Livewire Vol 2 Issue 5 May 2012

Teacher of the Year

The Votes Add Up For Cischke

Atherton Retires This Time It’s For Real

Saved the Best For Last If The Mayans Were Right, ‘12 Graduates Are It

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From the desk of the editor-in-chief So many things left to accomplish/do/start/finish/edit/record...wait, the year is over? But how in the .....where did....what happened? I’m not ready. I’m just not. The yearbook isn’t finished, the newsmagazine is behind schedule, and I haven’t covered all the content I want to. Nonetheless, the year is at a close.

When I started teaching, one of my peers, Fran Maggard, talked about how, as time passed, everything sped up. Years seem like months, months seem like weeks, weeks seem like hours. In my first year teaching, it seemed absurd. In the midst of KTIP, coaching baseball and soccer and starting a paper route, time mostly stood still.

As I near the mid point in my teaching journey, I get it. It’s not that time actually passes quickly, but the manner in which it does so. It seems to pass without care, as though the brake line has been cut on a speeding subway car. It’s irresponsible really. For something so important as time, to not stop, take account of those around, and proceed with caution, aware of accompaniment on the journey at hand is, well, rude.

Let’s say you were crossing a busy intersection with a toddler, and the poor kid dropped his teddy bear and stopped to snag it. Would you sprint across the intersection leaving behind the kid because he clearly wasn’t as prepared as you to cross? Would you stop completely, helping the kid gather the bear despite the fact that you are risking both an accident for two people and risking falling behind on your task?

Time is neither compassionate, nor is it patient. It simply snatches the kid by the waist, disregards the bear, and sprints across the street to make up for lost time. That’s us really though. Whether you are prepared to move forward or not, time doesn’t wait for you. If you don’t have everything you need, it doesn’t care. It’s not your choice to keep up. In fact, it’s probably the one thing in your life over which you have no control.

Instead, we are drug through life. What matters is what we touch along the way. The people, the moments, our friends and family. When you are being pulled along, you don’t get to choose how many people you run into, you don’t get to choose how long, or how often you spend time with them.

This is one of the times when seniors pretend that they are different than every other class that has passed before them. They whimsically have faith that everything will turn out great and that they will have productive lives ahead of them no matter the choices they make. It’s an irrational thought that, because they are young and seemingly free, time is their ally.

People told me that. They told me that the world was mine and I could make of it what I wanted.

It’s the greatest lie that I was ever told. The perpetrator is time. Time owns you and the world beneath you. I’m not here to tell you that same lie. I’m telling you, blatantly, that how time passes between your 13th and 25th birthday will be the most significant indicator of how time passes between 26 and the end.

Some will accumulate debt as they leave this place. They will wonder how time passed when their bill comes due at the end of the month. Some will avoid responsibility altogether and wonder why time has dictated that they are not a hireable employee. Some will lean toward one specific person and wonder how the time they spent together mattered if that person moved on to someone else.

Others will send out filaments, as Whitman’s spider, trying to contact as many things that matter as possible and carry them with them. Some will catch, some will break, but that person will turn out the best. That variety of experiences and inability to sit still will help create a person so experienced in variety that wherever time goes next, he will surely be prepared.

I preach this as often as I can to whoever will listen. Seriously, think about this: how many 45 year olds, when asked if they were happy, would answer with a stern “Yes”? I know the answer because I ask people that all the time. The answers are alarming. Try it yourself.

The rules are simple though. The subject must be between 40 and 50. You must not discriminate on who you ask within that group. Ask as frequently as possible, as some people’s states of happiness will change (though most do not). Finally, accept only a firm “yes” as yes. Don’t accept “mostly”, “partly”, “maybe” or “partially”. Don’t take exceptions or “all but...”. Only accept “yes” and keep a tally.

I think the results of your survey will startle you. And I hope that your discovery helps you realize that, unless you want to share their answers, the way time passes in that crucial 12 years will dictate that answer for you.

So, yes, we don’t have a free choice in the answer. Time will vouch for us. It’s what we do as we are drug along that determines not our path in life, as often that is dictated by more than us, but the happiness that we can account along that path.

Get out, get involved, learn all you can even if it seems useless at the time, talk to everyone, and find the point of what seems pointless. You don’t have to listen to me, but I will tell you that, “Yes, I am happy.” Well, except for...

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editor-in-chief Larry Steinmetz managing editor McKenzie Perdew executive editor Cameron Love copy editor copy editor copy editor copy editor

Saying Goodbye...

Alex Richardson Maggie Smith Megan Tomes Megan Vance

creative editor Elynn Mullaney photography editor Emily Nalley advertising editor Hunter Wood business manager Coulten Maupin social network manager Keenan Cischke staff writers Adam Howell Ashley Cooke Austin Money Blake Allen Bri Hare Brooke Mullins Emily Hightower Emily Priddy Faith Pope Haley Simpson Katie Warner Leyre Ciganda Mackenzie Perdue Sanna Melke Trevor Waddell Epitudd: Enthusiasm, Passion, Innovative, Unity, Dream, and Dedication Livewire was re-founded in 2001 by journalism teacher, Larry Steinmetz. In the past, the Livewire has been a weekly newspaper, but starting this year, we will be a newsmagazine published four to five times a year. Although the print edition will not come out as frequently, the staff remains comitted 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 ww2.bullittschools.org/behslivewire.

The staff appreciates your patronage and 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 in 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 witheld 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, Emailing 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) 904-6400.

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Teacher of the Year With twenty-one years as a freshmen math teacher under her belt, Mrs. Cischke finally captured the 2012 Livewire Teacher of the Year title. Seasoned writer Emily Priddy sat down with Cischke to find out her thoughts on winning the coveted award.

Masque of the Red Death While most students know that Mrs. Faith is a published author, not many students understand how successful she really is. Cameron sat down with Faith, who doubles as an English teacher and guest writer for the Huffington Post, to discuss her current and future books.

Atherton Retires

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The graduating class aren’t the only people leaving. Mrs. Atherton announced that she is choosing to retire after four years. Writer Emily Hightower talked with our principal to find out her thoughts and plans for retirement.

So Long Class of 2012

It’s been a long twelve years, but it’s finally time for the Class of 2012 to turn their tassles. Livewire writers take a look at the senior class, their favorite memories, and where everyone is going to college.

Editorials

15

25

After spending a combined ten semesters in journalism, it is time for editors McKenzie and Cameron to say goodbye. The two explain what journalism has meant to them throughout high school.

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Cischke Sings Her way to Teacher of the year article Emily Priddy l photos Haley Simpson l layout Elynn Mullaney

Singing the praises of the singing teacher.

While Cischke is used to the spotlight when singing in her classroom, this year she earned the honor of Teacher of the Year.

Throughout Cischke’s 21 years East has undergone many changes, but her main goal with her students has remained the same.

While growing up Cischke always knew she wanted to pursue a career as a teacher.

Cischke has gone above and beyond the normal standards for a teacher obtaining many degrees.

Cischke was uncertain about teaching because of the salary, but she decided to pursue a profession she loved. “Mrs. Cischke is very patient with her students. She gives many chances for success and mastery of content and is always willing to assist students before and after school,” said fellow freshmen teacher Mrs. Gallahue.

Mrs. Abma, who Cischke had for junior and senior English, inspired her to become a teacher. Looking back, Cischke would only change one thing. “I would still be a teacher, but I would teach foreign language.”

In her free time Cischke enjoys hanging out with her two kids, Keenan, a junior, and Jennifer, a freshman, Since 1991 Cischke who both attend East. “My has been a math teachmom is a great teacher er at East. During her but an even better mom. time she has encounPeople tell me all the time tered different schedabout how good of a teachThe spotlight is on Cischke as she sings her quadratic formula song. Her performance of the ules and principals. As er she is and how much fun song is her favorite moment of every school year. an algebra and geometry they have in her class. She’s teacher the standards for the best and she deserves what her students need to learn have also gotten more difficult over it,” said her son Keenan. Cischke also loves to watch her daughter’s the years. “Hopefully I teach them algebra and am a good role model. volleyball games and reality TV shows.

I want to make them comfortable in a subject that most fear,” said Cischke. Cischke has a larger goal than just teaching her students math.

Cischke went to Bellarmine for her undergraduate degree. Then she She also teaches her freshmen how the school operates and about enrolled in the University of Louisville for her Master’s degree. Cischke the high school culture. also got her National Board Certification in math. She doesn’t just have degrees in teaching, Cischke also has a degree from Western Singing the quadratic formula song is Cischke’s best moment as a Kentucky in counseling. teacher . Her students each year look forward to her annual performance of the quadratic formula song. Cischke dims the lights and Cischke closes out another year at East by being voted Teacher of the creates a spotlight on the board for each performance. “She’s a great Year for the first time. “I’m flattered, however I’m also embarrassed teacher and I learn a lot,” said freshman Hayden Davenport who has because other people were more deserving,” said Cischke. Her future her in class. students will continue to look forward to her performance of the quadratic formula.

While growing up Cischke always wanted to become a teacher. At first

“She gives many chances for success and mastery of content and is always willing to assist before and after school.”

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FEATURES 4 5/7/2012 10:08:26 AM

Faith Writes New Chapter in Life article Cameron Love l photos Cameron Love and Kayla Haysley l layout Cameron Love

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Watch out Charger Nation, there is a red death creeping through.

English and creative writing teacher Bethany Faith (her author name being Bethany Griffin) has released a new novel, Masque of the Red Death, which is predicted to become a dystopian smash.

Mrs. Faith’s latest novel is poised to become a young adult literature hit nationwide. The novel focuses on a dystopian society that is based off of Edgar Allen Poe’s short story of the same name. Later this summer she is going on a book tour across the country while the novel will be released in multiple countries.

Faith started writing when she was a child.

“I started writing when I was four, and my mom had to write the words for me,” said Faith, “They were histories of my dead pets, since I lived in the country.”

not just another young adult author. Having been to New York for parties within the book industry, and an upcoming guest blog for the Huffington Post, Faith is truly a rising star in the young adult literature business. “There are already “teams” of the main character’s love interest,” said Faith. One of the strongest places where the novel has gained buzz is on goodreads.com, a kind of Facebook for books. Through this site, readers have already gotten a preview of the book, with even one perspective reader making a Masque cake before the book even came out.

The excitement is just beginning for Faith, who will take a nationwide book tour, starting in New York on June 5th. “It’ll be a different city every day,” said Faith. The book will also have an international release in England, Germany, and Poland.

“I started writing when I was four, and my mom had to write the words for me.”

After releasing Handcuffs in 2009 through a different book publisher, she decided to write a different kind of book than a realistic young adult novel. Thus came Masque of the Red Death, which is based off of Poe’s short story of the same name. Faith loved the story already, but wanted to know more about it, since it’s one of his shortest stories. “The main character is Araby who lives in a postapocalyptic world. The story is about how she tries to overthrow the government ,” said Faith.

The novel is part of a two book series, and the next installment will come out in 2013.

Not only is Masque being released in local stores, but all across America. Faith is also

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Students in her creative writing class are also excited for their teacher.

“She’s blunt and to the point and can interact with students better than most. It’s surreal, you don’t actually think she’s an author when she’s teaching,” said Taylor Phelps, who has taken Faith’s creative writing class.

“It’s [Masque of the Red Death] fantastic, because it’s unlike any other book I’ve ever read,” said Brittney Blevins, a former creative writing student.

Faith also plans to stay at East for yet another year, because book money is “hard to buy a house or insurance” with.

“I really do enjoy my job, and the students I work with,” said Faith.

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Atherton Closes Final Chapter At East article Emily Hightower l photo Emily Hightower l layout McKenzie Perdew

Second time is the charm.

Mrs. Debby Atherton closes in on her final chapter at Bullitt East High School.

Atherton is choosing to retire after the 2012 school year ends. This is her second time going into retirement. Many students as well as faculty and staff are sad to lose such a great principal, but have high hopes for what is to come in Ms. Atherton’s future.

“I will miss the students hands down,” said Atherton.

Caring, loyal, and an excellent leader are only a few words to describe principal, Mrs. Debbie Atherton who is going into retirement for her second time after the 2012 school year ends. Many agree that Atherton will always be remembered as a great leader and are sad to see her leave, but Atherton has plans of taking the time to spend with her grandchildren.

“I am choosing to retire because I have a grandson who will be a senior in high school next year and I need to go to Tennessee. I need to go visit them. I have grandchildren in Florida, Virginia and Tennessee,” said Atherton on why she is retiring.

“It makes me sad. She has done so many great things for the school,” said junior, Jacob Franklin.

“I think it is bittersweet. I am sad to see Bullitt East lose such a great leader, but glad she is going to have time to enjoy her life,” said teacher and former student of Ms. Atherton, Ms. Richardson.

Originally from Lexington, Kentucky; Atherton grew up a huge Kentucky fan, but didn’t choose to get her degree from University of

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“I wanted to become a principal because I wanted to have something to do with the big picture. I hope that students remember me as someone who was fair, but that I was consistent too,” said Atherton.

Washington Middle School as well as Bullitt East. She has also taught many of her own faculty and staff in their younger years when she was an educator.

“I will miss the students hands down. I have too many good memories to think of a best one, but anytime a student has passed an obstacle and I’ve had a hand in it that has been rewarding.” said Atherton.

“I feel that she has always tried to give us freedom with how to express ourselves.” said Franklin.

“I think she cares about every student and has devoted her entire life to the happenings of the Charger Nation.” stated Richardson.

“It makes me sad.

She has done so many great things for the school...”

“I’m sad to see it happen. She has been a real addition to our school and we will realize how great she truly was when she is gone. She is great and very student concerned,” stated assistant principal, Mr. Hardin.

Livewire

Kentucky. Instead she attended college at Western Kentucky University to receive her undergraduate and received her Master’s degree from Georgetown University. She has now been a principal for 20 years and got her first job as a principal at LaRue County Junior High School. Since those days she has made her way to Bullitt East where she retired, but then chose to come back out of retirement and continue being a Principal as well as a leader at Bullitt East. She has impacted many students and faculty in her years spent at Bullitt East.

“She has always been a good role model, friend, and mentor to me,” stated Hardin.

“Mrs. Atherton inspired me when I was a student and she was the principal. It helped make for an easy transition to return to Bullitt East and teach,” said Richardson.

“She was my teacher in middle school and I have known her since the 7th grade. So seeing her as a principal and teacher in two different roles she has always been an inspiration and leader. She knows what to expect out of people. She has been great in both roles.” stated office lady, Ms. Sharon.”

In all her years as a principal and a teacher Mrs. Atherton has always had one main concern which is what is best for the students.

She has been in the Bullitt County school system for many years teaching at Mt.

“She is willing to do what she can to help students at Bullitt East.

She is very supportive of the school and community. She tries to do what is best for the student.” said Hardin.

Atherton has many plans for what she would like to do with her new found free time. Faculty, staff, and students wish her the best.

“I’ll probably do a little consulting and travel to Florida, Virginia, and Tennessee.” said Atherton.

“She has put her time in and I hope she is able to enjoy her time with her family. Which I am sure that she will.” stated Sharon.

“I hope that she is happy and it would be nice to see her come out of retirement one more time, but I don’t think that will happen.” said Hardin.

“I hope that she is able to enjoy herself, her family, relax and travel.” said Richardson.

Although Mrs. Atherton is retiring from Bullitt East High School her leadership skills, charisma, and positive attitude will never be forgotten. The Charger Nation Wishes Mrs. Debbie Atherton the best of luck in her years of retirement.

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Bullitt East Says Goodbye To Bentley article Megan Tomes l pictures Megan Tomes l layout McKenzie Perdew

From Bullitt East to the Dominican Republic.

ECE teacher, Brenda Bentley, is retiring after the end of the 2012 school year and is planning on taking a trip to the Dominican Republic in her free time.

Bentley started her teaching career in Bullitt County nearly twenty-one years ago.

She is leaving Bullitt East and heading into retirement this year with many good memories and a legacy that will last. She will miss certain things about her career, but is looking forward to more time for herself.

Bentley’s first teaching job was as a music teacher at Nichols Elementary school. She enjoyed that job because of her love for music, but when she started a family with her husband she left work so that she could stay home with her children. One thing led to another and she found herself back in the school system. “It was through life experiences that prompted me to return to teaching. Thus, earning a degree that allows me to work with high school students as an instructional specialist,” stated Bentley. Her career as an instructional specialist took her to Bullitt Central and then to Bullitt East. Since then the “moments in seeing the success of former students” has been the most rewarding part of her job. Aaron Troutman says, “She is very dedicated to her job here at BE. She has been the glue that holds us together in our department.”

She has been tied to Bullitt East in some way since 1980, whether it was through her husband, Ed Bentley, and his teaching and coaching job, her children or her own career.

Over the years she has made many good May 2012 NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 10

memories within our school. “A defining time at Bullitt East was when, at a faculty meeting, I was able to embarrass Ed Bentley. Typically, it never happens!” joked Bentley.

Bentley has also had memorable times with her fellow teachers, who she has developed friendships with over time. Denise Fryman, who has known Bentley for sixteen years, said, “My favorite memories with her are our diet Mt. Dew trips and when she had us all to her house for an Italian dinner during Christmas. It was so good!”

“One of my favorite memories will be texting back and forth while the Patriots (my team) played the Colts (her team),” laughed Troutman.

She has also made many good memories with her students. One moment in particular really impacted her life. A student she had in class tried to drop out of school two weeks before graduation. “The student’s parent and I worked together to pull that student through a most difficult time. Finding a student’s strength and capitalizing on it, has been my driving force,” recalled Bentley.

Bentley hopes to leave a legacy behind that portrays her as a person who was always “demonstrating a positive work ethic and defining moral beliefs have been my standard of living.” She has definitely left a lasting impression on the special education department and the teachers in it.

“It’s going to be hard to fill her shoes. She’s leaving the special education organization with a good foundation. She has left a lasting impression on the department,” said Stacy

Coogle. Bentley has given advice of different strategies of teaching and has always been there to listen to her co-workers and give them advice on anything they need. She has been the person that teachers in her department go to for guidance and advice.

“Mrs. Bentley has given me great advice since starting my job here five years ago.

Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today professionally. She has also provided great input on how to lead a Christian life inside/ outside of school!” said Troutman.

Bentley has decided that “it’s just time” for her to retire. Though she will miss her colleagues and students, she is looking forward to spending time with her family and doing the things that she enjoys. “Mr. Bentley and I will spend a lot of time in Lexington and Indianapolis with family, and on the water at Kentucky Lake. We will become more involved with mission work in the Dominican Republic,” stated Bentley.

She will definitely be missed by her students and staff members. “I’m sad she’s retiring. I’ll miss her sweet smile,” said Coogle. Others hope she enjoys her retirement and will come back to visit soon.

“Thanks for a terrific time at Bullitt East, a great place to experience and learn. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13)” are Bentley’s last words to her students and fellow teachers before she retires.

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myStory compiled by Megan Tomes l photos submitted, MeganTomes, and Yearbook Staff l layout McKenzie Perdew

Mckinze Vowels Senior Mckinze Vowels joined Bullitt East’s choir as a freshman by coincidence. “It was kind of an accident. I was put in leadership as a freshman and I got scared so I switched to choir,” said Vowels. Joining choir turned out to be a good decision for Vowels. “It (choir) is fun because you’re a part of something bigger and you work towards the same goal. It also gives you a nice base of people you can lean on,” says Vowels.

Her favorite memory while singing is when the school choir sang For Good from the play Wicked during the spring concert and baccalaureate last year. “That was when the seniors I was close to graduated. We sang together and it was special because that was the last time we would ever sound like that,” said Vowels.

Pictured above is one of Mckinze’s favorite choir memories. She was able to sing “For Good” at the 2011 Baccalaureate for the last time with her senior friends.

Morgan Paige Rosser Senior Paige Rosser started singing when she was in kindergarten. “It (singing) was just something that I always did,” stated Rosser. She is a member of an in school and after school choir. Rosser enjoys singing because of the emotion that comes with it. “It’s easy to get lost in the music and you can put your emotions into it,” says Rosser. Her favorite memory while singing was during last year’s talent show. Rosser said, “During the talent show I looked out and there were people singing with me. It was awesome.”

The artist that Rosser idolizes is Sarah Bareilles. “She puts a lot of emotion into her music and her songs are real,” says Rosser. Though she enjoys it, Rosser does not plan on furthering her singing career.

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Rosser sang Adele’s “Someone Like You” this year in the talent show, with piano accompanient by Alex Hinkley.

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compiled by Mackenzie Perdue l photos submitted l layout Elynn Mullaney and Mckenzie Perdew

Osbourne, Doug

Do you have any pets, Mr. Osbourne?

Yes, Othello and Thomas are my cats and MacLeod is my dog.

What is your most embarassing moment?

I was going out to eat with my friend who can’t eat red meat. When our food came out, I accidentally got his food and he ate my hamburger.

Who is your favorite singer?

Weird Al Yankovic.

Who is your favorite Star Wars character?

Doug Osbo

rne - Worl

d Civ Teac

her

Mr. Osboune teaches Wor ld Civilizatio and will be t n eaching the new course, World Geogr aphy. He is very involve Bullitt East d in clubs includ ing Sci-Fi an plans to crea d te a camping and hiking club.

I like Yoda the best because he is very wise.

What are your hobbies?

Watching Sci-Fi, Big Bang Theory, The Walking Dead and America’s Got Talent, also playing online games and traveling.

Why did you choose to teach history?

Who do you like better from Walking Dead-Rick or Shane?

Shane

I thought that Social Studies was boring in high school but then when I got to college I wanted to know why people do what they do.

Rick

Whats your favorite thing to teach?

How many years have you taught at Bullitt East?

This is my fourth year.

What do you have a degree in?

Psychology, Philosophy, Social Studies Education, and Secondary Social Studies.

Religion, culture, and things during the Renaissance.

Where did you go to school?

Alice Lloyd for my first year and then I transferred to Morehead State.

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nd

Senior English: ECC v. AP IV ECC vs. AP English IV is a scheduling struggle many juniors are facing as they enter their senior year. There are costs and benefits to taking each respective English course. ECC stands for Elizabethtown Community College in which students get automatic college credit for a Tuesday and Thursday class taught by Professor Riley. AP IV is a smaller class that challenges students to think on an AP level and only receive college credit after achieving a three or higher on the Advanced Placement exam at the course’s end. layout Emily Nalley

ECC

Whenever I was a junior, I took AP English 3 with Mr.Steinmetz and I passed the AP exam. Whenever scheduling time came, I was faced with the decision of AP English 4 or college English, which was offered through JCTC and ECC, or even simply regular English. I chose ECC English 101 and 102. I haven’t looked back on my decision.

With choosing ECC, I was given the privilege of leaving after third block on the days that I did not have class. My ECC class met Tuesday and Thursday. Mr. Riley, my professor, typically dismissed us early on those days as well. On early release days, I would be home before noon!

Mr. Riley was not your typical teacher. He challenged us to improve our thinking and reasoning. He urged us to always be able to defend our positions.

He was always supportive and encouraging. The class is mainly discussion based. We would discuss many different topics and methods throughout our time in class. Then, a paper would be assigned based on what we had been discussing and it would be due in typically a 2-3 week time frame. For those who are into discussions, like me, ECC is a great option.

Lastly, through ECC you can earn English 101 and 102 credits.

You do have to purchase about 3 textbooks, not your usual textbooks though. They can be found used and new on Amazon; they are used throughout both classes. Each class cost around one hundred and seventy dollars. Which is cheaper than many per credit based prices elsewhere. ECC is dual credited and weighted. You are guaranteed college credit if you pass the class unlike AP where you can make a grade of 96% in the class and not pass the exam and then not receive college credit.

AP IV

As junior year draws to a close, students are faced with the decision of choosing their senior classes. Juniors, as well as the underclassmen schedule classes to either go the ‘easy way out’ or to take harder courses to challenge themselves. After taking AP Enlgish III, many juniors are debating whether to take AP English VI or ECC. The decision on which English class to take is easy, but that doesn’t mean taking the easy class (ECC).

Senior Ashton Preston is currently enrolled in Bullitt East’s AP IV course. She highly recommends that all juniors coming out of AP III take this class. “It is a better preparation for advanced college courses. You get a lot more attention based on your individual needs with the smaller class size. I know I have improved my writing this year, whereas I don’t think I would have by taking ECC,” says Preston.

Mrs. Pierce, the AP English IV teacher, also believes that students should choose her class over ECC. “Not only do I think my class better prepares you for college, taking the AP exam at the end of the year helps you asses yourself on where you are at in readiness for college. You don’t get that with ECC. Cost is another factor to consider when deciding between ECC and the AP VI course. ECC gives you credit for English 101 and 102 for $135 a semester plus the cost of books which average around $100. Although the AP exam does not guarantee the college credit, you will receive the credit if you score a 3 or higher on the exam and it only costs $87.

Also if you are eligible for free and reduced lunch you can receive KEES money for your score on the AP exam. A score of 3 will earn $200 and as your score increases by a point the money increases in increments of $50.

Emily Nalley

I believe that taking ECC has helped me with the transition from high school to college. I was not simply thrown into a new environment. ECC allowed me many privileges, was a stimulating environment and gave me college credit. I am delighted that I took that opportunity guest writer Amanda Therrian

Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 13

HUMAN OPINION INTEREST 12 5/7/2012 10:11:25 AM

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senior profilE Maria Gomez

article Hunter Wood l photos Hunter Wood l layout Cameron Love

Hakuna Matata.

No worries for the rest of your days.

You’ll never see Maria Gomez without a smile on her face. The senior will be graduating in May of this year. Bullitt East can only hope she passes on her friendly ways long after she’s gone.

Maria Gomez is a senior this year, part of the class of 2012.

Gomez has spent all four years at Bullitt East and admits she has had her ups and downs.

“When I graduate, I will miss a lot of my friends, but not high school itself”, stated Gomez.

Gomez has made a huge impact while at Bullitt East.

She maintains all A’s and B’s and sets an example for the underclassmen to follow. “Maria is one of the nicest people I know. She’s always smiling and is just a good person to be around”, said fellow senior Josh Stearns.

NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 14

Another sport Gomez participated in was boxing for two years and packs quite the punch. Gomez was forced into boxing her freshman year by her parents, and learned to love the sport. “My parents put me into it because they thought I was an angry person”, said Gomez. “I love boxing because it is a good stress reliever… But I wouldn’t hurt a fly” said the soft spoken Gomez.

“She’s always smiling and is just a good person to be around.”

Gomez considers senior Amber Recktenwald to be her best friend.

They have been close since 6th grade. “We have a special type of friendship”, said Recktenwald. The two have a lot in common and are constantly together. Recktenwald and Gomez have made numerous memories together while in high school. One that Gomez can recall is her running into glass doors in the morning, in the front lobby.

“Everyone was staring at me... it was so embarrassing. Don’t walk and talk at the same time”, said Gomez.

APRIL2012 March May 2011 2012

In her spare time Gomez loves to play sports. Her two favorite sports are volleyball and basketball. Gomez played volleyball for the school team her first two years at Bullitt East, and claims that she will miss playing the sport. “I love all sports… Anything to do with balls”, said Gomez. She loves staying active and competing in anything.

If Gomez could change one thing about her high school experience it would be, “Everyone not to think I’m mean”, said Gomez.

After high school Maria plans to attend either the University of Louisville or Morehead State University in the fall. Gomez wants to study to become a physician’s assistant.. She is interested in this field of work because she loves helping people. Gomez plans to have a great time in college and make memories. When asked what her biggest goal in college would be, she said, “Just not to sweat the petty stuff.”

ww2.bullittschools.org/BEHSLivewire/ 5/7/2012 10:11:32 AM

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senior profilE Alex Hinkley

article Ashley Cooke l photos Ashley Cooke l layout Cameron Love

“Jack of all trades, rather than a master at one.”

Senior Alex Hinckley does many different things in a variety of genres instead of spending his life perfecting one talent.

Hinckley has interest in many different things including FCA, Mock Trial team, and church. A lot of Hinckley’s spare time is spent working on his music which is a huge part of who he is today. In the future he has decided to attend the University of Louisville and wishes to become a chemistry teacher.

Most of Hinkley’s time during the school year is spent with the Mock Trial team. When he is not with the Mock Trial team, he is hanging with friends and relaxing.

Hinkley sees himself as a joyful-laid back-hardworking kind of guy. His interest in everything makes him different from others. Music has a huge influence on Hinkley’s life. “It relieves stress easily, kinda like an expression,” he says. His hobby includes, “music and anything music.”

two met in band class a year previous from now (Cassidy-freshman and Alex-Junior) by helping one another with their music. Grom’s first reaction of Hinkley, jokingly, was “That guy really takes care of his hair.” Grom’s favorite thing about Hinkley is his smile and his jokes.

Grom considers Hinkley a good friend, “He is always there for you and gives Biblical advice.” The two aren’t just girlfriend and boyfriend, but accountability partners. As an accountability partner, Grom “Really enjoys watching him life a Godly life while speaking at First Baptist.”

Described as determined but laid-back, “His crazy musical abilities and not being afraid to speak out” is what makes him stand out Though this well-rounded student wants a career in Chemistry, none the less, he still enjoyed social studies. Matter of fact, Hinkley’s favorite teacher, Mr. Osborne, teaches social studies. Hinkley had Mr. Osborne for both social & economics class as well as world civilization. Mr. Osborne describes Hinkley as a good student and wellrounded individual. “I like the way his is very serious about academics.

He takes them seriously and he knows when he needs to get stuff done,” Osborne says. According to Mr. Osborne, Hinkley’s best qualities as a student is that, “He doesn’t accept failure; he accepts his task and leads through with it.” Besides academics, Hinkley has a great sense of humor and knows how to laugh.

“He doesn’t accept failure; he accepts his task and leads through with it.”

A soon-to-be alumnus of the University of Louisville, Hinckley hopes to carry-on his enjoyment with micro science by becoming a chemistry teacher. Hinkley responds inspiringly, “I owe my inspiration to my older brother Cliff because he decided to pursue engineering; he persevered and fought through the hard times.” Looking back on his high school experience at Bullitt East, Hinkley says he wants to be reminded “As a guy who had fun, worked hard, and was a role model.”

Alex Hinkley has a lot of friends, but one he can say is very special in his life. Sophomore Cassidy Grom is Hinkley’s lucky girlfriend. The Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 15

FEATURES 16 5/7/2012 10:11:39 AM

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senior profilE Kaylee McClure and Emily Mingus

article Keenan Cischke l photos Emily Nalley l layout Cameron Love

Bullitt East has their own dynamic duo that gives Batman and Robin a run for their money.

laughing, “That’s when we really started getting close and now we have a really good relationship.”

Kaylee McClure and Emily Mingus are Bullitt East’s yearbook editors who have made names for themselves inside and outside of school.

And in case students have been living under a rock at Bullitt East, counselor, Mrs. Terry, is McClure’s aunt. “If Mrs. Terry wasn’t here I probably wouldn’t be as successful, I wouldn’t have had a hangout spot, or a place to eat lunch every day.”

McClure and Mingus are two charismatic seniors at Bullitt East. As editors of the Endeavor, they both have taken on leadership roles.

Bright futures are in store for the girls including college and careers in nursing and education.

The two are known for their work in Mr. Steinmetz’s yearbook class. As editors, their role in the yearbook includes creating layouts, guiding the class, establishing student leadership roles, assigning pages, and editing copies. The class is split into two groups and both girls lead their nine person team. The Mingus group is responsible for student life pages, faculty pages, club pages, academics, and underclassmen.

McClure’s group does sports, senior section, baby ads, etc.”

“I want to be remembered as the girl people looked up to.”

Mingus is yearbook editor due to her superlative personality. “She’s very spirited, outgoing, and creative,” said friend Emily Willis.

Even though McClure and Mingus have spent four years in school together, it wasn’t until recently that the pair became good friends.

They make fun of each other constantly and have quickly become partners in crime. It all started that one time at yearbook camp. “We had a lovely time at yearbook camp when we roomed together and I learned a lot about the Kaylee that isn’t on medicine!” Mingus said APRIL2012 May 2011 NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 16

Terry also plays a role in McClure’s extra-curricular life as head of United for East. Being a member of the U.F.E. group, she has proven that she can take on leadership roles outside of yearbook. Maintaining a solid 3.7 GPA, McClure also keeps up with a sport, softball. Both editors work for the YMCA as childcare workers. McClure’s love of children explains her hope to extend this job into the world of elementary education, what she is going to EKU for. Mingus will be joining the Cardinals at UofL. Come May 17th, McClure and Mingus will be graduating the school they’ve grown so close in. Mingus said, “I want to be remembered as the person everybody loves, that did good things with her life.”

McClure added, “I want to be remembered as the girl people looked up to.”

Katie Green, close senior friend of both, had a few final words, “No matter how the yearbook turns out, I’ll always have my two girl’s backs about the harsh criticism because it’s about their hard work and the memories, and that’s all that matters.”

ww2.bullittschools.org/BEHSLivewire/ 5/7/2012 10:11:47 AM

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senior profilE Michael Cheser

article Haley Simpson l photos Haley Simpson l layout Cameron Love

Lights, camera, action!

Senior Michael Cheser plans to take his love of making movies to the next level when he graduates in May. Cheser has a love for anything when it comes to being fun and creative. Over the past couple of months, Cheser and his friends have taken over the project of starting a blog. After the senior graduates he plans to attend Western Kentucky University where he will major in Film and Media.

Friends are a huge influence in everything that Cheser does. “I love to do anything that is fun and creative and involves my friends,” he stated. His list of interests doesn’t fall short of that, everything he does involves some sort of teamwork or just being around friends. Interest such as soccer and making movies definitely involves being around his friends . “Michael is a funny, outgoing guy, who’s cool to hang out with,” said senior Matt Geary. “I’m definitely going to miss hanging out every weekend when we go off to college.

Western Kentucky University to major in film and media. “WKU is the number one film school, and it’s far enough to where I’m away from Mount Washington but close enough to come home on the weekends.”

Stated Cheser. When leaving for college only one of Cheser’s friends is going to WKU with him, Dantin Greenwell. But while at WKU Cheser will have a random roommate and is confident on making a lot of new friends. “I will have a random roommate but that is okay with me I like meeting new people,” said Cheser.

After college, Cheser is undecided on his career choice, with dreams to eithermove to California and direct commercials and small projects to start off or become a high school math teacher. Brandon Linton, a friend of Cheser’s has faith in whatever career path Cheser takes. “Michael is a creative guy that likes to have a good time, that’s why we’re such good friends and believe he can do anything,” said Linton.

“The one and only thing I’m going to miss about high school is not having to grow up...”

Within the past couple of months Cheser and friends, Dantin Greenwell and Daniel Daughtery, have taken hold of Cheser’s dream and started their very own blog. “I always loved writing articles when I was in Journalism and I love making movies in Media and when Mrs. Issac’s husband came in and talked about his blog it seemed like the right time to start one,” the senior stated. The trio’s blog is titled Generation Circa, and focuses on today’s media, what’s going on in Mount Washington, and topics that are important to our generation.

Upon leaving East, Cheser has no regrets about his life in high school.

“I don’t regret anything to be honest, the only thing I would say to incoming students is do not play around freshman year always take classes seriously,” said Cheser. He also wants to be remembered as a hard worker who was fun to be around. “The one and only thing I’m going to miss about high school is not having to grow up and basically have no responsibilities,” he added.

After graduating from East Cheser plans to continue his education at Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 17

HUMAN FEATURES INTEREST 18 5/7/2012 10:11:54 AM

Class of

2012

compiled by Maggie Smith and Megan Tomes l photos Yearbook Staff l layout McKenzie Perdew

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FEATURES 20 5/7/2012 10:14:13 AM

Amanda Chapman

Emily Mingus Jordan Harris Amber Romine Jacob Stiles Dillion Campbell Trevor Troutman Brandon Crisp Alex Malone

Meredith Orr

Ali Butcher Erin Ward Mackenzie Davenport Coulten Maupin Ally Thompson Brittney Jesse Eric Cotton Matt Geary Dakota Dawson Michael Oney Amber Recktenwald Chester Epperson Cody Barney Alexis Elway Jonathan Hall Michael Garcia Steven Clarkson Autumn Colvin Emeri Skaggs Mayanna Hilbert Carlie Thomas Megan Goff Chasity Frank Lindsay Atwood Alecia Colvin Samantha Pratt Drew Woods Zach Turner Chase Payne Trevor Gonzalez Chasity Frank Sable Logsdon Austin Owen J.D Brown Ashley Davis Adam Howell Corey Talley Matt Bryant William Sorrell Carly Herchenrader Shelly Desurne Lindsey Couch Jonathan Gravatte Dakota DawsonWhitney Hutchins

Class of

Savannah Clark Amy Tinnell Hanna Feireisel Jessica Fahl Celina Jensen Katie Green William Karcher Austin Paul Wayne Swartz Megan Figg Grant Holloway Chaila Dizney Alex Hinckley Andrew Harris

Brandon Bibb Amanda Therrian Taya Rush Buzz Hadley Daniel Hare Jordan Tamura Austin Cline Tony DeLise Josh Miller Cory Kessler Jessika Agee Ty McMillen Brian Goodman Alan Spencer Avery Davenport Taylor Friemund Jasmine Powell Zack Gibson Reece Beck Callie Whelan Cole Gilber Courtney Alvey

When we leave he all become some compiled by Emily Nalley, Coulten Maupin, Brooke Mullins, and Blake Allen l layout McKenzie Perdew

Lauren Sharp Brittany Smith

Katarina Kreidler Tyler Minogue

Trace Green Chase Winstead

Jessica Carver William Green Dylan Lewis APRIL2012 May 2011 NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 20

Andrew Smith Justin Crumbacker Zach Caudill Alex Cooke Jake Wilson Nick Mattingly Kayla Gabbert Robert Marker Rachel Broughton

Carly Coulter Tiffeney Embry Sanna Melke Maggie Smith Allen Hazelwood Kirk Emberg Tyler Logsdon Chase Fryman

ww2.bullittschools.org/BEHSLivewire/ 5/7/2012 10:14:22 AM

Emily Willis Ryan Ashworth April Howard Maria Gomez Stephanie Bohr Sarah Burton

Peyton Harris Zach Paine Kassidy Miller Jacob Brainer Josh Stearns Michael Pierce

Kaylee McClure Megan Lakes Stefanie Burton Hannah Delaney Kayla Bertelkamp Taylor Smith

Jacob Duvall

Matt Murphy Kory Caufield Ashley Moody Adam Theobald Michael Hatfield Tori Gilbert Ashton Preston Dantin Greenwell McKinze Vowels Brittney Blevins

Christian Clark Kimberly Miles Cameron Love McKenzie Perdew Emily Hightower Michael Chesser Rachel Pinkley Luke Francke Katie Connelly Haley Cooper

Taylor Phelps Caleb Coomer

Zack Drake Destin Hare Nicholas Jones Rachel Simms

Jamie Lutes

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Paige Wheatley C.J. Burgess

Samantha Gearheart Maxine Dombi Marissa Jasper Jessy Ashbaugh

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Megan Tomes Cari Curtsinger Kendra Grant Nikole Isabel Ashley Duvall Alysa Ridgeway Zach Martin Molly Karrer Kayla Payne Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 21

Brad Johnson

Kristen Price Taylor Price

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Carmela Riposo Charles Szukis Brett Hatfield HUMAN FEATURES INTEREST 22 5/7/2012 10:14:28 AM

Class of 2012

Graduation activities are just around the corner for this year’s seniors

article Megan Vance l pictures Megan Vance and Yearbook l layout Megan Vance

Hats off to the Class of 2012.

The Bullitt East Class of 2012 is set to take the stage and receive their diplomas as soon as possible.

are going to have to step up and find ways to raise the money that should’ve already been raised earlier in the year. “They better start collecting money on the streets or plan a car wash if they want this thing (project gradua-

tion) to actually happen.” said Pruitt.

The Class of 2012 doesn’t seem to want to do anything but get out of B.E.

The seniors will graduate on May 19th at Freedom Hall. They don’t exactly expect a lot of graduation, hoping the end of their senior year will come very quickly. After graduation, seniors hope to be able to attend Project Graduation, but first they must raise the money for it.

Graduation is set for Saturday the 19th at 3:00p.m until 5:00p.m but could possibly last longer. Seniors are allowed to bring as many people as they want. “Freedom Hall has plenty of seating,” stated counselor Tammi Terry.

There is no cost for tickets. The graduating class will get their caps and gowns on April 16th and will begin to practice on May 16th.

Graduation is supposed to be a day to remember but this graduating class seems like they are just ready to get out of High School, “I’ll be glad to be done,” stated senior Jacob Stiles flatly. Many are interested in is getting that diploma.

“I think graduation will be like every other year, long and boring.” said senior Jacob Brainer.

What seniors might not know is that the tradition of Project Grad may not happen and they are to blame. Jana Pruitt and Denise Fryman are in charge of planning this event. Mrs. Pruitt is extremely unsatisfied with the amount of fundraising the seniors have done this year. Seniors were given many opportunities to raise money, which would pay for project graduation but have failed to actually raise a decent amount. “They could’ve sold raffle tickets and did other fundraisers but they just decided not to. This senior class is extremely lazy when it comes to fundraising anything,” said Pruitt.

Pruitt hoped to have an even better Project Graduation that last year, “We wanted to have a drug free, alcohol free, fun night for our seniors, but if they don’t step up, project grad will be terrible.” added Pruitt.

In order for Project Grad to happen, seniors APRIL2012 May 2011 NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 22

Bullitt East Graduation Time: 3:00p.m.

Date: Saturday,May 19th Place: Freedom Hall, Louisville Price: Free Seating: Unlimited ww2.bullittschools.org/BEHSLivewire/ 5/7/2012 10:15:08 AM

Please Support Our Sponsors My Beloved Class of 2012, My Wish for You - Ms. Pascal Bailey

My wish for you, dear seniors is a life full of true dedication and loyalty. I hope you take each moment and relish the flavor of the bites life offers. You have shown me how to appreciate each person for who they are and their unique talents.

Check us out at either of our locations 3322 Outer Loop Louisville, KY 40219 Phone: 502-962-7600

6460 Dutchmans Parkway Louisville, KY 40205 Phone: 502-897-5005

My wish for you, dear seniors is a balanced loving life. I hope you will enjoy what life has to offer and continue your strong work ethics and passions. You have shown me that patience and love can bring hope and happiness into any life and your determination is unmatched.

My wish for you, dear seniors is professional and personal success. I hope you continue to strive for your dreams and don’t let anything stop you. You bonded this year with struggles and tragedy, but have made it to the other side of those hardships. Never give up on yourself.

My wish for you, dear seniors is a happy, independent lifestyle. I hope you challenge yourself to accept the best from the world and not settle. You have shown me that teenagers can be more adult that most people. Be open to letting others take care of you.

My wish for you, dear seniors is continued growth and happiness. I hope you challenge life with an assertive charm and gain the confidence of royalty. You have shown me that teens are capable of doing whatever they set their minds to.

Now you are off to achieve!

My wish for you, dear seniors is personal growth. I hope you realize that life is a growing and learning process that never ends. You have shown me that you have an inner strength that goes unrecognized. Unwrap it slowly.

My wish for you, dear seniors is continued trips down the path less traveled. I hope you make choices that are faithful to your soul and you don’t worry about what others say. You have shown me how to feel comfortable being unique. Be true to that inner child.

My wish for you, dear seniors is acceptance of yourself and others. I hope you continue to make strides in your life and don’t let anything hold you back. Take your time grooming your soul.

My wish for you, dear seniors is continued contentment. I hope you keep your pleasant outlook about life and your determination to do it the Charger way. You have shown me a kind smile and a happy face can even the most disastrous day better.

My wish for you, dear seniors is continued strength and passion for the family.

I hope you learn to trust others and yourself with dignity. You have shown me that your trust is tough to gain, but once earned, it is priceless.

My wish for you, dear seniors is success, success, success. I hope hard work and intelligence takes you down the road to happiness. You have shown me that life is not always a Tea Party, but when you have a Tea Party, you can enjoy the sweets and savories of life.

With love, respect, and admiration, this is what I wish for you Class of 2012!

Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 23

HUMAN INTEREST 24 5/7/2012 10:15:15 AM

Summer Jobs article Mackenzie Perdue, Megan Vance, Ashley Cooke l pictures: yearbook

APRIL December 20112011 May 2012 NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 24

ww2.bullittschools.org/BEHSLivewire/ 5/7/2012 10:15:25 AM

Show me the money!

East students aren’t competing on a game show for big bucks, but they are working hard while off school to earn some money.

The Mt. Washington area isn’t hiring very many people so if you get a job then you have to work hard to keep it because someone is always waiting to take it. There are definitely more positives to working during the summer then to working during the school year. There are many teenagers that have summer jobs.

Before being hired you probably will have to do an interview. During the interview, always keep in mind to dress nicely, know what you are going to say before you go, be polite, and be flexible. After you are hired, remember that

whether you work in retail or fast food you should always be respectful to the customers and management.

Even though the percent of employed teenagers has gone up, there are still some negative effects as well as positive effects. Several studies have shown that students that work over twenty hours a week do not perform as well in school as students that work about fifteen hours a week, so having a summer job and not working during the school year is better for students. Summer jobs teach teens about financial responsibility, values, team work, and work skills. The average unemployment rate for teens ages sixteen to nineteen is 24.2%.

One job that is very popular in Mt. Washington is being a life guard for the YMCA at one of the local Bullitt County Public Pools. “[My job is] good and I get paid pretty well. I get to sit there and get a good tan,” said lifeguard and East junior, Evan Reister. Reister has been working at YMCA for the past two summers as a lifeguard and a swimming instructor. He wanted to become a lifeguard because he always loved to swim and his sisters were lifeguards.

Some places that are accepting applications are Kroger, Valu Market, Club Fitness, Taco Bell, Kettle Creek, and Sub Way. Places that are hiring are Kart Kountry, McDonalds, Dairy Queen, and Auto Zone.

Looking for a job?

Check out what these BE students think about theirs, and see whether it's right for you or not.

Tyler York (10)

Trish Orkies (11) Jacob Duvall (12)

“It’s boring and I do the same thing every day. It’s alright I guess.”

“My job is awesome.

Its laid back and I get to do whatever I want pretty much.”

Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 25

“I love working at Club Fitness. I like the ladies I work with and the people in the gym. It’s a good environment.”

HUMAN OPINION INTEREST NEWS 26 28 5/7/2012 10:16:14 AM

All You Need Is Love Nine Strikes and I’m out

I don’t know if it’s because I’m on my man period or because I’m watching an episode of Glee about graduating high school, but I have a lot of emotions while writing this. Which is weird, because this entire year I have been complaining about being at Bullitt East, about how terrible Mt Washington is. About how much I hate this place.

Yet May 19th keeps coming up like something of a death day, and I know that it’s not just because I have a fear of walking across a stage and tripping. It’s because, however much it kills me to say, I might actually miss this place.

Part of it might be the fact that I’ll miss the ridiculous bunch of yahoos in AP English IV, even if they give me headaches weekly. I’ll also miss my political talks with Ms. Wimsatt about the state of America and how ridiculous the GOP can be. (Thanks for the laughs Newt Gingrich.) Then there is lunch in Ms. Pierce’s closet, which has become ridiculously funny as of late. Most of all, as you probably have guessed, I’m going to miss journalism the most.

My journa-journey has had as many ups and downs as Lindsay Lohan.

It started pretty blandly the first semester of my sophomore year, so I’ll just skip over that boringness. Where it gets interesting is my junior year.

You see, I was a bit of a lost soul at the start of my junior year. I always thought I wanted to be a graphic designer, but seeing as Disney characters are the only things I could draw proficiently, I gave up on that dream. So instead of taking art classes my first semester of junior year, I chose to take journalism again, thinking it would be an average, easy class.

Looking back, first semester junior year journalism was probably one of the most life changing experiences I have had yet, even if I didn’t know it at the time. That semester, I came out from under my shell of bad grungy pop music and hoodies to actually try to be someone different. Part of this was because I was made editorial editor, and started to write clear, bold opinion pieces I was really proud of, even if it meant getting bad comments from certain crazy people.

Then there was Kansas City, which is a terrible place to travel unless you are going to a journalism convention, because then I highly recommend it. I made countless friends during this trip, the most important being this strange girl who sweated the small stuff too much, but was actually pretty awesome. I do not know if anyone has ever said this before, but thank god Steiner stranded us in Ghettoland, USA, or else McKenzie Perdew and I may have never been good friends. But I’ll talk about her later.

Back to my epic journa-story. Well, that convention really solidified what I was starting to feel; I wanted to be a journalist. Not just in high school, or college, but as my career. Pretty life changing, right?

Well we got back to little ole Mt. Washington, and when the staff got shook up, I got put in the role of executive editor, which put in simple terms, is second in charge of the Livewire. I don’t know what I was expecting, but I thought there might be some glitz and glam, with a combination of swarming journalism students gathering around me to catch my awesomeness in a bottle.Wrong. Actually, second semester junior year journalism was the equivalent of when Lohan stole that December APRIL May 2012 20112011 NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 26

perfect!)

necklace and everyone made fun of her for it. I started to hate the class, and my job was like someone threw bricks at me daily. I literally had to read every single article that went anywhere.

On top of that, I started to really hate the managing editor. (Looking back, I realize I was a jerk to Sidney Blanford, who helped the Livewire a lot during that semester. Hey now, nobody’s

Finally, Jesus decided to let junior year end, and I was thankful, but still decided to take journalism again next year, expecting to do the same job. I was right on point, as my senior year I held on to the executive editor position, while the fabulous McKenzie Perdew took over the managing editor role.

Let’s talk about McKenzie. I give her a lot of crap, because she is the perfect person for my deadpan insults, but she is legitimately one of the hardest workers I have ever seen. You can tell her “that’s not possible” all you want, but once she has her mind on something, you better believe it is going to get done. If it weren’t for her leadership and work ethic this year, room 324 would literally be on fire right now, and not a single magazine would have come out. Not only that, but she is now one of my closest friends, and one of the only people who understands the Livewire experience. God bless America.

I won’t talk a lot about my senior year in journalism, because it can be told through all the magazines that have been released this year.

Everyone has at least one layout and article in them that I’m super proud of, and the Livewire has definitely stepped its game up this year when it comes to our magazine publication.

This column wouldn’t be complete without me talking about Larry Steinmetz. I’m not gonna lie, our relationship started out rocky. The first time I really got to know him was at summer soccer practice at the start of my sophomore year, which wasn’t my favorite thing ever. I get it Steiner, I’m slow, lazy, and not good enough. Can I go home yet?

However, since I’m a 1,000 time better journalism student then soccer player, in room 324 I truly got to know Steiner more. I don’t think I’ve ever met someone who literally cares about so much, and can jump into a conversation about sports, politics, pop culture, or even school work, and not miss a beat.

This year I finally understood the Larry Steinmetz approach to teaching. He gets a bad rap because he “does nothing” and “does not teach at all”. Without his guidance, I doubt I would be as opinionated and outgoing as I am now. In journalism, you don’t have someone babying you or telling you what to do every second of every day. You have to take your head out of your ass, and figure out what needs to get done, and just do it. Honestly, I feel that journalism is the number one class i have taken at Bullitt East that will help me in college. I haven’t realized it until now, but the amount of knowledge I have gained in journalism is rare and vital to my success as a student, and not something I could have learned in any AP class. That’s the genius of Larry Steinmetz.

Well, I guess this is it. The impact that room 324 has had on me has been enormous. I give Bullitt East a hard time, but I really want to thank the administration for the awesome journalism program that the school has, because without it I’m not sure I would be the person I am today. I don’t want this column to be over, because that pretty much means I’m done writing for the Livewire. But I know I’ll be back someday, to help out with some poor sophomore’s layout disaster, or to edit some article when all the editors next year are stressing out because their deadline was a week ago.

And I’ll be happy to help. ww2.bullittschools.org/BEHSLivewire/ 5/7/2012 10:16:24 AM

I’m McKenzie Perdew?

What Journalism Has Meant To Me

“Can I please just leave now?”

Just like any other senior in this school, I’m itching in my pants to get out. I can’t wait to get my diploma on May 19th. I’m beyond ready to close this chapter of my life and start writing the next. Yet, for the longest time, every time I said, “I’m so ready to graduate and move on with my life,” my heart sunk a little bit. I didn’t understand why. I mean, I literally groan whenever my alarm goes off and I think “Only two more weeks. Only two more weeks of high school.”

After I got my cap and gown, I thought about how much everything was about to change. No more being controlled, no more petty drama, no more breathing the same air as people who I have no interest in ever seeing again. No more first block, no more second block...Oh wait, no more second block? That’s when I realized why my heart was sinking; I was going to have to leave journalism behind when I turned the theoretical page.

It makes me incredibly sad to think about no more journalism in my life. In fact, I even get a little teary-eyed thinking about it, something fairly uncharacteristic for me. I wasn’t even supposed to be on the journalism “track” in high school. It wasn’t even on my schedule (I was that freshman who signed up for Life Skills.) But journalism has literally been my rock all throughout my high school years. It has been the only thing that never changed when everything else did; something I’ve always been able to count on. Journalism has impacted my life in so many ways, I lost track after my first semester.

First way journalism impacted my life? It finally made me feel like I had a home; a place to belong. For anyone who has ever known me, I have always been, well, a little off-the-wall. And here I was, surrounded by people who not only understood and accepted me, but encouraged me to be me.

Right before my first semester, I partook in my first of three journalism trips. It was to Washington DC and I was absolutely terrified. I didn’t really know anyone on that trip very well; they were all juniors and seniors, some the best of friends, and here I was. This weirdo sophomore that nobody knew, who to top it all off, sounded like nails on a chalkboard every time her mouth opened because I had come down with a massive sinus infection three days before. I was prepared for the worst trip in my entire life. (That eventually came three years later-the Minnesota journalism trip.)

Yet, my trip to Washington DC turned out to be the best thing to happen to me, no voice and all. It was in DC that I became an “original” of the Steinmetz family, along with my siblings Robert, Rob, Adam, LaVella, Sidney, Alex and Kayla and our parents were the actual Steinmetzs’. It’s where Robert, Adam, and Rob dubbed me with my alter ego (Satan for those of you who have never been in room 324.) It’s where I realized that LaVella and Sidney were still just as cool as they were in our Parks and Rec basketball days. It’s where I learned that Alex Carroll’s journalism life was going to be my future.

It’s where I learned that Kayla was an extremely talented journalist.

It’s also where I learned that Adam Mac was not a scary human being, even though he had that massive beard. But most importantly, it’s where I learned that I finally found a home for the rest of my high school career and by golly, I’ve loved every minute in my home, even when I am having breakdowns. 9.

Second way journalism has impacted my life? The relationships that I have formed. Before journalism, I had never really had a “best Livewire NewsmagazineBEHSSpring2012issue5.indd 27

friend.” They had always come and gone throughout middle school and my freshman year. Obviously, the most important relationship that journalism formed for me was with Steiner. I can attribute who I am today to him, even down to the way I act and the things I say. (Hurdja da.) He has always pushed me to do my best and never accepted my laziness, something which I am very grateful for. I tell him everything about my life and I don’t know how he does it, but the advice he gives me is always spot on and it drives me crazy. Steiner is literally my second dad and I can’t imagine how my high school career would have turned out without him and his flip flops in it.

Had it not been for journalism, I would have never met most of my closest friends. I kinda sorta had an image of Cameron Love. I knew who he was, but I didn’t know him and had the journalism gods never stepped in, I never would have never gotten the chance. On my second trip to Kansas City, had we not been stranded, along with Kayla Swanson, in downtown without our bus passes, Cameron would have just been another kid in journalism to me and now I can’t imagine “my journalism” without him. Lord knows I could not have survived leading the class this year without him. I would’ve already jumped off Niagara Falls. A lot of Livewire’s success this year can be attributed to him.

Another friendship that journalism created for me was that with one of my best friends-Keenan Cischke. His mom was my first high school math teacher (lover her!), so I got the first day of school PowerPoint that gave the basics of her life, including her kids, but never in a million years would I have thought that Keenan and I would have become best friends. Had journalism not been the common factor in our lives, I would not be his friend-plain and simple. I can’t imagine my life being normal, unawkward, non-manipulative, and Lost/Office/Big Brotherfree if Keenan wasn’t in it.

Third way journalism has impacted my life? It has prepared me for the future. It may come across as cocky, but I know for a fact that I am going to be successful in not only college, but in life. Steiner and journalism have instilled in me the values that will get me through life. The most important thing that I’ve learned from journalism is that you can’t live life as a bum; you actually have to put in HARD work if you want to reap the reward; if you’re not going to do your best work, why bother? If I’ve learned anything from being managing editor this year, it’s that you can’t be lazy if you want to be successful. Former managing editor Sidney Blanford said it best in her letter to this year’s staff in our 2011-2012 staff manual, “I have no problem making friends because journalism taught me to be social. I have no problem getting to class on time because journalism taught me the importance of a deadline. I have no problem balancing my social and school life because journalism taught me time management. And I have no problem saying “no” because journalism taught me self-worth.”

Plain and simple-my high school career would have turned out completely different; so different that it scares me a little to think about who I could be right now. (As a sidebar, I highly encourage everybody, as long as you are willing to work hard, to take journalism. You won’t regret it.)

As my time as a high school journalist is expiring, I know I will be extremely sad when I have to say goodbye to journalism. Even though I know Livewire will be in good hands next years, that doesn’t mean I don’t want to ask, “Can I please just leave now, but stay for journalism?”

HUMAN OPINION INTEREST 26 28 5/7/2012 10:16:48 AM

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