December 19 2019

The Student Newspaper of Seattle Preparatory School 2400 11th Ave. E. Seattle, WA 98102

The Seattle Prep Panther December 19, 2019

www.seapreppanther.org

Volume 75 No. 3

Twitter: @seapreppanther Instagram: @seapreppanthers

O H L Y I D P A P Y A S H

This 1946 Frank Capra movie stars Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, an incredibly generous man who finds himself in a financial and personal crisis at Christmastime. The

Leading up to December 25th, trees are decorated with lights and ornaments while stockings are hung by the fire place. The morning of the 25th, families gather under the Christmas tree and open

At the triannual Coffee House, an array of talents is shown. Students and staff sing, rap, do traditional dance, spoken words, play instruments, you name it. In recent years, Coach Scott and

The decade is coming to an end and so much has happened and changed in our world throughout these past 10 years. With this decade coming to

If one pays attention during this December, one may notice that radio stations, stores, retail workers,

A recent meme has been going around social media sites called “Ok, Boomer� The context of this meme, is that if a boomer, or an older person says something that could be outdated,

EDITORIALS

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EDITORS: WALID CRUZ-VANEGAS '20, GAEL LOOR '22, MILO PEPPER ‘20

THE PANTHER | DECEMBER 19, 2019

THE PANTHER Editors-in-Chief Maddie Deasy '20 Sophie Jurion '20 Managing Editor Tessa Zink '21 Visuals Editor Grace Weiand '20 Digital Editors Lauren Day '20 Danica Dytioco '20 Staff Cyrus Berger '20 Walid Cruz-Vanegas ‘20 Karl Kammereck '20 Milo Pepper ‘20 Sofia Simon '20 Jackie Williams '20 Abby Allen '21 Cece Brown '21 Caroline Casey '21 Tia Flores ‘21 Clara Malone ‘21 Olivia Manning '21 Kelly McGarry '21 Natalie Nowak '21 Addie Roza '21 Maya Shields '21 Paige Stanley '21 Gabby Stuart '21 Will Thompson '21 Cara Weigand '21 Piper Wood '21 Hobbs Hegedus '22 Beni Jurion '22 Gael Loor '22 Kate Ridgeway '22 Jack Coleman '23 Jeffrey Go '23 Margot Gwynn '23 Kaitlyn King '23 Annie Roske '23 Raquel Wong '23 Freelance Staff Annabelle Deasy '22 Nick Pickel '23 Adviser Micah Richardson

EDITORIAL POLICY The Seattle Prep Panther is a forum for student work and the editorial board makes final decisions regarding publication. The editorial board’s responsibility is not only to present one viewpoint, but to reveal multiple perspectives. The views represented in the Panther or in online publications do not necessarily represent the views of the entire staff, the school, or the administration as a whole.

To contact The Panther: C/O The Panther Newspaper 2400 11th Ave E. Seattle, WA 98102 Email: seapreppanther@seaprep.org Instagram: @seapreppanthers Twitter: @seapreppanther Letters to the Editor: The Panther staff welcomes letters as they give a constructive way for more people to express their opinions, criticisms, and reactions to school issues.

Letters may be sent to the email address or physical address above. All letters must be signed, names will be published.

Social Media Stalking DANICA DYTIOCO '20 Digital Editor

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here is the balance in exposing yourself to the world, to maintaining a sense of privacy? Entire identities can be found within a single Google search; public forums are made readily available to reveal someone’s political affiliation, personal cell phone number to even their home address.

Within the past few years, social media stalking has become more immediate and normalized than ever. It’s not an uncommon question to ask your friends for their location, or to look through someone’s tagged photos on Instagram. Many keep their social medias updated on their location on their own volition through geotagging with Facebook check-ins or posting on their preferred platform’s “story” feature. Features built into social media can easily track a person’s online activity, from the retired Instagram activity page, to checking someone’s Snapchat score to check if a friend is active or being able to view another’s Spotify activity.

To Mr. Danielson, Prep’s media literacy teacher, he found that “Snapmaps was a jump in tracking” and with it allowed for kids to feel more like social outcasts.

For instance, since users can see when all their friends’ “bitmojis” are all at the same place without them, Danielson states that it can “suddenly make kids feel removed or isolated … and it’s like can you imagine what that would be like for somebody who's already sensitive about how they fit in, to suddenly realize that all these people were at this event that they didn’t get invited to.”

Through these features, Danielson believes “it just opens up the opportunity for cyberbullying in a very subtle way to become more acute, more often used.”

While most people are not avid online stalkers, the actions of what is considered normal only pushes the boundaries of casual social media stalking and creating more extremes. As harmless as it seems to

“it just opens up the opportunity for cyberbullying” - Mr. Danielson keep a location on, it still exposes users to revealing their daily routines and home address, leaving them vulnerable to harassment and real-life stalking.

For instance, The Guardian reported in October 2019 in Tokyo, Japan, a man tracked a local popstar through a train station sign reflected in one of her pictures from her regular commute. From there, all he had to do was wait at the station until she arrived before he assaulted her. In the age before the prevalence of social media, the idea of constantly knowing the actions and location of another would be considered invasive and predatory. Now, no one blinks an eye if someone decides to document every meal or activity.

Though it is difficult to fully quantify victims of online stalking, as harassers can be anywhere from across the globe or a

next-door neighbor. Many victims may not even realize that they are victims as social media allows for anonymity. The anonymity protects the harassers as they can create falsified online personas protecting their identity while victims have no tangible way to identify them. In the case of cyberstalking, many cases go unreported because of the inability to fully track who view a post or tweet, reported cases are often events that have escalated to the point where the stalker has made contact.

Social media allows others to constantly stream their lives into an endless void just for the hopes that anyone will listen, but this need to be heard brings on unwanted attention. Though users may feel safe with private social medias, so much can still be revealed about a user in a hundred fifty character count bio publicly available to all. There, viewers can learn of a user’s school, first and last name or connections to other accounts online.

Danielson advises to “‘think before you post, not just think about the way someone else might interpret it, but think about how it becomes part of a portfolio of who you are on the web, and this footprint, this digital footprint that follows you for the rest of your life.”

Now that social media has grown into an extent of ourselves, it is important to grow cautious with how much an online persona reflects the reality. Though users may feel that personal connection to their following, but there should always be a sense of caution with every post because at the end of the day, users don’t have full control over who may view it.

The Third Impeached POTUS

GRACE WEIAND '20 Visuals Editor

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itting in my living room, watching PBS News with my parents, I was struck by just how crazy this impeachment inquiry is. I asked my mom, “how are these people so calm?” referring to George Kent and William Taylor, who were questioned on the first day of the hearing. It seemed impossible to me that two men (who are certainly going to be written about in history books) could be so composed on such an occasion. More than anything, their sincerity struck me. In a time when Twitter call-outs are a daily occurrence, seeing such serious public officials speak honestly is surprising.

I know that I have a certain view of politics because of the world that I surround myself in. I also know that the impeachment inquiry is a groundbreaking event. Only three other times in American history has there been a formal impeachment inquiry into a sitting president. The gravity of the situation our country is facing is enormous, and it somehow feels like just another day in America.

It’s clear to me that many Americans today have grown numb to the routine of politics today. I recognize this in myself too. The constant stream of chaos can sometimes make me feel like there are people in power who don’t realize the weight of their jobs.

Numbness is dangerous- that itch to look away every time a new scandal happens allows me to become a bystander.

Politics are no doubt a touchy subject, but I believe every American has a duty to be informed about the situation our country has

found itself in. I know it can be difficult to have inclusive conversations about politics when it seems like every issue is so divisive.

In my AP US Government and Politics class at Prep, we have opportunities every day to share our opinions about issues like the electoral college, the campaign finance system, and impeachment. Learning about civics in an educational environment has been valuable as I navigate my beliefs in advance of next year’s election, when myself and many of my peers can vote.

I’ve learned about framing my beliefs in a way that is sympathetic to others to encourage productive conversations, not hostility.

Most of all, I’ve learned that being informed

is the best way to be an active member of our democracy.

I ask that we all pay attention to the history that is unfolding in front of our eyes.

Participation in the political process is not excluded to those who can vote. It can start with a small action, like watching the news, reading an article, or asking a question. Prep is filled with people who are informed, but most of all care about our democracy. Take advantage of the massive knowledge that is always at your fingertips. We are in the midst of a unique, groundbreaking situation, and paying attention is the way to start understanding.

Illustration: Dario Cababa-Wood '21

PREP LIFE DECEMBER 19, 2019

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EDITORS: ADDIE ROZA ‘21, GABBY STUART ‘22, CARA WEIGAND ‘21

Teachers Spend Christmas Around the World GAEL LOOR ‘22 Staff Writer

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veryone has their own Christmas traditions. People always hear about what friends did for Christmas, where they went, or what presents they got.

However, most students don’t usually hear much from your teachers.

When he was younger, Mr. Engel used to be the “bah humbug” type when it came to Christmas. However, he finds the holiday more exciting with a family of his own. During the holiday season, Engel and

NATALIE NOWAK ‘21 ABBY ALLEN ‘21 Staff Writers

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he holiday season is here! But what does this mean? For some, this time of celebration peaks with Christmas.

For others, the big celebration takes the form of Hanukkah. However, for everyone, the season is full of traditions and festivities.

Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Leading up to December 25th, trees are decorated with lights and ornaments while stockings are hung by the fire place.

The morning of the 25th, families gather under the Christmas tree and open presents delivered by Santa Claus the night before.

Despite Christmas’s commercialization, it is not the only holiday during this time. Hanukkah, a Jewish festival, starts on

MILO PEPPER ‘20 Staff Writer

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his year, Seattle Prep Chess looks to make a run at a state title. First team members Elias Winnard ‘20 and Emanuel Costea ‘20 are returning members that are especially excited for the season.

Last year, Prep sent one team comprised of five individuals to compete in the state tournament. “We hope to send at least one team, if not two,’’ said Winnard. “With the amount of talent on the team this year, I expect us to compete at the highest level.”

With a staggering 121 million possible board outcomes after just the first three moves, Chess is a game that requires players to not only be able to react to any situation, but to also plan ahead. “I love chess because it’s the ultimate brain teaser” said Costea.

“It’s a game that requires real skill and calculation.”

Outside of ordinary practice after school, many players take to online forums such as Chess.com or Lichess.org to enhance their skills against unknown virtual opponents. “I play easily an hour of online chess every day,’’ remarked Gael Paez ‘20.

TESSA ZINK ‘21 Managing Editor

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a group of friends from Prep go on a vacation. This year they are planning on going skiing in Big White, Canada. He describes it as cool and fun to be hanging out with friends and family and watching his and his friends’ kids play together. For Christmas, he spends the day locally with his family.

Every Christmas morning, his wife makes him his favorite egg casserole dish she learned from her aunt. His wife’s birthday also falls on Christmas Day, so it’s extra special and the house usually has a lot of decorations.

After a 12 hour+ flight across the

Atlantic Ocean, Señora Navarro celebrates Christmas with her family in Spain. In Spain, Christmas is more of a celebration and being with loved ones, so family is something of importance. Being a Catholic country, Christmas Eve is a big day and Navarro gets invited to the family’s house to eat. Roasted lamb is a popular food there along with seafood and cookies. Some people go to the midnight mass. Christmas day is about spending time with family but in Spain, Christmas Eve is more meaningful.

The kids get their presents on January 6th, which is the Epiphany or more commonly

known as Three Kings Day. There are some who get presents from Santa on Christmas Day too. One thing that Navarro really likes about spending the holidays in Spain is that it is very festive there and you can walk around and see beautiful nativity scenes.

Spain also isn’t as present oriented as the U.S., but instead is more about connecting and being with family.

Everyone celebrates the Christmas season differently. Whether they eat certain foods, have certain Christmas traditions, or go on vacation, everyone celebrates the holidays with family.

the 25th day of December and lasts eight days long. Hanukkah celebrates the rededication of the Temple of Jerusalem that was taken back from the Maccabees. For each of the nine nights, a candle is lit. Other Hanukkah traditions include playing with dreidels, eating gelt, and enjoying different gifts.

The holidays contain many different traditions for different people. For freshman Sophia Hayre, her favorite Christmas activities are “going to candy cane lane, having family dinners, and staying up until midnight on New Years Eve.”

For everyone this is a time for family. Older siblings in college come home, families travel to see relatives in different places, and family friends gather to celebrate. Many consider reuniting with their families to be the best part of the holiday.

Hayre can’t wait to spend time with her

brother, who is returning from college.

Sophomore John O’Donnell agrees that family is the best part of the holidays.

He looks forward to seeing his family members because he “gets to tell stories of what he has done in the past year.”

For junior Andrew Levinger the holiday season is very busy as his family celebrates Christmas and Hanukkah. Andrew shares how going to a Catholic school teaches him a lot about Christianity so for him Hanukkah becomes “an opportunity to learn more about a religion I know significantly less about.”

On top of his Christmas traditions of visiting family and making Mexican pork soup Levinger and his family celebrate Hanukkah by lighting the menorah every night and saying the prayers attached to that process. Levinger looks forward to making and

eating a traditional Jewish dinner of Latkes and Matzo ball soup each year. While these traditions are constant for his family, he shares how the last few years, his grandma has hilariously been shipping his family a box of 50+ fruits as a Hanukkah gift. “It started with apples and then went to pears and then last year was mangoes.”

Prep students celebrate their holiday seasons with different traditions, people, and food every year. While the specifics of it all vary from family to family and faith to faith, the values of family, celebration, and tradition are apparent in every story. Holidays are experiencing that bond students with their roots and their families which is most likely people look forward to them so eagerly every year.

The Holiday Happenings

Grand Masters in the Making

“I love playing a variety of opponents and sometimes even the computer.”

Returning player Cooper Klein ‘20 appreciates the game as well as the Chess Club in its entirety. “It’s really interesting to see all of the different ways games can work out and satisfying when you recognize outcomes or strategies you never noticed before,’’ commented Klein. “I didn’t just join Chess Club to play chess, because I really enjoy the community of players all with different levels of experience working towards a common goal.”

Because chess does not require athleticism it is often overlooked as a sport, however Manoli Tramountanas ‘20 sees chess as more than just a game. “As someone who does not represent Prep on the athletic front, I am very proud to wear that blue and white polo,’’ said Tramountanas. “Chess practice is like any other sport practices. One works on their craft every day.”

As the Seattle Prep Chess team kicks off the winter season, players try to remember the most important quote that truly embodies the essence of chess: “they say the body is just a vessel for the mind. Truly, the mind is just a vessel for chess.”

Photo: Nick Pickel Seattle Prep Chess Team is busy preparing for future matches. They engaged in a civil war between Seattle Prep A and B teams.

Look for QR codes throughout the paper to see short companion films created by Seattle Prep Film Club.

Scan here to see Check!

Giving Tree Inspires Prep Community

ach year the Seattle Prep community participates in “The Giving Tree”, a program run by the senior Faith in Action class designed to provide donations to those in need. This year’s Faith in Action class decided to take a different approach to the assembly portion.

Typically, the giving Tree assembly is centered around a theme. In past years, themes have included, “So-Cal Christmas” and a “Charlie Brown Christ-

mas” this year the FIA class wanted to focus on the most important aspect of the time: the giving. Four organizations are being recognized and supported in this year’s giving tree: Urban Rest Stop, St. Martin de Porres Shelter, St. Martin’s at Westlake, and Jesuit Refugee Services.

Urban Rest Stop is an organization with three locations in Seattle that provides a “clean, safe, and welcoming facility where individuals and families experiencing homelessness” can use their facilities such as restrooms, showers, or laundry, at no cost. They also provide basic necessities

such as soap and toothpaste. Seattle Prep is called to donate tooth brushes, toothpaste, toiletries, and feminine products.

The St. Martin de Porres shelter is a night shelter in Seattle that provides a place to sleep for men 50 years and older experiencing homelessness. For the St. Martin de Porres shelter, Prep is asking for students to bring in the towels. St. Martin’s at Westlake, “provides 53 units of single-room-occupancy housing for chronically homeless men 55 years of age and older” for St. Martin’s at Westlake, there is a tree outside of Ms. White’s office with gift tags.

Lastly Jesuit Refugee Service “seeks to accompany, serve, and advocate the cause of refugees and other forcibly displaced people, that they may heal, learn and determine their own future.” With donations raised in class, collegios can determine where the donations are put, whether to primary education for students or desks.

The Giving Tree’s purpose is help others this holiday season and inspire Seattle Prep students to be grateful and to share.

PREP LIFE

4 THE PANTHER | DECEMBER 19, 2019

EDITORS: CYRUS BERGER ‘20, HOBBS HEGEDUS ‘22, BENI JURION ‘22

Beloved Triannual Prep Tradition Coffee House Returns TIA FLORES ‘21 Staff Writer

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hree times a year, students pack into Prep’s Fr. Thomas Healy, SJ theater and chapel to celebrate their peers and Prep staff as they display their talents at Coffee House.

According to Prep’s Director of Diversity, Deino Scott, the staff coordinator of Coffee House, this highly-enjoyed event was started by retired Prep choir director Mr. Beyer. It began 10-15 years ago as a small event in the school cafeteria, then as it gained popularity, eventually made its way into the theater.

Named after coffee houses, coffee shops, or cafés, “Typically, these [performances] are the kind of things they do there.

Outside of school, we didn’t start it. There, people drink coffee and snap their fingers to the open-mic concept that’s most common in east coast coffee houses,” said Scott.

At the triannual Coffee House, an array of talents is shown. Students and staff sing, rap, do traditional dance, spoken words, play instruments, you name it. In recent years, Scott and student coordinators have added that anyone who participates gets their name raffled into a $50 or $100 Amazon gift card. Thus, it is not a contest, but a talent show.

Sophomore Ian Orejana, one of last year’s Amazon gift card winners. He sang “Be My Mistake” by The 1975 with a guitar.

“I was really was just waiting for my name to be called while being nervous,” says Orejana. However, he says “The audience was very respectful. Many of my friends were there to watch and support me which was very relieving for me.”

In past years, a number of faculty/ staff have displayed their musical geniuses, including Prep’s network systems administrator Mr. Nguyen playing his guitar and science teacher Ms. Tordillos playing her cello. Math teacher Mr. Ellinger is one faculty/staff member repeatedly seen on the stage. A dramatic reading, acapella Irish singing, and playing songs on the guitar are some of the talents he has shown in the six times he’s performed. Mr. Ellinger has also done a duet with now graduated Eli Pasco ’17, with him on guitar and Pasco on his Irish tin whistle.

“I like performing, even though I’m much less confident about going solo in public. Drama was my thing in high school and college, and this stretches me,” said Ellinger. He said that the crowd is always, in all caps, super supportive.

The first Coffee House of this school year was held on Friday, December 13, 2019. It was coordinated by senior Rosy Chavez ’20 who also emceed the event.

“One of my favorite performances was last year when our DIVCO (Diversity Council) executives danced and rapped to jingle bells,” said Chavez. “They wore ugly Christmas sweaters and rapped their hearts out.”

Scott admits that over the last few years, Coffee House has dwindled due to students being very busy. The first few Coffee Houses that he went to at Prep have had around 20 acts, but in recent years, it’s been averaging 10-12.

“Sadly, I feel like coffee house has decreased in popularity,” agrees Chavez.

“I think it has to do with people feeling embarrassed to go up on stage and doing something in front of their peers and getting

Photo: Tia Flores Jackson Shoemaker ‘22 and Sophia Hawkes ‘22 perform at the December Coffee House. This is one of three annual Coffee Houses. laughed at.”

Though, Chavez assures that it’s a talent show minus the contest feeling of it all. “At the end of the day, it’s all about having fun, not winning.”

This most recent Coffee House, there were eight acts with less than 40 audience members in the theater space. These performances included Father Ryan Rallanka and choir director Mr. Weeks playing their favorite holiday songs on the piano, as well as Collegio teacher Mr. Kiehn performing two songs on the flute. Seven students displayed their talents on the stage; playing the piano, singing, and playing the guitar.

Seniors Aisha Mounir ’20 and Clare Todd ’20 played and sang “Oh, Ms. Believer” by Twenty One Pilots on the piano. On the audience, Mounir ’20 says, “There were few of them, but they had energy.”

“The acoustics are great,” says

Todd ’20. “Everyone was very supportive and it was very fun. Everyone was having a good time.”

The next Coffee Houses are on March 6th, 2020 from 3-5 pm, with one more to be scheduled during Arts Week in May 2020. Close to the event date, signup sheets will be posted in the OSL and on bulletin boards near the theater.

“If you feel confident enough to do some sort of act in front of your friends or random people, I think it will be fun for you. Coffee House is not meant to be a competition, so there shouldn’t be anything to worry about,” said Orejana ’22.

“Go for it!” said Chavez ’20.

“Coffee House is about expressing yourself and showing off your talents to your peers.

Even if you aren’t the best at something, that’s okay because everyone cheers for you while you are on stage. Just have fun!

What’s the worst that can happen?”

Ok, Boomer: The Controversial Wakeup Call Meme

CLARA MALONE ‘21 KELLY MCGARRY ‘21 Staff Writers

iPhones, social media, and Millenials; these are all things your grandparents might not like.

“Ok, Boomer” is the new rhetoric to talk back to people of an older generation. Baby Boomers are the generation that are currently ages 55-75. A recent meme has been going around social media sites called “Ok, Boomer” The context of this meme, is that if a boomer, or an older person says something that could be outdated, then “Ok, Boomer” can be used as a response to dismiss them.

Mr. Hickey, Seattle Prep President believes “it means that millennials are sick

of baby boomers constantly giving advice and having an air of superiority. Millennials believe that boomers need to move on so that the next generations can take over leadership. In other words, millennials are tired of boomers.”

Kate Oest-Larsen ’22, a member of Gen Z, also explains it in a similar way, as, “if someone from the older generation says something kind of off that something that doesn’t apply to the younger generation, then you could say, Ok Boomer,” She also shares that it doesn’t only apply as a response to boomers, “You would say ok boomer to someone if you are trying to make a point.”

Mr. Peterhans explains the reasoning for the meme to occur in the first place:

“there’s a critique on the way boomers behaved, and rightfully so.” Peterhans is frustrated that this is even necessary in the first place as he would like people to focus more on issues such as Climate Change: “My frustration are the people my age who didn’t heed the warnings and could’ve.” He also expressed some appreciation for the Baby Boomer generation as he claims: “the technology we enjoy today were really brought to you by us. We did a lot of the design and implementation.” But he firmly believes that there are problems the Baby Boomer generation carries, as “drug abuse and rationalization of drug use” became rampant and “the issues of poverty and urban inequity” are still ongoing today.

Hickey added, ““Ok, Boomer” is

funny and has sparked a really good conversation. Any boomers who take it as offensive or ageist needs to lighten up and not take themselves so seriously.”

Hickey also thinks it can be an important wakeup call in today’s current political climate, Hickey says, “Ok, Boomer is timely as we look at the presidential election – there’s a battle in the Democratic party between boomer candidates and those who think it’s time for fresh faces. So, “OK boomer” has really hit a nerve, touched on some tension that is very real.”

Overall, “Ok Boomer” was created as a joke, meant for people to better understand why they should be more open. Peterhans states that “those who are offended should simply just get over it.”

Disney Plus: Everything You Need to Know

HOBBS HEGEDUS ‘22 & BENI JURION ‘22 Staff Writers

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etflix, Hulu and HBO, are considered to be essential streaming services. The Walt Disney Company is now entering the highly competitive market with Disney+. Disney+ hosts an enormous library of 650 titles ranging from 1937 to today. From launch, Disney+ will have overarching categories for Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and Nation Geographic with aspirations to include 85 years of 20th Century Fox and the television network ABC.

Despite launching with over 650 titles, this pales in comparison to the enormous libraries of Netflix, Amazon and Hulu, but Disney is confident that their extremely popular film list will convince buy-

ers to subscribe. The service will include 50 Disney popular cartoons such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and Frozen.

Almost the entire Pixar library has made the transition to Disney+ and same with the Star Wars franchise with the exception of Last Jedi and Rise of Skywalker. (Last Jedi will transition from Netflix to Disney+ at the end of December and Rise of Skywalker is releasing in December.) Marvel currently has 22 hit-movies on Dis-

ney+ and the rest also transitioning from Netflix in 2020.

Disney+ is also launching new series on the platform. “The Mandalorian” is currently the channel’s biggest title and has already become a hit show with a 9.1 IMDb. Many fans of the show, including those at Prep already considering it to be the “best Star Wars release since the Original Trilogy.”

With the arrival of Disney+, many begin to consider if they should cancel their Netflix sub-

scription in favor of Disney. “I feel that Disney+ will have more quality shows than Netflix” says Ian Holloway ‘22.

The price is also a major persuading factor, as seen George Mualluays ‘23 testimony when asked if he will buy Disney+ he responded, “Why wouldn’t I get it, it’s only seven bucks a month.”

“The House of the Mouse” is using their cheap price of $6.99 a month, compared to Netflix at $13.99 a month, to reach new customers. It is also hosting a bundle of Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ at $12.99 which is still cheaper than Netflix.

Time will tell if Disney’s plunge into the streaming world will be successful against existing streaming giants. So far, Disney has the high ground on prices and exclusive shows, so only time will tell who will be the victor in the streaming war.

PREP LIFE EDITORS: CLARA MALONE ‘21, KELLY MCGARRY ‘21, MAYA SHIELDS ‘21

5 DECEMBER 19, 2019

Christmas Fun Tops Winter To-do List

MAYA SHIELDS ‘21 Staff Writer

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Seattle Center Ice Rink Head down to the Seattle Center with family or some close friends for ice skating at the Winter Fest ice rink. All levels are welcome, and skates are included in the admission price.

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Decorate/bake cookies A fun activity that is not only fun but provides a delicious treat at the end.

Get in the holiday spirit by grabbing some friends and baking cookies that can be decorated with all different holiday designs. Express your creativity by thinking outside the box with original cookie shapes and decorations! A perfect indoor activity for a snow day.

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Snowflake Lane – Bellevue Square Nov. 29th-Dec 24th Get to Bellevue Square by 7pm, and catch the full show of live performances, Christmas music, and a Christmas parade, concluded with the falling of fake snow.

Make a whole night out of this with dinner and some Christmas shopping, too.

Westlake Center Christmas Tree Westlake Center is a great place to get some holiday shopping done, and there is no shortage of fun holiday activities. From visiting the giant Christmas tree to riding the holiday carousel, there’s something fun to explore with family or friends.

Make gingerbread houses With family, or with friends, create lots of fun while making gingerbread houses. Spice it up and make it a competition or work together to make a grand gingerbread mansion.

Visit the gingerbread village at the Sheraton Grand Seattle Nov. 23rd – Jan. 1st Families can compare their homemade gingerbread houses to the extravagant buildings put on display and the Sheraton Grand Hotel in downtown Seattle. This village also does its part in giving back to the community as it is also a fundraiser for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

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Enchant at T-Mobile Park (Nov. 22-Dec.29) An everyday Seattle landmark transformed into a winter wonderland, visit TMobile Park for ice skating, a Christmas maze, and a reindeer scavenger hunt.

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Candy Cane Lane – Ravenna Local Seattle families go all out for the holiday season! Spend some time admiring the hard work of Ravenna locals by driving down candy cane lane.

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See the Nutcracker at the PNB Start a new tradition with friends or family by spending some time supporting local ballet dancers and seeing an amazing show.

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Wildlights - Woodland Park Zoo A good place to go with younger kids, visit the real animals, and the wild lights! The Woodland park zoo is decked out in Christmas lights and other holiday decorations that make for double the fun.

Illustration: Sofia Simon

Skiing Across North America: A Prep-Inspired Mountain Guide PIPER WOOD ‘21 Staff Writer

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Photo courtesy of: GABE LAIGO Laigo ‘20 performs a trick on the slopes. He is skiing at one of his favorite locations, Alpental.

n icy, cool wind breezing past, and pristine powder fleeing from the ground as skis run over it foster an adrenaline rush in any skier.

Skiing is one of the most coveted activities for many in the Pacific Northwest.

Plowing through the fresh powder from the night before or skiing on a bluebird day can make people feel completely free and create a world for them to lose all their troubles.

Ella Gruen ‘21, has been skiing since she was 2, and has been to over 10 different ski resorts across North America, her favorite being Big White, in Canada. She wishes to go to Patagonia, in Chile and Argentina, because she can ski in the summer due to the opposite hemispheres. Some students love skiing so much they are hoping to go to college to be able to ski.

Gabe Laigo ‘20, wants to attend Gonzaga University in Spokane because of their Freeride Team, a group of skiers who compete or ski/snowboard at a higher level. Members get to travel to different mountains and resorts all over the country, a snow lover’s dream.

Laigo’s favorite place to ski is at Alpental, Snoqualmie, but his dreams are to ski in Revelstoke, British Columbia, and in Hakuba, Japan.

In 8th grade, his family introduced him to skiing and over time he has grown to love the sport, becoming very advanced in just a couple of years. Skiing is unique because anyone can “add [their] own style to it” or just “full send, not thinking about it” Laigo explains.

Sophomore John O’Donnell, is an avid skier, and loves to have fun with it. He teaches ski lessons at Summit Central at Snoqualmie to beginners while he teaches himself to ski backwards, sometimes “falling more than the beginners themselves” O’Donnell laughs.

O’Donnell recommends Stevens Pass, Crystal Mountain, or even his own backyard, if traveling far or out of state for good powder is out of reach. Skiing has been an outlet for many students at Prep, which shows how worldly our school community is. Even though Washington is the perfect place for entertainment in the snow, traveling to experience a different view of the mountains can invoke a sense of adventure in anyone who wishes to see the world.

The Return of Digital Learning Days CARA WEIGAND ‘21 Staff Writer

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ast school year, Seattle Prep introduced Digital Learning Days, a schoolwide program for snow days where students complete and turn in homework online each day that school is cancelled because of snow. With winter weather approaching, many students and faculty members are wondering if Digital Learning Days will be making a comeback this year.

The idea of Digital Learning Days came into practice when the administration was faced with the task of keeping school on track through several consecutive snow days. Without this preventative action, the administration could have been forced to add on extra days at the end of the school year to make up for the missed school days.

Luckily, working closely with several other

schools in Seattle and elsewhere, Prep was able to institute the Digital Learning Day program on the fly.

The new change brought strong feelings from the Prep community. Many students feel that the Digital Learning Days take away their important childhood experience of snow days by keeping them glued to their computers for hours on end.

“Snow is rare in Seattle and I feel that we should be able to experience the winter magic instead of staying inside and working,” said sophomore Flore Bindel.

As with any new change, there is a trial and error period. Many students felt that the amount of Digital Learning Day homework assigned last year was unmanageable. This is understandable considering it was the first year with Digital learning Days and it was difficult for teachers to gage how much work to assign. Sophomore Au-

dra Hanlon said, “I had just as much work [as on school days], but the work could be confusing since there wasn’t a teacher to explain it.”

Although the thought of doing homework on their days off is repulsive to many students, many view it as more of a necessary evil than a pointless punishment.

Senior Emily Petro pointed out that the Digital Learning Days were useful because they kept AP classes on track and “there is little time to waste in those classes even without snow days.”

Assistant Principal for Academics Mrs. Kheriaty also pointed out one of the advantages of Digital Learning Days, stating that “they allow us to continue the momentum of learning despite being away from school for inclement weather or other unexpected closures.”

Looking ahead to potential snow

days to come, students also offered some useful tips for what they are planning to do differently this year to stay on top of Digital Learning Day work. Being proactive, managing time well and communicating with teachers were all things that students said were essential to being successful on Digital Learning Days.

“I would recommend making sure you talk to teachers to get a clear understanding of what the expectations are and communicate with classmates to help one another understand the material,” said junior Larson Cronk.

With snowy weather on the way and many winter months ahead, it is likely Seattle Prep has not seen the last of its Digital Learning Days.

FEATURE

6 EDITORS: JACK COLEMAN ‘23, DANICA DYTIOCO ‘20, TIA FLORES ‘21, JEFFREY GO ‘23

The Decade’s Most Influential Movies

7 THE PANTHER | DECEMBER 19, 2019

Pulse: The Heartbeat of the Holiday Season

The Christmas lights are shining vibrantly in the night, the turkeys are coming out of the steaming ovens, and the colorful fireworks are coming out again to luminate the night sky. The decade is coming to an end and so much has happened and changed in our world throughout these past 10 years. With this decade coming to an end, it is a fantastic idea to look back at the most popular and influential movies in this 10-year span.

Insterstellar

The fall of 2014 included a spectacular science fiction adventure movie, Interstellar, which was directed by Christopher Nolan.

The film depicts a world where all crops except corn cannot be planted due to dust storms.

Matthew McConaughey’s character Joseph Cooper is chosen to go on a mission through a wormhole and find a suitable location for the rest of humanity. By going on this mission, he leaves behind his family, more importantly, his 10-year-old daughter, Murphy.

While on his adventure, Cooper encounters betrayal, lost family, failed plans, and a giant black hole. In the end, Cooper reunites with an elderly Murphy who has aged differently due to the relativity of time, and the two of them escape earth with the rest of humanity.

Interstellar was and is now an influential film because it brought science fiction to a new concept. Prior to its release, sci-fi films were mainly thought of as space battles with lasers, such as Star Wars or Star Trek. In contrast, Interstellar uses accurate application of science and great visual effects to bring a new breath of realism to science fiction films.

Inside Out

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Avengers: Endgame

It’s the summer of 2015 and Pixar has just released their new movie called “Inside Out”. This movie wasn’t popular right off release but soon gained a lot of traction from the media. The coming of age story talks about a girl named Riley who is forced to move from her suburban home in Minnesota to a tiny Victorian House in San Francisco. Most of the story takes place inside of her mind, depicting her emotions as tiny people. The five people are an embodiment of five different emotions: Happiness, Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear. Early in the story, Happiness and Sadness get stuck outside of her brain and leave her spectrum of emotions. This causes Riley to only have the bursts of anger, disgust and fear. Having only the negative reacting emotions causes her to become depressed, moody and distant with her friends and family. Eventually, Happiness and Sadness return to Riley’s brain, and she then makes up with all those she became distant too. Kids movies in the past tend to deal with a simple plot that does not dive deep into anything such as characters, setting or villains of the story. This movie was easy to connect with because of its deep-rooted themes such as overcoming sadness, adapting to new situations, controlling your emotions and many more.

Disney is now one of, if not the biggest movie producing companies in the world. Disney bought Marvel Studios in 2009 for 4.24 billion dollars. This would become Disney’s most profitable purchase ever made. Marvel went on to produce 15 films such as “Black Panther”, “Spider-man: Homecoming” and many other great superhero movies. However, none come close in comparison to “Avengers Endgame”, the culmination of 22 movies coming to a climax. This about 3-hour film went on to set many box office records, most notably becoming the most grossed film ever made, generating more than 2.79 billion worldwide. Ever since “Iron Man,” the first superhero movie Disney made, the flick revolutionized the way that superhero stories are written and made. The movie heavily focused on a great mix of practical and computer-generated effects that were revolutionary of its time.

Even though this decade of great movies is coming to an end, the technology is advancing, and movies will continue pushing the limits of storytelling, computer generated effects and animation. Whether people know it or not movies influence the way people view life and the challenges that come with it.

Bio Teacher Goes Big For The Holidays

ANNABELLE DEASY ‘22 Freelance Writer

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hristmas, Halloween, Easter, or Thanksgiving, you name it, science teacher Ms. Vickrey will be decked out in spirit for the holidays. Vickrey was a new addition to the Seattle Prep science department just last year and she has taken the Prep community by storm. One thing that truly stands out about her is her holiday spirit.

Even students who don’t have Vickrey as a teacher can see her walking through the halls during the holidays in the most amazing costumes. Her favorite holiday is Halloween and this year she dressed up as “harry otter” in an otter onesie with a Gryffindor robe as a “punderful” costume. Sophomore Clare Wagner said, “No matter the holiday, Ms. Vickrey’s outfits always stole the show.”

Not only do her amazing outfits stand out, but the decorations throughout her science classroom do not disappoint.

Throughout the year, students come in to find new festive seat covers or a pumpkin patch with Santa hats for the Christmas season.

Even from the commons, students can look up into her classroom to see the cheerful lights strung across the walls.

She also gives out seasonal pencils during a holiday to all her students to bring everyone a bit more joy in a school often full of stress. Junior Carly Condon said, “She

decorates her room super cute and festive which always puts me in the holiday spirit when I’m not always feeling it before I walk into the classroom.”

Although Halloween is her personal favorite, Ms. Vickrey really pulls out all the stops during the whole year. Vickrey has always had a love for the holiday season and all the joyful memories it brings. Many people in the prep community may share this love and passion for the holidays like Vickrey, but it is the extra element she brings that make her stand out.

The reason behind the spirit is to make a welcoming atmosphere that all students can find some joy in. It is really the little things Vickrey does that allow kids to make a meaningful connection in the science class room. Vickrey said, “It is valuable to make connection outside the academic aspect in the classroom.”

The holidays are always something that have made Vickrey very happy, but the spirit she brings to school is for all her students. Her goal is to make the biology classroom a welcoming atmosphere to everyone who walks in and bring a bit more joy to all the students. Ms. Vickrey wants a part of the classroom to connect with the students and bring some happiness to the stressful environment Prep can have. Ms. Vickrey said, “We are so busy with school and academics, that we need to stop and pause for the holidays.”

Photo: Maddie Deasy Pulse performs at Winterfest at Seattle Center. Pulse’s performance in early December was their longest performance of the year and featured original choreography by Pulse’s core team. formance of the year and is highly anticipated relieved when we finish and look back at the MADDIE DEASY ‘20 by both the Pulse dancers and the Prep com- video and can be proud of what we put out Editor-In-Chief munity. Junior captain Alex Battle said that there”.

The performance took place on Deulse…Pulse…Pulse. Another Christ- the team is so excited about the performance mas season means another heart this year. Battle stated that before the perfor- cember 8th at the main stage at the Armory in thumping, Pulse Holiday performance mance the team is pretty nervous because “so Seattle Center. Not only did friends and famiat Seattle Center. This is Pulse’s longest per- much stress and anxiety go into it, so we are ly of the Pulse team attend their performance

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Classic Christmas Movies for the Holiday Season CYRUS BERGER ‘20 Staff Writer

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s the holidays approach, many people make watching certain movies a tradition, from classics to blockbusters to comedies. Below are some of the best Christmas movies and specials to watch this season.

1.It’s A Wonderful Life: This 1946 Frank Capra movie stars Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, an incredibly generous man who finds himself in a financial and personal crisis at Christmastime. The movie features amazing performances and a timeless story about the burdens and ultimate benefits of living a selfless life. Initial reviews of the movie were mixed, with The New York Times criticizing its sentimentality, but it has since become a widely beloved classic. Despite only a relatively small portion of the movie taking place around Christmas, the movie’s heartwarming message has made it one of the most longstanding Christmas favorites.

Photo: Courtesy of Erin Vickrey Science Teacher Erin Vickrey poses in one of her recent holiday costumes.

Vickrey is known for her festive spirit and love of celebrating holidays.

2. A Charlie Brown Christmas: The 30-minute Peanuts special, originally commissioned by Coca-Cola, features a remarkably thoughtful and funny story about the frustrations of the Christmas season, and the meaning behind the holiday. The special also focuses on the commercialization of Christmas. Its wonderful Vince Guaraldi soundtrack adds to its charm. While the animation and story are simple – its budget was only $96,000 – the special is touching and

memorable.

3.The Muppet Christmas Carol: The Muppets’ take on Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas story is both one of the story’s best film adaptations and one of the best Muppets movies. It was released in 1992 as the first Muppets movie following Jim Henson’s death. With Kermit the Frog as Bob Cratchit, Mrs. Piggy as Mrs. Cratchit, and Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge (who gives a performance so committed the viewer forgets his costars are Muppets), this version of the story brings comedy and memorable music while remaining faithful to the spirit of the source material.

4. Elf: This 2003 comedy has become a modern Christmas classic for its sweet story and hilarious jokes. The movie focuses on Buddy, a human raised by Santa’s elves to believe he is an elf. When he learns the truth, he journeys to New York City to meet his cynical father. The movie’s best feature is Will Ferrell’s lead performance, which is filled with childlike enthusiasm and innocence.

5. Die Hard: While its Christmas movie status is debatable, this thriller about a New York City cop caught in a hostage situation in Los Angeles has remained a favorite for both its action and its memorable dialogue. Its Christmastime setting is mostly tangential to the movie’s plot, but it still features Christmas-themed quips and a few carols, making it a worthwhile seasonal watch.

but also strangers who have never seen or have heard of Pulse attend. Captain Emi Nakata ’22 said that this performance does have a different vibe to it because it is not solely performed to the Prep community. Nakata said that “the environment is different, but no matter who we are performing for, we are thankful for our audience.”

She also commented that “As dancers, our goal is to engage with the audience and share our passion of dance with as many people as we can, whether that is the Prep community or people whom we have never met before.”

The Pulse performance was electric. The choreography included some classic Pulse dance moves but also some funky and fresh choreography coming directly from the captains. This year on Pulse there is a brandnew group of captains consisting of Alex Battle ’21, Emi Nakata ’22, Ava Simmons ’22, and Daniela Castillo ’22. These group of girls are the “Core Team” which is a new part of the Pulse experience this year. The “Core Team” choreographed the entire twenty-minute routine for the Winterfest performance.

Alex Battle said that “it’s very different when you are presenting your own choreography vs. somebody else’s.”

She also commented that “as a captain I have a vision in your head of how I want the performance and it’s difficult to adjust that clear idea.”

The Pulse Holiday performance was one to be remembered due to their creativity, teamwork and spirit. Watch out for Pulse when they perform part of their Winterfest piece at the Christmas Assembly.

Christmas Traditions: New Ways to Celebrate the Holidays

RAQUEL WONG ‘23 Staff Writer

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amily and friends celebrating together and creating memorable Christmas traditions makes the winter cold a little more bearable.

Perhaps, racing down snowy hills or gliding across the ice every Christmas Day. A ski resort or a hilly park always turn out happy smiles. After dinner and opening gifts everyone is restless from being cooped up inside.

The prime time to head out and get some fresh air. Though, people usually look forward to relaxing from all the winter work. For a more chill festivity, grab a couple songbooks and go caroling. It will be fun no matter how out of tune the choir is! Don’t like singing? Listen to a winter themed concert, festival, or play happening near home.

Still want to stay inside, witness legendary productions like ‘The Nutcracker’ or ‘A Christmas Carol’? For movie buffs, enjoy sipping hot coco and watching classics like ‘Miracle on 34th Street’, ‘The Grinch’, ‘The Santa Clause’, ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’, ‘The Polar Express’, or ‘Elf’ is one of the best ways to spend Christmas Eve. Celebrating the holidays around the home can have crafting, entertainment, and sweets, too! Maybe, create a lively and joyful holiday playlist. Songs like ‘White Christmas’, ‘Carol of the Bells’, ‘Silent Night’, or ’12 Days of Christmas’ are

some favorites.

Not interested in music? Then try advent calendars, the styles range from classical scenes of Saint Nick delivering toys, to Star Wars, and Harry Potter murals. Want something a little more extravagant? Winter wonderlands at home can include cut out paper snowflakes and decorate the windows or have a bowl of glittered pinecones as a centerpiece, and maybe fold paper bells for extra glamour.

But what’s the use of all this extravagance if there’s no guests for dinner. Have a special yearly dish for Christmas Day, like turkey or ham, and try a new recipe every year. Cook up dishes including foods from different cultures or foods an elder relative ate growing up. Ask for recipes from relatives to keep family food traditions alive. Have a sweet tooth? Try gingerbread house making with family. There are easy kits you can buy with ingredients inside and instructions making everything a lot easier. Use graham crackers instead of gingerbread if the find the icing is too sweet. Not everyone is a world class chef, so these easy projects are fun to try.

But know some exceptional chefs, challenge friends and family to a bake-off. Challenges can range from the best sugar cookies to the perfect pie.

No matter how the holidays are celebrated remember to enjoy the time and memories with loved ones. The present is a gift.

Look for QR codes throughout the paper to see short companion films created by Seattle Prep Film Club.

Scan here to see more about Prepsters favorite holiday movies and more!!

PREP LIFE

8 DECEMBER 19, 2019

EDITORS: ABBY ALLEN ‘21, CAROLINE CASEY ‘21, OLIVIA MANNING ‘21

Prep Students Share Tips For Staying Healthy Over the Holidays

CAROLINE CASEY ‘21 Staff Writer ust think about it: The creamy and rich hot chocolate in a festive holiday cup, or the enormous servings of turkey, ham, potatoes, green and red dyed frosting on your favorite sugar cookies, ginger bread houses. And Pillsbury dough Christmas Cookies! With all of these delicious foods on the table, it is easy to let go of that healthy diet you may have been working on. Goodbye summer bod. Although tempting, there are many tips and tricks for staying healthy over the holiday season.

There are many Prep students who are passionate about healthy choices and staying fit, even during the holidays which seems practically impossible.

Senior Liv McAuslan is an amazing athlete, and with soccer season coming up, she knows she needs to stay healthy over the holidays. McAuslan is a vegetarian because of environmental reasons and has her own Instagram page based off of

healthy foods and substitute protein options she uses (@livinaplantlife). She said, “I created this Instagram page to hold myself accountable and also to help other people see how feasible it is to be a vegetarian while also being a high-level athlete. A lot of people have this stigma that vegetarians don’t get enough protein because most people’s main source of protein is from meat, so I’m trying to show that that doesn’t have to be the case.”

Some of the things McAuslan does to stay healthy over the breaks is, “Over the holidays, I had a little bit of a break from soccer practice so for the four days I had off, I ran Green Lake one day and then I ran the Turkey Trot 5k on the other day. I think it’s good to have a break from soccer practice and pushing yourself really hard, so working out only twice over the break was totally okay.“

Not only does McAuslan work out, she also makes sure she is choosing healthy foods to stay feeling happiest and at her best.

PAIGE STANLEY ‘21 Staff Writer

licans lean towards Merry Christmas.

At Seattle Prep, students are divided between what they prefer to say during this time of year. When asked on a poll from the Seattle Prep Panthers Instagram, 14% of people selected that they say Happy Holidays, while 86% selected that say Merry Christmas.

Eva Guarda Vazquez ‘21 said she says Happy Holidays because, “You don’t always know what backgrounds people come from and I think it’s really important to be super accepting to everyone during the holiday season!”

Freshman Amelie Burrows shares her opinion on the religious concept of Christmas compared to the commercial version. She stated, “Non-Christians celebrate many aspects of what we now consider part of Christmas .... decorated trees, carols, lights...etc....and that doesn’t mean they necessarily subscribe to all the religious aspects as well.” Therefore, she agrees that Merry Christmas does not always have to elude to the religious aspect of the holiday.

Nick Faricy ’20 brings into account the fact that there is a chance of offending someone when saying Merry Christmas over Happy Holidays. Faricy says that he chooses to say Merry Christmas over happy holidays because, “People that I know who do not celebrate it are not offended at all by ‘Merry Christmas.’”

As Christmas becomes more a commercial holiday, more and more people are moving past the religious aspect into the celebration and presents aspects. Overall, the debate over saying Merry Christmas vs.

Happy Holidays will most likely be a lifelong debate, but it is all up to preference on what one chooses to say. It is more about the greeting or salutation that is important.

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Happy Holidays vs. Merry Christmas

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h, it’s that time of year again. It is the season of holidays: Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanza, New Years, and more. For many, it is the whole season that needs the recognition, while for others, Christmas takes the spotlight.

Recently, a controversy arose on whether it is correct to greet or say farewell with the term Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays. If one pays attention during this December, one may notice that radio stations, stores, retail workers, advertisements, etc. have begun to transition to the term Happy Holidays. This controversy emerged as the nation becomes more secular and cautious of the inclusivity of all.

Some retailers have chosen to say Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas because of economic reasons. Because Happy Holidays appeals to a larger demographic, retailers find it more efficient to make more money by refraining from saying Happy Holidays.

This has created a religious debate; Catholic leaders have stated that saying Happy Holidays takes away from the recognition of the first Christmas with Christ as the focal point. However, not everyone celebrates Christmas as Christ’s birth, instead as a secular holiday.

Many statements have been made on why this debate has emerged in the past few years. According to a USA Today article, young people are more likely to say Happy Holidays, while the older generations more commonly say Merry Christmas because it is more traditional. Another statement in the article expresses that Democrats are more likely to say Happy Holidays, while Repub-

Did You Know?

According to a recent instagram poll

86% 14%

of Prepsters say Merry Christmas

of Prepsters say Happy Holidays

When asked about healthy foods, she said, “Healthy food options are basically just foods that will give you enough nutrients and aren’t super processed, so a good balance of veggies and fruits in comparison to carbs. For protein, I get a lot of protein from tofu, beans, quinoa, other whole grains, etc. and also getting good fats is super important for energy if you are trying to not eat as many carbs, so fats from avocado, nuts, I eat a lot of peanut butter, etc.”

Lastly, some easy tips McAuslan gives for staying healthy are, “to go outside, go hike or go run just so you are staying active and also catch up on sleep! I like to sleep in, but also sleeping in super duper late makes me feel groggy and kind of gross, so I like to be up at like 10:00 ish if I can sleep in and eat a good breakfast/brunch.”

McAuslan says that you don’t need to skip out on all of the fun desserts, it is ok as long as you are staying active!

Another student who not only eats healthy during the breaks to stay fit,

but also works out which helps him to stay healthy and feeling refreshed. Junior Isaac Trius said, “Over the holidays I try to keep a good balance of healthy food and unhealthy foods. I especially stay away from empty calories. I try to plan a run before my meals.

This creates an appetite for before I eat, and then I try to get in as much exercise as I can when I have free time.”

Some last tips on how he stays strong willed against the temptations of the holiday treats and feasts and tries to stay healthy over the break is, “I think it’s important to just keep a good balance throughout the break and consistently stay healthy so that you’re ready to integrate yourself back into the school schedule.“

With holiday season in full swing, it is important to keep our bodies healthy and happy, and with some of these tips and tricks, anyone can do this while still have some yummy holiday treats. Have a happy and healthy holiday season Prep!

Debating the Environmental Impact of Trees

CECE BROWN ‘21 Staff Writer

as the positives when it comes to buying a Christmas tree is truly depends on what the s the holiday season gets into full buyer prefers. Ms. Vickrey said that “there swing many Christmas trees are are great arguments for either side.” going to be bought to adorn homes One of the main concerns when all over the world. But how environmen- purchasing a tree is if someone purchases tally friendly a fake tree, it are they? At first should be reglance, cutting used instead of down millions just thrown out. of trees doesn’t When thinkseem like the ing about the friendliest thing environmenfor the earth, tal impact of a but it surprisreal Christmas ingly isn’t as bad tree, it benefits as most think. the species surTrees that are cut Andrew Graham ‘21 rounding the down to be sold tree farm. But for Christmas overall, Christare often grown on a farm.

T r e e s mas trees account of 0.1% of someone’s aren’t just haphazardly cut d o w n carbon footprint. So, make sure to make a from forests to be sold. Farmers will work conscientious decision this holiday season. hard to grow trees to be sold for the Christ- Overall, junior Mina Sakay said that she has mas season. A five or six foot tree takes a fake and real tree but “it doesn’t matter around 10 years to grow so there is a long what kind of tree you get because no matter process. While these trees are growing they what Christmas is about spending time with create an opportunity for absorbing carbon your family. I think that this is important to in the air, watersheds, and new environ- raise awareness about this issue and remain ments for surrounding wildlife. Sometimes conscious about our carbon footprints.” people buy real trees because of the smell of pine or the look of them. Also, the trees are grown on hills that aren’t suitable for other crops. Locally bought trees also benefit the environment because they aren’t being driven in from other places far away.

But Andrew Graham ’21 said he felt that “it 100% still feels like Christmas, regardless of the type of tree.”

An artificial tree can sometimes be easier to have instead of cleaning up the fallen pine needles or watering a real tree.

If an artificial tree is used for more than four years then the carbon footprint will be less than a real tree. Most artificial trees are made of steel and PVC and are made in China and sent to the United States. The American Christmas Tree Association said that: “Nearly 95 million U.S. households will display a Christmas tree this season (2017).”

Out of those 95 million trees 81% were artificial and 19% were real. The average price of a real Christmas tree was $75 while an artificial tree cost $107. Taking into account the cost and the negatives as well

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“It 100% still feels like Christmas, regardless of the type of tree.”

ARTS EDITORS: MARGOT GWYNN ‘23, KATE RIDGEWAY ‘22, ANNIE ROSKE ‘23

9 THE PANTHER | DECEMBER 19, 2019

Winter Season takes Trends to Next Level

JACKIE WILLIAMS ‘20 Staff Writer

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s dreary as winter can be, it is known as the most wonderful time of the year. Aside from red and green decorations galore and seasonal shifts in café menus, the cold weather of short winter days forces people to dress accordingly. This season, there are three major styles to look up to: creative classic, sporty spicy, and unequivocally unique.

Don’t know what to wear? Throw on a sweater and some jeans or khakis. Pair a turtleneck with plaid skirt and tights. This creative classic look is one that can be worn year-round but is brought out the most during the winter months. Mr. Barmore and Lilian Brendlinger ’20 are the Prep-stars that capture this look the best. Lilian’s go-to outfit is, “a pair of black jeans with a patterned sweater.” She says that this is “an outfit that

can be dressed up or dressed down as little or as much as [she] would like.” When asked what inspires them to go classic mode during these cold winter months, Barmore responded “I’m a classy guy, to say the least. The beige khakis combined with a monotone colored sweater bring a simplistic edge to my winter look.”

Over looked and underestimated the sporty look is typically thought of as leggings and a sweatshirt or sweats paired with a simple t-shirt. But Yale Bonnet ‘20 and Coach Maul defy these norms by adding their own pizzazz to their sporty outfits to give it that spicy edge. When asked what to do to bring a sporty outfit to the next level, Bonnet said, “I like to mix up my usual look with a nice backpack or some dope shoes with cool

socks to match.” Similarly, Maul comments that “the best way to bring a sporty outfit to the next level is to color coordinate or throw on a baseball cap backwards.”

Done by many, pulled off by few.

The unequivocally unique look captures a unique style that is less based on current trends and more based on personal style. Keeley Cahill ’20 and Ms. Vickery exemplify this look in different ways.

You have the seasonal sensation, Vickery, who dresses up to match the theme of the holiday or time of the year. She was seen dressed as a delectably round pumpkin on Halloween and as a pluck-ready turkey the week before Thanksgiving. When asked about her inspiration she said, “you have to have fun because life’s too short and if you need to put on a costume, you need to put on a

costume- no matter what holiday.” Next to Vickery in the unique style category is Cahill, who dresses to impress every day in outfits that seem unheard of until you see her strutting down the hallways in them.

She was seen wearing leopard printed mesh tights on a mass day- God loves that for her.

When asked what inspires Cahill, she responded, “I don’t know if I draw inspiration from anything in particular. I just like what I like. When I see something I like I figure out how I can wear it. Sometimes you have to be your own inspiration.”

This winter has reinforced styles that are essential to the culture of fashion.

Despite the frigid and dark demeanor of winter days, these styles allow any person to stay both warm and stylish.

Illustrations: Sofia Simon

Prep Takes After McKinley High, Creates New Glee Club

MARGOT GWYNN ‘23 ANNIE ROSKE ‘23 Staff Writers

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alling all Gleeks! Seattle Prep students Jane Broderson ‘21, Maya Dawson ‘21, and Sophie Walters ‘22, have taken inspiration from McKinley High School and have started the first ever Glee Club for the 2019-2020 school year.

Officiated by Music Director Mr. Weeks, the Glee club meets once every two weeks and presents a theme with the expectation that students prepare a song in accordance with the weekly inspiration to perform at the next club meeting.

Broderson describes herself as an “avid fan of the TV show”, however she never got the idea to start the club before November. After auditioning for the Musical and not getting cast, her dad recommended she start a Glee Club, since he was aware of how much his daughter admired the Fox show. Soon after, she suggested this idea to both Maya and Sophie, who both saw the bold idea as an opportunity to open the doors of Glee to the rest of the Prep

community. “I love singing, I think a lot of people love singing” says Broderson, “it’s just a place where you can express yourself.”

Just like the Original Glee Club, Prep’s Glee club meets on Thursday at lunch, every two weeks and selects a theme until the next time they meet. These performances are not formal competitions, like featured in the show. “It’s a performance among friends” said Mr. Weeks. These meetings aren’t a time to impress faculty or other students, but a time to enjoy some of their favorite songs amongst 30 of their closest friends and classmates. The environment is a pressure free, casual, and low stakes community of people who all share a common love of music, singing, and most importantly: Glee!

Although now the club is a recently formed group of students who sing for each other, club leaders Broderson, Dawson, and Walters have hopes it will become more than that. As a long term goal, the leaders hope to see more students joining and more people experiencing the real-life version of the TV show.

Photo: Lauren Day The Glee Club gathers in the Choir room during a Thursday lunch meeting.

Ian Orejana ‘22 preforms “I See the Light” from Tangled.

Choir Concert Cultivates Christmas Cheer

SOPHIE JURION ‘20 Editor In-Chief

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n December 9th in the evening, the choir performed yet another annual Christmas Concert. Filled with memorable songs sung by the choir as “Jingle Bell Rock” and beautiful solos sung by Sophie Walters ’21 such as “Love is Christmas,” everyone in the theater was brimming with the magical spirit of the holidays! This Choir Concert was extra special because it is Mr. Week’s first debut of directing the concert at Prep.

Before Prep, Mr. Weeks was a choir teacher at the Northwest School on Capitol Hill. He also put on musical theater shows such as Newsies. Before that, he taught music theory at St. Martins. Mr. Weeks’ favorite part about working with the Choir students is, “because they are always energetic and very passionate. Not only that, when the time comes, they buckle up and work hard.”

The concert was different than years past because “the concert was short and sweet” as stated by observer Maeve Conaty ’20.

In addition, Mr. Weeks directed a dynamic performance. There were a variety of songs including fun “Blue Christmas” sung by the choir and “Happy Christmas (War is Over) sung by Emily Amesquita ‘21 and Lauren Royce ’21. Mr. Weeks describes the behind the scenes ranging from choosing the songs, auditioning for solos, and to choir practice. He says, “I chose most of the songs, but some students put in their recommendations such as Jingle Bell Rock.

Also, solo songs were chosen by the students.” But his favorite songs include “I like how bouncy “Deck the Halls Is”, something beautiful like “Silent Night,” or something classic such as “Wish You a Merry Christmas.”

Duet and solo singer, Emily Amesquita describes the audition process, she says, “It is a casual atmosphere because the main goal is to have fun and share our talent.” In addition, in terms of choir practice, Amesquita stated, “Practice makes perfect because it becomes muscle memory and then I become more comfortable with my own talent and own ability. Also, a good way to steady the heartbeat when I am feel-

ing nervous is breathing. Breath in for 8 counts and manage it by breathing out for 16 counts.”

Weeks explains, “We rehearse every day during class. The process is that, piece by piece, we learn the song. Then we try to assemble it into a coherent idea and from there we keep refining.”

Amesquita’s favorite song is “Mary Did You Know” because “It is such a beautiful and powerful song. Power is held in the lyrics but also in the beauty in the lines that is written. Also, the connection to both the unison and harmony is so well done.”

Amesquita is known around the Prep hallways as not only a kind individual,

but a musical presence. She is a part of the musical, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, in addition the Prep Choir, Choir outside of school, and the Seattle Opera.

Finally, Amesquita states, “There is so much meaning with singing, even if they aren’t words associated with it. It is so powerful because you can convey so much emotion. Also, it is very uniting because there cannot be any division over beautiful music.”

The Christmas Choir Concert is a great way to celebrate hidden talents. As Amesquita says, “when you are gifted with something you have a responsibility to share with others!”

Look for QR codes throughout the paper to see short companion films created by Seattle Prep Film Club.

Scan here to see more about the Christmas Concert.

SPORTS

10 THE PANTHER | DECEMBER 19, 2019

EDITORS: PAIGE STANLEY '21, PIPER WOOD '21, RAQUEL WONG '23

Prep Girls’ Bowling Rolls into 2020 Season

KATE RIDGEWAY '22 Staff Writer

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he gutter bumpers come down as the bowling team takes to the lane. These bowlers don’t stand for any of the accommodations an amateur bowler might.

The girls’ bowling team, coached

by Mike Massoth, is entering their fourth season at Prep. This year, the team is headed by captain Helen Simmons ‘20. In the past two years, the team has placed first in Metro and 8th in state and has set high expectations for the year.

Bowling is a very technical sport, which comes with many challenges. Bowler Sydney Shimizu ‘22 believes maintaining a positive mindset is crucial: “It is so important to clear your head after you throw a bad ball because if you get in your head and attempt to overcorrect your ball you end up throwing another bad ball.”

Eva Flanagan ‘21 believes aim-

ing and accuracy are challenging because “if your feet are in the wrong position by one board, the number of pins you hit will change significantly.”

This year’s team has great chemistry, which the bowlers consistently comment on. Simmons said her favorite part about the team are “the people...it’s such a fun team sport and the people make it worth every moment.”

“My favorite part about the Prep bowling team is our coach Mike. He is always making funny jokes and helping us get better” Flanagan added.

As a growing sport, it is hard for the team to maintain a strong numbered roster. This year, there are 10 bowlers on the team: 3 seniors, 1 junior, and 6 sophomores.

Of those 10, 6 are brand-new to the sport, on which Coach Massoth noted, “This isn’t like basketball where...they’ve been playing since a young age, this is 6 bowlers who aside from birthday parties have never

thrown competitively.”

Massoth’s goals for the season are to “gain confidence in the lanes, sustain our already amazing team chemistry through adverse times, and just get better at bowling!” So far, the bowling season has been going well and the team’s hopes for the rest of the season are high. They’re aiming to defend their Metro title and outperform their 8th place performance last year in state.

With the small number of winter sports to participate in, bowling offers a fun and competitive environment. The bowlers encourage others to join the team and Simmons reassuringly said, “Everyone shows up with absolutely zero previous skill so you don’t have to be good to tryout.” Cheering on Prep bowling is a fun and warm indoor activity suitable for cold Seattle winters, and the team greatly appreciates all support.

Be sure to head out to a match and support the team! Bowl Prep!

Senior Day: January 10th 3:30 vs. Kennedy @West Seattle Bowl

Coach Kelly Returns to Hoops for New Season

Photo: THE PANTHER STAFF Coach Kelly coaches his Prep Boys' Basketball team from the sidelines after a year off. The Panthers are expected to be among the best teams in the Metro League. break from coaching to reinvigorate his and off the court.

WILL THOMPSON '21 passion for coaching, returns this season to The second goal he articulated was Staff Writer coach the team for his fifteenth year as head forming his players into leaders. He wants to equip them with the skills to “be change ’m excited about all of them,” em- coach.

Kelly says he’s coming back with agents in life”, all through their experience phatically replied returning Head Boys' Basketball Coach Michael three main goals. The first goal that he ad- in basketball.

Kelly when asked about his players in the dressed was reinforcing the culture of the As far as leadership, Kelly already sees program. He wants to assert the theme of huge potential in just the first few weeks of new basketball season.

Kelly, after taking a season-long unity and togetherness for the players on practice and in the first games. Seniors Nic

“I

LAUREN DAY '20 Online Editor

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ife is lonely at the top, and Senior Wyatt del Valle can attest to that.

Every winter, del Valle ’20 dips his toe into the pool as a part of Seattle Prep’s Boys’ Swim Team. As captain this year, del Valle recently sat down with the Panther staff to discuss his experience on the team as the only senior, and only boy to ever participate on the swim team from the class of 2020, as well as his favorite memories and traditions from the team.

Describing the team as “small, but with a strong sense of community,” del Valle recounts his past four years on the team as memorable and interesting, cit-

Del Valle’s Last Dip

ing the swim meets, team sleepovers, and iconic speedo run as reference. Ultimately, he is glad he joined the team and was able to experience the camaraderie and friendship that came with his participation.

In terms of joining the swim team, however, del Valle’s in- Wyatt del Valle '20 troduction and eventual commitment was quite un- conventional.

He recounts: “Freshman year I wasn’t planning on joining the team, and then on a random Thursdays during art window, a senior

told me to join the swim team, and I didn’t really want to join, and then he told me to come to the first practice, so I did, and after the first practice I thought I didn’t want to come back, but then I did!” The rest is history.

Now, four years later, del Valle is the only captain.

Along with swimming in events and encouraging his teammates, del Valle is placed in charge of creating the team’s community. His goal for this year is to “put a lot of effort into meshing the team

“[The team is] small, but with a strong sense of community,”

Welp and Mason Hoffman are quieter and more reserved players, but Kelly expects them to step up and lead as the only two seniors on the team should do.

Kelly also has high hopes for are sophomore Braeden Smith and juniors Kyle Carlesimo and Chike Ezeonu who are more vocal and prominent leaders on the team.

The last goal he focused on was to become as good of a basketball team as possible, be competitive at the highest levels possible, and improve all players’ individual skills, all while having fun on the court. But along with success, Coach Kelly believes that what makes Prep basketball outstanding is that the team is bigger than just basketball, and that the Jesuit attitudes of the school will reflect onto the court.

Kyle Carlesimo ‘21 believes that this season is going to be a lot better than last year because of their natural team maturation and gain in experience this year.

Carlesimo remarked, “we feel like we are making a lot of changes in the areas that need most improvement so we can better come playoffs.”

As far as this season goes, with the return of their head coach, the Panthers hope to utilize their talent and hard work and make something special happen in the McHugh gymnasium.

As Carlesimo put it, “having the head coach back this year can only make things better.”

together and making sure everyone is inclusive and that no one feels left out.”

As a small team, del Valle understands that winning state championships should not be the team’s goal for 2020.

Instead, he chooses to focus on a winning atmosphere, promoting a supportive environment where high schoolers can simply swim and have fun.

Del Valle also encourages new members to join the team. “A lot of people think they need to join the swim team knowing how to swim, but you don’t! Saying you’re not a swimmer should not deter you from joining. Come! It’s fun and we all have a really great time together. It’s such a vibe.”

SPORTS

EDITORS: NATALIE NOWAK ‘21, JACQUELIN WILLIAMS ‘20, KAITLYN KING ‘23

11 THE PANTHER | DECEMBER 19, 2019

Same Formula, Different Ingredients

KARL KAMMERECK ‘20 Staff Writer

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s autumn ends, Seattle Prep athletics transitions indoors. Girls’ basketball is set and ready for another fantastic year. Lead by their senior captains, the Panthers hope to play another year as a top team in the Metro League. Despite the departure of critical seniors last season, the team is motivated to get back to the state tournament.

The 2019 roster is made up of senior captains Audrey Frigon, Marie Hauck and Em Petro. They are a close-knit, driven group and have played on the court with each other for many years now.

Tamia Stricklin, Molly Moffit, Cassie Lemus-Sodji, and McKenna Dorscht make up a talented junior class who work dynamically with their teammates to score points.

Finally, an inexperienced, but ambitious sophomore class adds needed depth to the already competitive roster. Sophomores Margaret Sauvage, Sophie Lovejoy, Isabel May, and Gabby Stuart are ready to begin their varsity basketball career.

With twenty-one games on the schedule, it is essential that players buy into the team theme of “Love Wins”. Ever since the team has undergone a coaching change for the 2016-17 season, Head Coach Brian Elsner has pushed players to buy into the

Photo: Maddie Deasy Em Petro during a drill in the girls basketball practice during the week. The team focuses on agape love with the team motto of “Love Wins.” idea of agape love. Agape love, the highest ting a right example, encouraging players, schedule. The panthers have had great sucform of love, can be shown through unself- and holding them accountable.” Petro said cess in the past. They will try to repeat this ishness and sacrifice on and off the court. that during practice Varsity will always formula of success with a new, but equally

After asking Em Petro what agape cheer for Junior Varsity and vice versa. It talented group of players. Good luck to the love meant to her she said, “As a senior I will be keeping up this positive attitude that Seattle Prep Girls Basketball program going try to keep an amazing team culture by set- pushes that Panthers through their grueling forwards into their 2019 season.

Sabrina Ionescu: Leading her Pack and the Future of Women in Sports

GABBY STUART ‘22 Staff Writer

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s basketball more than just a sport? A simple past time? Throughout the past four years at Oregon, by using action, Sabrina Ionescu has answered this question.

Ionescu has helped basketball form into more than just a social past time, it is now a means of gender equality. It was not long ago that people thought a women’s basketball jersey could not go out of stock.

Also, that women’s college basketball games were barren with little supporters lining the bleachers. Now, with greater exposure for the first time even professional men’s players are shouting out the women and commending them for their work.

From her freshmen year to now, Ionescu has been an icon for college basketball and women in sports. Her stats have not been the only motive of exposure, Ionescu’s leadership on and off the court has proven to be even more impactful.

I o n e s c u ’s passion and obsession with basketball was revealed even in her first year at Oregon. According to an expose

by ESPN she would, “yell at her t e a m mates for missed layups in practice.” She was bold and had the prowess to support her

actions.

As she progressed through her college journey she transformed even more.

Her most recent performances junior year both broke the triple double record and caught the attention of popular former NBA player: Kobe Bryant. Bryant created a full scout of one of Ionescu’s games. He pointed out mistakes and commended plays. Ionescu’s game cre-

“She was bold and had

the prowess to support her actions.”

Winter Training Key to Football Success WALID CRUZ-VANEGAS ‘21 Staff Writer

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eams win football games between the months of December and August.

They are won in the classroom, with agility ladders, the kitchen, and most notably, the weight room. During lifting classes and during window, the painful metal clanking of weights rings all throughout the fourth floor of Adelphia Memorial Hall. Music blares, overtaking the voices of those inside.

Physically, four years in this room can change a man’s life.

Senior, Nathan Smith can attest to this, stating “I came to Prep pretty skinny, weighing about 150 pounds, and at one point this year I weighed 215”.

Looking at many athletes who have been through Coach Durand’s training is telling enough, from a visual standpoint.

However, the work is hardly about improving aesthetics. It keeps the athletes of our school safe.

In the highly competitive Metro

Mountain League of WIAA 3A football means competing against some of the nation’s most highly ranked players.

Jakob Hansch ’21 has experienced the size and physicality of league play first hand, “A lot of guys we play are just bigger, and faster than us coming into high school”, Hansch explained, “But we -Jakob Hansch ‘21 bridge the gap with our technique and working all off season in the weight room”.

Clocking into the weight room at 6am and immediately hitting the jump rope teaches more than just how to have quick feet, and how to be explosive on the football field. Coach Durand, a man of punctuality, instills values in Prep student athletes that apply far beyond the classroom. These

include: a high standard of effort, mental fortitude, organization, efficiency, and timeliness.

With the majority of the roster weighing in under 200 pounds, the weight room is an large area of growth for the Panthers. The strength is there, as is the technique. A major lacking component is simply eating. In this last 2019 season, the Panthers saw the dawn of a new era, finishing in the round of 16 for the first time since 2013. With continued efforts in the classroom, and weight room, coupled with an increase of food intake throughout the next 9 months, Seattle Prep can be expected to continue this upward trend into the 2020 season.

“...we bridge the gap with

our technique and working in the weight room”

ated a spark that ignited even a player like Kobe Bryant to look up and see the new rising star.

Ionescu has also rallied 7,000 fans to line the Mathew Night Arena for every Oregon home game. The ability to lead her team and unite a community has created an environment that will win national championship. And even in the long run, her legacy has paved a path for the future female basketball prospects.

Ionescu has influenced basketball and made impacts beyond the wood floors of Mathew Night Arena. But for now, Ionescu’s goals reside in her team. She is leading a pack who are hunting for the ultimate title in college basketball: national champions.

Look for QR codes throughout the paper to see short companion films created by Seattle Prep Film Club.

Scan here to see Intramural Basketball!

THE PAW PRINT Holiday Playlist

12

THE PANTHER | DECEMBER 19, 2019

EDITOR: SOPHIE JURION ‘20, LAUREN DAY ‘20, WILL THOMPSON ‘21

Winter Wonderland

Under the Mistletoe

Santa e Tell M rande G a n ia r -A

-Aretha Franklin

-Justin Bieber

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year -Andy Williams

Holly Jolly Christmas

All I want for Christmas Is You

-Burl Ives

-Mariah Carey

White Christmas

ers

-The Drift

Believe -Josh Groban

Baby It’s Cold Outside -Frank Sinatra

Panther Poll

Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree -Brenda Lee

Deck the Halls -Nat King Cole

KAITLYN KING ‘23

What’s your favorite holiday song?

Carol of the Bells

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas -Bing Crosby

HOBBS HEGEDUS ‘22

Last Christmas -Wham

8% 15%

Santa Baby -Eartha Kitt

16%

15%

Santa Tell Me -Ariana Grande

Down the Hobbit Hole

23%

15%

Home for the Holidays -Perry Como

8%

All I Want for Christmas -Mariah Carey

Seniors Share Application Personal Statements

ADDIE ROZA ‘21 Staff Writer

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here is no way to avoid talk of college at Prep. College is brought up through older siblings, parents and counselors. If that is not enough: every morning in the Fall, announcements talk about visiting colleges, there is the PSAT which ultimately leads to the SAT, and in case it is not obvious, Seattle Prep is a COLLEGE preparatory school. Currently, the Seniors are knee-deep in college applications. The first wave of applications has already come and gone, but the January 1st deadline is sneaking up on the already stressed Seniors. With most college applications, comes a personal statement about the applicant’s self. Grace Brant ’20, Jack Stoner ’20 and Henry Pehl ’20 are three of the many seniors writing college essays this Fall what follows are their personal statements.

Grace Brant

“There’s something beautiful about struggling… I looked across the lake, which I had just conquered by pulling three boats alongside myself two miles in under forty minutes. I did that. Sitting on the dock, I realized that the strategy to not only surviving but mastering the trip was simple: work until you think you cannot anymore, and then paddle a little harder.

Struggling by nature of the conflict creates something for me to react to and overcome. I know that internal strength is something that comes with pain, but I now have a greater appreciation for the obstacle and see myself as someone willing to navigate the rough waters of a challenge no matter how great the swells.”

“I thought my high school selection was the biggest characterizing factor of my teenage years, but really this event wouldn’t come until I decided to run for student government. This decision wasn’t just a time I overcame my nerves, it was the moment I found my voice. First, I developed my leadership skills. The time I spent as a servant-leader, showed me leadership is more about service than your own interest. Then, I began to realize I should not be scared to show who I really am. Speaking in front of gyms filled with people and the support I got in return gave me confidence to follow my own nature. This led to a desire for growth. Intellectually, emotionally, and socially I began to develop. I started to pursue my curiosity and my many nerdy scientific endeavors. I saw how much I was still open to change and began to open up with my friends. I grew socially, finding people that were healthy for me and made me happy. This wasn’t just when I decided to run for student government, this was when I decided to grow.”

Henry Pehl

Jack Stoner

“If I learned one thing from making it to two state championships, it is that one must work hard and push themselves to be in places of success. Whatever it is I want to do in life, in order to succeed at it, I must work hard. My realization of this has caused me to look at what I love and pursue it. I work diligently in all my classes because lacrosse has taught me that my hard work will put me in a place to be successful. But more importantly, losing the game taught me that just as the important as an individual’s hard work, is the work of others around him. That true success is found when leaders bring a team to work together.

From this experience, I learned how to be this leader to my teammates and peers. After seeing my team captains pour everything, they had into that game I realized the importance of vulnerability. By opening themselves up, they were able to bring the best out of those around them. I am beginning to reflect this in my leadership in my school community. Whether it be offering a mass reflection to the school, giving advice to my sophomore brother, or even just saying hi to students of all grade levels in the halls, I am opening myself up to my community to be a better leader.”