2021-2022 Issue 8 (March 28)

PANTHER PROWLER

Monday March 28, 2022 • Issue VIII • Newbury Park High School 456 N. Reino Rd., Newbury Park, CA 91320 • pantherprowler.org

2

School Conflict

8-9

3

Don’t Say Gay

Eating Disorders

10

5

Katie Meyer

New Vaccine

12

6

Talent Show

Performative Activism

7

14

Swim

Track Nationals

15

Marjorie Taylor Greene

16

Jazz Festival

2

staff editorial Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

Increased fights are a symptom of post-pandemic student strife It is no secret how pervasive and impactful the effects of the pandemic have been on everyone, with students at the forefront. High schoolers are angry and traumatized, and because they are not equipped to handle the depth of emotion they feel, the positive campus culture we were accustomed to pre-COVID has devolved into restless tension.

In the back half of the quad, freshmen to seniors crowd around another fight during lunch period. Some push and shove to see better, while others wave their phones around in an attempt to capture the view on video. Aggression on campus has become the standard lunchtime activity, and it is clear that our school community has devolved from what used to be the keynote Nice People High School culture.

The superficial roots of these conflicts have not been particularly complex; in fact, a majority of the fights that have broken out on campus have been over petty, in-the-moment issues. However, when looking closer, one can see that tensions are high between students in the school body. Despite efforts to bridge this two-year gap in our development, we are socially, emotionally and academically stunted; most underclassmen took their very first step on a high school campus

earlier this year.

The culture surrounding students, particularly underclassmen, has not had the ability to develop past the middle school stage due to isolation. The last time sophomores were on a school campus without added stressors of a pandemic, was their eighth grade year; for freshmen, their seventh. Expecting a pre-pandemic level of development for students is not only unreasonable, but utterly unrealistic.

While no one on campus should ever turn to violence even while coping, we must all be more compassionate, empathetic and, most of all, supportive of each other- no one has a handbook for dealing with the mental fallout from a pandemic, high schoolers the very least. When we consider the reasons behind the increased tension in our school environment, this cannot be discounted.

That being said, there should be no need to record these fights that only sensationalize and implicitly promote these events. Instead, we as students should rise above violence and aggression and come together as a school community to ensure that our school is a healthy and safe community for all.

As a community, we should be working together to patch up this chasm in our lives. The actions taken now will impact students for years to come, and their permanent effects cannot be predicted. If there is one thing we must remember in order to move forward, it should be to lead with compassion.

For the record in Issue VII: Anna Johnson spelled wrong in the For the Record box No photo credit on Mock Trial article on page 3 Cameron Winick took the front cover photo of IB dance performing for international week Adi Chattopadhyay spelled wrong on debate article page 5 Answers to question 3 on Student vs. Teacher aren’t accuarte

Emerson Fuentes-Alabanza/Prowler

PANTHER PROWLER 2021-2022 staff Front Cover Editor Karyss Amato

Editors-in-Chief Carter Castillo Abby Gorman

Back Cover Editor Gwen Buchanan

Entertainment Editor Dhruv Patel

Sports Editor Sarena Kabir

DPS Editor Adalia Luo

Opinion Editor Anna Johnson

Editorial Editor Kai Mekari

News Editors Nandini Patro Hayden Meixner Téa Sklar

Photographers Chief // Reese Kelem Parker Bohl Tiana Hoang Cassandra Chavarria

Graphic Artists

Social Media Leads Karyss Amato Gwen Buchanan Tiana Hoang Nandini Patro

Copy Editors Gwen Buchanan Tiana Hoang Anna Johnson Adalia Luo Allison Nguyen Dhruv Patel Nandini Patro Téa Sklar

Emerson Fuentes-Alabanza Kai Mekari Téa Sklar

Features Editors

Managing Editor

Michelle Saremi

Tiana Hoang

Allison Nguyen

Adviser

Staff Writers

Katelyn Arrington Ariela Behar Melissa Geher Taylor Gibson Kira Ivarsdottir Rohit Ukkan Cassandra Chavarria Dylan Kaseno Josie Gardner Ava Prapaniku Rithu Velu Melina Wagner Cameron Winick

Online Editors Gwen Buchanan Tiana Hoang Adalia Luo Allison Nguyen Dhruv Patel Téa Sklar

The Panther Prowler is the official publication of Newbury Park High School, and is created and produced by the Advanced Journalism students. The newspaper is funded by advertisements from local companies. The Panther Prowler staff makes all final decisions on information published in its newspaper, its website and its publishing in other social medias. While Mrs. Michelle Saremi advises the Advanced Journalism students, the staff is solely responsible for what is printed.

The Panther Prowler is published every four weeks throughout the school year by Print 365 co. For advertisement information, visit www.pantherprowler.org.

The Panther Prowler is accepting letters to the editor. To submit your feedback, please provide your full name, email and a letter about 300 words in length. Letters are subject to discretion and editing for taste, length and libel. Letters can be submitted to the email posted below.

Newbury Park High School 456 North Reino Road, Newbury Park, California 91320 (805) 498-3676 x 1110 prowler.newspaper@gmail.com

news Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

3

Activists rally against Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law Rithu Velu Staff Writer

Justice is fought for- Thousands of students across Florida chanted “we say gay” as they proudly protest in opposition to the bill. Photo courtesy of Washington Post

On March 8, 2022, the Florida Senate passed the Parental Rights in Education Bill with a 22-17 vote. Gov. Ron DeSantis.

R-Flor., has not yet approved the new bill, but has indicated that he will do so. If signed, the bill will take into effect starting July 1, 2022.

The Parental Rights in Education Bill states that “Classroom instruction by school personnel or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity may not occur in K through three or in a manner that is not age appropriate…” If a teacher were to violate this rule and discuss sexual orientation or gender identity in a K to three class, or if it is not “age appropriate,” parents under this bill have the right to sue the school.

Members and activists for the LGBTQI+ community are withstanding this change, stating that the bill will seclude members and families of the LGBTQI+ community in a school setting. The vagueness of the words “age appropriate” are among many of the concerns, and critics of the bill believe that the flexibility of the word will restrict discussions that students can have with their teachers regarding their gender identity.

However, Rep. Joe Harding. R- Fl., in a response to this growing issue, stated that the word “gay” is never mentioned in the bill, nor is the term LGBTQI+. “The parent has the right to be engaged in the education of their children,” Harding said during an ABC News interview. “Nowhere in the bill do we eliminate discussion. I value our teachers and the relationships that they have with their students tremendously.”

Student activists groups across Florida have rallied against the bill as well. Jack Petocz, a junior from Flagler Palm Coast High School, was temporarily suspended from school after he initiated a walk - out protest against the bill and handed out pride flags. In the following days, numerous rallies have taken place throughout Florida, including St. Pete, Palm Beach County and Tampa.

On a national level, President Joe Biden has criticized the “Don’t Say Gay” bill with a twitter post. “I want every member of the LGBTQI+ community — especially the kids who will be impacted by this hateful bill — to know that you are loved and accepted just as you are. I have your back, and my Administration will continue to fight for the protections and safety you deserve,” President Joe Biden wrote.

The Capitol insurrection trials begin Dylan Kaseno Staff Writer On Jan. 6, 2021, thousands of people from across the country visited Washington D.C. in an attempt to avoid the certification of the 2020 election, collectively storming the capital in a coup d’etat. After the insurrection, many people have been detained and put on trial.

Many right-wing extremist groups such as the Oath Keepers, Proud Boys, and QAnon were present. These groups displayed their presence proudly by their flags presented at the capital, postinsurrection media posts, and vocalization on the topic. After the trials, the FBI has been tracking down every person possible involved in the insurrection.

Famous attendees that have been convicted include Richard Barnet and Jacob Angeli. Barnet entered House of Representatives Majority Leader Nancy Pelosi’s office with a firearm. Angeli was seen famously storming the capital in his “QAnon Shaman” costume consisting of a set of horns on his head and no shirt.

Angeli has been sentenced to 41 months in prison and Barnett

will have his trial in September of this year.

Notable insurrectionist Guy Reffitt was seen at the capital leading people into the Capitol building with a firearm and threatening his son who was willing to testify against him saying “traitors get shot.” A jury of his peers has charged Reffitt with wanting to obstruct the congressional certification of the 2020 presidential election, transporting guns into D.C., and carrying a Smith & Wesson handgun onto the restricted grounds of the Capitol. Additional charges include interfering with Capitol Police protecting the Upper West Terrace and obstructing justice by threatening his son and daughter when he returned to Texas.

His wife, Nicole Reffitt is angry about the verdict. “They want us to take a plea. The reason we have all guilty verdicts is they are making a point out of Guy and that is to intimidate the other members of the One-Sixers, And we will all fight together, Nicole Reffitt said. He is now being sentenced to up to 20 years in prison.

Chaos- Rioters climb the Capitol Building on Jan. 6 2021 as the capitol insurrection trials begin. Photo courtesy of PBS News

Protests break out in the streets of Russia Melina Wagner Staff Writer Rohit Ukkan Staff Writer

Protests- Putin launches a full-scale invasion in Ukraine despite massive protests in Russia’s cities and Ukranians react loudly. Photo courtesy of PBS News

Russia in February of 2022 launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a decision which became heavily criticized by the public, from even within Russia. Protests on Russian streets have broken out since then in retaliation to the invasion. The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has been ongoing since around 2014, which has continued into several small skirmishes and confrontations on the border of the two countries. Small skirmishes on the border of Ukraine led to a full-scale invasion and mass evacuation of Ukrainian cities. The United States military has since mobilized to countries neighboring Ukraine, such as Poland, as well as several other NATO countries near Ukraine in order to prevent any such invasion.

Countries within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) have avoided directly interfering in the war as it would lead indefinitely to all-out warfare with Russia and its president, Vladimir Putin. Since the beginning of the invasion, countries within NATO have been individually sending vast amounts of munitions and supplies to Ukraine in order to aid them in the war.

Despite Putin’s ideology against Ukraine, the people of Russia express their thoughts on the invasion. Olga Mikheeva, a Russian protester, said, “I am outraged. I haven’t slept for three nights, and I think we must now declare very loudly that we don’t want to be killed and don’t want Ukraine to be killed”. By protesting, the people of Russia put themselves at a greater personal risk, as Putin’s government is opposed to different views on the war. Mass censorship of the press has been implemented as massive protests in Russia break out protesting against the war on Ukraine.

Soldiers fighting the war against Ukraine have been noted to be oblivious as to who they were fighting against.

Dmitri Alperovitch, former Chief Technology Officer of Crowd Strike has spoken to PBS news about the effect of protests within Russia as he believes that the protests will likely not sway Putin’s decision. Considering Putin’s decision to invade, “I don’t think it’s likely, because they’re able to suppress them. The security forces are still squarely on his side,” Alperovitch said. However, Alperovitch does believe that there is a possibility of a stop to the war, considering even long-time supporters of Putin have come out against the war on Ukraine.

4

news Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

Legislation saves UC Berkeley’s diminished admissions allowance Dhruv Patel Entertainment Editor The University of California, (UC) Berkeley will be accepting more than 5,000 first-year college students this year following changes to admissions resolved by Governor Gavin Newsom. A court order issued over housing issues would have cut some admissions and forced several thousand students online or deferred admission offers. However, new legislation signed by Newson helped to fix this problem for the university.

The court order ultimately came from a neighborhood group successfully suing UC Berkeley, called Save Berkeley’s Neighborhoods. The group sued because the university did not address increasing environmental issues, which mainly included student housing shortages. The suit resulted in an enrollment freeze imposed by a lower court order, which was upheld by the California

Supreme Court. This enrollment freeze would have cut the university’s in-person classes by more than 2,600 students.

Nevertheless, following Senate Bill 118 that was signed

by Newsom on March 14. California’s public colleges and universities have 18 months to complete any court ordered environmental review before having to freeze their campus population or reduce their enrollment. This legislation was able to pass relatively quickly. “I’m grateful to the Legislature for moving quickly on this critical issue — it sends a clear signal that California won’t let lawsuits get in the way of the education and dreams of thousands of students, our future leaders and innovators,” Newsom said in a statement on March 14. The legislation was unanimously passed in the

Emerson Fuentes-Alabanza/Prowler

New variants of COVID-19 are concerning scientists

Katelyn Arrington Staff Writer

For the past two years, the entire world has been living in the COVID-19 pandemic, but as case numbers drop and mask mandates are lifted, many people find themselves asking how much longer COVID-19 will continue. Scientists say that COVID-19 is entering the endemic phase, which means it is easier to be controlled and more predictable; however, the main concern now is the possibility that new and worse variants of the virus will arise and cause the world to have to go through another pandemic.

One of the most notable of these new variants is known as “Deltacron,” which is a combination of the deadliness of delta and the transmissibility of omicron, according to WebMD. As of March 10, 2022, Deltacron has been identified in several

European countries, such as the United Kingdom, as well as the United States. However, Deltacron is still new, and has not proved to have a significant impact on case numbers so far.

While case numbers of COVID-19 overall are dropping in humans, experts have noted that they seem to be increasing among animals, with 29 different species of animals confirmed to be infected so far, but the number is most likely much higher due to lack of testing. Many experts are concerned that COVID-19 will infect animal populations, mutate, and then transfer back to humans in an unstoppable cycle.

Emerson Fuentes-Alabanza/Prowler

Switzerland and Western allies economically strike against Russia Rohit Ukkan Staff Writer Kira Ivarsdottir Staff Writer The United States and the United Kingdom have banned the import of all Russian oil and gas to their countries. This is a major industry within Russia, as the country’s production makes up 40 percent of European gas, and a quarter of their oil. These sanctions have been placed on Russia because of their hostile and tyrannical aggression towards Ukraine. Sanctions are considered some of the harshest actions a nation can take against one another without going to war.

Additional financial measures have been taken against Russia too, such as western countries freezing all assets in Russia’s central banks. These assets are upwards of 630 billion dollars that are frozen within Russia’s central bank. The U.S. Treasury Department additionally strived to further wound Russia’s economy by immobilizing the Russian central bank assets held in the U.S. along with imposing sanctions on the Russian Direct Investment Fund that is overseen by a close ally to President Vladimir V. Putin, reported the New York Times in late February of this year.

Along with the US and other Western Allies, Switzerland broke their long-standing neutrality in voicing support for Ukraine against Russia. On Feb. 28, 2022, Switzerland began to initiate policies discussed with the European Union, including imposing sanctions on Russia. In doing so, Switzerland breaks their neutrality agreement set in 1815, that has not been broken since it was signed which further emphasizes the severity in Putin’s efforts to invade Ukraine.

With banning Russian oil and imposing sanctions, the value of Russian currency has dropped by 30 percent along with local businesses facing economic stress which continues to break down Russia’s funding for their invasion, hopefully leading towards a surrender from Russia.

Photo Courtesy of TIME

news Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

Borderline hero passes away in motorcycle crash

5

Parker Bohl Staff Photographer Hero of the Borderline shooting from 2018, Matthew Wennerstrom, died in a motorcycle crash on Feb 28. Wennerstorm hit an SUV at Lynn and Kelly roads at 6:21 pm and passed before officials could move him from the scene.

This was a major shock to the community, since Wennerstrom is often remembered for helping around 30 people escape during the 2018 Borderline shooting.

Friends and family alike have mourned the loss of Wennerstrom, a beloved member of the community. A friend of Wennerstrom and NPHS Lacrosse coach Erich Wuesthoff said, “Matt was one of the most genuine, genuine people I’ve ever met. When he said something, he meant

every word of it. He always cared about those around him more than he cared about himselfI think that was very evident in his actions in his everyday life and at that tragic borderline shooting. I think one thing that you don’t see in a lot of people today is their commitment to bettering their community, and he was always the first person that stepped up with a smile and be there for others when they needed him.”

A gathering was held on Feb. 28 on 1475 Lawrence Dr at Wennerstrom’s memorial and flowers were placed around it by those who attended.

Legacy- Community members put up signs to honor Matthew Wennerstrom’s life. Erich Wuesthoff, A friend of Wennerstrom, said, “I think I think the people are gonna remember him, not only as the boy who saved all those people on that night at the bar I think that the people that that do know him are going to remember him as one of the kindest, most helpful, most genuine people that they’ve ever interacted with.”

New vaccines assists with stopping the spread Taylor Gibson Staff Writer As new solutions for COVID-19 are arising, the Novavax vaccine is making its way into the United States. On Jan. 31, 2022, Novavax requested approval from the FDA to be an emergency COVID-19 vaccine candidate. Over 30 countries outside of the U.S., including the United Kingdom, Australia and Germany, have allowed this vaccine to be used in emergency situations.

Novavax is similar to the flu vaccine as well as the Hepatitis B vaccine due to its use of longer standing protein-based technology. While Pfizer and Moderna vaccines use mRNA technology, the Novavax vaccine is able to mimic the virus’s spike protein. These proteins imitate COVID-19’s molecular structure, but do not replicate the actual virus with mRNA. For the vaccine to take full effect, it is required to receive two doses three weeks apart.

Researchers came to the conclusion that Novavax is over 90 percent effective against the

virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends Novavax for those who have previously had COVID-19, as well as those with an increased risk of contracting the disease.

On the contrary, the WHO does not recommend Novavax to those who have had a reaction to any component in the vaccine, those with COVID-19 at the time of vaccination, people with a higher than average temperature, and those under 18 years of age. They also recommend that pregnant people are aware of the risks of contracting COVID-19 during a pregnancy, as well as the possible benefits of the vaccination, and data to improve an educated decision.

Side effects of the Novavax vaccine were continuously mild and according to the WHO, did not raise any concerns regarding safety.

6

opinion Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

Stop the performative activism Anna Johnson Opinion Editor

Cameron Winick/Prowler

Cassandra Chavarria Staff Writer

It is far too often that these people will facetiously exploit social In the electronic age, news spreads like wildfire. Social media has taken over as the younger generation’s “news source,” often movements to try to appear more in touch and politically aware spreading biased information about the latest stories. This provokes than they actually are, in hopes of accumulating social capital. If a recurring trend that has proven to do more harm than good, you tie your name to an issue by posting these stories to your page, make sure you follow it up with action, as anyone can take a second jumping on the bandwagon and acting out of bad faith to share a story, but what really matters is donating because of an ulterior motive rather than believing in your time and/or money to actually aid those in need. the cause that you’re speaking for.

Change doesn’t happen in an instant.

Due to the latest trend of being a “social justice The issue behind performative activism lies within warrior” many people repost stories on their social our culture. We pressure everyone so hard to be media to garner attention or align with the “good perfect, to be moral, to do what is right, when Samaritan.” Furthermore, the same people in reality we are flawed, selfish people who are who preach allyship condemn those who do bound to make mistakes. It’s human nature. not share the same stories on their social Using social justice issues that are evermore media, while themselves don’t actually prominent right now as an excuse to bully or take any action to help those in need. cancel influencers online and even the people you And how much help could it really be to know is not advancing the causes and movement spread a post that is often biased or not in any way. even posted by a credible source?

We must be able to step away from having these Those who frame themselves as an conversations until we start holding ourselves ally and use their platform to post such accountable. Activism has to go with actually stories are actually doing the opposite of what they preach online, as their stream of doing the work to support marginalized Téa Sklar/Prowler groups. Otherwise, it’s performative. Doing posts often overpower the posts of the people who are actually afflicted by these tragedies or provide resources to those certain actions does not make you an “activist” nor does it make who actually wish to be a solution to the problem. The lines are you morally superior, and strong opinions do not make you “wise.” far too blurred between performative activism and true allyship. Don’t showcase your allyship when Black History Month, Pride It is imperative that people start to focus on uplifting the voices of Month or Hispanic Heritage Month rolls around but instead be marginalized voices, activists and real organizations that dedicate a supporter year round and not when it is simply convenient or when you feel social pressure to do so. their lives and time to spreading real awareness

Buddhism needs to be taught more accurately Tiana Hoang Managing Editor From that point on, I refrained from ever talking about Being part of a Buddhist family, my childhood is painted with memories of practicing Buddhist traditions and values. At such a being Buddhist at school, because I knew what my peers already young age, of course, I didn’t fully grasp the complexities of the thought of it. Who could blame them for believing what was in Buddhist beliefs, or the deeper meaning and symbolism behind our history textbook? I found that I was not eager to talk about my Vietnamese heritage either, because my religion and culture our traditions. However, I did have a general understanding of were so inextricably intertwined.

Buddhism as a peaceful pursuit of contentment and ultimately The only time Buddhism was ever revisited in school enlightenment. Most importantly, I was proud to be Buddhist. was near the end of my senior year. It was brought in by It wasn’t until I first encountered the overly-simplified, my IB Literature teacher to provide cultural context for glossed-over portrayal of Buddhist beliefs in school that my a Japanese novel we read. Though the content was much pride began to falter. In middle school, I remember being more accurate and comprehensive, it was still incredibly excited at the prospect of learning about my own religion in brief and only reached the couple dozen students in the classroom. By that point, I was only ten years old, yet that specific class.

I had already learned my fair share of Christian beliefs.

Now, I know better than to let the flaws in I knew about the Bible and probably could have even our curriculum hinder my pride in my cultural given a quick synopsis of myths like Adam and Eve and religious background. Nonetheless, my and Noah’s Arc. When the lesson about Buddhism finally came, experiences merely reflect the numerous however, I found it to be a gross misrepresentation; examples of minority groups being brushed a mirage of what I had learned in childhood. It over in history. I would never advocate that merely stated that Buddhists believed all life religion be taught in schools for more was suffering and the ultimate goal was to be than its historical and sociocultural value. rid of its burdens–a depressing sentiment that However, as Eurocentrism continues to Emerson Fuentes-Alabanza/Prowler bore no semblance to what I had been taught. permeate our society, it only underscores the Looking back, it is apparent that many of these inaccuracies and importance of when the spotlight does happen to fall on minority misrepresentations apply to countless other religious groups as religions–religions like my own. well.

Childhood pets grow old as we grow up Gwen Buchanan Back Cover Editor “You wanna go for a walk?” “Go potty!” “Want a treat?” “No barking!”

These are phrases that every dog owner knows well and uses daily. As ridiculous as it sounds, this “baby talk” is woven into my everyday speech. My fear is that someday I won’t ever use it again.

I don’t remember the first time I met my dog, Pepper.

I was five years old when the dachshund-yorkshireterrier mutt trotted into my family. I’ve grown up giving her baths, taking long walks around the park, and apologizing to guests for her incessant barking.

Getting Pepper was, and still is, impactful on my life.

At a young age, I was taught responsibility by the puppy I helped take care of. Feeding, walking, and washing my dog were added to my list of chores. I learned to be gentle with smaller, more vulnerable creatures, and how to use a strong, deep voice when she broke house rules.

We used to call her our hiking buddy. Whether it was an eight mile trek in the mountains or a short walk around the park, she was up for it. Back then, I didn’t recognize her sturdiness and resilience for such a small breed until it began to fade. As she grew older, we slowly stopped taking her on hikes because she couldn’t keep up. Now, she gets tired after a short walk around my neighborhood.

As I continue to grow and enter the prime of my life, Pepper is far past hers. It makes me sad to watch the childhood friend I have had forever fading both physically and mentally.

My dog no longer barks when someone opens the front door. Not because she has learned better, but because she cannot hear anymore. She has trouble jumping onto the couch, and the few white hairs around her face have multiplied.

Sometimes, I miss the puppy I had so long ago. The one that could keep up when I ran around the park, and who was in a playful mood every afternoon when I got home from school. However, I know that dog isn’t completely gone.

It is hard to see Pepper in her old age, but behind the white fur, I know she’s still the same dog. She still likes to nibble my fingers and sunbathe when the midafternoon sun shines through our window. She even remembers old tricks my sister and I taught her years ago.

I believe that one of the saddest things in life is watching a childhood friend grow old and eventually pass away. I also believe that it is worth it. Pepper has taught me responsibility and shaped many of my memories growing up. I’m scared for the day that she leaves my family, but today, I am thankful for every moment I have with my puppy.

opinion Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

7

Congress should expel Marjorie Taylor Greene

Dylan Kaseno Staff Writer

Marjorie Taylor Greene is a highly controversial member of the House of Representatives for the 14th district in Georgia.

Since the beginning of her role in Congress in January of last year, Greene has been a constant name in the media. Greene is famous for her belief that the Parkland shooting was a hoax, that lasers shot down from space by Jewish people caused the California wildfires, and her association with the conspiracy group/cult QAnon. Suffice to say, Greene likes to associate herself with controversy and fiction displayed as fact.

Greene has recently found herself embroiled in trouble once again. Greene and fellow congress member Paul A. Gosar attended a white nationalist event in Florida hosted by Nicholes Fuentes, a known white nationalist anti-semite. During the event, Fuentes encouraged the Russian invasion of Ukraine via chants.

Then he made favorable comparisons between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Adolf Hitler. Greene was in attendance during the whole event as a “special guest.” When questioned on it, Greene denied knowledge of Fuentes’ political ideologies.

However, Greene did not stop there, as just four days later during President Biden’s state of the Union, Greene and congress member Lauren Boebert were heckling various parts of his speech. During President Biden’s discussion, Greene repeatedly

chanted “Build the Wall,” a phrase former President Trump used to describe his anti-immigration policies and views.

Greene’s firm stance for the Republican Party and pure hatred for the Democratic party have always come first, before any other matter. Before her election to the House, Greene publicly supported the idea of executing prominent members of the Democratic Party. Greene consistently compares minor problems or things she dislikes to the Nazi practices, such as the mask mandates. Greene puts her personal beliefs before the people she is representing. Greene is constantly opposing anything a democratic or liberal person does and having the opposite opinion for the sake of being against them. She makes apolitical topics into political topics just because a Democrat supports them. Greene is constantly putting her agenda before the needs of the people. Greene is not doing the job she should be doing. While Congress removed her from her new position on the labor and education committee and censured her, nothing came of it. Congress should take severe actions against her. She is a danger to the public’s health, constantly spreading misinformation. She should lose her position in Congress and never hold public office.

Emerson Fuentes-Alabanza/Prowler

Stop denying what happened on Capitol Hill Cassandra Chavarria Staff Writer It has been almost 16 months since Jan. 6 2021, when a mob of Donald Trump supporters, armed with everything from pipes and flagpoles to chemical sprays, stormed the U.S. Capitol and pushed their way through police lines into the ornate halls.

The violent attack was undeniably an act of domestic terrorism as White nationalist symbols were on display, cementing the movement’s ideological extremism.

On the surface, that Wednesday started like so many Trump rallies that had happened before, but it was clear to anyone following the siege that this time the anger and tension was much more intense and bound to escalate.

Footage and images of the federal building’s front steps revealed a sea of appropriated historical flags, altered stars and stripes and conspiracy theory symbolism as well as adherents who are easily identifiable by their respective hate symbols. This is beyond doubt as Neo-fascist groups such as the Proud Boys, Three-percenters, Oath Keepers and Neo-Confederates made

their presence known.

The raid on the Capitol occurred when lawmakers were meeting to certify Joe Biden’s election victory. The joint session came to a halt when people were forced to scramble for safety and wear protective gas masks while insurrectionists disputed the peaceful transfer of power. What resulted was more than 140 members of law enforcement suffering from injuries in the attack and a siege that caused more than $1 million of damage to Capitol possessions.

What I find the hardest to sit with is that the attempted insurrection and deaths that resulted could have been entirely prevented. Instead of diffusing the situation and speaking on a peaceful protest, Trump encourages his supporters to raid the capitol and uses his platform to blatantly encourage bigotry and hate filled acts.

If people in this country are no longer committed to a peaceful transfer of power after elections and condemning the Carter Castillo/Prowler

elections as illegitimate because they didn’t go their way, is a truly hopeless way to go about “democracy”. People are so driven by prejudice and disdain for the other half that they attack citizens as traitors for having opposing views. Whether someone is born in another country or simply doesn’t look like the majority, is in no way justification for people with privilege and power to commit heinous crimes against their adversary.

Whether it be for threatening democracy or defending democracy, what is clear is that the nation is divided in partisan ways. We have picture and video documentation as well as testimony from the people that were at the rioton Jan 6, 2021.

Even today, the concern is that far too many people are denying the truth that is right in front of their face. What happened on Capitol Hill was stark and jarring in nature. How we grapple and learn from what happened is up to us but what is imperative is that we do not ignore it.

8

eating disorders Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

Manas Khatore Prowler Alumni Jessica Zhou Prowler Alumni Josie Gardner Staff Writer

As modern media has evolved, teenagers across the world have adopted a negative mindset about body image. According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD), an eating disorder will affect at least 28.8 million people in America, totaling to about 9 percent of the population.

The stigma around eating disorders has made it difficult for people to feel comfortable speaking out about their struggle in fear of sounding like they want attention instead of needing help.

Gwen Buchanan Back Cover Editor Reese Kelem Chief Photographer Kai Mekari Editorial Editor

Emerson Fuentes-Alabanza/Prowler for all graphics

Standards from Sports In the sports world, it is a common occurrence that athletes try to fit the stereotypical convention of an athletic body, even if that pushes them towards unhealthy eating patterns.

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), over a third of female athletes competing in Division 1 of the NCAA reported symptoms of anorexia, with similar patterns being found in male athletes. Many sports, such as wrestling and running, place an implicit or explicit emphasis on diet and weight requirements, perpetuating the harmful idea that one has to adopt extreme eating habits to achieve optimal performance.

Apala Bhunia, senior, struggles with an eating disorder that has affected her relationship with swimming, a sport that requires a lot of endurance. She felt that the competitive environment of the program pressured her to

change her body. “The coaches would care more about our times, and whether we were fast enough or not. Being a bigger woman surrounded by, you know, a lot of people who had the typical swimmer body, it was a lot of pressure, and I felt like my body kept me slow, even though it didn’t,” Bhunia said.

According to the NEDA, a risk factor for eating disorders in athletes is the belief that a lower body weight leads to better performance. Kian Alamir, an NPHS graduate and weightlifter, emphasizes that in reality, successful athletes have varying body sizes. “Different positions require different body types,” Alamir said. “I also think that we have to understand that peak performance and being good at the sport really doesn’t have much to do with how you look to be honest… people with all different body types can perform at an extremely high level.”

Eating disorders can be a hard topic to talk about; for a lot of people, it is hard to know when one is struggling, making it more difficult to ask for help when needed. Melanie Masson, girls basketball coach, used to struggle with an eating disorder and felt like they didn’t have someone they could talk to at first. “I didn’t feel comfortable going to someone of the opposite sex, who, you know, didn’t necessarily think the way that I thought,” Masson said.

Professionals believe that it is important for athletes to have an environment that contributes positive attitudes toward body size and shape. Masson agrees with this, stressing the importance of having a support system. “Find someone that you can even just vent out to, whether it’s going to therapy, going to your parents, or going to your friend who you know won’t judge you.

But you know, who will also kind of [encourage] you,” Masson said.

Adalia Luo/Prowler

eating disorders Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

Health isn’t numerical Sarena Kabir Sports Editor For the longest time, I have never felt comfortable in my own body. I convinced myself that this body that I live in is something that only weighs me down, because I can’t be like the other girls who are skinny. Rather I have always seen myself as a fat girl, who is only a disgrace to her family.

Over time, I go through these cycles, from not eating for days, to then eating a lot of food. Eating disorders are almost like a spectrum, and I lie somewhere in between. It isn’t easy to get over it. You can’t just create this meal plan that will automatically solve things, because your brain isn’t wired that way. To overcome the disorder, it takes a lot of time, and it is very easy to relapse back into that old situation.

I would say the ending of my freshman year was when my eating disorder was at its peak. Within just three months, I lost a lot of weight due to my lack of eating.

Diving into my sophomore year, in order to maintain that weight I achieved, I would continue my trend of not eating, and then eating more on the weekends.

When I went to the doctor for my annual checkup near the ending of my freshman year, she applauded me for the amount of weight I had lost and that I was not in the “obese” category of her weight chart. Looking back, it felt amazing to have lost that weight numerically. Though, through that process, I felt drained. I ate so little that when I did eat something, it disgusted me. I even shut out so many people in my life because I was never happy with myself, and anything and everything else was just another ick. My doctor had congratulated me for just a numerical change on my life, rather than focusing on my actual wellbeing, only feeding this thought that this value defined how healthy I was. I forgot that I needed to internally feel satisfied with my body, rather than focusing on a numerical value. And that was something no one could understand.

My parents pressured me to lose weight because I was told that I was not as skinny and pretty as all the other girls at school. Despite the toll my parents took on me, they never understood how I truly felt, and it was all about numbers and looks to them.

To be honest, I never knew how to cope with my eating disorder. My doctor would always say to control portion sizes to maintain weight, but nothing further. On top of it all, I was afraid to reach out for help because of the worry that I would be hospitalized for several days and have to pay all the additional expenses just to become healthy. It makes it difficult for other people to reach out for help when there have been plenty of stories where people reach out for help, and then end up in the hospital a few days later, or have everything told to their parents.

For all of my life, I bottled up how I felt, I never reached out for help, I never knew how to even cope with my eating disorders. I have had to battle this obstacle all on my own. And that was the toughest part of it all, thinking that I was alone all this time. But that is not the case. There are millions and millions of people who struggle with an eating disorder besides me, and now I know that I am not alone, and neither is anyone who is struggling with an eating disorder.

Tiana Hoang/Prowler

Disordered Experiences Eating disorders stem from a variety of factors. Whether teens are scrolling through Instagram, using mobile apps to calorie count or receiving pressure from their peers and family, these images and thoughts of the “ideal body” are significantly damaging to self esteem and mental health.

Forest Penzin, senior, began struggling with an eating disorder at a young age. “Since I was little, my parents were always contradictory about eating habits,” Penzin said. “It was just this ‘you can’t win’ kind of mentality.

So I never had a good relationship with food.”

Their freshman year, Penzin’s disorder worsened. “I was just losing a lot of weight really quickly because I started downloading tracking apps and stuff like that…I was like so proud of it for some reason, and that’s what I feel like makes it worse. It became an obsession though, where I would always be watching ‘What I eat in a day’ videos, weight loss videos, stuff like that, where it just kind of became my whole life,” Penzin said.

Social media apps such as Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok can be very consuming to those who struggle within body image. As a creator of content on social media, Penzin has been affected by the negative aspects of it. “It became my whole life when people started paying different attention to me. Strangers would constantly compliment me on my body.

Especially with social media, I was like “oh yeah, that’s how

9

I’m supposed to look.” I get more likes when I look skinnier,” Penzin said.

Calorie counting has also become a common habit for those who struggle with body image as there are many apps available to track the nutrition of every meal. Rosie Fischer*, senior, started using MyNetDiary to count her calorie intake after she was encouraged to do so in school. “I feel like there’s not enough knowledge on nutrition because when I first learned about calories and tracking, I thought that’s what you were supposed to do to be healthy, but that’s not how you stay healthy,” Fischer said.

Social media is also a powerful factor that influences how Fischer perceives her body. “It’s so easy to compare yourself with other people who have the ideal body type and then you look at yourself and you’re like, Why do I not look like that?” Fischer said. “Since it’s just sharing pictures…you don’t really see what led to that picture being taken and what it took to get to that point.”

Penzin stresses the importance of seeking help when struggling from an eating disorder and to not get discouraged despite the challenges. “It’s ok to reach out to someone if you feel like you need help,” Penzin said. “But [healing is] not linear…you’re going to go back and forth.”

Rosie Fischer* is an anonymous source

Reese Kelem/Prowler

Seeking Support As eating disorders become increasingly common, knowing how to properly cope with them and where to go for support is important in the healing process. NPHS strives to make resources readily available for students in need.

Tina Coleman, an NPHS counselor, goes through the treatment plans for people struggling with eating disorders.

“It’s a treatment team plan because you’re going to work with the students evolving with the therapist, depending on the severity and how long the parents have been in contact with the medical doctor,” Coleman said. “We get a release of (medical) information so we can communicate because there’s usually a treatment team plan with a nutritionist depending on what type of illness eating disorder it is.”

Coleman gave advice on what people outside of the treatment team could do. “I think for student’s, if their friends are aware of it, understanding what might be the triggers or the concerns and just being supportive, and encouraging the person,” Coleman said.

Additional resources can be found on the CVUSD website, one being the Center for Discovery in Thousand Oaks. The outpatient treatment program provides online service via call

for people of all genders and ages. It provides treatment and encourages people who are struggling with eating disorders to open up about them so they can work towards living life without them.

Currently at the Los Angeles location of the Center for Discovery is Primary Therapist, Rachel Lipstone. She helps all kinds of people to work through their eating disorders. “There are a lot of misconceptions about eating disorders, including stereotypes about who struggles with them (e.g. it is a myth that it is only thin, white, upper and middle socioeconomic status women and girls) and why eating disorders develop… many people do not know that they are a coping mechanism and attempt at emotion regulation, not a result of vanity or self-obsession.” Lipstone said.

Lipstone suggests resources such as NEDA (National Eating Disorders Association) and Project HEAL for general information and beginning resources. She is also open to direct emails to her at rlipstone@callutheran.edu. If you need assistance or are struggling to tell people, Lipstone is an open source and is supportive of anything you have to say. “There is no such thing as ‘not sick enough.’” Lipstone said.

Eating Disorder Hotline: (844) 950 3144

Suicide Hotline: (800) 442 4673

10

features Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

The light of Katie Meyer shines on Carter Castillo Editor-in-Chief Abby Gorman Editor-in-Chief Ava Prapaniku Staff Writer From the fierceness she showed as goalkeeper and team captain on Stanford’s Women’s soccer team to her welcoming, kind presence off the field, Katie Meyer, a senior at Stanford University, excelled in all aspects of her life. On March 1, the world was faced with the tragedy of her death after she took her own life in her on-campus residence.

The Meyer family and hundreds of teammates, neighbors, peers and friends gathered on the George Hurley Field at NPHS on March 12 for a candlelit vigil in her memory, recounting some of their favorite memories and experiences.

Each story told was just a small part of the lasting impact Katie Meyer made on the world. Gina Meyer, her mother, recalled the encouragement and support she always gave others. “I know that she wasn’t only my bright spark, but obviously seemed to touch everyone she met. Her energy and her light was truly infectious. I know she is looking down on all of us with a huge smile, and will always be around us guiding us and watching over us. And I know she will always be rooting for you guys, all of you,” she said.

Keep on singing- Hundreds gather at the memorial for Katie Meyer. Steve Meyer, Katie Meyer’s father, recounted many stories from Katie Meyer’s life during the service, particularly ones from her youth. “ Katie loved to sing. I can attest to that. And that started early, early, early, early and often in the car,” Steve Meyer said. Cassandra Chavarria/Prowler

Katie Meyer discovered her love for soccer as a goalkeeper early on. Her father, Steve Meyer, spoke of her constant drive as he recalled a sweet moment when kicking the ball around with an 8-year-old Katie Meyer. “I had a little, like terrible moment as a dad where I kicked it, but I kicked it a little too hard at my little Katie and it hit her in the chest and it knocked her down. And I’m like, ‘Oh my god, Gina is gonna be so mad at me.’ But Katie gets up and goes, ‘Is that all you got?’” he said.

Not only did she excel on the field, Katie Meyer also worked to foster a love for the sport in others. Tim Ward, Pepperdine head coach and Los Angeles Football Club coach, was a colleague of hers when she coached for girls’ soccer and remembers the energy she brought to practice each day and the way the girls looked up to her. “It doesn’t take a genius to know when you are in the presence of someone different, someone special, someone with a light force so big, so strong, that not only does it illuminate the space they occupy, but also the spaces and the people around them.

Katie was just that kind of force. She was that kind of life, God simply made her to shine brighter than most,” Ward said.

A close friend of Katie Meyer’s, Jonathon Deemer, always knew she was capable of achieving so much. “I remember thinking after that first day, then many times thereafter, this girl is going to change the world. And you know what? She did. Look around. Because at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter whether your memorial service is two months after your 22nd birthday or your 92nd,” Deemer said. “It’s an immeasurable loss both for her and for those whose lives she would have impacted that she won’t get to do more. But it’s impossible. She could not have been more.

Life is not measured in dollars or championship rings or degrees, it’s measured in the impact that you have. And my god, look at the impact that she has had.”

Soccer fans often recall the hand gesture Katie Meyer made after blocking the penalty kick which won Stanford the national championship. Temi Bolodeoku, a friend of hers, recalled her hesitancy to recreate the gesture. Katie Meyer told Bolodeoku that the reason she disliked recreating the gesture was, “never looking backwards, always looking forwards. The past is in the history and the future is a gift. Katie always wanted to create new memories, she had amazing past memories and we will remember her legacy, but I think her life stands a legacy for us and comforts us today as we reflect on her life.”

Just a few weeks ago, Steve Meyer visited his daughter at Stanford to be a guest on her new podcast-- she had insisted he be the first guest. “I jumped in my little blue Prius that has almost 300,000 miles on it and hit the 101 again and soon found myself with that beautiful face. She mostly interviewed me, but it ended up switching back and forth,” he said. “The last text I sent her was the next morning. . . I said, ‘I had the best time seeing you and just being with you. I hope you have an amazing day, I love you, Dad.’ and she texted back, ‘Aw, thanks for coming, I love you too.’

I’m blessed to be her dad.”

Without a doubt, Katie Meyer’s story does not end here-- family and friends will ensure that her legacy lives on. “[Katie,] you wanted to make big, big changes in this world and I promise you we have more coming for you. You’re not done yet. We’re gonna make some changes. It was the greatest honor and privilege to be your mom. I look forward to the day that I can see you again and I can hold you and I can stroke your hair. Until then, we will move forward. We know you’re watching over us. I love you my angel, my baby,” Gina Meyer said.

Top Right: Remembered- Katie Meyer will always be cherished for her outgoing personality. “She was perpetual motion, fierce, fearless, a twinkle of mischief in her eyes at all times. She was loyal and protective of her friends, her teammates, her family,” Gina Meyer said. “Katie was totally unapologetically herself.

Unapologetically full on Katie. And I love her for it and I’m so, so proud of her for that.” Katie Meyer/With Permission Bottom Right: Flash to the past- Samantha Meyer, Katie Meyer’s sister, holds her as the two bond. “One way [Katie] has continued loving us is through the signs that she’s shown that she’s happy and okay,” Samantha Meyer said. “I just want everyone to know that Kat loves all of you so much and that she’ll keep loving all of you.” Cassandra Chavarria/Prowler Bottom Left: Kicker!- Katie Meyer played starting kicker on the Newbury Park High School varsity football team for two seasons in October 2015. “Katie was hanging out at the field after practice kicking a soccer ball and a football,” said Gary Fabricius, football coach who scouted her. “She drilled the ball, it went right through (the posts). And I thought, wow, that is pretty good.” Samantha Meyer/Prowler alumni

VS

Student

Austin Thunnel/Student many total bones does a 1 How shark have in its body?

Cameron Winick Staff Writer

2-1

Thunnel: 230 Coull: 500 Answer: 0

Coull wins!

Just when you thought it was safe to go back into biology.

0-0

2

11 Teacher features

Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

Gregory Coull/Teacher wrote the “Twilight” book 5 Who series?

Thunnel: Sterling Meyer Coull: Samantha Meyer Answer: Stephanie Meyer

Close, but both are yet to “dazzle me.”

1-1

month does Hanukkah start 6 What this year?

Who was the first woman to ever be featured in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

Thunnel: November Coull: November Answer: December

Thunnel: I don’t know Coull: Janis Joplin Answer: Aretha Franklin

Well they’re certainly not spinning the dreidel first.

1-1

Neither gets R-E-S-P-E-C-T this round.

0-0

what state does the foul7 Inmouthed cartoon “South Park”

was the first American colony 3 What established by the British?

take place?

Thunnel: Jamestown Coull: Jamestown Answer: Jamestown

Thunnel: Georgia Coull: Colorado Answer: Colorado

4

artist is currently on tour for 8 What his most recent album, “Call Me If

Respect Coull’s authoritah!

2-1

Looks like they know their American history!

1-1

What was writer/director Quentin Tarantino’s first major film?

You Get Lost”?

Thunnel: I don’t know Coull: “Pulp Fiction” Answer: “Reservoir Dogs”

Cameron Winick/Prowler

Looks like the path of the righteous man wasn’t necessarily the right path.

1-1

Thunnel: Justin Bieber Coull: Harry Styles Answer: Tyler, the Creator

“I THINK” that neither knows much about Tyler.

2-1

Students present a sneak peak into their artistic sides Ava Prapaniku Staff Writer

Reese Kelem Chief Photographer

Creativity oozes out of students’ minds into various forms of art, photography and poetry, all of which were displayed at the NPHS art show from March 8 through March 10. The event was hosted in the cafeteria allowing students to come and admire the various pieces during their lunch and after school. After two years with no show, many students within NPHS’ art classes were eager to share their works with everyone.

Through exploring the ways their environment influences them and their relationship with femininity and being non-binary, Rachel Goldstein, senior, created a portfolio of work centered around unveiling the facade of suburbia, along with themes that tie motherhood and womanhood to loss and death. “The house that I have displayed is a sculptural representation of my childhood home. There were elements of unfinished pieces and that’s meant to represent the degradation of childhood over time and memories that stick around, even though they’re tainted by something darker and create a contrast with that artificial representation of suburbia,” Goldstein said.

Vance Horvath, senior, aspired to show people the reality behind mental health with his art. “I wanted to be able to express myself and give other people a better understanding of mental health that isn’t just like, ‘Oh, I’m

so sad’, because there’s more nuances with mental health that people don’t realize,” Horvath said.

Horvath used a variety of mediums to create pieces about mental health, ranging from digital art to painting with coffee. “My main medium I use is digital art because it’s easier and I know that the best. My other medium I use is watercolor, [which] for a physical medium it’s the one of the best. And then the other [pieces], I wanted to experiment [with different techniques] like drawing with coffee,” Horvath said.

Eric Lindroth, NPHS photography teacher, introduces students to a diverse world of photography techniques that aid them in their journey of creating their submission pieces. “It’s always a mix of what kids submit and a lot of the work is working on a sustained investigation, what AP and IB both pursue as a particular idea or concept. Most of them explore a particular theme within their work and that varies from student to student,” Lindroth said.

Many people appreciate art because of the freedom it gives to express oneself. “I enjoy being able to kind of capture anything that you want to. It’s incredibly versatile and every time you look at art from different people, it could be the same medium, the same theme and it can be interpreted completely different,” Goldstein said.

Color- Rachel Goldstein, senior, presented a portfolio of work representing their relationship with the environment and ideas that have influenced them. “I started focusing more on themes of womanhood and femininity and the ways that those have been influenced in my life from different sources and the kind of ties that I have grown to accept between womanhood and law,” Goldstein said. Reese Kelem/Prowler

12

entertainment Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

Students showcases skills at Talent Show Hayden Meixner News Editor

With a 300 dollar prize at stake, students of NPHS had the opportunity to show off their talents, whether that be singing or an entire Dance Dance Revolution routine.

After singing a rendition of Easy On Me by Adele, as well as the complementing piano part, Allie Mohelnitzky, sophomore, emerged the winner. Mohelnitzky began learning the piano piece months before the show. “I played it whenever I had the time to. And then I heard the talent show was coming up so I began learning how to sing with it, ”she said..

Mohelnitzky’s interest in singing sparked after witnessing a chorus performance. “I was in first grade when I started choir. I’ve been doing it ever since,’’ Mohelnitzky said. No stranger to performing, Mohelnitzky hopes to share her talents on Broadway one day, but first, the sophomore has other plans. “I want to pursue singing. I want to pursue musical theater throughout college,” Mohelnitzky said.

Alex Carter, senior, also sang on Friday’s show choosing a piece from the Broadway Musical, Mean Girls. To prepare, Carter practiced the song, even adding a special element. “I even started trying to learn choreography for it just so I could get a good stage presence,” Carter said. As for advice to students wanting to perform in future shows at NPHS. “I would say always have confidence. I think it can get you literally everywhere and anywhere. If you believe in yourself.

Others will believe it.” Carter said Some of the performances from Friday’s show carried a deeper meaning, especially for Keeva Kerrigan-Mize, a senior, who sang Lifeline by We Three. The song is about the struggles of mental health. “I’ve been struggling with my mental health this year. And part of me wanted to bring awareness” Kerrigan-Mize said. The senior had to improvise along the way to the stage. “I practiced

for quite a few weeks beforehand. To make sure I didn’t get anything wrong. I couldn’t find a karaoke version. So I had to make my own track.” Kerrigan-Mize said As for the prize money, Molhelnitzky has some fun plans, “I was thinking of putting it towards getting a car because I would love a car, I got my permit,” Mohelnitzky said.

Perform!- Edelain Mauta, sophomore, shows off her skills at the talent show that was held in the Performing Arts Center. Parker Bohl/Prowler

“The Batman” serves justice to the character Josie Gardner Staff Writer something to fear, something that lurks in the shadows, versus how at the end he talks about how he isn’t meant to be just the shadow but more of a symbol of light and hope in a city where there is none.

Gotham itself even helps to get the message across. The dark tint with the eerie lighting following the trend of red and black colors the city in the way Gotham should be. It represents itself as the home of villains while giving the impression that ordinary people, outside of the superhero bubble, live there.

The action sequences and the varying people within them provided clear shots and gave the audience an understanding of what was going on in the scene. Every new scene had a new fighting style which then brought a new character into light. Way too often, fighting sequences in movies are drowned out by their poor editing and cinematography.

Meanwhile, “The Batman” energizes its fight scenes using practical effects and simple yet effective editing techniques. A brilliant example of this is the car chase scene. Using simple filmmaking strategies, the creatives behind the movie were able to make an exhilarating chase only using cameras mounted on the sides of cars.

Reeves and the cast bring new energy to these almost century-old characters, staying true to their roots while simultaneously keeping it fresh.

Although DC has had a rough start with their movie franchise, “The Batman” has opened up new doors for their future.

“The Batman,” released March 4, 2022, paints the perfect view of what Batman is meant to be. Through the directing, acting and even lighting the ominous tone of Gotham and the hero himself is shown as it has always been intended.

Robert Pattinson stars as Bruce Wayne and with his performance brings to light how odd the character is. There have been many different Batmans and many actors have taken on the role with each showcasing different specific traits the character possesses, but Pattinson wanted to bring out the internal war the character is having with himself in year two of being Batman.

Some people may oppose the way Pattinson chose to represent the character because of how he portrayed the more social recluse chapter of Bruce Wayne, in comparison to Christian Bale’s version who was known for his philanthropy and playboy lifestyle. Even though there is controversy due to the differing representation from past films, I believe that with every new movie the character representation is the way it should be for that era. The originally bright filming scope used in the first movie in 1966 is drastically different to the dark focus most of the other movies have put into view.

Every detail in the movie was placed for a reason and it left you on the edge of your seat, waiting for what was next. The story was distinct and it followed through to the end, leaving just enough loose ends for you to want to see a sequel without leaving space for annoyance at the ending.

Director Matt Reeves executed the film perfectly. The dark idea of who Batman was when he started and the idea of who he became at the end of the movie are both so easily seen. At the beginning of the movie he narrates himself as Téa Sklar/Prowler

Ariela Behar Staff Writer Following his majorly successful record “Pony,” fans eagerly anticipated Rex Orange County (Alex O’Connor’s one man band) to release more heart wrenching music. However, when O’Connor released his chipper single “KEEP IT UP,” it was clear he would not be supplying the traditional break-up ballads he has become known for. His fourth album “WHO CARES?” is a comeback project filled with O’Connor’s iconic, raspy vocals.

Following “KEEP IT UP” on the 11 song tracklist is the single “OPEN A WINDOW (feat. Tyler, the Creator).” Though Tyler’s appearance felt brief, it was not lacking in quality;

Kai Mekari/Prowler

followers of both artists were delighted to hear the two collaborate again. A true standout within the album is “IF YOU WANT IT,” which breaks the boundaries of O’Conner’s typical sound due to his collaboration with producer Benny Sings. While the artist normally saves his strongest songs for the end, O’Connor’s closers, “SHOOT ME DOWN” and titular track, “WHO CARES?,” feel absent of the soul touching variable that listeners have become accustomed to at the end of a Rex Orange County album. Whereas O’Connor went the unexpected route, he has provided listeners with enjoyable tracks to last the whole summer.

entertainment

Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

13

Moorpark College struts into a production of “Kinky Boots” Ariela Behar Staff Writer Featuring music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper, Moorpark College opened the dazzling musical “Kinky Boots” on Thursday, March 10. The 2012 hit show is a true model of entertainment with its catchy melodies and slow-motion fight scenes, while also addressing stereotypes of transgender and queer people.

A humble shoe factory within England has been left to a passionless, and now fatherless, young man named Charlie Price. While on the verge of the company’s downfall, Charlie runs into an electrifying drag queen known as Lola who sparks his new business venture: the production of

Finale!- The cast joins together for the closing song of the show, “Raise you up/ Just Be”. Confetti flys through the air as the audience roars for the talented ensemble. Tiana Hoang/Prowler

flashy stiletto boots. He brings on Lola as a designer, but the pressures of the outside world, such as his demanding fiancee, unmanageable employees and bigotry just may crush the company and everyone involved.

The Moorpark College stage was impressively dynamic. It transforms from a worn down shoe factory into a colorful and flashy music bar before the audience’s eyes. The set was cleverly two levels high which allowed actors to fill up the entire stage. The lighting was also an impeccable factor of the show. During the more uptempo songs, the lights turned the numbers into what felt like an immersive music video. Within those same songs, the choreography truly stood out. It was sassy, extravagant and everything that should be a part of the dance numbers in “Kinky Boots.”

The double casted show contains an adept ensemble, many of which presented Broadway-like quality. On the show of March 13, Celina Kott, an NPHS alum, played the female lead of Lauren.

Her powerful voice and witty character choices easily make her one of the most lovable characters of the show. It is to no surprise that Christopher J. Thume, who stars as Lola, steals the spotlight anytime he is on stage. He perfectly encapsulates the fierceness, sensitivity and insecurity that complete the character of the lead drag queen. He owns every number he is in and sells the drama and comedy of the musical. But above all else, the show would not be whole without the Angel ensemble. Made up of eight diverse male actors, the Angels are the posse of Lola and never lack in extreme and fashionable outfits as well as high heel boots no shorter than three inches. None of them shied away from embodying total femininity as they slayed every number.

The quality of the cast, direction and overall production value go above and beyond what the average person would assume a community college could fabricate. Moorpark College has always put on spectacular productions, and “Kinky Boots” strongly follows suit.

“Inventing Anna” hooks audiences Anna Johnson Opinion Editor

Sk

la r/P

ro w

le

r

the “American Dream” doing anything they can, get punished for their actions.

My only complaint with the series was their portrayal of Rachel Williams, Delvey’s friend who fell victim to her cons with Delvey stealing $60,000 from her. The series painted her out to be an enemy to hate, turning in her friend in order to get her money back. Characters made fun of her for claiming financial and mental strain as a result of her experiences with Delvey because she was able to sell her story for enormous profit.

Trauma is debilitating in living life, making it hard to get out and go to work to provide for yourself; so if someone has an opportunity to use their story to make a profit, you might as well, getting something good out of these awful experiences. Putting money aside, Delvey still stole from Williams, and crimes need to be met with justice, which Williams was seeking. The way in which Delvey’s other friends ganged up on Williams for aiding the arrest of their “friend” was comical, as how can you stick up for a so-called friend who steals all of your money?

Té a

In 2019, supposed German heiress Anna Delvey was convicted of conning the upper classes of New York society into giving her around $250,000. After she was arrested in 2017, her story became known to the public, and “New York Magazine” writer Jessica Pressler became interested in writing her story. Netflix partnered with Shonda Rhimes to create a series based on Pressler’s experience investigating Anna Delvey, creating the addicting “Inventing Anna.”

The casting of “Inventing Anna” was spectacular. Anna Chlumsky delivered an amazing performance as Vivian Kent, the character based on Pressler. I felt one with her, struggling to stay motivated on such a complex investigative journalism piece while she faced sexism by her editor.

Julia Garner played a brilliant Anna Delvey, expertly stepping into the psyche of such a paradoxical character, one we both despise for her capability to con, but also admire for the way in which she uses her intelligence.

The storyline was expertly crafted, each episode focusing on one character whom Delvey conned, jumping in time to tell their story as Kent interviewed them. This kept me craving for more episodes, as each story helped put together the puzzle of how Delvey was able to steal so much money from so many people and still come out on top. Even though the criminal of the series was Delvey, the series manages to humanize her and even expose the sexist systems within American society that enable men to act foolishly and be rewarded for it, while women perish for the mistakes they make. Especially in the telling of Delvey’s lawyer Alan Reed, the series shows how men who defraud their companies can even be promoted, while women like Kent and Delvey who chase after

“Turning Red” is monstrously charming Cameron Winick Staff Writer From the first few moments of Pixar’s brand new movie, “Turning Red,” it’s very clear what tone the audience is to expect. While good, the movie itself lacks in some key areas that Pixar has perfected over the years. While it is easy to say that “Turning Red” is fun, it is not one of Pixar’s best.

Released on March 11, the film follows 13-year-old Meilin Lee. She’s a straight-A student, but lives under familial pressures. Things take a turn when Mei wakes up one day to find she has been transformed into a giant Red Panda. She learns that she must remain calm in order to control the “inner panda,” as to not let it out and keep her overbearing mother proud.

The film is a clear metaphor for puberty among young girls, and more specifically, menstruation. Seeing pads and tampon packages animated is shocking at first, until you realize that it should not be. It will hit home for many older kids who’ve been through puberty. Similarly, the film’s depiction of an overbearing parent will be immensely relatable to anyone who has felt pressured by a family member. Mei’s mother views herself as a necessary constant

Téa Sklar/Prowler

force in every aspect of Mei’s life, and views her daughter less as a person, and more of an extension of herself. In a movie full of cartoonish imagery and wacky scenarios, this is a shockingly realistic way of how demanding parents function and how they attempt to live vicariously through their children.

Although it’s flawed, the film has many unique strengths. Mei is a generally likable protagonist and the depiction of her relationship with her mother was probably the highlight of the entire film. Their back-and-forth was both funny and a great reflection of how domineering parents talk to their kids.

Pixar has a skill for telling unique stories that are able to spark the imagination of the general public. So, it really was not surprising that they were able to pull off a cute, if not messy, allegory for a topic that needs much more discussion than it is getting in the real world. Experiencing puberty and confronting parents is not something to be ashamed of, but instead shows the strength and bravery of kids. “Turning Red” serves as a modestly fun time and will be able to speak to a generation of younger audiences looking for comfort and reassurance.

14

sports Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

NPHS Track races towards New York Sarena Kabir Sports Editor Allison Nguyen Features Editor

On March 12 and 13, several track and field runners made their way to nationals in New York to compete against different high schools in the nation.

Six NPHS students participated in different events, including the 4xMile relay, a 2 mile championship race, a mile race and an 800 meter. Running 16:29.31 in the relay, Colin Sahlman, senior, Aaron Sahlman, Leo Young and Lex Young, juniors, were able to come out victorious.

In order to reach nationals, the team must be invited by those who host the event. “They basically just invited us because they wanted us to bring some attention into the race and stuff. So we’re like, okay, I guess we’ll just do our four by four mile and then it worked out well,” Leo Young said.

Preparing for nationals took long and hard work. “We do all of our workouts on a track. We’re training for either a mile or two mile, [and in comparison to cross country,] everything is usually a little bit shorter,” Leo Young said.

In order to perform well in the race, each runner must be in the right mindset. “Anything can happen during the meet. So you just have to be prepared physically and mentally, and [not] think about anything else. Just think about your race, and then just make sure you feel good,” Aaron Sahlman said.

Another big component for the team was to focus on their individual selves. “Our mindset going into the race was to stay calm and relaxed and focus on our individual race. We wanted to go out hard and close hard which we did very well,” Colin Sahlman said.

Following the race, the team’s morale was high. “We celebrated by doing a victory lap with the crowd cheering and giving high fives…It [also] feels amazing setting a new national record with this team. We continue to keep surprising ourselves and the nation,” Colin Sahlman said.

Once again, a new historical moment for NPHS was set, bringing pride to Shine- As runners from the NPHS track team came back home, many records were broken. Aaron Sahlman, junior, was one of the few that the team, and the school. “It’s [the race] exciting. It’s like a lot of the other races got the chance to go to New York. “The record has been there for a while so it feels really good to break it. Everyone was super supportive, everyone was cheering us on and it was just great,” Sahlman said. Colin Sahlman/With Permission that we’ve done well in, it’s just a fun environment, ” Leo Young said.

Hip hop choreographs creativity on campus Melissa Geher Staff Writer Once the music turns on, the excitement begins for the NPHS hip hop club as they practice for their next big number. Starting up at the beginning of the school year, the hip hop club strives to foster a collaborative environment to dance, choreograph and create.

Nour Abdelhadi, senior and co-captain and choreographer of the club, loves to oversee the positive energy that the club executes. Not having any studio training herself, Abdelhadi wanted to create a safe space where she and others in a similar position could come together and learn to dance. “My dance is less focused on technique and more fun, so that’s the best part about dance: to have fun and bond over it,” Abdelhadi said. “I’m less focused on the specific hard technique to match up. Hip hop is more of a free flowing dance style [and] it’s really fun because you could get really creative and have no boundaries.”

After locking in good choreography, Naomi Stewart, senior, co-captain and choreographer, is ecstatic to show others what the club has been working on during weekly practices. “Right now we are starting to make choreography and get ready for the spring concert that’s coming up, and we’re going to have more numbers then we had in the winter concert but we have a decent amount of time to work on our dances. In [addition] there’s gonna be a varsity lacrosse game that we’re performing at [halftime], ” Stewart said. “Cameo [Mrs. Carolan] talks to us about potentially pulling us out from our intermediate dances classes and having us teach a routine to an elementary school level class, so that’s something we might be doing in the future.”

The club ensures that all members, regardless of their background, will learn new dance moves that will be exciting to perform. Though Jessica Schwartz, senior, had taken some of the dance classes offered at NPHS, the hip hop club gave her an opportunity to focus on a particular style of dance. “I don’t really have any dance experience. I was a gymnast most of my life so this club has given me an opportunity to be able to dance and participate in something like that even though I don’t have any formal dance training,” Schwartz said. “I take lots of dance classes during school and a lot of my friends were talking about starting a hip hop that sounds really interesting. I want to get involved and I want to participate in all the concerts at the school.”

Through the thick and thin of high school, the hip hop club never fails to maintain a fun, safe environment for many to enjoy themselves while learning a new skill. “I love good vibes,” Abdelhadi said. “Knowing that I could make someone’s day better by just dancing with them is Just dance- (Left to right) Brianna Alfaro, Nour Abdelhadi and Rory Good, seniors, dance their hearts out at the IB so fun because everyone at practice is so excited to be there.” dance concert. “Hip hop is more of a free flowing dance style [and] it’s really fun because you could get really creative and have no boundaries,” Abdelhadi said. Pawprint Yearbook/With Permission

sports Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

15

NPHS Swim team dives into competition

Taylow Gibson Staff Writer

The NPHS swim team prioritizes repetition in practice in order to maintain success and accomplish their goals during this 2022 spring season.

Reese Bentley, sophomore, swims for the varsity team and has been swimming competitively since she was nine. Outside of the high school team, Bentley also swims for a club team. “I am more prepared and have had the exposure to long training sessions as well as meets that are back to back,” Bentley said. “It has allowed me to learn different skills and strategies from various coaches as well, and as a result of doing club in between seasons, I continue to see improvement in my times and stroke.”

Because she swims with club teams outside of school, Bentley has seen greater improvements which help her swimming for NPHS. “By swimming year round, you will see major differences in your times and technique. If I just go as much as 4-5 days with no practice, it is hard to keep up,” Bentley said. “That’s why club swim is beneficial to help maintain your endurance as well as stay active and continue to develop your stroke.”

Bentley swims with John de Vere, sophomore on the varsity team, who has been swimming for about eight years. De Vere swims for two club teams outside of high school, Daland Swim School and Horizon Swimming. “It definitely helped with falling in love with the sport and getting my core form down as well,” de Vere said.

De Vere’s motivation when it comes to swimming has a lot to do with breaking records as well as making friends. “I love the thrill of getting a new PR. That thrill is why you love swim. I also like the social part of it during and after meets going to dinner,” de Vere said.

Swimming has become important to de Vere over the years and he is now able to make it a priority. “It’s a source of happiness for me. I enjoy swim a lot and it brings me joy which brings importance and purpose to it,” de Vere said.

Thea Duc, senior, and captain of the varsity team, has been a part of the high school team for four years. “Being a captain, I love seeing all of the other people swim, so really just being with my friends and having fun competing, getting faster times, is how I stay motivated,” Duc said.

Duc’s biggest success in swim was during her junior season. “Last season, I dropped 17 seconds in my 500 free. The 500 is the distance event in high school and I’m the only girl consistently swimming it, so it was pretty awesome,” Duc said.

While practicing, Duc has a lot to think about in terms of bettering herself and performance.

“So I’m injured, but I try to work on making sure I move through the motions correctly so I can swim for longer and not be in pain,” Duc said. “My favorite thing about practice is getting good distance sets. I like to ask for personalized sets so I can really work towards my own goals.”

During meets, Bentley tends to have a lot running through her mind. “I am of course Stroke- Finn Classen, sophomore, swims alongside his teammates during practice at NPHS. “It’s essentially an “escape” nervous, hoping I don’t miss my event or get disqualified. But, I think of all the things I have once you step on the pool deck, you forget all about the stress and chaos in your life and just end up having a good time worked on in practice with my coaches and apply that to my race. I also think of strategies for laughing with teammates,” said Reese Bentley. Tiana Hoang Prowler how I swim each particular event,” Bentley said.

Newbury Park stunt cheer team soars into action Rithu Velu Staff Writer

The Newbury Park stunt cheer team eagerly counted down to the start of the spring season, working hard to perform their best at the first regular season competition on March 25 at Agoura High School.

For many on the team, their love for stunt cheer sparked years before beginning high school. Lauren Kulle, sophomore and second year stunter, views stunting as more than just a competitive sport, but also a personal hobby.

“I’m personally a big fan of stunting, and it’s always been like a hobby of mine. I started going to a class that taught me how to stunt, and once I found out that I was pretty good at it, I decided to try out for cheer,” Kulle said.

Along with stunt cheer during the spring, NPHS is also home to a spirit cheer team in the fall. The two both have distinguishing factors and different purposes. “[Stunt Cheer] is very strict and it’s more of a competition level, because there are judges who are watching the tape to see how many corrections you have. And the overall point of stunt cheer is to be as perfect as you can. Whereas spirit, there’s a lot of flexibility,” Kulle said.

Similar to many other sports, Stunt Cheer games consist of four quarters, each with a different routine.

Kailey Johns, senior, has experienced the competition atmosphere since freshman year.“ The first quarter is called partner stunts, the second quarter is pyramids, the third quarter is jumps and tumbling, and the fourth quarter is all of those combined,” Johns said. “Both teams are going at the same time, and the judges watch the film back and see what mistakes were made.”

Kaleigh Catalano coached the team in 2019, and is returning back to support them with her coaching and high school stunting experience. “Our goal is to just do our very best, and we all want to be the best in the league and go to CIF. I want to stay humble and just take on one game at a time,” Catalano said. “We try really hard and most of us are really healthy. I think it’s going to be a good competition season.”

Through the uniqueness of the sport, the stunt cheerleaders strive to show the strength and effort that it takes to be a strong member of the team. “I would recommend anyone who doesn’t even have any interest at all, to at least come to one competition to just watch or see what goes on because I feel like a lot of people underestimate what we do. And it takes a lot of hard work and strength,” Kulle said.

Rah rah- Leilah Edwards, freshman, is held up while the team practices various stunt tricks, preparing for their upcoming competition against Calabasas. “We are ready to compete. We try really hard so I think it’s gonna be a good competition season,” said coach Kaleigh Catalano. Cameron Winick/Prowler

16

back cover Panther Prowler • March 28, 2022

Collaboration- As performances were widespread among the NPHS campus, this event was able to take place with the help of parent and student volunteers. Noah Crystal, junior, worked as an usher to ensure the event went smoothly. “I let people in and out and made sure nobody disrupted the performance,” Crystal said.

Em Ala erso ba n F nza uen /Pr tes ow ler

Motivation- Brandon Fields, one of the guest performers, was part of “Jeff Babko and Friends,” and shared his talent and passion for music with his saxophone.

Jinyo Park, senior, was astonished by the performance given.

“Brandon Fields, Walt Fowler, Jimmy Johnson, and Chad Wackerman–their performance was just extraordinary,” Park said. “The balance of each instrument was perfect and the music was just phenomenal.”

Jazz festival lights up NPHS Gwen Buchanan/ Prowler

Karyss Amato Front Cover Editor All photos by Tiana Hoang/Prowler On Saturday, March 19, the NPHS campus lit up with the sound of jazz music as the Panther Band held their annual Jazz Festival. Audience members enjoyed walking through a variety of destinations all around campus to see the spectacular performances put on by middle and high school jazz groups from local schools. This unique festival allowed the students to display their love and passion for music while also growing and learning from the experience. Aside from student performances, there were also amazing guest musicians who impressed the audience and inspired the young musicians.

Prowler

tes-Alabanza/

Emerson Fuen

Growth- Jeff Babko was one of the adjudicators for this year’s festival and is seen playing piano. The adjudicators left their impact on the band students. “They were able to perform in the presence of the best of the best and receive genuine feedback and suggestions for improvement,” Kwon said.

Melody- With Jazz Festival’s success, band members are able to use the inspiration and self reflection to turn it into motivation.

The band’s hard work left was apparent in their performance.

“This would not have been possible if the ensembles did not spend hours trying to make the best out of their sounds as possible, and work together to achieve their goals,” Park said.

Inspiration- A professional guest performance by “Jeff Babko and Friends” brought excitement and life to the audience.

Inspired by their talent, David Kwon, junior, turned his reflection into self motivation. “Each member's professionalism and expertise was truly inspiring to me as a musician,” Kwon said.

“Given the audience's intense reaction, I'm certain that it was the highlight of many other young musicians' experience at the event.”