 185. The act prohibited the teaching of evolution in all Universities and public schools.

Ever since that year, courts have repeatedly denied creationists’ pleas to bring back the Butler Act or to teach creationism to students.

CURRENT COMPLICATION On January 3, 2017, a bill known as SB17 was introduced to the Senate. This bill would allow religious and political expression within school assignments, allows students to display religious messages on clothing and permit public schools to sponsor theatrical programs that advance students’ knowledge of society’s cultural and religious heritage. On March 6, the bill passed the Senate and the House of Representatives. It was then delivered to the Governor for signing. Officially, on March 16, the Governor signed

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the bill. This made the bill official within the state and thus created the controversy that the state is now dealing with.

this bill opens a door for a lot of discrimination to flood into the school system and student body.

This bill officially allows teachers to teach their opinion on things that apply to religion or any topic they teach. The repercussions of this bill will affect the generation currently in school and ones after them.

Discrimination has been fought against for over a century. This bill simply throws away the effort that went into the Scopes Trial.

Students are taught that everything a teacher tells their class is fact unless said otherwise. If teachers are allowed to teach their opinions to their students, this may skew the young adults’ perception of opinion and fact. According to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), public schools should not be a business of promoting religious beliefs and should protect students from being coerced by others to accept religion. Currently, public schools are not allowed to teach blunt religion. It must be infused with literature, music or art. The history of religion is also permissible. As for evolution, teachers are only allowed to teach solid, scientific proof to their pupils. Schools may not be allowed to refuse to teach evolutionary proof.

EFFECT ON BULLITT EAST Now for the million dollar question: how does this effect Bullitt East? Whether it seems like it or not, BE and its students are influenced by every bill and law that is passed. SB17 impacts the entire student body, whether they are Christian, Muslim or Atheist. The bill allows for the line between opinion and fact to be crossed and even erased. No matter what religion they identify as, this bill harms them. This bill causes more bad than good. In fact,

SB17 erases every movement made on this subject and ultimately disregards the people who have protested and fought for their right to not be bombarded with a religion that they do not follow. Barriers between religious groups have been fought against for such a long time and to let those barriers grow once again with a simple bill would be to let all efforts fall to the wayside. Unfortunately, with this bill, discrimination becomes a lot more accessible. This impacts the younger generations and shows that views that are harmful towards people of different religion are allowed to be discriminated against and allowed to be demonized simply because they are not of the same religion. Since the passing of SB17, there has been a noticable increase in individuals claiming a right to discrimination, especially to members of the LGBT+ community and women on the grounds of religious objections. Discrimination is on the rise and will continue to increase with the passing of SB17. Some examples of the recent discrimination are private schools firing women for becoming pregnant while not married, graduate students refusing to counsel homosexuals and pharmacies turning away women looking to fill a prescription of birth control. These kinds of actions leave a social footprint with younger generations.

As teenagers grow and deal with physical changes, they are also exploring the world around them. They are taking in their surroundings and they’re also figuring out their opinions on social topics. High school is the pinnacle of discovering ones self. Being around a diverse student body or even a non-diverse student body will have its impacts on the youth that reside in them. If teachers are allowed to teach students their opinions as facts, then this will not only harm them currently, but generations coming after them. If teenagers have their perception of fact and opinion skewed, this hurts the generations after the current ones. The youth will be taught similar concepts and there will be barriers once again between religious groups. These barriers should not be allowed to grow. This generation and the generations behind have such potential for change within the economy, society and the world. To let ignorance and discrimination blur the goal for change is to let hate win. Teenagers can make such a difference in everything they do. If they are educated on a topic, they can be a force to be reckoned with. This is why it is crucial that this bill exists. The school board should not allow this. It should not allow opinions to be taught over facts. The amazing thing about high school is the experiences everyone has. All of the diversity of people from everywhere and anywhere is a gift. Don’t let prejudice stop the beauty of diversity in schools. Don’t let opinions and lies be called alternative facts.

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FRESHMAN SURVIVAL GUIDE BY KELSI SEGO Social Media Editor

ith the final months of senior year approaching seniors took time to reflect on their high schools careers and give advice to the incoming freshman class. They responded to the series of questions shown below.

1. Going back to your freshman year what do you wish that you wouldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve known regarding high school? 2. What do you think is the best piece of advice you could give to incoming freshman? 3. Do you have any advice to freshman who are scared for high school? 4. What advice can you give regarding balancing school work with clubs, jobs, sports etc..? 26

page by Lindsay Renneisen May 2017

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1. “I wish I would have realized

JORDAN GOERS

that other people’s opinions didn’t matter. I missed out on so many school events because I thought people would judge me for going. As a senior I realized that everyone will judge you, so just go ahead and do what you want."

MALIKHI LY-HUGHES

“Don’t make it difficult for yourself. School is hard enough, adding to it with drama creates unnecessary problems. Not only it affects you but it affects us as a school. Our school morale has gone down quite a bit since my freshman year because students coming in choosing to act like idiots and belittle our school.”

3. “It’s not as scary as you think

ALYSSA HOOPER

it is. I remember my first day of freshman year. I was absolutely scared to death, even though I had my sister with me, but as the year(s) went on I was perfectly fine. Don’t be scared to ask for help on where a class is or who a teacher is. There will always be someone there to help you out. The first few days are a little rough, but by the next week you’ll have your schedule memorized and all of your classes memorized.”

4. “Don’t spread yourself thin.

GRACE JACKSON

Make sure to stay involved, but don’t overwhelm yourself at the same time. If that means only getting involved with one or two clubs or sports, do that, but make sure to be the best you can in what you do. Push for leadership positions and stay active.” page by Jessica Mattingly

GOODBYE CHARGER NATION, HELLO COLLEGE LIFE BY JESSICA MATTINGLY Executive Editor

alking out of the halls of Bullitt East and into the real world.

As the 2016-17 school year comes to a close, it is time for seniors to decide what college they will be attending for the next four years. In Kentuky and Indiana alone, there are several campuses for students to choose between. Along with choosing the college itself, it is also important for students to decide what their major will be. At the end of the day, what campus a student picks is completely up to them. The University of Louisville located in Louisville, Kentucky, is a popular pick for a lot of students at Bullitt East. Compared to East’s fifteen hundred person student body, the University of Louisville is home to over twenty-two thousand students. Along with the environment of the campus, Louisville is known for their excellent programs for business, fitness studies, engineering and health studies. Not too far from home, in Lexington, is the University of Kentucky. Similarly to Louisville’s large campus size, the University of Kentucky has over twenty-nine thousand students. This campus is popular for their programs in accounting, agricultural and medical biotechnology, animal sciences, anthropology and civil engineering. Another popular pick for students is Western Kentucky University, located in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This campus is home to over twenty thousand students, including many of Bullitt East’s own. Western is popular for their programs in advertising, prelaw, political science, psychology and journalism. Senior Cooper Mahoney knew he wanted to stay close to home for college, so he was deciding between campuses like Spalding, Louisville, and Kentucky. After weighing his options, Mahoney decided to attend the University of Louisville in the fall to study business. “I’m majoring in business. I kind of

page by Jessica Mattingly May 2017

want to be a business marketer type thing, but at the same time I could be an accountant. I’m really good at math, so I got accepted into the college of business,” said Mahoney.

part about choosing any college would be choosing one that has the best career program for you. Essentially, choosing a major was the hardest part for me.”

On the other hand, seniors Emma Pressley and Rachel Hammiel will be attending the University of Kentucky. Pressley was deciding between many colleges, a few being the University of Louisville, Bellarmine University and Eastern Kentucky University.

Hammiel agrees that the majors offered through the university is the biggest factor in choosing a college. “A lot of people just go somewhere because their social aspect, and that’s really not that important.”

Similar to Mahoney, Pressley will be studying business as well. “I am currently a premajor in marketing, because at UK you can’t start a major in the business college until you go through a certain amount of classes and have a certain GPA. But, I’m going to major in marketing because I knew that I wanted to go into business, but I didn’t really want to do anything like accounting or finance. It’s kind of like management and I feel like it will fit my personality and who I am as well, and I think I’ll enjoy it,” said Pressley. Hammiel will be studying neuroscience at the University of Kentucky. “It’s like psychology, but science based, so it’s a good fit,” said Hammiel. Senior Noah Wilson will be traveling to Bowling Green this fall to study accounting. “I’ve been interested in business. My dad has been in accounting for 30 years, so I’ve been introduced to it and I’m familiar with it. The pay is also very rewarding over time,” said Wilson. There are many factors that play a role when it comes time to finally choose a university to further a students education. Pressley said, “I just think you should be happy. Money is a big aspect for a lot of people, and I know it was for me as well. I think that it is more important that you love where you go and what you’re doing, and I think that that is the most important thing over anything.” On the other hand, Wilson’s main concern was the majors offered. “ I would say the hardest

Mahoney’s words of advice is to just do whats best for you. “Go somewhere that you want to go. Don’t go where others want you to go. Just make sure you feel comfortable where you’re going.” With the ambition the class of 2017 holds, any college would be lucky to be home to a Charger.

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Emma Pressley

BEHIND THE

BULLITT BY JEREMY ANTLE Staff Writer

T Cooper Mahoney

he river bottoms of Salt River is a popular spot among teens today. However, this hangout has a dark history including numerous murders and crimes. For example, in 1999, 17 year old, Jessica Dishon went missing for almost three weeks when her body was found at the river bottoms of Salt River. Dishon’s uncle was the convicted criminal and was sentenced to ten years in prison. This has led many believe this popular destination to be “haunted” or “paranormal” and come to the bottoms to investigate paranormal claims, but many teenagers find this spot to be a fun place to chill with friends and have a good time.

Rachel Hammiel

Noah Wilson

Some kids, however, use the river bottoms for the wrong reason. In the recent past, the bottoms have been a popular location to do illegal drugs and criminal activities. The police are called very frequently and arrests are common. Little do they know of the dark past of this location.

The river bottoms is a popular hangout location. Many students go there to be around friends and get scared by the lore. “It’s a scary one lane road where kids go to burn tires and hang out,” said sophomore Skylar Barker. Photo submitted by Haley Grether

page by Jessica Mattingly

A DIFFICULT TYPE OF SUMMER SCHOOL BY GRANT SKAGGS Sports Editor

ences. Focus areas are based on student preference.

Photo submitted by Zach Taylor

t’s a five week school vacation.

Since the summer of 1983, the Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program has accepted and taken in thousands of students from all over the commonwealth, including those from our very own high school. GSP is a unique environment that settles high school students onto a college campus in which they follow a college student’s lifestyle. This environment is centered around three college campuses within the state. Getting into and being accepted into the program is very difficult and time consuming as the program looks to take the best Kentucky has to offer. GSP is a program that is used to enhance the next generation of leaders throughout the state. The program looks to provide personal growth to students through a strong liberal arts program as well as incorporating residential college life as these students will stay at universities across the commonwealth. Scholars will attend a selection of three classes that include a focus area, a general studies, and a seminar. Focus area is a topic within the arts and sci-

page by Grant Skaggs May 2017

Previous GSP participant, Zach Taylor, said, “I enjoyed my focus area immensely. Originally I was a little hesitant about the thought of many different views from people who we didn’t know or had any prior respect for. However, this was settled relatively easy, we had activities where we found out where we found out where each of us came from and where we stood. Your foundation is one of the biggest parts of your (political) views because everyone has a different outlook on life. Being able to find common ground and see all sides of the spectrum. Which is very nice in time like today that we were able to have respectful conversations on a relative and consistent basis.” General studies are assigned at random and are classes that revolve around the teacher’s choice of topic. Then seminar is a discussion class in which students are encouraged to discuss with other colleagues about topics such as events in the social world and political atmosphere. Taylor said, “It is a unique environment that I was glad to be aprt of. There is nothing that compares to the atmosphere of GSP. It shows what the world could be. Everyone was mostly supportive of each other.” In between and after classes, students usually spend their time participating in what those colleges offer on their campus. Activities that include spending time at the cafeteria or working out and participating in sporting events. Previous GSP participant, Kaleb Perdew, said, “My daily routine at NKU [Northern Kentucky University] revolved around going to class and

where and when I was playing basketball.” Previous GSP Participant, Grace Jackson, “While I was at GSP, I went to different classes, I hung out with my friends, I volunteered at the park and at a community center for kids, and I went to the gym.” After class activities always revolve around participating in events and meeting new people from around the commonwealth. GSP is centered around three college campuses, for the last summer and the next several years, those three campuses are Northern Kentucky University, Murray State University, and Morehead State University. These campuses are chosen through an auction as they make a contract with the program. GSP has been hosted by many great universities throughout the state, those including: Bellarmine University, Centre College, Eastern

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HIDDEN TALENTS BY JEREMY RIGGS Staff Writer

alents aren't hidden at Bullitt East.

People have random talents all over the world, but inside Bullitt East, a student has a special talent. Junior Emma Stanley has a special talent of drawing. She has been doing this since she was in middle school. Her inspiration to draw is her family and friends. Stanley and her friends started to see her drawing when she would draw at lunch freshman year.

Kentucky University, Western Kentucky University, and the University of Kentucky. The campuses are a great way for students to be able to interact and get comfortable with the campus they are assigned too. Previous GSP participant, Grace Jackson, said, “Murray had a pretty campus, and it was all pretty compact. It was easy to get around, and their dining hall also has good food, so that’s a bonus.” In order to attend and be accepted into the program, one must apply through a thorough application process. The application involves information about a student’s life and activities during high school. One will put down their extra curricular and and involvement with clubs and organizations. They will also have to put down their volunteer work, as well as one’s awards and honors. Then the student also needs to find and provide a transcript, a recommendation from a teacher and a community or business leader. Then the finale of it all is a 500 word essay regarding a certain prompt. The GSP program is meant for the best minds

and future leaders this state has to offer, so getting in is obviously not a small task. Though the benefits one can receive is far beyond the word needed to get in. Benefits such as living the college experience and learning how to think like a college student. Other benefits include those that will help you be able to apply for colleges, as well as scholarships. Many universities offer a great sum of money for being an alumni of the program. For example, Northern Kentucky University offers a full tuition scholarship for being a GSP alumni, having a composite score of 24 or higher on your ACT, and having at least a GPA of 3.0. Many colleges offer some type of reward or grant for being a graduate of the program.

Stanley learned how to draw mainly by watching Disney movies and drawing what she saw in the scenes. “Eventually I could draw them by memory,” said Stanley. She started to draw everywhere she went. Stanley started to draw ever since she could pick up a pencil. “I started to take drawing seriously starting around middle school,” said Stanley. She gets most her inspiration from her friends and family. “My family and friends are my largest support group and biggest fans,” Stanley believes everyone who she’s friends with knows she's an artist. Taylor Willis said, “ I believe her drawing will lead her to a future career considering she gets paid commission and she’s only in high school.” Her commission work is where people pay her to draw something of their choice. The prices of her artwork depend on how complicated the drawing is and the size of the drawing. Stanley also does digital art. page by Grant Skaggs

NEW PROBLEMS ARISE WITH THE GROWTH OF INTRO BY AINSLEY GORDON Copy Editor

ntroduction to journalism is bursting at the seams.

The class is continuing to grow and there is not enough space for the students when they enter the print publications classes. The number of students in introduction to journalism has risen from last year to this year. While the increasing number has led to hope for stronger publications, it has also led to a lack of room. If the class continues to grow, it might lead to further problems. Introduction to journalism is a class where students are able to learn and appreciate what the students do in the print publications, journalism and yearbook. That can include how to write certain types of articles, how to communicate and how to give a voice to the students. “What I want the kids to realize is that they are the student voice of the school. They get to share their opinions, they get to share what’s important,” said Larry Steinmetz, teacher of introduction to journalism and the print publications.

tions are going to continue to get stronger. Rather than me really spending a lot of time with 30 or so kids, now I’m spending a lot of time with 60 or so kids… So if we could continue to build ours, make our student voice stronger, that benefits the school as a whole. We’re trying to set something that’s not only something that people aspire to be on the state level, but on the national level and you have to have great people in it to do it. So instead of me being able to teach 30 kids a year… now I’ve broadened that to 60 or so kids a year,” said Steinmetz. Having bigger classes allows teachers meet

many more students than they would if they had a smaller class. Now with an added class to teach, Steinmetz is able to reach more possible staff members. “The thing that excites me about having 60 kids is that I’ll look, especially our junior and senior classes right now, and [see] kids that I missed out on who I think could’ve been really good journalists. I think that this will eliminate some of that by doubling the number of kids that I have come in contact with,” said Steinmetz.

As more people continue to enroll in this class, the amount of people who enroll in yearbook and journalism also increases. In the 2015-16 school year, 32 people were enrolled in journalism and 16 were in yearbook. By the 2016-17 school year, the number of journalism students stayed at 32 and yearbook increased to 21. Now in the 2017-18 school year, 37 students are enrolled in journalism and 26 students are going to be in yearbook.

Having two introduction to journalism classes opens up the option of competition between the two which motivates them to do better. “Steiner does compare us at times on how well we are doing with things. And I think... it does help. Even if it isn’t necessarily competition, he can gauge how second period did with something we did in class and use that to help us do better and learn more,” said freshman Olivia Armstrong.

The increase in students has lead to a hope of stronger publications. “Our student publica-

However, adding an extra class can take away from the time put into the two publications.

page by Ainsley Gordon May 2017

With the large amount of students who applied for the print publications, there is a lack of room for all of the students. “I don’t want to chase good people away. I have super, super kids. Of my 57 there is a very small handful of kids that I thought ‘maybe this class isn’t for you, you probably need to find something different over the next three years.’ But there are kids who after a week I knew that’s probably a kid I’m going to have throughout their high school career… but we’ll probably have two or three kids who in an ordinary definitely would’ve been in, but I’m going to really struggle to find room for them this year,” said Steinmetz.

Freshmen Lilly Whitley and Meredith Bass are working on an article over Project Unify and the mental illness awarence week at Bullitt East. Whitley and Meredith Bass have been in introduction to journalism for the past year and are continuing in the print publications. “I love journalism because I love to write and it challenges me to be a better writer,” said Bass.

Over the past year, the number of students enrolled in the class doubled. Last school year, there was one class of 30 students who learned about all that it takes to succeed in a print publication class. However, there are two classes with 57 students total this school year. The numbers continue to increase from this year into the next as there is now 61 students signed up for the class. The growing interest in the class brings along many benefits as well as drawbacks.

For the past four years, Steinmetz had a study hall, but the second introduction to journalism replaced it. In result, the extra time he used for yearbook and journalism was gone.

The amount of students in introduction to journalism has been able to rise in the last year and it is continuing to grow next year, so there is no telling how much it will continue to increase. Steinmetz credits the “word of mouth” to the growth of his class. This means that students who have taken the class talk to the incoming freshmen about taking the class.

Current freshmen Chloe Holt and Ryley Ortega both told their friends currently in eighth grade to take the class. “I told Ellie Poole. She was asking about it and I said if you definitely like to write then journalism would be a good thing for you to take,” said Ortega. While the future of the growth of the class is unknown, if it continues to increase, there can be some downsides. “If you continue those numbers after a long period of time, that’s going to make it really difficult. I’m going to have to continue to turn away good kids because I’m not going to have room for all of them and I hate that,” said Steinmetz. The growth has had its positives and negatives, but the positives seem to outweigh the latter. “It makes me excited because the future of our publication is really bright,” said Steinmetz. As the future growth can not be predicted, Steinmetz is hopeful for outcome of the print publications and the introduction to journalism class.

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EOCS ARE KICKED TO THE CURB BY NICK JACKSON Staff Writer

he biology EOCs are coming to an end next year.

First off, the end of course assessment (EOC) is a test that is taken all around the state to make sure students meet the standard for a subject. Principal Erik Huber said, “The purpose of any EOC is to serve as a benchmark to ensure that every student in the state of Kentucky has mastered the content in question to the level of the core content standards set by the state. This serves as an accountability system to both the students and staff at every school to provide evidence that learning is occurring to the level expected in each grade.” Although the EOC is a pain in the student’s sides, that kind of testing is completely necessary. The EOC helps schools decide which students are behind and need help in that subject. With the changes of the EOC coming, Many people hope that the change work out for the school. Huber said, “I believe this will be a huge benefit to every school, especially in science. If the pilot exams are any indication these

exams are exactly what science teachers have been asking for since I have been in education. Authentic questions that ask students to apply their learned knowledge in real and meaningful ways versus the memorization and regurgitation of random factoids.” The EOCs aren’t totally going away, they are just being tweaked. Huber said, “This is a common misconception. Biology EOC’s are not going away, not really anyway. The new Education Commissioner, along with his team, would like to see testing in Kentucky go a different direction. All EOC’s are being redesigned, starting with Biology, so we can move away from the current EOC’s created by ACT.” This newly design EOC may have an impact on the teachers. Specifically, the biology teachers. One teacher, Melissa Hightower believes that teachers, as well as herself will have to adjust to the new changes.“I will just have the study and familiarize myself with the newer standards and test expectations so that I can make sure my students have the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful, which is

why I teach anyway, to help make my students successful.” While most teachers are aware that they will have to change and adjust to the new EOC test. Some teachers, like Kenny Hughes are not worried about the changes. Hughes said, “I don’t care what test I have to give, I show up and I teach.” With the EOC getting thrown out, there is a need for a replacement. Although Huber said that the EOC is not completely going away, there are definitely going to be major changes. When asking Huber about these changes, he said,“Dr. Pruitt has put together a team of teachers from throughout the state to write pilot exams for the new format. These Biology pilots are the exams our juniors will be taking on March 15, 2017. Once a format for the new Biology EOC can be agreed upon, then the other subjects will soon follow.” Another change that is coming is that the test won’t be entirely multiple choice questions. Hightower said, “We don’t yet know exactly what type of test will replace it. We DO know that the newer test will not just be multiple choice, and it will include more essay-type or longer responses.” Many teachers think that changing the EOC is a great decision, including Huber. He is very confident that this is the right decision. When asked if he is happy about the changes Huber said, “100 percent I believe this is certainly a step in the right direction.”

Some students have printed out EOC study guides to help them pass the test.

page by Nick Jackson

NORTH VS. EAST: BUSINESS PATHWAY BY ERIKA BOLTON Staff Writer

et’s get down to business.

Many students every year have the choice to become college or career ready in order to graduate from East. One of the most popular pathways that students choose from is the Business pathway, but Bullitt East is not the only school that has this pathway available.

dent’s interests or career they are choosing to pursue, versus only providing general classes that pave a path for a specific career field. “I am taking Acounting and I think it is really helping me. It helps me prepare for college by helping me learn how to balance a checkbook, and how to invest my money properly to be successful in my future,” said senior, Layne Davis.

Recently, it was discovered that North Bullitt offers this pathway to students as well. As you may know, East has over 10 pathways that are designed to help shape students decisions on future goals or what major they choose to pursue in college.

Even though many students take the required three years to graduate “Career Ready” in their pathway, some students that may be in a different pathway from business take specific classes of their choice. “I take Financial Literacy and Students I love become colit. It lege ready helps a by taking the lot with Senior, Alyssa Heun, is a student who enjoys taking a Business class. ACT, which showopens up ing opportunity how to for college opportunities and readiness. The use your money in a smart way. It is a career pathway on the other hand, offers more class I would definitely recommend for of a view on preparing students for strictly the seniors that are about to graduate becareers they are interested in. cause it can help prepare for the future if you plan on working with money,” The business pathway here at East offers many said senior Alyssa Heun. different classes such as Financial Literacy, Multimedia Production, Multimedia BroadNorth Bullitt provides a few of the casting, Computer Applications, Financial Ser- same and a few very different classes than East does in the Business pathway. vices, Accounting, and Business Management. Unlike many other pathways offered at schools, the Business Pathway provides a variety of classes that can suit practically any stu-

page by Erika Bolton May 2017

Like East, North provides students with a Marketing class and a Computer Apps class, but also gives students an

opportunity to take a class on Sports Marketing and Advanced Marketing as well. “Marketing classes teach about the different types of techniques and approaches used when trying to close a deal. It is very helpful for the real world.” said former North business pathway Graduate Travis Dunnavan. Even though North and East have differences in their Business Pathways, both are designed to help students when they step out of the Halls of East and out into the real world. “The business pathway teaches much more than just how to run a business. It teaches us how to set up and start a business, what to do if a business is going down hill, how to choose employees and how to draw customers in, and many other useful techniques that aren’t offered in general classes. I learned a lot from it and it definitely prepared me more for when I graduated,” said Dunnavan.

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TRUMP: BILLION DOLLAR BUSINESS MAN TO OUR COUNTRY’S LEADER BY OWEN JAGIELO Staff Writer

eing the new president trumps being a businessman.

President Donald Trump faces the decision to drop the control of his businesses and focus on leading the country. Trump decided to continue to own his businesses, but give control to his sons, Don and Eric. Trump’s business background could potentially grow the country’s economy and get it closer to being out of debt. So far, Trump has focused on immigration plans, healthcare plans, and roles of government officials.

BUSINESS

Trump in a news conference. The United States’ national debt is about 19 trillion dollars in the hole. As a successful businessman, many people across the nation expect Trump to help the country out by getting it out of debt and making the economy grow. “Money is power [and] when it comes to countries, we have none. He has gotten out of debt and hopefully he can get us out as well,” said junior, Grant Hatter. Trump declared in an interview on 60 Minutes that he would not take the salary that presidents receive each year, which is $400,000. “I think I have to by law take $1, so I’ll take $1 a year,” said Trump in the interview with 60 Minutes’ Lesley Stahl.

Now that he is president, Trump will be busy with events relating to the government, making it potentially difficult for him to keep running his own businesses. Trump owns many companies and the main source of his income derives from the Trump Organization. He owns hotels, casinos, golf courses and a lot of real estate property. Trump owns some of the most expensive real estate properties in the world, in which The Trump Organization has property that can be found in Virginia, Illinois, Florida, New Jersey, Nevada, California, New York, Connecticut, Hawaii, Canada, Turkey, Panama, South Korea, the Philippines, India and Uruguay. Trump hotels can be found in the states of Illinois, Nevada, Florida, New York and Hawaii. The international properties include Ireland, Panama and Canada. Trump declared that he is going to keep the ownership of his business, but let his children take control over it. “I could actually run my business and run government at the same time. I don’t like the way that looks, but I would be able to do that if I wanted to,” said

page by Owen Jagielo May 2017

Photo submitted by Jurvetson

So far, Trump’s policies haven’t really affected the community of Mt. Washington yet. “I am curious to see how the repeal of ObamaCare and the potential repeal of the NAFTA trade agreement will impact economics in Kentucky and Louisville/Mt. Washington,” said social studies teacher, Nate Fulghum.

PRESIDENT So far, Trump’s policies haven’t really affected

the community of Mt. Washington yet. “I am curious to see how the repeal of Obama Care and the potential repeal of the NAFTA trade agreement will impact economics in Kentucky and Louisville/Mt. Washington,” said social studies teacher Nate Fulghum. Trump has been in office for 53 days as of 3/14, which is about seven weeks. As the new president, Trump will be putting the country under a lot of changes. He’s been working towards the illegal immigration, health care plans, and government official positions so far. Trump suspended the US refugee admissions program for 120 days (until the end of May) and the Syrian refugee admissions program indefinitely. This became widely known as the “Muslim Ban” on social media due to the fact that the seven countries Trump suspended have a huge Muslim population. These seven countries include Iraq, Iran, Syria, Libya, Yemen, Somalia and Sudan. Trump announced a hiring freeze throughout the federal government except for the military and national security or public safety positions. The following list is the members Trump has hired for his Cabinet so far; Ryan Zinke as interior secretary, Rick Perry as energy secretary, Rex Tillerson is secretary of State, Andy Puzder as Labor secretary, Linda McMahon is Small Business Administration administrator, Scott Pruitt as Environmental Protection Agency administrator, John Kelly as Homeland Security secretary, Ben Carson as Housing and Urban Development secretary, James Mattis is the Defense secretary, Steve Mnuchin is the Treasury secretary, Wilbur Ross as Commerce secretary, Elaine Chao as Transportation secretary, Tom Price is the Health and Human Services secretary, Nikki Haley as U.N. ambas-

>> political

sador, Betsy DeVos is the Education secretary, Jeff Sessions is attorney general and Reince Priebus as chief of staff. Some teachers agree that it is too early in the term to tell what benefits Trump has made to the country. One teacher who thinks this way is business teacher, Daniel Rock. [It’s] too soon to call short term gains,” he said. Others think that what he has done so far as the new president is good. “He is doing what he said he would do during the election [like] keeping his promises,” said Francis DiStefano. These promises included things like repealing ObamaCare, of the Affordable Care Act.

Photo submitted by Mitchell Langley

Students have mixed opinions as well. Some think he has done great so far, some say he has not done anything special, and others do not care about it. “So far, he has basically undone all the harmful policies that Obama put into place and it hasn’t even 100 days [into his presidency]. He is doing more now that most presidents do in a whole term. We are not gridlocked anymore, we are making progress as a country,” said Hatter. Trump has caused a huge controversy with his tweeting on Twitter and his remarks he has made during his campaign. One really popular thing he said was when he called Hillary Clinton a, “nasty woman.” Many public figures like Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren started mocking him and repeating it in her speeches. A popular tweet where he made an “offensive” remark was directed towards Carly Fiorina, in which he said, “I just realized that if you listen to Carly Fiorina for more than ten minutes straight, you develop a massive headache. She has zero chance!” There is no doubt that Trump should keep his negative comments towards others to himself. He is only digging himself a bigger hole by making those comments in the first place. “I think while campaigning, he could have used better language and those sorts of things, but all in all he has done a great job so far, so good that the Democratic Party and Obama had to tap his phone and make up fake allegations on him,” said Hatter. Although Trump is unorthodox in his methods and with what he says, he is going to try and make America great again.

Post inauguration, there has been three Trump rallies, two of them being in Melbourne, Florida and Nashville, Tennessee. The third rally was held on Monday, March 20, in which Trump visited Louisville to rally towards replacing ObamaCare. “From now on, it’s only going to be America first,” said Trump in the rally at Louisville.

page by Owen Jagielo

DAN JOHNSON: WHO DOES HE REPRESENT? BY LUKE YOUNG Staff Writer

hat’s with all the monkey business?

Republican Dan Johnson is the representative for Kentucky’s 49th district, made up of the majority of Bullitt County. There has been much controversy concerning Johnson due to racist Facebook images depicting the Obama’s as apes, and more that he claims was satire. Johnson plans to work for the future of his district . Today, social media is a very strong tool, especially for public figures. Facebook is a good way for politicians to reach their voters. However, seeing a candidate post seemingly racist pictures on your timeline is a pretty big turnoff to most. Johnson claimed that all posts in question were satirical. Satirical or not there is no place for dehumanizing pictures on facebook. Senior, Justin Defler said, “It just shows you what kind of person he really is, outside of politics.”

Even though many disagree with what he did, he was still elected. Defler said, when asked if he would still vote for Johnson, “Yeah, probably, just because we share a lot of point of views, but that doesn’t mean that I necessarily have to like him as a person.”

wants to help the community as much as he can. He says that he has a lot of goals for the future. “Kentucky is at a great place to grow, we are no longer in the depression that we were in for the last 10 years.” said Johnson

Johnson wants to move past these posts and

Johnson really would like to see the economical side of Kentucky prosper over the next few years especially in the agricultural field. “I want to see an increase in farms,” Johnson said. Johnson was a first responder on 9/11 and is a Bishop at the Heat of Fire church in Louisville. All three of his children grew up in Mt. Washington and went to Bullitt East. Johnson is really pushing for some good things to come to Bullitt County. Johnson said he wants “Better education, and a lot of great things for the youth.”

In response to the backlash to his facebook posts, Johnson claims that “What you might see as not offensive, others will.” Johnson also said, “You have to watch what you post.” Senior, Adam Wheeler said, “I’m ashamed that he is the representative of Bullitt County.” This is the response of many citizens of Bullitt county. Many people are disappointed that Johnson was elected to represent them on a state level. He beat his opponent Linda Belcher, by around 200 votes, according to ballotpedia.org

page by Luke Young May 2017

Johnson is serving his term for the 49 district repreesentive. He was elected on November 8, 2016.

“You have to watch what you post... What you might see as not offensive, others will.” -Dan Johnson

Johnson is also is currently working on getting signs displayed around the county to congratulate the Bullitt East cheerleaders on their achievements this year. These posters will also highlight teachers in the community that standout. He also has plans for a new water park, and another library to be built for the children. Johnson is very confident in his own abilities. “Bullitt County has probably the hardest working senator that it has ever seen.” Johnson claimed, referring to himself. Johnson is a big supporter of President Donald Trump and believes that during Trump’s time in the White House, America will prosper. “There is hope not only for Kentucky, but for America.”

>> opinion

SO MANY RULES, SO LITTLE TIME The responsibilty expected to go to prom is in question. BY SARAH ALLEN Photo Editor

ll’s fair in love and prom.

Prom rules have been a hot topic recently due to many students in trouble not being able to go. There has been a lot of controversy when it comes to who can and can’t go to prom this year. Even though there was a list attached to the prom approval form, confusion is spreading over the rules. There is a long list of people who can’t attend prom, but some people plan on sneaking in anyway.

This year the prom rules mimic the ones that have been sent out in the past. The list includes various aspects such as tardiness and overall behavioral issues. Before buying a ticket, each student must fill out a behavioral contract/receipt of information letting the people selling tickets know that they are allowed to go. The list of rules may seem long to some, but is it long enough? Some rules seem to be lenient, especially when it comes to behavioral issues while some seem necessary. The rule about age is acceptable and encouraged. The prom isn’t for everyone, it’s for high schoolers and those close to the age of the highschoolers. Keeping the age limit from freshman students to the age of 20 allows prom to feel

more like a school dance and less like a party for everyone. The guest approval forms also cut down on the danger that could come with a prom that allows anyone in. The form is appreciated and keep the prom more inclusive. The additive of keeping a picture of their photo id on record help to deter anyone from doing anything that may have consequences. The bolded “YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR GUEST’S BEHAVIOR,” also helps to let everyone know that they will be held responsible for their actions if they choose prom as the right place to misbehave. While some rules are meant to keep everyone at the prom safe and encourage them to have fun without taking it overboard, some are not enough. As of right now, a person who has been expelled has the same right to prom as someone who has never had any behavioral issues. A person who has had nine unexcused absences has the same right to prom as someone who has never missed a day of school. Having rules be so lenient gives no incentive for good behavior. Someone risking to get in trouble will not think about being able to go to prom. If the rules were slightly more strict then it may cut down on behavioral issues throughout

the year. Giving students a guideline for what is and is not permitted to get into prom can make them more motivated to follow the rules. If someone knows that they can have ten unexcused absences before they will be not allowed to go to prom, then getting up to nine may not be a big deal. There are always back up plans, exceptions, and loopholes. If the rules were more strict, someone could still go to the administration and plead their case. As it says on the JuniorSenior Prom Policy and Procedure page, administrators will always have the final say. On the other hand, minor suspensions may seem like they could be overlooked. Tardies may seem like not a big deal. While some unexcused absences may be allowed, allowing ten may only be hurting the students. In the end it’s the administration who will have final say. If rules were stricter it wouldn’t mean that everyone who ever has an issue will not be able to go. Stricter rules will only encourage students to do the right thing. For some students, going to prom is the best part of the year, so posibly taking that away with strictr oconduct rules will help promote a better school as a whole.

Students are given a sheet with behavior rules before being able to go to prom. In past years, rules have been similar, with few changes made. "If you can't be mature enough to follow the school rules, then why should you get the school privileges?" said Amber Higdon, junior. page by Sarah Allen

PROM NOMINATIONS, NOT A POPULAR VOTE BY LAURYN SMITH

Staff Writer PHOTOS: KAYLA NUTGRASS

f you like it then you should put a crown on it.

Prom has just passed and the title of prom king and queen is still not completely in the student’s choice. Prom king and queen nominees are chosen by faculty at the school. Some students think that having the faculty choose the nominees is a good idea while others believe that it is unfair. If students are able to choose, it might be a popularity contest. There are five junior boys and five junior girls who are chosen as nominees for prom prince and princess. Five senior boys and five senior girls are then chosen for the title of prom king and queen. “Nominations are taken from teachers purely based on who really looks classy the night of

page by Lauryn Smith May 2017

prom, who looks put together and is carrying themselves well,” said teacher and sponsor of the prom committee April Walker. Teachers at prom are the ones who get to choose the nominees. If teachers were to continue to pick, it would be less likely that students get picked just because they are considered popular. People would get picked based on how classy they dress that night instead. Prom nominees are the only thing teachers get to vote for all year long. Walker believes that if students picked, it would take out the unbiased component of allowing teachers to choose. “I think nominees should be chosen by teachers and peer students because there would be a wider range of nominees,” said senior and

prom committee member Brae Fredericks. If students were allowed to pick, there is a chance that they would pick their friends over their appearance. It would be unfair to some of the people who actually deserve to be on the ballot. People would be more likely to be picked for both prom and the two homecoming committees. Self esteem may be a problem when students pick. Students may not feel good enough or pretty enough. They could become sad or think less of themselves. “The students of the school should be the ones who choose the nominees because when teachers choose they lean toward their favorites and this is seen through the repetitive nominees throughout the years,” said junior Sidney Elliott.

>> opinion

LEFT: Having a good time, senior Reagan Williams can’t stop smiling after winning prom queen. Williams won the title of prom queen at this years prom. “I’ve never really won anything before so I thought it was pretty cool,” said Williams.

Junior Shane Kelty is being crowned. Kelty won prom prince by the juniors who attended prom. “I voted for him to change the ballots so it’s not always the same people,” said junior Sidney Elliott/

Students may feel left out or not good enough which could lead to self esteem issues if they do not get nominated by their peers. Some students do not know everyone in their grade, so they may not consider everyone. Fredericks feels that if students picked there wouldn’t be as wide of a range as there usually is. Students know each other’s personalities and attitudes. Since they talk to each other more than teachers, they will know each other better and will have an idea of who should be pick and who shouldn’t.

The king and queen moved to the dance floor together. The danced the night away at prom. “I’m not really sure why peple voted for me, but I know a lot of people because of sports and having classes with them,” said Williams.

it’s a popularity contest and the same people will get chosen that always get chosen for homecoming,” Fredericks said. However, having students pick nominees might not be a bad thing. They could also just pick one of their friends that they would like to see on the ballot. Not only would students would be able to pick who they think deserves to be nominated, but students would feel like they have a voice when it comes to picking prom nominees.

Even though if students picked it would show who is popular and who is not. They could see the repetitive nominees, so they may try to adjust to choosing people who are not on ballots often for events similar to prom.

If both teachers and students were allowed to pick then it would be a mix of who the students want and who the teachers pick on prom night. It seems mostly fair to students and teachers since students want to see their friends on the ballot and this is the only thing teachers get to nominate for all year.

“Students probably don’t get to pick because

Elliott also agrees, “If students and teach-

ers both chose, then this could lead to the students feeling they have a voice and the teachers show the students who deserve to be awarded. This could also lead to more studentteacher communication on who the nominees should be which could also solve the repetition throughout the nominated students.” Teachers and students should be able to choose to be fair. Both students and teachers would pick so there would be different types of students being nominated. Therefore, it will not be as much of a popularity contest. People who deserve to be named prom prince and princess or king and queen will be chosen. At this year’s prom, Shane Kelty won prom prince and Kathleen Scott won prom princess. Reagan Williams won prom queen and Matthew Bryant won prom king.

page by Lauryn Smith

RIGHT UP DUVALL’S AVENUE BY MATT CHILDRESS Staff Writer

Duvall is greeted by her friends and family during the senior night festivities. “I felt very accomplished, like all my hard work paid off.”\ -Duvall Photo Credits: Kemper Barr

page by Lindsay Renneisen May 2017

Duvall prepares to run the offense for the Lady Chargers’ upcoming play. Photo Credits: Kemper Barr

rom street ball to street naming.

Lindsey Duvall gains the possibility of getting a street named after her after winning Miss Kentucky Basketball Every year each state selects the best male and a female high school senior basketball player from that state and labels them Mister or Miss Kentucky Basketball. This year Bullitt East High School’s own Lindsey Duvall has been selected as Kentucky’s Miss Basketball. Duvall is the first female from Bullitt East to be selected to this title since Becky McKinley in 1992. Duvall has been contacted by many top colleges like The University of Kentucky and The University of Louisville to continue her academic and basketball career after high school. Duvall has recently signed with The University of Louisville but obtaining this title has definitely created some larger exposure across the state of Kentucky. Friends and family all showed up to watch her accept the honor of Miss Kentucky Basketball. After receiving Kentucky’s Miss Basketball honors McKinley was then given a street named after her. The street is named, “Becky McKinley Avenue” located in Mt. Washington Kentucky. The question in place is, “Should Duvall have a street named after her?” If so where should it be? Duvall was given the honors on March 14, 2017 and the question has been circulating ever since. As of now Duvall has been given a key to the city of Mt. Washington. Athletic Director, Troy Barr says, “The CityCouncil gave her a key to the city on Monday as well as a proclamation - she will also be one of the grand marshals in the spring festival parade… We will discuss a street naming as well as some other options to celebrate Lindsey in the city.” These honors are not new to Duvall, she was also nominated to play in the McDonald’s AllAmerican game in Chicago, Illinois. Sadly she was cut just short of the final roster but still finished the season with a full head of steam and no intention of slowing down, leading the Lady Chargers to a 26-8 total record, an undefeated record in district play, and finish the season ranked 11th in the state. The street naming idea could be a big deal not only for the Duvall family but for the community of Mt. Washington itself. Duvall said, “I think it would be really cool! And I would feel like a part of me will always be in the great city of Mt. Washington where I grew up even if I don’t live here later on.” Duvall would forever be immortalized in the city of Mt. Washington if this simple idea where to grow into a true reality. Head girls basketball coach, Chris Stallings, believes giving Duvall her own street name

would be great for the city and for her and her family. Stallings said, “I feel that would be a great honor for Lindsey. One that will last a lifetime and befitting of the award. A constant reminder of the possibilities for all the young players in our community who follow.”

>> opinion

#1 On Itunes “I’m the One” *as of 5/8

This definitely opens doors for players in the future. The young talent have a local student to look up to and respect in the game of basketball. Someone they can aspire to be and base their goals around. Duvall and her teammates are constantly giving back to the young athletic community, each year the Lady Chargers hold a basketball camp where the players are the coaches and mentors of the younger ones. The camp is for any girl to come play and have fun with the team all while working on their game. Their time with the kids is crucial to the community by giving these children the opportunity to get out of the house and play some basketball and makes some new friends as well. These relationships that are made will last for a lifetime and will imminently improve not just their jump shot but their internal and external well being as well. For some kids basketball can mean the world. It can be a doorway to a career, or just a hobby. So by giving this help to the youth it is also building a possible future for some and maybe even guiding one of them to become the next Miss Kentucky Basketball. Duvall has lifted herself upon the pedestal of Kentucky High School basketball and has brought others with her as well. She has become a local icon and inspirational figure to all young athletes from the Bullitt County area; giving kids the sense of hope that one day they can receive such an honor. From the small town setting Duvall grew up in to the big stage of Division One college basketball she shows the younger athletes what it means to play the game, and why it is so important to be humble and focused on your goals as an individual and as a team. These honors in a way are just titles; not something you can physically carry around with you. They have sentimental value that will follow behind Duvall for a lifetime all while she grows not only as an athlete, but as a person. The naming of the street will set her place in this small town forever. She will become apart of her hometown in a way many others can’t possibly imagine. It is something she can show her own children, and their children, and their children after that, her name will forever be remembered in that little town that won’t just show how she grew as an athlete but how she grew as an individual in her community as well.

BY JAYDRIEN JARRETT Staff Writer

DJ Khaled, Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance the Rapper, and Lil Wayne recently released the song “I’m the One” which has already hit #1 on Itunes. The song is produced by DJ Khaled and features Justin Bieber, Chance the Rapper, Quavo, and Lil Wayne. DJ Khaled produces another hit song after much success within the past year with artist such as Drake. The song hit the top trending charts within days of its release. After the songs released on youtube it has since 48 million views in 5 days. Khaled had been hyping up the song all week before it released, even showing a video of Justin Bieber recording it. Justin Bieber sings the chorus of the song while Chance the Rapper, Quavo and Lil Wayne all have a part where they rap before going into another chorus. The Music video which was published by DJKhaledVEVO Features all of the featured artist having fun In the backyard, garden and pool of a mansion. The Video features many Luxurious items such as expensive cars, drinks and clothing. The video has already gone viral with 1.4 million likes and only 123,000 dislikes as of May 3rd. The past year has been good for DJ Khaled as it seems he cannot stop making hits. Recently DJ Khaled has had many hits with Drake such as songs like “For Free.” DJ Khaled continues to produce many hits and has hit it big with the album this song is featured on.

page by Matt Childress

PROTESTS: MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN BY ABBIE ALSTATT Copy/Website Editor

The Women’s March even took place around the White House, which was fitting since it was, in a way, triggered by President Donald Trump’s election victory. Some people at the march brought posters as well to help them express their ideas. Britt said, “We all came together because to have a president as sexually diminishing and overall discriminating as Trump is more threatening towards women’s rights and the rights of those with other ethnicities and even religions.” Submitted by Chloe Britt

ome describe it as whining and complaining, while others see it as powerful and life-changing.

dent Trump was elected into office, and most certainly after. This brings us to the question: why protest?

The reason behind protests and what purpose they hold is arguable, but no doubt, they create change in society time and time again.

In this case, people were angered and confused by the election results, they felt scared and that their voices were not being heard. So what better way to make their voices heard, than to all gather together and stand united.

Protests have been in the forefront of the news lately and are very controversial. There are multiple different kinds of protests, and looking back on some throughout history, they’ve most certainly had an impact. Protests may not solve everything and may go wrong at times, but overall, they give people a voice and help make positive change in society. Politics and everything involving politics have been the main focus for the past year and a half. It’s no secret that there are many, many people who do not like President Donald Trump, and I would say it’s well-known that there have been countless protests against him/his ideals over the past year. There was protesting happening before Presi-

page by Abbie Alstatt May 2017

Some might not agree with their views or the fact that they’re protesting against our president, but that’s not what it’s about. Senior Chloe Britt said, “There can be many different purposes to protests, but protests are a purpose on its own… protesting shows that there is an issue and those protesting and supporting the protest will not let whatever is the central issue (or issues) continue and something will be done about it.” If you were to sit back and imagine a typical protest in your head, what would it look like to you? It’s different for everybody, but I’m sure it’s along the lines of a large group of people walking on the streets together, holding signs

above their heads. And yes, that is a protest. But, it’s not the only type of protest that exists. Another common form of protest is called a sit-in; where a group of people will sit at one place for a long period of time and will not leave even if asked/forced. Sit-ins were a popular protest tactic during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 60s, (one of the biggest protests in history with the end goal of blacks being equal with whites in every aspect.) Black men and women would sit in diners or restaurants for hours at a time, waiting to be served even though they knew they wouldn’t be. Other, white, customers would throw things at them, say nasty things to them, and even beat on them. But, the protestors took it all with stride and only left the sit-in when arrested by local police. To some people that may sound pointless, but you have to consider the big picture of what they were trying to accomplish. They wanted the white people to see how unfairly they were treated, and that they wouldn’t stand for it any

>> opinion longer. They wanted their voices to be heard. Britt said, “I would tell those who do not believe protesting has a purpose that they can continue to think what they believe, because proof shows otherwise. Many big history marks, even turn of the century ones, have been because of a protest. The March on Washington(which was apart of the Civil Rights Movement) for Jobs and Freedom with MLK Junior for instance is one of the biggest events known because it displayed the issue, showed and demanded that we would not back down, and soon the world was changed.” Of course with the help of other forms of protest, and years of work, blacks were finally equal with whites. So yes, protesting did serve a purpose in this situation. Recently, Black Lives Matter has been a more controversial “movement”, but a protest in and of itself nonetheless. The purpose of this movement is to fight against systemic racism towards black/African American citizens. Any type of movement or protest takes time and effort in order to accomplish their goals. Black Lives Matter has definitely been successful in being heard and noticed, which is a big

part of making any sort of change in society. Another recent and relevant protest was the Women’s March on Washington, which occurred on January 21 of this year. More than one million people gathered in D. C., and over five million came together around the rest of the world, to ensure that women’s voices will be heard. Britt traveled all the way from Mt. Washington to Washington, D.C. in order to attend the march herself. “The March on Washington was to make our voices heard, and our faces seen. All of those at the march and the ones who support it were upset by Trump’s actions and him still becoming president,” said Britt. The March on Washington was described by Britt as a slow, peaceful protest that took place because of “the negativity, vulgarity, and physical and verbal inappropriateness of our new president.” This march was called the “Women’s March”, but really, it was to represent so many different types of people regardless of religion, gender, age, race, etc. Along with the physical walk/march, there were also various people from different

groups and organizations, such as Planned Parenthood, that spoke, specifically about, “the Women’s March... the purpose they felt it had and the impact they feel it will have, and whatever else they felt like talking about (mainly inequality issues),” said Britt. There are mostly only positives that come out of protesting, but there can sometimes be a negative here or there. Concerning almost any protest, violence can sometimes break out; where people will destroy public and private property. But it’s important to remember that one person or a small group of people don’t reflect the whole group or movement. All in all, free speech is a right of all U.S. citizens, and protesting is included in that. It’s a way for those without a voice to be heard and to create change they wish to see. Britt said, “Most protests are for a positive cause and do not cause harm to others, and if people want to be against a positive cause and protesting then let them, because the world does not need their negativity and will change positively without them.”

Women, and men marched in Washington, D.C. to show their support for the rights of everyone, and to stand united. Britt also attended the march for these very reasons, and more. She said, “Going to this March I felt I would help support overall equal rights of everyone no matter the race, religion, sex, gender, etc. I also have a younger sister who is 11 that went as well and I want to make our voices heard for the children of the world too.” Submitted by Chloe Britt

page by Abbie Alstatt

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MAKING RELIGION DECISIONS STAFF EDITORIAL

he apple doesn’t fall far from the tree… or does it?

Many people’s political, religious and social views are the same or similar to their peers but other people’s political, social and religious views are very different from their friends and/or family’s views. People’s opinions can be swayed by their peers. Many people’s political, religious and social views mirror those of their peers. However in recent years there has been an increased number of people whose opinions differ from those of their families. Childhood is an important part of a person’s life. They are growing, developing and learning. Adolescence has . It is a crucial point for children to form their opinions and ethics. Many people assume that children will turn out like their parents, whether it be behavior wise, socially or otherwise. In the Bobo Ball Experiment of 1961, it was determined that children mirror their parents behavior. In this study, children copied the mannerisms of their parents thus proving that parents have a profound impact on their young child’s life.

to assume the same goes for religious, social and political views. A Gallup Poll from 2005 would back this assumption. The poll stated that around 70 percent of teenage respondents shared the political and social beliefs of their mother and father. However, it is not that simple. New research disagrees with the claims of the Gallup Poll. A study in the December 2015 issue of the American Sociological Review shows that over 50 percent of children in the United States incorrectly identify or reject their parents’ political party affiliation. Between mother-child relationships, 51.2 percent of children misidentified or rejected their mothers political party and in father-child relationships, 54.2 percent did the same. The study also discovered that in homes where politics are openly discussed, children could easily identify their parents’ political party. However, the study showed that there was an increased likelihood that the child would affiliate with the political party of the parents who discuss politics.

With that kind of pressure some parents try to make their child to be the kind of person that parents wanted to be. They will teach them what they believe is right rather than allowing them to grow and find out what they believe is right.

This study shows that children are challenging their parents views and creating ones all their own. With politics and religion being portrayed in the media, young people are exposed to more of what is going on in the world. Making young people more exposed to what is going on allows adolescents to make better decisions on what their political, religious and other types of views are.

With this being said, it would be reasonable

As much as parents or peers may try to push

their religious, political and social views onto others it is best to let people form their own opinions. When a parent pushes their beliefs onto their child it may cause them to feel alienated. The child may feel like they aren’t accepted for who they are and what the believe. They may not want to discuss their viewpoints if they fell suppressed in this way. It is extremely beneficial for teens to expand beyond the beliefs they had growing up. Allowing them to discover new things will make them happier. Simply learning about other beliefs can be enlightening for teens. Doing this opens up an opportunity for teens to educate others about the different ideals. Some people will share the beliefs that their family holds and that’s okay. Some people don’t share the same beliefs of their family and that’s okay, too. However it is best for parents not to push their viewpoints onto their children. Allowing children to form their own opinions will help them grow into the best version of themselves. Do you think student’s religious beliefs are influenced by their peers? Let us know. Send all letters to:

larry.steinmetz@bullitt.kyschools.us Editor’s Note: The editorial board is compiled of 11 selected journalism students. As an open forum, the Livewire encourages reader feedback and reactions. page by Kelsi Sego