Livewire Vol 5 Issue 3 December 2014 by Livewire

WINTER

sCHOOL rEPORT

Sports

e r A e W

card

BULLITT

BANDS

B.E.

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Contents

December 2014 Volume 5, Issue 3

Student Life

4 5 6 7 8 9

Bullitt Bands | Explore some of the outside bands that some of East’s students are involved in. Frankly Noah | Meet one of East’s most outgoing personalities.

Working Overtime | Helping all of Bullitt East with technology can be a hard and thankless job, but that didn’t stop junior Hannah Covington from stepping up to do it. Kelty takes the stage | After Dan Barrett stepped down from the drama club, Jason Kelty took over, making him the sponsor of three East clubs. How to get a Starbucks | Many students at East talk about wanting a Starbucks in Mt. Washington; staffer Brooke Collins sets out to find what exactly it would take to get one. Hyperlocal Coverage | Find out more about the new Mexi-

can restaurant, the YMCA Aquatics center, and what’s going on in Mt. Washington this winter.

December 2014

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Sports

19 20 21 22 22 24

Lacrosse | Some people

wonder why East doesn’t have certain sports; here is what it would take to get them.

Winter Sports Preview | A preview of the upcoming winter sports. On The Road To Success |

Girls basketball is one team that has high expectations for the new season.

Will The Rivalry Continue? |

For the first time in over 30 years, East will not play Bullitt Central in basketball. Does It Really Matter | A look at our county rivals and our history against them.

Sports Calendar | A preview of the December/January sports events.

adviser editor-in-chief executive editor assistant executive editor business & advertising cocopy editor cocopy editor copy editor copy editor copy editor sports editor creative editor photo editor

Larry Steinmetz Haley Steinmetz Layne Cutler Eliza Love Allison Drake Rachel Grant Isaac Shelton Jessica Mattingly Lindsay Renneisen Sydney Riley Grant Skaggs Kim Flaherty Gavin Blain

staff writers Tiffany Prell Brooke Collins Jasmine Meeks Derek Rogers Kyleigh Payne Jaiden Gividen Maggie Wisdom

Taylor Hollifield Savanah Hagan Luke Young Eric Sanchez Haley Snyder Brennah Denkhoff

Academics

22 Opinion

26 27

Stereotyping At Its Peak |

Staffer Lindsay Renneisen discusses county-wide stereotypes.

Responsibilities of Charger Nation | The editorial board dis-

cusses whether or not students have certain responsibilities to their school.

We Are B.E. Layout: Haley Steinmetz and Eric Sanchez NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 3

11 12 15 16 17

What is the school report card? | Each year, schools

receive a “report card.” Find out what information is on it and what it actually means.

Making the Mark | This year

especially, East’s report card improved considerably. Find out what changed in the curriculum and plans to make this happen.

Results Are In | A breakdown of our scores on this year’s school report card.

Q&A with Mr. Foster | Find out Mr. Foster’s answers to common questions from East’s students. What’s it Mean To Be a Charger | A look at what is

means to be a member of Charger Nation.

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 eight in the 2014-15 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 Publishers Printing Company. Bullitt East High School 11450 Highway 44 East, Mount Washington, Kentucky, 40047. (502) 869-6400.

Transfer Students | Staffer Eric Sanchez sits down with transfers to look at differences between East and other schools.

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Student Life

BULLITT BANDS BY JASMINE MEEKS

jasminemeeks1@gmail.com l @jasmine_meeks

es, there are bands at Bullitt East besides the marching kind.

Students of East open up about participating in bands outside of school. BE has a numerous amount of students who participate in bands outside of school and in a way, they go unnoticed. These particular students spoke out about being in a band and how things work in bands. Bullitt East students should get the word out about these bands. Jacob Abnee (10), Adam Moore (10), Troy Castle (10), and Adam Higdon (9) are all members in their band called “Writing the Wrongs”. Abnee is the lead vocalist, Moore plays the drums, Higdon is the lead guitarist, and Castle plays the bass. In addition to those students, Jacob Ruth (11) and Collin Britt (11) also play in a band outside of school called “Forewarn”. This band also includes their friends Junior Segady, Eric Lish, and Jared Carter, but these students do not attend BE. Ruth and Britt play the guitar, Lish plays the bass, Carter plays the drums, and Segady is the lead vocalist. “Writing the Wrongs” has been together for about one year now. That’s a long time for a band consisting of the ages 14-16 years old. “We all just wanted to be rock stars,” said Abnee. Every rock star starts practicing in a basement or garage, and these rock stars use Moore and Troy’s basement for that. “We all have the same musical tastes and decided it would be great to make music together,” said Abnee. This group of friends has been going to school together so that’s how it all came about.

together for about two years, which is also a good deal of time. Brit has been playing guitar ever since he was a little kid. “My dad taught me how to play the guitar, but only the simple things,” said Brit. Brit and Ruth have been friends since middle school, and they played music together then as well. It was only two years ago when they formed a band. “We were all friends, and friends of friends, and loved playing music so we thought it was a good idea to play it together,” said Ruth. “Writing the Wrongs” is a developing band. With that being said, they have not yet performed in front of an actual audience, only for friends and family. However, they are planning on participating in this year’s talent show. “I think if we stick with it and really dedicate our time, we’ll get to the next level,” said Abnee. “Forewarn” is much more developed than “Writing the Wrongs”. “Forewarn” has performed in front of an actual audience and they also have more than five songs out. “We have a lot of gigs in downtown Louisville, and that’s where we play, most of the time,” said Ruth. One of the songs this band features is “Consumed”. Now that students of BE have gotten a little taste of the bands of Bullitt East, check them out! Bullitt East will be able to see “Writing the Wrongs” perform at the talent show. You can also like “Forewarn”’s facebook page. Get to know the Bullitt Bands.

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Frankly Noah BY KYLEIGH PAYNE

kyleigh.payne@stu.bullitt.kyschools.us | @kyleigh_payne

“My friend Morgan Caudill was sitting in my seat, and I don’t like when people sit in my seat. I said move Morgan or I’ll cause a scene, and she said no. I said Morgan you know me I’ll cause a scene. She still said no. So I started yelling as loud as I could, you going to take my freedom? Take my soul? Like you took my seat? The whole cafeteria started laughing, but she didn’t move so I left.” said Franklin. Franklin admitted that he likes to have attention and kind of be the star. “Most of my friends aren’t super outgoing themselves, except for Eric. He’s my best friend” confesses Franklin. Franklin and Eric Sanchez (11) do many things together and have a very similar personality. Franklin has many different groups of friends, and he can talk to anyone.

oud and proud.

Noah Franklin is an outgoing and friendly Junior at Bullitt East. Franklin is very outgoing and friendly. He makes his friends more positive and can brighten anyone’s day. Franklin’s personality will help him in the future to pursue his dreams. Franklin hasn’t always been this outgoing. “When I was younger I was super afraid, I was a very anxious young child, and that being so, I would always force myself to be more outgoing and meet new people” confessed Franklin. Like many students, he used to be a shy kid but chose to be more sociable. Franklin’s personality affects the people around him.

Franklin will go very far in his future because he is so easy going and he is a great communicator. Franklin admitted, “I would love, love to pursue a career in comedy.” Stories about Noah’s many different funny moments are famous. “If it’s not funny he will make it funny” said Gary. Franklin will stand up anywhere and just start singing, mostly Disney songs just because he is so carefree and outgoing.

Franklin stated, “If I can make someone laugh Business Hours throughout my day, then I feel like I’ve had a

Monday-Friday Saturday Sunday “He kind of brightens your day even when

9 pretty AMawesome - 5 day.” PM 9“He’s AM - 1going PMto be successful no matprobably ter what, cause he just makes things work.” confessedCLOSED Gary. Many students around Bullitt

East know Franklin as the boy who you’re in a bad mood.” said Gabe “If walks through the hall and sings. He Ruth (11). Some people say it’s a I can make has many talents such as singing, great trait to be outgoing and playing piano, and making peosomeone laugh be able to communicate with ple day a little better. Anything people effortlessly. Frankthroughout my day, Franklin does in the future, he lin makes friends easily then I feel like I’ve had a will achieve. because of how outgoing he pretty awesome day.” is. He can talk to any type - Noah Franklin of person and have a regular Franklin is very sociable with conversation with them. both students and teachers. His friends make him even more Franklin affects his friends in a friendly and enthusiastic. Future plans positive way. Carrie Gary said, “He’s for Franklin include many choices, either funny, he’s a class clown, he makes everyone pursuing a career in comedy or becoming a smile,” Franklin goes through his days making nurse. people smile and laugh. He likes to cause a scene and draw attention to himself.

327 Eastbrooke Pointe Drive, Suite 1 00 Mount Washington, KY 40047 Phone: (502) 538-4362 Fax: 502-538-355 1 myeyedoc@mooneyeyecare.com

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WORKING OVERTIME B y T i f f any P r ell tiffany.prell23@gmail.com

alvin is gone, and it’s lights, camera, action.

Although Calvin Conaway graduated from East, Hannah Covington is taking over his role as the school’s main technologically skilled individual. Bullitt East is full of student involvement. Junior Hannah Covington handles all of the school technology at East as well as Eastside Middle. Taking on all these responsibilities can be very time consuming. Covington is heavily involved with everything that goes on at Bullitt East, and even though there’s a lot on her plate, she loves what she does. She’s self taught and got interested in technology during her sixth grade year at Eastside Middle when Christina Stidom, a science teacher and drama club leader at Eastside, made her join the drama club. Covington started out acting, but liked working with the technology better, so she continued on with that instead. Covington deals with the sound box, mics, speakers, lights, etc. Junior Sarah Burden also works with the Eastside drama club alongside Covington as a choreography coach. “It’s pretty difficult working with middle schoolers. They’re really hard to deal with, don’t want to listen, and they’re really sassy. We just have to get through it, though. We’re trying to put on a good production and get the drama club at Eastside a higher reputation. We’re working towards a goal, and that’s how we get through it,” Burden said. Covington also does the same work here at East. She got started at the beginning of this year after working with BE Alumni Calvin Conaway who was once in charge of this, to learn the ropes and take over his place. He had heard by word of mouth that she was interested in the position and very good so he

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got into contact with her. “We’re in contact at least every other day about sound stuff and problems. He helps me if I need help with something and he’ll try to tell me over the phone. He’s also going to do check ups when he comes home for the holidays,” Covington stated. Conaway is currently going to college in Florida to be a sound show producer for concerts. With everything going on at East, Covington spends about 95% of her time here in the school. From assemblies, to basketball games, to computer malfunctions, she covers it all. “I’m up for a very long time during the day. On game days I’m up here sixteen to seventeen hours, so I try to get most of my homework done at school and then only have a little when I get home at night,” she said. On a recent event called “Close the Deal” at East for juniors and seniors, Covington worked with Carrie Gary, a choir teacher here. “I’m excited for her to take over and to get well versed in how everything works. I think she’ll be an asset because that’s what we need. Hannah has her work cut out for her though,” Gary stated. Jo Perkins, one of East’s secretaries, works with keeping Covington updated on everything that needs to be done. “I give her schedules so she can work this into her life. It’s very demanding to do for free. It’s a lot,” Perkins said, “She does things different than Calvin, though. Calvin lived up here and she has a life and she should. Once soccer was over for him, he was really legitimately okay to be up here for everything, he loved it that much. He’s truly passionate about it. He didn’t mind giving up all that free time to do it.” Covington loves what she’s doing and does want to go into that same line of work, but doesn’t want

to be up at East as much as Conaway was. Anyone interested can talk to Perkins about doing this position. A few kids last year were interested, but when they found out how much work it is they backed away. She’s aware that it’s really about finding those kids that are for sure going into that career path and already have that passion for it and wish to get some experience. She thinks that it has really opened Covington’s eyes to how demanding a job that field can be since you are always on call if you do that for a living. “It accidentally became something kids can do to find out if it’s something you guys want to do when you get out of here,” said Perkins, “You just have to trust these kids helping with some very expensive equipment and Hannah has been wonderful about it.” Covington was also working on obtaining a spot on the Stem trip to Germany. She didn’t get it, but worked very hard. The trip was for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and kids would go there for a week and stay with a host family. Only twelve students nationwide were selected to go. In order to be picked students had to have a recommendation letter from a teacher, be sixteen to eighteen years old, and participate in their school science fair. “It took me about a month to get it all together and then about three weeks to get the results,” said Covington. Covington wishes to continue with this work her senior year and then follow in Conaway’s footsteps going to college to be a technical producer for concerts. She’s interested in Full Sail University, Transylvania University, and the University of Louisville Speed school.

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KELTY TAKES THE STAGE by jai d en gi v i d en

jaiden.gividen1@gmail.com

ason Kelty is stepping up and filling the role of sponsor for drama club.

When Kelty first started working at Bullitt East as the art and humanities teacher, he also stayed after to supervise the mainly studentran drama club. After a while, Daniel Barrett, the drama teacher, started to assist the club instead. Now, the roles are reversed. “I teach, coach girls tennis, and lead the speech team. I just needed to let some go, and I needed time for myself and my family,” said Barrett. Though he isn’t going to be the main person watching over their activities and productions, he is still involved in the club. He allows them to use their room and stays after sometimes when needed. Besides the leadership change, not much has altered. Trace Milburn, an active participant in the club since his freshman year, feels like they will run the club in the same fashion. “The club gives people who aren’t in drama class a chance to understand everything, so that they aren’t completely lost,” said Milburn. The club can also be used to help groom the skills that students in drama class already Layout: Tiffany Prell, Brooke Collins, and Allison Drake NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 7

have, and can help them grow into better performers. Every other Wednesday, the members meet and do exercises and activities. Since it is mostly student-driven, the atmosphere feels less like a structured class with specific rules. The members are taking the extra step in trying to improve themselves in front of others. “I think drama is art. I don’t think that it is limited to a one-dimensional piece or a twodimensional piece. Being creative comes in different forms,” said Kelty. He started drama at a young age and wants to give other people the opportunity to express themselves.

efficiently. Without guidance, the club would lack the resources and experience to perform at the quality they have before. “I’ve always had a passion for the theater. Trace Milburn approached me, and he wanted to continue the club so I said I would. I’m more on the technical side with the props, which is extremely time consuming,” said Kelty. The responsibility of maintaining the club shows how much everyone involved feels the importance of drama club.

“I think we will fine. Mr. Kelty is an artistic person. I think it’s nice to have an artistic guy in the room to see things in the lines of people on stage,” said Milburn, referring to the future of the club. The development of the scripts and the props for plays take time and effort, and having someone with experience like Barrett or Kelty helps production move along 7 12/2/2014 3:59:19 PM

a grande problem

the quest for starbucks BY BROOKE COLLINS

Brooke.Collins@stu.bullitt.kyschools.us | @BrookeCollins16

onic to Starbucks.

For years now the community has seen the abandoned Sonic’s amongst the other fast food chains that occupy Mt. Washington. What will it take to get another franchise in place of the lost cause?

Starbucks has added an average of two stores on a daily basis since 1987.

“The Sonic would be a great place for a new business, especially a Starbucks. FiveStar coffee is overpriced and Starbucks is quality. It cannot be beat,” explained senior Taylor Reuille.

The best place to start is go to the company’s website, and find the person in charge of public relations. Email a propisition of an idea for a new business. But before that can be done, there needs to be valid reasoning of how the business will be beneficial to the town and also how it will benefit the business. Talk to the city councilman, chamber of commerce, or the town Mayor. This will get more persons with experience in this area involved in a new business, and may give an edge in convincing a company to invest in the community. “I would definitely email the mayor to get a Starbucks in Mt. Washington. I would also get my friends to do it too so we had more than just one person that wanted the same thing,” stated sophomore Rienna Hayes. Turn America’s drive-in into America’s coffee shop.

Who To Contact For Business Suggestions Mayor

Joetta Bass Calhoun Email: jcalhoun@mtwky. org

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Business Hours Monday-Friday Saturday Sunday

9 AM - 5 PM 9 AM - 1 PM CLOSED

City Councilman

Gayle Troutman Email: g.troutman1@ insightbb.com

327 Eastbrooke Pointe Drive, Suite 1 00 Mount Washington, KY 40047 Phone: (502) 538-4362 Fax: 502-538-3551 myeyedoc@mooneyeyecare.com www.belivewire.com 12/2/2014 3:59:19 PM

EL VAQUERO MEXICAN GRILL BY LAYNE CUTLER laynec17@gmail.com

exico is in the Mount.

El Vaquero Mexican Grill is the latest restaurant addition to the city of Mt. Washington. El Vaquero’s atmosphere is different than the other Mexican restaurants in town; it has more of a Tex-Mex feel as the decor includes horseshoes, cowboys, wagon wheels, and steer skulls. These things give the joint a rustic vibe. The restaurant also features brick and wooden walls, along with the bright yellow paint on the drywall. There is ample seating at the grill, as there is also a large outdoor patio. The service is friendly and very timely. Customers are greeted with smiles and waited on promptly. The menu features fairly typical Mexican cuisine: nachos, quesadillas, fajitas, burritos, and enchiladas. El Vaquero also has chicken, pork, steak, and seafood meals, along with combinations, salads, special orders, and vegetarian options. The restaurant does have a lunch menu as well. One entree that sticks out is the Burrito Frito. It’s a large burrito filled with ground beef or chicken, rice, beans, lettuce, and sour cream. The burrito is then deep-fried, and covered with queso and enchilada sauce. Other special entrees include tortilla soup, shrimp chimichangas, and grilled salmon.

BULLITT COUNTY AQUATICS CENTER BY LUKE YOUNG

The prices are comparable to the other Mexican restaurants in Mt. Washington. El Vaquero doesn’t give a shortage of food, though; the portions are quite large. Overall, El Vaquero produces quality food and pleasant service, making the experience there one to return to. The new eatery is located at 9180 Highway 44 East, or where Boar’s Nest used to reside. El Vaquero is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The restaurant’s phone number is 502-538-8400.

WHAT TO DO THIS WINTER BY ERIC SANCHEZ AND LAYNE CUTLER NamesSanchez@gmail.com | @NamesChiz laynec17@gmail.com

clyoung1234@gmail.com | @camlyoung

Go ice skating Alpine Ice Arena and Iceland Sports Complex are great places to go ice skating on your winter weekends!

Go to Light Up Louisville & 40 Nights of Lights These festivals will be held on November 28th thru January 4th. The festivities feature a light show set to music between the Galt House and Fourth Street Live.

Give to the less fortunate

ive in!

The Bullitt County YMCA has started planning for an aquatic center to be built. Although the center is still in very early development, it already has a committee. Bullitt County Superintendent Keith Davis, who is serving as a community volunteer for the committee said that right now everything is up in the air and a little confidential as to what the center will hold. It is also not official as to when and where the project will be built due to the approval needed by local government. Superintendent Davis sent out a survey to teachers in the county. He says “It is not a school project, but something that would be for the whole community.” Layout: Brooke Collins, Eric Sanchez, and Layne Cutler

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Toys for Tots and the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree are excellent charities to donate to.

Christmas Movie Marathons Elf, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer, It’s a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Story, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, and many more are great ways to get in the Christmas spirit this winter.

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Academics

RISING ABOVE THE BEST by H aley S ny d e r

@HaleySnyder3 | haleylsnyder@gmail.com

ollege. Career. TEST SCORES. Unrivaled.

School report cards have been released, and once again, Bullitt East is on top of the game. School report cards are here, ending the anticipation for Bullitt county schools. County rivals Bullitt Central and North Bullitt couldn’t keep up as Bullitt East maintained the highest scores on the school report. Essentially, the school report card is a way to track the progress of schools across Kentucky. Superintendent Keith Davis explained, “The school report card is a pretty good attempt by the state of Kentucky to develop a system of reporting important achievement and readiness information on our schools. While there is no accountability system that can or ever will be able to capture all that is important about a school, this one does focus on some key areas that help determine how well students in a school are progressing in their preparation for life after high school.” The report is of utmost importance to each and every school, in order to make changes to curriculums to benefit students. “It gives the school leadership and teachers insight on how well they are doing, plus areas where their students may not be performing as well as they should. This data provides schools with concrete evidence they can use to improve

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instruction and programs to better serve their customers (you guys).” said Davis. Along with the insightful information we gain from the report, Davis goes on to describe the competition aspect the report brings into the mix.”It also provides a yardstick by which we can measure ourselves against our peers. Like it or not, a lot of life is a competition and we want our schools to win. It make our county attractive to business and industry, it gives our community a sense of pride and accomplish-

which we are meeting that goal.” Davis reported. Davis also expresses his immense pride towards the progress Bullitt East has made in recent years, while also sharing his frustrations about the overall label BE received. “For Bullitt East, my reaction was one of happiness and pride in our students. The trend in scores is positive and, as our motto states, Moving Forward is the only positive direction.” said Davis. However, elation was not permanent, as he quickly de-

“Is the 85th percentile all that East is capable of? Absolutely not.” - Keith Davis ment, and it informs our citizens about how well we are doing with the investment they make in our kids.” said Davis. As the superintendent, Davis has to consider several specific aspects of the report. “The big one for all schools is the Overall Accountability Score and Percentile Rank. BEHS is ranked in the 85th percentile and is labeled as Proficient/Progressing. These are very, very good rankings,” Davis explained. “For me though, the big number is College and Career Readiness. We believe our job is to provide opportunities and guidance so that every student is ready for post-high school life, either college or a good career (preferably both), so this CCR number tells us the extent to

scribed his hope for more success in the future. “Is 85th percentile all that East is capable of? Absolutely not, so mixed in with those emotions is a little hint of frustration. To be blunt, East should wear the label of Distinguished. Until we get there, none of your teachers, students, parents, and administrators should ever be satisfied (and even when we do, we still will have further to go),” Davis explained. More central to East, Willie Foster explained more in depth what this report means for charger nation. “I think the bigger picture is that no matter what you’re doing, whether it’s athletics, whether it’s business, or whatever, you have to have some gauge, on whether or not what you’re doing is working.”

Foster explains. “So, four years ago, Senate Bill One was passed, and really transformed how high schools would be measured.” Foster goes on to describe this new system, called “Unbridled Learning”, and the five categories the system entails. Achievement, GAP, growth, graduation rate, and college and career readiness. Under this system, Foster, along with Davis, sees room for improvement. “I am satisfied with our growth, I am not satisfied with our ranking.” Said Foster. As for the effect this report will have on the students, there is a tremendous sense of pride felt throughout the building. “At the end of the day, you want to be a part of something that is just this good.” Said Foster. “Rewind to four years ago, when Senate bill one was passed,using the example of college and career readiness, that made the ACT a big deal. And not that every student needs or wants to go to college... But this puts validity on the ACT. No matter what you want to do, it now means something.” Foster explained. “The one thing that scares me about the report card is that you never want anyone to get comfortable.” Foster said. “The enemy of great is being good.” Foster explained his goals and hopes for the future of Bullitt East, hoping to make the 5 percentile point jump from 85 to 90 percent, labeling BE a distinguished school. www.belivewire.com 12/2/2014 3:59:23 PM

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WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A

SPORTS/ CLUBS

CHARGER by eliza lo v e

eliza.love29@gmail.com | @liiza24

don’t want to leave high school with just a diploma. I want to leave high school with experiences. That is why I’m involved and why I spend a good amount of time at good ole’ Bullitt East. Becoming involved will completely change your perspective on what high school is really about and it will make you have a deeper appreciation for many things. Being “involved” can mean a variety of things. It could mean that you are an incredible singer the choir and you’re an avid dancer, so everyone looks forward to your performance in the school talent show. It could mean that you are in Sci-Fi club and love to watch movies with your friends. It could mean that you are the star player of the basketball team, or maybe you’re in officer roles for many academic clubs. However and whatever you’re involved in, it doesn’t matter because all of these examples are equally important and they are what make up Charger Nation. Now, I love sitting on the couch watching One Tree Hill or Gossip Girl in my sweatpants and eating my heart out as much as the next girl. However, sometimes we need to have the power to walk away from Netflix and go to maybe a basketball game with friends. You’ve heard that a billion times, but it’s true. I’m willing to bet that you have never heard of someone having regrets of coming to a game up at school and hanging out with your friends. What you have heard is people talking about how they regret staying at home and not going events. Being a Charger is so more than getting up every morning, going to seven classes, and going home at 2:10 five days a week. Sure, if you go to Bullitt East you’re a part of Charger Nation, but what does it matter if you just go through the motions? I can answer that for you; it means absolutely jack squat. When students get involved there are so many benefits that serve as the outcome. As aforementioned, you seldom hear about high school students that completely regret going to a home football game, walking around the track, eating fried Oreos, and hanging out December 2014 NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 14

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SPIRIT 7

ACADEMICS

with their friends. Literally, that happens just about every blue moon. When you get out to these events, that’s when you really feel the “power” of Charger Nation. I get it, that sounds pretty cheesy, but I promise that it’s true. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but our school exceeds expectations. Our academics have improved tremendously over the years and we’re a top ranked school in the state of Kentucky. Not only that, but we have so much to offer. East has so many sports and clubs that are at our finger tips. Get out of your comfort zone and join a team, or cheer on teams with the Red Zone Rowdies. Speaking of rooting on teams at BE, we have a whole lot of school pride. It’s pretty awesome to know that we have such a huge fan base. That might sound crazy but it’s true. It’s not just students at East; it’s the teachers, parents, alumni and most importantly the community. Another plus to being involved is that you understand and appreciate the people that do all of the work. It’s not just the teachers and administrators that put it in hard work, its people just like you. It’s your peers that are around you every day. You’d be amazed at the amount of dedication from students all over East. For example, did you see everyone at Halloween in the Halls? It’s insane how many students come out to put on this awesome event for the community of Mt. Washington. No one is getting paid a cent to be there, but people do it because they want to, and they feel a sense of pride for their school. To put it bluntly, being a Charger is a pretty big deal, and some students might realize it their senior year and others when their kids are enrolled at East. We’re a part of something special, and everyone should take advantage of it. Not every school is as fortunate as we are. Going to East is a privilege and it’s an amazing tradition.

Layout: Amanda Edelen NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 15

15 12/2/2014 3:59:27 PM

it’s a matter of pride by r achel g r ant

rachelgrantt@gmail.com | @rachel_grantt

e safe, be responsible, be respectful, and do it... The Charger Way.

Every morning this motto is heard across Bullitt East by staff and students to ensure that students and staff carry out its meaning. East’s student and teacher body strive to go above and beyond, achieving goals within the school and the community. BE’s commitment has been built from the ground up with hard work and endeavor. Charger nation is not just a transition in teen years, but a destination that is desired. The establishment of Bullitt East High School in 1980 was the start of students and teachers going above and beyond in Charger Nation. Thirty-four years later, Chargers are still achieving goals proficiently that were set long ago. Starting with the Class of 2015, all students will be College and Career ready before they graduate. Teachers seek to make sure each and every student is prepared to excel in their academics. Education is taken seriously, though it is projected in a fun and enjoyable way for the students to learn. Outside of academics, Bullitt East has many opportunities for everyone including athletics, drama and arts, engineering, Future Farmers of America (FFA), and many more. Principal Willie Foster said, “Basically, when you meet a student from Bullitt East you are getting somebody who is committed and who works hard. That is the special thing about this place [BE].” December 2014 NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 16

From the outside looking in, many say that Bullitt East is ‘the land of milk and honey’, but success isn’t given, it’s earned. “Other schools just go through the motions, but not BE. Pride is our ‘it’ factor.” said Foster. What East has built has not been created in the last few years, but has been shaped since the first day the doors were opened. “There is more of an incentive for teachers

“Other schools just go through the motions, but not BE. Pride is our ‘it’ factor.” -Willie Foster who graduated from Bullitt East to come back and teach here because of their pride in our school,” states Kristi Tinelli, former BE student and returned teacher.

dents realize the pride they had in being able to call themselves a Charger. Foster says, “Seniors get the mentality that they just want to get out of here, but the funny thing is, the next fall they are all wanting to come back and visit.” “When we all come together and cheer our teams on in the Redzone or take school wide tests, we are coming together and representing our school as it should be,” said senior Christa Sego, student body vice president. East is different from other schools by not just going through the motions each day. Chargers have taken the bull by the horns and decided to make their school stand out in the community. Bullitt East is not just a school, but a home. Standing out to make a difference in our school and the community is what being a Bullitt East Charger is all about.

Bullitt East has around fifteen former graduated students who have returned to teach in Charger Nation. Students at BE are not only prideful of their school during their four years here, but also after they have graduated. When maturity sets in, stuwww.belivewire.com 12/2/2014 3:59:30 PM

TRANSFER STUDENTS BY ERIC SANCHEZ

NamesSanchez@gmail.com | @NamesChiz

hey’re coming in hot.

New transfer students come into Bullitt East every year. When students come to East the reasons for the transfers are different for each person. When students arrive, they may have formed certain opinions on East based on things they had heard before arriving. These opinions may or may not change after they enroll. The rule for transferring a student (within a public school) is that you have to be in that school’s district and county. Once this is done, you are assigned a school. So, for instance, a student who attends a Bullitt County school cannot decide that he wants to attend a Jefferson County school at will. Therefore many students who transfer to East are put here because of their current location. This is the case with junior Ronayle Williams “We moved out to Bullitt County from Louisville, so this is my district,” said Williams. Williams attended Liberty High School in Jefferson County. However, not all students simply move. Some are given a second chance. Freshmen Brandon Mattingly was put into East after he attended alternative school in Meade County. Mattingly attended this school after a disciplinary action that was met with the end product of alternative schooling. Layout: Rachel Grant and Eric Sanchez NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 17

“When I was there, there was a definite motivation to get out of there. The students and teachers there were horrible,” said Mattingly. Bullitt East is a school that values tradition. There is even a poster with “Tradition Unrivaled” written in big letters in the lobby. So East is obviously a school that prides itself on its wholesome reputation.

After they start going to East, transfer students develop opinions on how East is as a school. “Everything here is really laid back. Just get your work done, don’t cause trouble, and you’re good,” said Williams.

“I like it here. It’s all very chill, a lot better than the school I went to.” -Brandon Mattingly

The size difference between all three schools is also a change. East has approximately 1,400 students enrolled for the 2014-2015 school year. “There’s like 5 or 6 more times students here compared to my old school, so the halls are a lot more jam-packed during class change,” said Williams.

“I heard you guys (East) have a lot of sports, and that you guys are pretty good at the sports,” said Williams. Williams also expressed wanting to join clubs at East. “You guys also got a lot of clubs, so now I just have to find one for me to join, so I can get my extra-curriculars done,” said Williams.

“I like it here. It’s all very chill, a lot better than the school I went to,” said Mattingly.

East also give chances for a new high school career. “Going here (East) gives me a chance to actually graduate high school, which is a new start,” said Mattingly. With high hopes for the future, all students are a welcomed member of the Charger Nation.

“There’s a lot of talk about how fun it can be to go here, so getting here was a goal of mine. I also thought people here would be sort of preppy, but it’s actually very subtle; everyone’s just nice,” said Williams. 17 12/2/2014 3:59:36 PM

from the principal’s desk B Y G A V I N B L A I N A N D A L L I S O N DR A K E gavin.blain@gmail.com | @Brother_Blain Allison.drake14@gmail.com | @AllisonDrakee

Biggest change since you’ve started as principal? In my perspective, the school has become more student focused. With every choice and executive decision I make, I always ask myself if this is best for the kids. I was really proud last year with how we sat down oneon-one with every student and hand-entered every schedule with them. That was a big commitment and we did it because we want to make sure students are going down the right class and taking the right classes.

Whenever you look at the school is there anything you see that needs work? There’s always work. One thing that we are going to have to continue to address is our size. Last year, it was difficult; we had classes in the cafeteria, and our hallways were packed. So growth is always going to be a concern. The other thing that is always a concern, is I don’t want us to overlook kids. I don’t want invisible students here. If a student is struggling academically, socially, personally, I want them to feel comfortable enough to talk to somebody, and that’s important to me. That’s why we’ve looked at things like housing and done different things, you have to take a big school and make it feel personable to everyone and that’s tough.

When you first started as the principal of Bullitt East, what goals did you set for yourself and the school? I want to leave BE better than when I got here. As a school, we are competitive in most everything we do, such as athletics. I would love to take that same mentality and expand it. If we compete for state championship in sports, then why can’t we compete to be a state champion school?

December 2014 NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 18

What are you most proud of since you started working here? Expanding opportunities. I look across the school during the school day, at courses, AP stuff, variety of things that students can take. Athletics, activities, everything is expanding. I’m proud of the work we did to get the gym floor done, I’m proud of the new building, I’m proud of the field. Things are continuing to grow in a positive way. I believe its important that if a student is successful in high school when they leave here they have to feel connected. The more things that are available, the more they will feel connected.

In your opinion, have you achieved the goals? It’s a work in progress. It is about getting into College and Career Readiness, it’s about allowing the things we do mature. ROTC and agriculture are still young; our AP programs are still growing.

When you first saw the school report card, how did it make you feel? Proud. It’s one of those things that despite what it says I think we are doing good stuff. But I do understand that the public should believe in what we are doing. It does validate what we are doing and questions what we aren’t doing good. My thinking now though, is its time for us to become a distinguished school.

Sum up BE in a few words. It’s truly a community school and a special place. What a lot of people don’t see is what we have accomplished in 34 years and all of it happened with hard work. It’s all from students and their parents and the community working hard. Its a matter of pride, and that all started with Coach Egan when we came here; doing things well comes down to having pride and doing the best of your absolute ability.

What was BE like when you went here? When I graduated in 1995 we had less than 700 students. Now we fluctuate 1450 and 1500. You just don’t know as many people (as you did then). There’s a lot more available, too; when I was here there were two AP classes- AP calculus and AP Bio.

In your own words how would you describe your job? It’s a way of life. There is no on and off. Its full speed ahead all the time, 365 days a year.

www.belivewire.com 12/2/2014 3:59:38 PM

Crack Addict BY ISAAC SHELTON

On Monday, November 24th, the Livewire staff conducted a poll with the people in third lunch. The results are below.

JIShelon@gmail.com | @Isaacshelton1

Trivia Crack is an app, available to both Apple and Android users, where players are given random questions based on the category they roll. There are six possible categories: sports, art, history, geography, science, and entertainment. Players can play against people they already know or opt to play against random other players from around the world.

Do you play Trivia Crack?

Sample Questions: Category: Entertainment

Category: Science

Q: What invention permitted time travel in Back to the Future?

Titius-Bode’s law is about...

A. The Time Controls

A. Strength

B. Mr. Fusion

B. Speed of light

C. The Flux Capacitor

C. Solar system

D. The T.A.R.D.I.S.

D. Electronics

Category: Sports

Category: History

Q: Where did volleyball originate?

Q: In Greek mythology, what existed before the gods?

A. Las Vegas

A. The underworld

B. Hong Kong

B. Chaos

C. Paris

C. Cosmos

D. Massachusetts

D. None of these

What’s your favorite category?

Entertainment: C, Science: C. Solar System, Sports: D. Massachusetts, History: B. Chaos

Answers:

Many students, few sports

What new sport would you want at Bullitt East?

You don’t have to get your head in the game when there’s no game to play. According to high-schools.com the state of Kentucky currently has 1,436 high schools, and all of these schools are home to several different athletic teams, but some may think that Bullitt East falls short in athletics. Most people in Mount Washington are familiar with Bullitt East’s football, baseball, and/ or basketball teams, but few are aware that East lacks several teams, such as lacrosse or field hockey. For a new club or sport to be brought to East, it takes several tasks. Nothing is impossible, for many other schools in the past have brought and currently have various sports and clubs. Layout: Allison Drake and Isaac Shelton NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 19

East, like many other schools in Kentucky, lack teams such as field hockey and lacrosse. In Kentucky there are only nineteen high school field hockey teams, and only 39 high school lacrosse teams. According to buzzfeed. com, lacrosse is the fastest growing sport for both sexes in the United States. Between 200809 and 2012-13 school years, participation in high school lacrosse grew 19% among girls and 15% among boys. Even with this growth, some students like Teekay Brown, a track athlete at East, are still skeptic about the thought of the sport possibly coming to East, “because we are in a small town, and there probably wouldn’t be a lot of people interested in playing. Also, we’re all involved in other things in the community, like volunteering and playing sports we already have.” There has been a question at East on how a new sport can be added. It takes more than a few students in order for this process to begin. According to Troy Barr, Bullitt East Athletic Director, a sport must have a qualified coach since the Board of Education issues a salary. There is also a financial aspect in order to create a new team at Bullitt East. “The cost would vary based on the certain sport. The minimum amount for any sport would

be $10,000 just for equipment,” stated Barr. When students were asked what first comes to their mind when someone mentioned either lacrosse or feild hockey. The general answer was private and middle schools. Freshman Julia Poole, an experienced field hockey player, played the sport in sixth grade at St. Margaret Mary. “It was really fun and exciting because I got to play with my younger sister [Ellie Poole].” When Poole was in the sixth grade, there were six field hockey teams located at St. Margaret Mary for younger ages. In contrast, out of the 39 high school lacrosse teams, only seven of those teams are private schools, proving that there are public schools with non-traditional sports. As recently stated, lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in the United States. This statistic might be true for Bullitt County as well. “The three AD’s [Athletic Directors] in the county have discussed starting a club system at the same time [referring to both field hockey and lacrosse] and slowly building up to playing as a KHSAA [Kentucky High School Athletic Association] sport,” stated Barr. With Bullitt County’s assistants sports like field hockey and lacrosse might become a traditional sport throughout the state of Kentucky.

19 12/2/2014 3:59:40 PM

Sports

WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

BY JESSICA MATTINGLY

jrm99253@gmail.com | @jmattingly

BOYS BASKETB

WRESTLING

ALL

HEAD COACH: Bob Blackburn

HEAD COACH: Adam Ritter

KEY PLAYERS: Tyler Bacon (12), Tyler Sharpe (11), Bailey Rakes (11)

KEY PLAYERS: Dalton Priddy (12), and Andrew Overstreet (12)

PREVIEW: Coach Blackburn is stepping into his second returning season, and he means business. As of now, the boys are practicing non-stop. The team has been conditioning and working on many fast paced drills that will help them in game situations. To the boy’s advantage, this team has a lot of experience.

ARCHERY

PREVIEW: The team has already started preparing for a tough new season. Of course, with any sport, there are a few worries. Coming into this season, the team has lost a large amount of seniors that were helpful additions to the group. The wrestling team has to look past it, and step up to carry on the winning records. photo credits to endeavor staff

BOWLING

HEAD COACH: Jason Waddle

HEAD COACH: Becky Todd

KEY PLAYERS: Marissa Eschman (12), Sam Wilson (11), Grace Wibbles (10), Jerred Rueve (12), and Dylan Gensheimer (12)

KEY PLAYERS: Kyra Banta (12), Shelby Etherton (10), Marissa Etherton (11), Michale ReeseCook (11), and Megan Goldsmith (10)

PREVIEW: As of now, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly how this season will go. To the archery team’s advantage, there is a load of returning players, most of which are crucial to the team. These returning players are very strong with aim and power, which will come in handy later on in the season. As of now, practices are just beginning to kick off the year.

PREVIEW: Both the boys and girls bowling teams have agreed to stay focused. To kickstart it all, the teams have to practice their hardest and show what they’re made of. After all the practice, the scores from the matches are sure to improve.

photo photo credits credits to to endeavor endeavor staff staff

BALL

SWIM

GIRLS BASKET

HEAD COACH: Kathy Abell

HEAD COACH: Chris Stallings

KEY PLAYERS: Sydney White (11), Sydney Hill (10)

KEY PLAYERS: Lindsey Duvall (10), Alyssa Peak (10), and Megan Marksbury (12)

PREVIEW: The team has yet to begin practices, so it’s hard to say exactly what will happen. Kathy Abell, head coach, is currently on maternity leave, which leaves the team with a bit of a disadvantage. The team did not lose any seniors, although they did lose Kelli Rae Alcorn, one of the teams strongest swimmers, due to different reasons. The girls and guys will have to work extra hard to overpass these obstacles.

PREVIEW: This year, the expectations are set high. To meet these standards, the girls have been working very hard at practice and at the gym. Coach Chris Stallings has arranged the girls to do a lot of workouts at Club Fitness to increase their mental and physical strength. Like every year, the girls’ main goals are to make it to state and, hopefully, win.

photo credits to endeavor staff December 2014 NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 20

www.belivewire.com 12/2/2014 3:59:46 PM

ON THE ROAD TO SUCCESS by T aylo r H olli f iel d

taylor.hollifield0@gmail.com | @_TaylorMarie001

xpectation leads to reality.

This year, everyone has higher expectations for the girls basketball team, but only to prepare them for their future goals. The Lady Chargers aren’t as experienced as last year, but are more determined to win state this year. Expectations may seem higher, but in reality they’ve never changed. The girls have been working hard to succeed their teammates’ and coaches’ expectations. “We are not as experienced since we lost six seniors and some girls transferred, so that takes a little bit to replace. We are not near as experienced as the varsity level, but hopefully we will get there,” said Chris Stallings, head coach. With the seniors gone, the girls basketball team is mainly made up of underclassmen. Some of the girls have been playing basketball for awhile now, so they have experience in the sport, but not in leading the team. They also gained some newer girls that have never played on the Bullitt East basketball team, so they aren’t experienced or used to playing in the high school division with the older girls. The team faced a lot of drama last year, which made the season not fun for some of them. It has also caused the girls to lose communica-

tion with one another. The Lady Chargers believe that with all the drama that was going on, it caused them to stop playing as a team, which played a part in them not being prepared for state. “This year we actually want to go to state and win, unlike last year- we just wanted to get the season over with,” said sophomore Alyssa Peak, varsity player. Last year, the basketball team didn’t go to state because they weren’t ready mentally or physically. This year, the coaches are definitely planning on taking the girls to state, and to prepare them, Stallings has given the girls mandatory workouts at Club Fitness. When the girls are at the gym they take spin and yoga class, which is to help the girls be prepared to play mentally and physically on the court. Sophomore Lindsey Duvall, varsity player, said, “Going to Club Fitness every Friday helps us become a stronger team. It will really pay off when we are actually playing on the court. Also, with all of us working out together, it allows us to bond, and if we bond more outside of basketball we will communicate better on the court.” Stallings said, “I think one of the things that makes it harder is that maybe more is expected from them. Plus, we aren’t quite as deep this year, and we only have about fifteen girls practicing, which isn’t a high number.

Layout: Jessica Mattingly, Kim Flaherty, and Taylor Hollifield NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 21

As far as expectations, our expectations don’t really change from year to year. We expect the girls to be competitive, and play tough.” The Lady Chargers feel as if more is expected out of their coaches and teammates due to the fact they’re predicted to go to state. The girls expect one another to go out on the court and play like they know how. They’re expecting the workouts at Club Fitness to really benefit them when playing against other teams. Even though the season has just begun, the pressure is on. The basketball team believes that there is no reason to not try hard at practice and meet their own and others expectations of them. Sophomore Rienna Hayes, varsity player, said, “If we aren’t working hard at practice, then how does that benefit us? It doesn’t. We’re serious about winning state this year and the only way to do that is by actually showing up at practice and taking advantage of the time we have as a team to prepare.” The coaches expect a lot out of the girls this year, which they plan on succeeding those standards and proving the ones who doubted them wrong. The girls will do their best to communicate on the court to meet Coach Stallings’ standards.

21 12/2/2014 3:59:50 PM

photo credits to endeavor staff

Will The Rivalry Continue B y De r ek Roge r s

derek.rogers108@gmail.com l @derek_rogers_

hen do we play Bullitt...never mind.

For the first time in over 30 years, Bullitt East and Bullitt Central will not play each other in basketball. Bullitt East and Bullitt Central will not be playing in basketball this year due to a disagreement among athletic directors. This will certainly affect the community, because the game is always a big event in Bullitt County. The hope is that we can renew the rivalry in the upcoming years. This year will be the first time in 30 plus years that Bullitt Central and Bullitt East will not face each other in basketball. The district rivals are known for their fiercely competitive games that are always great. It is also a big game for the Red Zone Rowdies of Bullitt East and the Cougar Crazies of Bullitt Central.

a lot of people who support both programs that love to come out to such a rivalry game,” said former Bullitt Central athletic director Mark Rogers. Many sophomores and juniors on the team are concerned about the possibility of not being able to play Bullitt Central in the next few years. “I don’t like that we might not play Bullitt Central because they’re always an easy win and they’re fun to play,” said sophomore Cambron Burke. As to when the when teams will meet again, no one is for sure. Hopefully the rivalry can resume and go back to its great games as fast as possible.

“The rivalry games are big, I hope this is something we can get a solution to in the near future so that this is not an issue. In my opinion, that game should be like any other. It’s what we do in football, it’s what we do in baseball, and it’s big for the Red Zone for sure,” said Willie Foster The rivalry also means a lot to the community around the schools. Businesses can make a lot of money from the people who come out to support the teams. “Well I think Bullitt East and Bullitt Central not playing in basketball this year will have a big impact on the community. The community is a big part of the schools and the schools are a big part of the community. There are

“I don’t like that we might not play Bullitt Central because they’re always an easy win and they’re fun to play.” -Cambron Burke photo credits to endeavor staff

December 2014 NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 22

www.belivewire.com 12/2/2014 3:59:52 PM

Does It Really Matter by G r ant S kaggs

cg.skaggs11@gmail.com | @gucci___guap

s it just another day, another game?

Overall, East’s records vs. Bullitt Central and North Bullitt in falls sports are very well. The rivalries represent many things that are still important to the community. With the change in districts, the rivalry has been shaken up, but is still a positive thing. This year in Charger sports has been impressive vs. the in-county rivals. Considering the sports of football, volleyball, and girls and boys soccer, East has only one loss to BC and NB. This loss came from Bullitt Central in football this past fall. Last year, the Chargers dominated the county with a perfect success rate. Troy Barr, athletic director for East, said, “I think we’ve done fine. The only loss was the football game [Bullitt Central], and that could have gone either way. I think overall we have done well in terms of winning and losing, and for the most part we haven’t had many incidents as far as fans and so forth.” North Bullitt and Bullitt Central have been competitors of Bullitt East for many years. Though they are considered our rivals, some people’s opinions vary on whether or not the rivalry still holds any importance. Former player in the Bullitt East program and, now, freshman baseball coach Chris Ryan said, “When we run up against North Bullitt, that’s a test that’s possibly going to end up again the in the region. The same can go for

photo credits to endeavor staff layout l Derek Rogers and Grant Skaggs NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 23

photo credits to endeavor staff sports like basketball, so you’re still essentially preparing to see them again.” Even though the rivalry has been altered in some ways due to districts, schedules, and the level of competition, there are still some ways that the rivalry provides some importance to the community and the teams. Also, these games may not even be as people make them out to be. The rivalry has a lost a little of that “spunk” due to the change from being within the same district to now being in separate ones. Since the change of East and NB/BC meeting at least twice a year, fans have seen only a single game for each sport, but there is still an opportunity to play later on in regionals. It seems the rivalry has lost some of itself, it seems to still have an influence and

effect on the community. Barr said, “Because we’re not in the same district any more, it has kind of taken away from the importance from the games, though, it’s still good from a community standpoint. It’s Mount Washington vs. Shepherdsville, it’s Mount Washington vs. Hill View. So the fans usually turn out more for those games.” Nick Heichelbech, a senior boys soccer player thought that the games for the rivalry still hold some importance, saying that “There’s a lot of hype and excitement for every game.” Most people can agree that the rivalry has changed in some way, either from the change in intensity or importance. Fans can also find this to be true due to the schedule changes from two games to (possibly) just one game a year in each sport a year.

photo credits to endeavor staff 23 12/2/2014 3:59:55 PM

August 2014

NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 24

ww2.bullittschools.org/BEHSLivewire/

12/2/2014 3:59:55 PM

Christmas Break

BB - Butler C - All Girl Cheers B - B&G: North Bullitt

Christmas Break

GB - Marion County C - Coed Cheers BB - @ King Of Bluegrass

Christmas Break

A - @ St. Gabriel

BB - @ Spencer County B - B&G: Moore

GB - Male C - Coed Cheers

BB - Moore C - All Girl Cheers B - B: Southern G: Mercy

Friday

Christmas Break

GB - @ Pink & White Tournament BB - @ Fifth Third Tournament W - @ Louisville Central

Christmas Break

GB - Bullitt East Christmas Tournament A - @ St. Gabriel W - @ Louisville Central

GB - @ Henderson County BB - @ Thomas Nelson C - State Cheerleading Championship A - @ Bullitt Central

GB - @ Glasgow Shootout C - State Regionals @ Valley High School W - Dixie Duals @ Doss

Saturday

Sports Calendar

C = Cheerleading W = Wrestling B = Bowling A = Archery

Christmas Break

W - Home Dual

Christmas Break

W - Home Dual

W - Quad @ Louisville Central

Wednesday Thursday

= Boys Basketball Key: BB GB = Girls Basketabll

Christmas Break

W - Dual @ Spencer county

GB - Presentation

BB - @ North Oldham

Tuesday

December

Monday

Sunday

gavin.blain@gmail.com | @brother_blain

by ga v in blain

Layout: Haley Steinmetz and Gavin Blain

NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 25

12/2/2014 3:59:55 PM

BB - @ Manual GB - Mercy

BB - @ Louisville Invitational Tournament GB - @ PRP

GB - @ Ferncreek 6:00 BB - @ Ferncreek 7:30 B - B&G: @ J-Town King Pin Lanes

Tuesday

GB - @ Louisville Invita- BB - Fairdale tional Tournament

Christmas Break

Monday

Sunday

W - Tri County Meet

W - Home Dual

W - Dual @ Spencer County

BB - Bardstown

GB - @ Raatz Fence Tournament BB - @ Collins

GB - @ Central A - Home Tournament

B - B&G: @ Bullitt Cen- BB - Whitefield tral Ken Bowl

Christmas Break

BB - @ King Of Bluegrass Showcase A - @ North Bullitt

GB - @ Raatz Fence Tournament BB - Nelson County W - @ Bullitt Central

GB - @ Henry Clay A - Home Tournament W - Dual @ Fern Creek

GB - North Hardin

Christmas Break

Saturday

W - Dual @ Fern Creek W - Individual @ Fern Creek

Friday

Wednesday Thursday

January Sports Calendar

STEREOTYPING AT ITS PEAK BY LINDSAY RENNEISEN

lindsay.renneisen@gmail.com l @lindsaymarie_9

ullitt East is the “preppy” school in our county.

According to BE’s county rivals, the students here are stuck up and preppy.

the school the new sport equipment, technology, and books needed for students to succeed. The economic area has a lot to do with the privileges related to the school,” said an anonymous student from NB.

All the talk from North Bullitt and Bullitt Central about how East is “rich” and “thinks they’re better than everyone else” makes the rivalry between schools that much more competitive. As a school, the students “fuel the fire” and make the other schools just talk more and more “trash”. At the same time, there are many ways that the student body can avoid getting into drama over sports.

Many students at Bullitt East think that they are doing nothing wrong, and NB and BC are the ones completely at fault, but that’s not necessarily true. When Bullitt East played Bullitt Central in football this year, the Redzone theme was a “rich-out”. This would be considered “fueling the fire”. “I think it was a very creative and fun idea, but it just gave BC more to talk about,” said Burke.

“It is a really intense rivalry up here, and that’s what makes it fun. There are also some stressors that come along with it, being an administrator. There’s almost an animosity when we play BC,” said Traci Burke, assistant principal.

Most students attending BE think that there was nothing wrong with the rich-out game. Many of them have a valid point, stating that it was a way to bring the school together and they took the stereotype that Bullitt Central gave them and turned it into a theme.

The stereotypes that have been set for Bullitt East don’t really affect the school. It makes BE stronger and come together in the student section. Junior Emily Salyer said, “I think the students at our school do present themselves as classier than students at other schools, and that is what makes them think that we are rich and stuck up. But I honestly think that the other schools are jealous of our school as a whole.” Coming from a student from North’s point of view, East gets the same opportunities as everyone else, but they are more privileged. “With such good parent involvement at East, there is more room for updated things, giving

As a whole, Bullitt East needs to do a better job of staying out of the drama. There’s no way to escape the stereotyping because it happens everywhere. Social media is where many students need to stop and think before they put things out there. “I don’t think we do a very good job of staying out of drama. When I was in high school, the same drama occurred, but we didn’t have social media to air it all. When someone ‘tweets’ is when most drama starts,” said Burke.

photo credits to endeavor staff

If students would stay off of twitter with arguments , there would be a lot less stereotyping from other schools going around.

Do you think county stereotypes are an issue at East? Let us know. Send all letters to:

photo credits to endeavor staff December 2014 NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 26

larry.steinmetz@bullitt.kyschools.us Editor’s Note: The editorial board is compiled of 11 selected journalism students.

www.belivewire.com 12/2/2014 3:59:57 PM

Opinion

Responsibilities of charger Nation staff editorial

“A

s always, be safe, be responsible, be respectful, and do it the Charger way.”

Bullitt East students hear this same thing every single morning, but there really is more truth to the statement than they sometimes realize. Students at East have the daily responsibility of doing it the Charger way. Outside of school, responsibilities include being conscious of the way you’re representing yourself as a Bullitt East student. Students at East should pay attention to and keep up these responsibilities because, at the end of the day, these are the things that give us bragging rights against other schools. When people hear the word “responsibility,” they tend to think bad thoughts, get annoyed, or roll their eyes. Really, though, the responsibilities that students at East have are not written out like the dead sea scrolls, and they are not compiled in a never ending list of daunting and tedious tasks. Instead, they are normal, small, every-day things that a lot of people do anyway. Some of these responsibilities simply include being nice to other students, treating other people with respect, and making smart, healthy decisions. Actually, responsibilities of Charger Nation are really just, “doing it the Charger way,” which most of the students know means being safe, responsible, and respectful. It’s important for students to pay attention to the small things- stuff like picking up another student’s books that fell, or holding the door open, or (God forbid) actually letting someone through the stairwell door before you. Doing it the Charger way especially means being thankful for your teachers and treating them with respect, because in reality their entire job is based on helping you get a good education, and they do more than most people even know for their students. Freshman Zach Taylor said the best way for students to do it the charger way is by “doing their work and respecting teachers or other forms of authority like principals.” Every teacher has put in countless hours of planning their daily lessons, grading papers, and creating worksheets and study guides to help students master their content, and working one on one with students to make sure they really understand. The least that students can do is treat them respectfully and recognize that they do a lot for their Layout: Lindsay Renneisen and Haley Steinmetz NewsmagazineBEHSdecember2014issue3.indd 27

students. Kids do not stop being a Bullitt East student when the bell rings at 2:10, though. That being said, the responsibilities students have don’t stop there either. A big responsibility that students have outside of school is the way they present themselves and Bullitt East on social media. Saying bad things about East or even directly calling out teachers or other students sends a terrible image, and gives people outside of East the impression that we are divided or struggling as a school, when really, neither of those things are true. Another outside of school responsibility students have is the way they act at a sports event, particularly in the Redzone. The sole purpose for having a Redzone is to support, encourage, and cheer for our team. The purpose is not to make fun of, mock, or jeer at the other team, because all that does is illustrate bad sportsmanship. Of course there will be some close games where it’s hard to refrain from doing those things, but if all goes as planned, the scoreboard should do that by itself. The Redzone and the people in it should be building our team up, not tearing the other team down. It’s easy for students to ignore these things and keep doing things the way they’ve always done them. In fact, the common response to these things is probably, “Why should I?” To answer that question, Bullitt East’s faculty and staff does a million things for their students every single day. Don’t we as students owe it to them to do the same? Plus, it’s not like any of the aforementioned responsibilities are hard or formidable tasks; rather, they are simple things that typically only mean thinking before you act or speak. As cliche as it may sound, all students have to do is do it the charger way. Guidance counselor Dana Steinmetz said, “Doing it the Charger way means going out of your way to do the right thing for other people.” If that’s really all it takes, is it too much to ask? It shouldn’t be too much to be nice to other students or to teachers and administration. Being respectful and loyal to your school is actually really easy, all students have to do is be conscious about what they say and do. Do you think that East’s students have certain responsibilities they should take care of? 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.

27 12/2/2014 3:59:59 PM

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